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Moving and Selling with Pets
Buying or selling a home with pets can seem daunting for everyone involved. Here are a few great tips to make moving with a pet easier.
Buying a Home as a Pet Owner
Pet owners buying a new home should consider their furry friends’ current and future needs. This can restrict the number of house choices available and create additional expenses to make modifications. Some pet-owner questions to ponder are:
- Where can I take my dog outside to play or pathways to walk on?
- What time do I walk my dog, and will I feel safe walking in the neighbourhood then?
- Is there a yard for my dog?
- Is the yard fenced for safety?
- Do the neighbours have dogs too?
- Are there any pet restrictions (primarily condos)?
Condo Life and Pets – What Should I Think About?
Before falling in love with a condo or townhouse, start by investigating the pet restrictions. Whether you have pets or plan to in the future, check the condo board rules. In general, condo townhouses have fewer restrictions than condo apartments. You should be able to inquire about pet rules and regulations through your REALTOR®, the condo property manager or by checking the by-laws (on the unit’s status certificate).
Some common restrictions are as follows:
- How many pets can you have?
- Is there a specific weight limit?
- What type of pets can you have (some condos only allow cats, for example)?
- Limits on pet noise?
- Rules about where pets can relieve themselves?
- Rules about pet access?
- Do you have to register the pet with the building?
- Are there extra fees to have pets?
I Have Pets and am Selling my Home – What to do?
When selling your home, you want it to appeal to the masses—both the buyers who love pets and the buyers who do not. Firstly, to attract the attention of pet owners, mention things about the property, like a fully fenced yard, near parks, and let buyers know about the pet restrictions (if there are any). The second crowd you need to appeal to is the pet-free crowd. Many buyers have pet allergies and get nervous about the “dirt” that animals leave behind. If possible, deep clean the whole house before each showing, and remove any signs of a pet and your actual pet.
The key takeaway is that you remove the pet(s) before showing a home to eliminate distractions. On the other hand, animals can also get stressed with strangers in their house, and the last thing you want is to have your cat, dog, or rabbit run out through an open door. Ask your REALTOR® about giving you a heads up to remove your pets before they bring clients.
If you have some furry friends and want to buy or sell comfortably, let me help you find the perfect house!
Home Renos to Complete Before You Move In
Here is a small list of home renovations that would be nice to complete before moving into your new home. These things will disrupt your life the most if completed while living in your house. If you can, plan to renovate these areas before you move in to maximize the enjoyment of your new place.
Paint the Walls
The best part about purchasing a home is being able to make it your own and getting a fresh start. A coat of paint will infuse your personality into the space, and what’s better than painting without the obstacles of furniture? It is also ideal to avoid dreaded paint fumes and let the house air out before moving in. Painting rooms beforehand will allow you to live in your new home without the added stress of trying to move in and paint simultaneously.
Floor Refinishing or Changing the Floors
Chances are, if you are moving into a house, the floors will be in good condition, but what if they are dated or damaged? Replacing dated floors or refinishing existing ones before moving in is an excellent idea–this will help avoid damaging the new finish on the flooring and dust from removing carpets and installing new ones. You can attempt a project like this yourself, but allow extra time for errors and materials shipping. Involve professionals if you are uncomfortable tackling the floors and if your budget allows. Always make sure to have a solid plan in place before starting. Decide on the style and material of flooring you want and budget for extra costs.
Renovate the Kitchen
When purchasing a new house, it might be dated and not perfect. If you love the location and style of the house, but the only issue is the dated kitchen, it might be worth renovating it before moving in. Living in a construction zone and being unable to prepare meals for the first months in your home is not ideal. Before you get started, make a list minor to more significant updates you want to make to the kitchen, then decide on how much time it will take to finish them. Don’t forget to allow ample time to clean up the mess from construction before you move in.
Renovate the Bathroom
Similar to the inconveniences of not having a kitchen is not having a bathroom. It is probably the most troublesome renovation in your home, primarily if only one bathroom exists. If there are any problems with the bathroom in the house you are moving into or you want to renovate it, the best time would be before you move in. Like the kitchen renovations, make a list of larger and smaller projects, the amount of time each will take to complete, and plan accordingly. Hiring contractors can make this job smoother and stress-free than trying to renovate it yourself.
Renovate the Bedroom
The main bedroom should be a place of rest and relaxation. A few updates before moving in could make your bedroom the ultimate escape. Whether it is a few minor cosmetic updates or a complete overhaul, make it a priority to finish before moving in. Not having a designated bedroom is another room in the house that can be inconvenient if not move-in ready (not exactly sure how this sentence is supposed to read?, lol). Hiring professionals for this project will also be beneficial to finish it on time. If you choose to renovate yourself, account for setbacks and multiple trips to the decorating and hardware stores.
Installing a Furnace or Air Conditioner
There’s nothing worse than faulty equipment regarding heating and cooling. After getting your home inspected and if the furnace is older, think about replacing it before you move in. The same can be said for air conditioning. Decide if you want it installed before moving in. Installing or updating these will alleviate the headache of living in a construction zone and the loud noises that accompany it. Plus, you could negotiate a lower selling price by getting the old homeowners to include these as-needed upgrades. Or take more out for the mortgage through the bank.
Here are just a few things to think about renovating before moving into your new home. Renovations will give your home a refresher and infuse it with your style. Finishing specific renovations or home repairs before you move in will allow you to settle into your new home and enjoy it from the start.
If you need help finding the perfect home, contact your local REALTOR® today!
5 Dog-Friendly Patios in Saskatoon
Saskatoon has a variety of restaurants, but have you ever wanted to bring your four-legged friend along for a meal?
Never leave your dog at home again with these delightful restaurants with pet-friendly patios.
Prairie Sun Brewery
Prairie Sun is located just after the bridge on Broadway. It is easily walkable with your furry friend from downtown and surrounding neighbourhoods. Sit down, drink a beer and eat some delicious food on their sunny patio, which is open for dogs and people alike. Prairie Sun started as just a local craft beer brewery and has expanded into the restaurant hot spot it is today.
Leopold’s Tavern (Rosewood)
The Rosewood location of Leopold’s Tavern has a great dog-friendly patio, enclosed with a backyard vibe. The patio features an exclusive pet and person-side entrance. The staff graciously greets you with a treat for your dog. Enjoy elevated pub food and a great selection of drinks at the Tavern.
Stumbletown Distilling
Stumbletown is a new establishment on Quebec Avenue, off Idylwyld—an easy walk from Mayfair or Caswell Hill. The quaint patio is a great place to bring your dog, have a few drinks, munch on some snacks and unwind. The distillery makes various flavours of gin and gin cocktails. On your way out, grab a bottle of gin to take home!
Cohen’s Beer Republic
Cohen’s is located in Riversdale on the corner of Idylwyld and 20th Street. You can’t miss the curved dark blue building! There is a small, yet mighty, patio for you and your dog to enjoy, which is very walkable from downtown, Riversdale, or other surrounding neighbourhoods. They have lovely drinks and an eclectic menu — sure to please anyone.
City Perks
City Perks is an adorable local cafe in the heart of City Park. A semi-enclosed deck is an excellent place for your pup, and it’s well shaded with mature trees and table umbrellas—a quick walk from the river pathways and parks along Spadina. The cafe’s food, drink and dessert menus are incredible. Bring your dog and stay for the cheesecake.
Make any outing more enjoyable by bringing your dog with you to these yummy Saskatoon restaurants. All of these eateries have a nice patio space to share food, drinks, and a water bowl with your four-legged friend!
Inexpensive Tricks to Bring Luxury into Your Home
Want to jazz up your space to be luxurious but don’t have a lot of extra income? There are numerous things you can do on a budget to give your room a touch of class.
Keep reading for great tips and tricks to get those luxury vibes without burning a hole in your pocketbook.
Impactful Lighting Fixtures
If your light fixtures look dated or no longer fit the vibe of your home, think about updating them with statement light fixtures. A statement light fixture is an excellent investment, it creates an elevated look and focal point in your space.
Some excellent affordable options would be buying a cylinder shade or drum for your existing lights. Vintage shops or discount home stores might be another great place to look.
Mirror, Mirror on the Wall…
Mirrors reflect a sense of space and openness. They are relatively inexpensive, easy to find, to hang and instantly change the look of any room. Mirrors visually add square footage and bounce light to create a brighter space.
Try adding mirror closet doors to make any bedroom look bigger or create a statement wall of different mirrors, ornate frames or otherwise. Mirrors are great for mixing and matching sizes and styles.
Accent Tables for Practicality and Style
An accent table is a practical solution to add a touch of elegance to any room. Go for a mixed material table to add flare. Placing a table between two chairs or a sofa can elevate any space.
Fresh Painting or Wallpaper
Painting is probably the most common way to change a room, and it boasts a lot of impact for not a lot of money. Once popular paint colours like whites, greys and blues are fading away, clients opt for natural, cozy tones like creams, taupes, and beige. For an eclectic vibe, seek purples, chocolates and even hunter greens.
Wallpaper is a little more complex to install and pricy, but a great one can be a showstopper. It is also great for hiding existing wall imperfections or covering an unpaintable older wall. Try wallpaper in a hallway, accent wall in a bedroom or make a mundane small bathroom pop.
Switch out Furniture Hardware
It is easy to forget how much furniture impacts a room. If your furniture feels dated or isn’t fitting within your space anymore, try changing out the hardware. Updating the knobs and handles of a piece can bring a more modern or vintage look, depending on what style you like. In the kitchen, it’s nice to update the handles frequently to keep it chic.
Transform Chairs with Fabric or Paint to Luxury Seating
For the past few years, painting and reupholstering old furniture has been all the rage, and it’s not stopping anytime soon.
Having a set of chairs that coordinate with the rest of the room brings in a luxe custom feel. Pick a paint colour that is part of your existing room colour palette. Paint your chairs and then look for fabric to upholster them.
Choose a fabric that encompasses the colours of the existing room’s decor and the new paint colour. The textile can be as tame or wild as you want. Try a solid or bold pattern.
You only need a little bit of fabric for this transformation project, so go ahead and invest in a luxe, high-end or designer one.
Dramatic Floor-to-Ceiling Curtains
Layers, whether in clothing or a home, always make everything look put together. Instead of adding just a basic curtain, try hanging curtains from the top of the ceiling for a dramatic effect.
Curtains hung from the ceiling help to visually create more height and space by drawing the eye upwards. Pick a light, airy fabric to let the natural light seep in.
Buy curtains that are longer than needed and trim them from the bottom, rather than getting custom-made curtains—an excellent cost-effective option.
Make an Impact with Small, Bold Accessories
Accessorize your space with objects that don’t blend in; pick unique ones that will stand out. Choose a bold colour palette or mixed material pieces, like an ornate or gold mirror over a fireplace.
Lamps, decorative boxes, fresh flowers, antiques or coffee table books are also impactful in any space.
Update Hardware and Re-paint Old, Outdated Cabinets
Refresh and renew kitchen and bathroom cupboards with a fresh coat of paint.
Adding a new set of hardware, like drawer pulls and knobs, can also help complement the new paint colour.
The average cost of this makeover is under $500, compared to installing all-new cabinets, which would likely set you back a few thousand dollars.
These tips and tricks will help you spruce up your home in no time! Whether you are staging your home to sell or want to enjoy your decorating efforts, these inexpensive tips are sure to please.
If you want to sell your home, contact your local REALTOR® today!
Home Toolbox Must Haves
Even if you aren’t handy, that is okay, and it is still nice to have all these tools on hand for any break or project that might happen. The right tool in your toolbox could mean the difference between a big problem and fixing it temporarily and reducing it to a small one. Of course, feel free to call the professionals if the job is too big.
Owning these must have tools and being prepared to use them will save you time and money.
1. Hammer
A hammer is the number one pick to have in your tool kit.
However, with the variety of hammers on the marketplace, make sure you are looking for the best multi-purpose hammer.
Choose one with a “claw” back for pulling out misplaced nails and a flat head for a smooth finish. A comfort handle is also lovely to prevent hand pain or vibrations. The best hammer weight is 16 ounces.
After purchasing the hammer, don’t forget to buy finishing and general utility nails!
2. Tape measure
A tape measure should be your second toolbox purchase. Measuring is essential for many jobs, including hanging picture frames, planning furniture, flooring purchases, etc.
Any tape measure will do, but remember that the broader (¾ inch) tape measures won’t collapse on themselves and will withstand long-term use.
3. Level
A level is fundamental when moving to a new place to hang all those shelves, artwork and picture frames. These can be of value when building furniture to ensure they are straight and level.
A level is also great for ensuring your fridge and oven are straight, preventing things from rolling off. A two-foot-long level would be the best multi-purpose choice.
4. Flashlight
A flashlight is great for multiple reasons, whether the power has gone out or your cat has lost its favourite toy under the sofa. A flashlight is excellent, but even more helpful is a headlight. They are nice to have for small spaces and target light.
I also recommend keeping some spare batteries with the flashlight just in case or for other electronics.
5. Allen key set
The easily assembled furniture by Ikea popularized allen keys. They are also just great to have around. They are “key” for assembling or disassembling household devices, structures and furniture, which are often held together with hexagonal screws.
Think about purchasing a complete set of allen keys for the variety of sizes you may encounter. Trust me, they are instrumental to have around—you never know when you will need one in a pinch.
6. Screwdriver set or multi-bit screwdriver
Screwdrivers and screws come in a variety of different shapes and sizes.
A multi-bit screwdriver is excellent for space-saving, but they can be flimsy during specific projects. A set of screwdrivers will take up more space but are sturdier for many tough jobs.
Overall, they are fantastic for whatever handy jobs are thrown at you.
7. Utility knife
A good quality knife is an excellent addition to any home, especially for first-time homebuyers. It is perfect for opening and breaking down all those moving boxes. They are not only great for opening packages but also for cleaning up caulking and trimming carpets.
Make sure to grab a sturdy full-size utility knife for product longevity.
8. Duct tape
If you are from Canada, you will know that the Red Green Show swears by this stuff. Duct tape is excellent for adhering to almost any material and is incredible for fast fixes! It is perfect for fixing holey tarps, organizing or fastening power cords, patching hoses and even fixing a leaking tub. I have temporarily stopped a pesky pipe leak with a piece of gum and duct tape before.
9. Pliers set
A plier set would be ideal, but if you are looking for space-saving, I recommend needle nose pliers and linesman pliers.
Needle nose pliers are great for manipulating small objects or reaching that piece of paper that fell between the fridge and wall.
Linesman pliers are ideal for stripping electrical wires or tightening bolts in a pinch.
Invest in a good set or pairs of pliers for overall strength—cheap ones easily break.
10. Handsaw or hacksaw
A handsaw is excellent for smaller projects where only minimal sawing is necessary. A saw can help quickly cut pvc pipe or doweling. However, a power saw or jigsaw might be a better option if you are looking at sawing things more frequently.
11. Adjustable wrench / wrench set
Wrenches are a great set of tools to have. In my experience, they are great for plumbing, putting furniture together and mechanical work.
It would be beneficial to have a wrench set with long handles that are good for leverage, and short handles are great for tight spots.
An adjustable wrench is a friendly do-it-all tool, but there are limitations to what it can do. A wrench set would be the better choice.
Look into open crescent wrenches and closed ratchet wrenches for various needs.
12. Power Drill/Driver
Power tools might be intimidating, but owning a power drill makes life a little easier. Instead of turning a screw 100 times and stripping it with a regular driver, a power drill gets the job done in seconds. I have used my power drill more times than I can count, and it has been an excellent addition to my tool kit. A cordless option is best to avoid the limitations of cords.
While you don’t need to buy every single tool at once, I recommend purchasing these tools as problems arise, but it doesn’t hurt to go out and buy them all at once. As time goes on, you will find better tools for the job, but these are essential tools to cover various issues that will arise.
If you need a home to use all these tools on, contact your local REALTOR® today!
Solar Energy & Savings: What Green Energy Can Do for You
With the advancement of technology becoming ever-present in your house, it is only natural that green technology has also started to become more popular. With several grants and bursaries from the government, adding green technology to your home is becoming more accessible and affordable every year. And with added cost-saving benefits, such as reducing your electricity bill, green energy is the way of the future.
Solar Energy in Saskatchewan
Living in Saskatchewan, we are fortunate to live in one of the sunniest places on earth. Using solar panels can be incredibly effective in our humble province. According to experts, Saskatchewan receives between 3.2 to 4 hours of peak sunshine daily, making us the sunniest province in the country on average! As a result, solar panels are a great feature that can provide a lot of utility and energy savings to your home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Green Energy
Of course, technology and house renovations should bring many questions to your mind. Finding what will work best for you, your home, and your energy usage lifestyle can be a complicated process. Here are some frequently asked questions about green energy and what it can do for you.
How much will it cost?
The cost of installing solar panels greatly depends on what size of unit you want to install and which contractor you choose for the project. However, it’s safe to say that this investment will cost several thousand dollars. While a pricy investment, it does provide savings on your electricity bill and help increase the value of your home. There are also some government grants that can help to reduce the cost.
What are the grants, and how do I get them?
The federal government has created some helpful bursaries to help cover part of the installation cost. The Canadian government’s “Canada Greener Homes Grant” helps cover up to $5,000 for eligible and recommended energy efficiency retrofits, and up to $600 for the combined cost of your pre and post-EnerGuide evaluations. You can check for eligibility and apply through the Natural Resources Canada government website.
You can also apply for the provincial home renovation tax credit. This tax credit offers savings of up to $2,100 in provincial income tax by claiming a 10.5% tax credit on up to $20,000 of home renovation expenses. Solar panel installation is considered an eligible expense under this program and may help homeowners fund this project.
How much will I save on electricity?
How much you save will depend on many factors, such as how large the system you install is and what your energy usage and lifestyle choices are. Savings created by installing solar panels are made by the energy you produce powering your home and the excess energy going back into the SaskPower grid.
Currently, SaskPower will provide a credit on your electricity bill according to how much power you produce that goes back to the grid. However, your electricity bill will also, theoretically, be lower due to you using your solar-generated electricity. Currently, SaskPower has excess power priced at 7.5 cents per kWh until March 31, 2026.
Do I have to renovate my house much?
Most solar panel installation does not require massive renovations to your house. The number of panels and power generated will depend on your roof size, angle, and budget. Still, most companies will work around what you already have. The cost of the overall renovation mostly comes from the price of the panels and the installation costs.
Do solar panels still work during our winters?
This is an important question to ask, considering our extreme weather conditions. The simple answer is yes! There can be a slight reduction in efficiency due to snow coverage; however, the annual losses are insignificant. The solar panels also melt snow off faster than surrounding shingles, as solar panels operate at temperatures above the ambient temperature.
Another critical factor to consider is that cold weather can actually increase the efficiency of solar panels. According to studies, solar panel efficiency is significantly higher at -25 degrees Celsius than at +45 degrees Celsius. Occasionally, solar panels will also experience increased production due to reflection off of surrounding snow coverage, as well!
Does it work with an electric car?
Yes! You can add an additional connection system to charge an electric car using your solar panels. You will add savings to your electricity bill and your gas bill, too!
Whether you’re on the road to increasing your home’s market value to sell by way of greener energy or looking for your energy efficient dream home, contact us today to draw on all our knowledge of Saskatoon real estate and the benefit of our numerous contacts!
Achieving The Perfect Backyard Oasis
The sun is shining and the lush greens are getting more vibrant, meaning it’s almost officially summer in Saskatoon! The city has plenty of activities and attractions built for you to live your warm summer days to the fullest. However, for the more introverted soul, a retreat is in order. What better place than at home? Make the most out of your summer by making the most out of your outdoor space. Whether it’s a tiny patio or sprawling green, create your outdoor haven with these ideas, perfect for being the ultimate host or enjoying a little R & R on your own. Not to mention invoking the envy of all your neighbours and friends!
Supreme Lounging
Why not enjoy nature in comfort? Give your backyard a tropical feel with lounge chairs, chaise lounges and hammocks. Up the coze-factor with an outdoor sectional if you can swing it and complete with side tables, candles and a glass of wine. Or, create an outdoor lounge bed with a platform bed frame, futon mattress and outdoor fabric cover, tossing on some outdoor pillows for comfort.
Can’t squeeze in a camping trip? No need to miss out on the best part–campfires! Take your outdoor lounge space to the next level with a fire pit. Easy to find and even easier to DIY!
Movie Night Under The Stars
Going out to the movies can be pricey, but enjoying your favourite movies under the stars is priceless. All you need to do is a taut, white sheet spread onto a flat surface (the sides of the house or garage work great), projector and phone or laptop. No access to a projector? No sweat. Make your own with just a shoe box, a magnifying glass and some cardboard.
Cheers!
No need to sort out a DD for this commute. Repurpose an old table or desk or get a little crafty with some cinder blocks and a few boards. Grab your speaker, ingredients for your favourite cocktails and glasses. Add some of those cute little umbrellas for extra flare.
A Bit More Than A BBQ
Most of us already have the standard patio set. Dress it up with some comfy cushions and the twinkle of fairy lights overhead. Even better yet, a chandelier is perfect for lending an extra special touch with a hint of formality and magic.
That Ahhhhh! Moment
Last but not least, embrace the serenity of nature with a mediation and yoga space in the comfort of your backyard. Bring in calming scents with strategically placed plants such as lavender and a standing tent or cabana.
Have your eye on a few ideas you want to try out but haven’t found your Saskatoon dream home with the appropriate space to transform? That’s where we come in! With our combined years of experience, we can help you find your forever home.
Your Tried & True Guide To Prioritizing Your Home Renovations
Whether you’ve bought a fixer-upper you’re eager to DIY your way to your dream home in your top choice Saskatoon neighbourhood, your home needs an update, or you’re looking to sell in the near future, you might question where to start. An additional worry might be that how do you stop once you start? Giving your home a facelift can also be contagious, influencing you to feel like tackling them all at once. Instead of making costly mistakes or risking choice paralysis, simply follow our guidelines to get the most value from your home renovations.
Where To Start
Once you have assessed all the areas of your home in need of some TLC, the best advice one could possibly give is to first address the spaces you will get the most use out of and the ones with the highest potential for the best return on your investment. Identifying these critical areas of interest can help you budget effectively in your home remodeling journey.
Kitchens and bathrooms can have a hefty price tag, but they are the high-ticket items that sell a property. These are also the spaces used most often, and thus, addressing them sooner rather than later can help improve your lifestyle. Additionally, it is usually easiest to get the more significant, messier projects out of the way first. These are often done before you move in to avoid feeling too displaced and disrupting your routine. If you are selling, you can happily communicate all of this additional value to future buyers!
Any lower priority updates can then be done over time and in a more cost-friendly fashion. Also worth mentioning is that although we may be excited to give some rooms a splash of new paint, structural improvements should always come before surface and cosmetic enhancements.
Seasonality & Life Stage
If you have children, your home renovation needs will look different from the empty nester or retiree. While they might be okay with working their life around construction, those with children will need to consider how the project will affect how the family functions and what safety issues might arise. The different types of homeowners may also want to do similar projects for other reasons. A young family may decide to open up the kitchen and living spaces for better-lit spaces and improved sightlines to keep an eye on the kids. Alternatively, other homeowners’ goals may be more along the lines of opening the area to better entertain guests. It’s all about making the improvements that best suit your needs!
Weather is also a key player in the decision-making process. For example, exterior updates such as building a patio or painting cannot be done in the winter but switching out interior light fixtures can. The summer tends to be busier and promises more favourable weather conditions for renovations than the dead of the Canadian prairie winters. Wondering what you can tackle yourself right now? Check out our Spring Home Maintenance Checklist!
Saving You Precious Time & Hard Earned Money
Assuming funds allow, lumping multiple projects together can be the most cost-effective, especially when it comes to contractor labour hours and the inconvenience to your home life. For example, kitchen and bathrooms are often best done together as similar contractors are involved. If updates in plumbing are needed, it is easier to do it all at once. Sometimes, some decisions made at different times may not work cohesively, whether functionally or aesthetically. Thus, planning and budgeting accordingly are of the utmost importance.
It’s also easy to get drawn into the little things, so hiring a professional to care for the moving parts for specific projects can prove beneficial, allowing you to keep an eye on the bigger picture.
Whether you’re looking to buy your dream home or sprucing up your current home to sell and are not confident about where to start, you can count on our combined years of expertise and connections to guide you through!
Selling a Home With All 5 Senses
When selling your house, most people think about how it looks; you want your home to look as beautiful as the memories you made there. However, appealing to buyers’ other four senses can help make them feel fully present in your home. Our five senses play an important role in processing the world around us and triggering our emotional responses. You can create a positive emotional reaction in potential buyers by appealing to all five senses and helping them imagine living in your home.
Selling a House with Sight
This is the obvious one. Make sure to create a neutral clutter-free environment that buyers can imagine as their own. Neutral colours with an accent can help create a stylish and clean setting that is perfect for letting the imagination run wild. Try to tidy up as much as possible and keep the space appealing to your guests. If you have features in your home that make it feel more cozy, such as a fireplace, don’t be afraid to turn it on to make people feel comfortable.
Selling a House with Sound
Find some relaxing or comforting music to play in the background during the house tour. Keep the music to a minimum, so it doesn’t overpower the conversation. For genres of music, you could match it to the season, such as Christmas music during the holidays, or pick sounds suitable for any season, such as lo-fi or jazz.
If you have natural sound features, create a space where guests can enjoy them. For example, water fountains or other elements can add a relaxing atmosphere to your house. Wind chimes are another great way to welcome guests into the space and make them feel in touch with your home.
Selling a House with Smell
While some people recommend using strongly scented products for cleaning, some research says that buyers prefer neutral or lightly scented spaces when touring your home. Therefore, it’s probably a good idea to skip on the scented candles or air fresheners, as buyers may feel you are trying to hide something.
Instead, use light or unscented cleaning products and find ways to add more natural scents to your house. For example, baking before guests arrive can add that homey smell to your space. Another trick, if you’re short on time, is to put some vanilla or lemon on the stove. This can give the same welcoming atmosphere while not being too overpowering.
Selling a House with Taste
While I wouldn’t recommend that you provide anything too labour-intensive, it may be nice to have some snacks or water for your guests. Consider buying in bulk and having a dedicated bowl of small candies for each walk-through to make it easy. Or, if you did that baking we mentioned earlier, consider putting some out for guests! This simple gesture will leave a lasting impression on your potential buyers.
Selling a House with Touch
Make sure to display a variety of fabrics and textures around your house. This also adds to the visual appeal of your space. You should also vacuum the carpets and well and wash your floors. Not only is this a great practice for general cleaning and home maintenance, it also keeps unwanted graininess away and adds extra bounce and comfort underfoot. Put out the fluffiest blankets on your bed and add some throw pillows to add depth and variety.
By engaging all five of a buyers’ senses, you can ensure that your house sticks out in their Saskatoon home search and maximizes its appeal for every tour. If you’re looking for additional help or support, you can contact us, and we would be happy to help you sell your home!
House Hunting with Kids? Here are 6 Kid-Friendly Saskatoon Spaces to Consider in Your Search
When looking for a new home in Saskatoon, your kids are often a big priority in how the house functions and what features are good for them. Extra bedrooms, a large backyard, and a nearby school are all important to consider, but what about recreation options?
Whether it be a local playground or a more comprehensive play area and activities, having a nearby place to visit regularly can really help your kids get out of the house and burn some energy. While most neighbourhoods have a local park and playground, here are some extra special spots in Saskatoon that you may want to factor into your home search.
Nutrien Wonderhub – Saskatoon’s Children’s Museum
City Park
Found in the City Park neighbourhood along the Meewasin Trail, this is an incredible place for kids and their grown-ups to spend a day. The Wonderhub is a safe space for children to explore, experiment, and interact with the natural and built world through exhibits and features. Kids can explore the rooms or sign up for a workshop and learn new skills. This museum is a wonderful addition to the neighbourhood that could be a great feature to have nearby.
University of Saskatchewan Campus
While you may not consider the university campus a blossoming spot for children to explore, there are several spots among the classrooms that your kids may enjoy. For example, the Museum of Natural Sciences located in the Geology Building is great for kids interested in dinosaurs and animals. The building features three complete dinosaur skeletons along with fish and geology displays. Additionally, the campus is home to a few art galleries and the Museum of Antiquities in the Peter Mackinnon Building, which may interest kids who are a bit older.
Suppose you are looking for a place where your kids can be more active. In that case, the PAC building offers both swimming classes and family swim times, as well as other classes and activities for the public. Another great spot is the Sculpture Garden, found between the Education Building and Diefenbaker Canada Centre, which has several sculptures that are accessible for kids to climb and explore. Just be sure to watch for gopher holes and perhaps limit the amount of running to keep your kids’ ankles safe.
The Stoked Centre
Brighton
The Stoked Centre, found in the middle of Wilson’s Greenery and Lifestyle Supercentre in Brighton, has much more to offer than home decor and greenery. Inside, the shop features a 200-foot zip line and suspended obstacle course to climb around on and a high-speed electric go-kart track. The facility also just opened a new restaurant, the Stoked Kitchen and Bar, adjacent to a 15-lane 10-pin bowling alley and one of Canada’s largest arcades!
The whole centre has many activities and surprises for those looking for entertainment. It can be a great place to bring your kids to blow off steam while you shop for plants and home decor.
Remai Art Gallery
River Landing
The Remai Art Gallery, situated in downtown Saskatoon along the Meewasin River Valley, can be a fantastic place for kids to explore and learn about art and our local art landscape. The gallery has many permanent and travelling collections, as well as a theatre for film showings. Additionally, the gallery hosts kid-friendly programming, including their “Something on Sundays” program held 1 PM – 4 PM every Sunday and different artmaking activities each week. This program is free to attend, with no admission or registration required. The gallery also has some other programming that can require museum admission to attend. Check their website for more information.
Western Development Museum
Exhibition
Take your kids to this highly interactive museum found in the Exhibition neighbourhood and help them learn more about Saskatoon’s history. This museum is best known for Boomtown, the lifesize representation of a 1910 Saskatchewan Main Street that recaptures the atmosphere and style of this bustling period and is great for kids to explore. The museum also features other permanent exhibits that kids would love, including a full-size steam locomotive!
Forestry Farm Park and Zoo
University Heights
The Forestry Farm Park and Zoo found in University Heights is a great place to let your kids learn more about the local flora and fauna native to Saskatchewan and even see more exotic creatures. The Zoo boasts more than 80 species of animals, and with tons of space to explore, even the most energetic kids will get their fill.
With so many great spots for kids around the city of Saskatoon, finding the right neighbourhood for you and your family can be challenging. If you need help finding your perfect home, please don’t hesitate to contact us for expert assistance in the home-buying process.
