September 2018

Home inspections are a common part of home buying. But are they really necessary? In almost all cases, the answer is yes. Sometimes your lender will insist upon it. Your home is an investment to them, and they don't want any surprises that will lower the value of that investment. Insurance companies also sometimes require inspections to locate problems which might be a big enough threat to the home their policy is protecting.

But beyond that, house inspections are just incredibly useful, potentially saving you huge repair bills and the headaches that go with them. And, overall, it's really a drop in the bucket in comparison to what you're paying for your new North Calgary home.

What a Home Inspection Is

What is a home inspection? What does a

Buying a home that needs some work is a good way to save money, but it can also hide unexpected costs or complications. It's possible to get a wonderful home, or to go broke making unanticipated repairs. These tips can serve as basic guidelines to assess the potential value in a fixer-upper before buying it.

Consider the Neighbourhood

Keep in mind that one person’s version of paradise is another’s fixer-upper. The view depends entirely on the buyer, and the buyer’s view relies a lot on the neighbourhood. Take the time to look around the area and see how owners take care of their properties. If the neighbourhood is trending upscale with the most expensive upgrades in every aspect of the home, they will probably have to pay more to maintain

Winter weather can wreak havoc on a home. Preparation could make the difference between a comfortable season and a nightmare. These tips help homeowners know what they will need to do before it gets too cold.

Sprinklers and Irrigation

One of the simplest things that homeowners can do is to shut down any unnecessary systems that carry water. The irrigation system for the yard is a good example. Pipes left with water in them can freeze and burst if they are not properly drained. Once they are no longer needed for the fall, homeowners should shut off and drain pipes and hoses. Hoses need to be disconnected, emptied and put away.

Indoor Plumbing

Frozen pipes could be a source of significant hassle and damage for homeowners, if they

Before undertaking a decking installation, there are several things that homeowners need to be aware of to ensure that their deck is legal, stable, meets their specific needs and will be a worthwhile project that adds value and enjoyment to the home. Here are some home deck considerations and tips to keep in mind when considering installing a new patio or deck.

Investigate Local Building Codes and Permit Requirements

Each province or township in Canada has its own set of regulations and restrictions concerning building codes and the need to obtain construction permits. Homeowners or their construction contractor will need to look into any specific code requirements and restrictions prior to moving forward with a decking installation, as they

Those who are searching for a steakhouse that offers more than just a great cut of meat and instead provides a dining experience will find no shortage of options in Calgary. The steakhouses in Calgary are known for their simmering steaks that are bursting with flavor as well as their comfortably elegant ambiance.

These are the best steakhouses in Calgary to consider:

The Cattle Baron

The Cattle Baron is a steakhouse in Calgary that has two locations — one at the airport on the north side of the city, and another on the south side off of Sun Valley Boulevard. This restaurants strives to provide the perfect blend between a fine dining meal and a casual, relaxed restaurant. Diners at The Cattle Baron will enjoy premier cuts of local Alberta