Prepare the soil

Before planting, make sure the soil is in good condition by removing any debris and adding compost or manure to improve soil fertility. Get a soil test to determine the pH level, nutrient content, and texture. Mix in compost, aged manure, or other organic matter into the soil to improve its fertility. Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches and smooth out the soil surface and remove any high or low spots.

Know your hardiness zone

A hardiness zone is a geographic area defined as having a certain average annual minimum temperature, a factor relevant to the survival of many plants. In Newfoundland, the hardiness zone ranges from 4a to 5b, so make sure you choose plants that are suitable for…

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Real estate negotiations can be a tricky process, but with the right approach and mindset, you can come out on top. The key to successful negotiations is to be prepared, confident, and flexible.

Do your research

Understand the market and the comparable sales in the area to determine a fair price for the property. Set a budget, and determine your must-have features. It's also essential to have a good understanding of the market conditions in the area where you're looking to buy or sell.

Be prepared

Have all necessary documents and information ready, such as your pre-approval letter and proof of funds. It's also important to consider all aspects of the deal, including closing costs, contingencies, and other terms. The necessary documentation…

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Spring is here, and for many homeowners, it’s the perfect time to sell their homes. The warmer weather and longer days make it easier for potential buyers to envision themselves living in your home, and the blooming flowers and greenery add curb appeal to your property. Buyers are more likely to be out looking for their next home. Additionally, the spring market is typically more active than the winter market, which means that there are more buyers looking to purchase a home. If you’re thinking about selling your home this spring, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your sale.

Declutter and stage your home

Spring cleaning is the perfect opportunity to declutter and stage your home. Get rid of anything you no longer need, and…

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reasons houses don't sell

Most home sellers have two main objectives: to sell quickly and for the highest price. The beauty of owning real estate (whether it’s a principal residence or an investment property) is that historically, it has yielded solid returns to Canadians who are in it for the long haul. Indeed, equity gains in Canadian real estate have been notable in some particularly hot markets, with the proceeds used to fund everything from the purchase of a bigger and better home, to retirement, travel, an investment strategy, or life’s next big milestone – whatever that may be.

A number of major cities across Canada have experienced tight market conditions over the last few years, but a slew of interest rate increases in 2022 have eased…

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Newfoundland, located on the east coast of Canada, is a province known for its rugged beauty and unique culture. From the stunning cliffs of the Avalon Peninsula to the picturesque fishing villages dotting the coast, the natural landscape of Newfoundland is truly breathtaking.

One of the most unique aspects of living in Newfoundland is the culture. The province has a rich history, with roots dating back to the early 1700s when it was first settled by the English and Irish. Today, the culture of Newfoundland is a blend of these early settlers, as well as the Indigenous peoples who have called the land home for thousands of years.

One of the most popular cultural traditions in Newfoundland is the "screech-in," a ceremony in which newcomers to the…

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Mini split air conditioners, also known as ductless air conditioners, have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their energy efficiency and flexibility. However, like all air conditioners, they require regular maintenance to ensure that they are functioning at their best. One of the most important maintenance tasks for mini split air conditioners is cleaning.

Cleaning your mini split air conditioner is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to maintain the efficiency of the unit. When the filters and coils in the air conditioner become dirty, they can restrict airflow, which can cause the unit to work harder to cool or heat your home. This can lead to higher energy bills and a shorter lifespan for the unit.

Secondly,…

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Buying your first home is a major life milestone and possibly one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make, both from a financial and long-term commitment perspective. And while being ready for every possible outcome isn’t possible (not to mention unrealistic!) it is possible to prepare for potential pitfalls you may run into during the home buying process. From identifying and making the most out of saving opportunities, to explaining how working outside of your budget will cost you in the long run, here are some common pitfalls first-time buyers tend to experience, and how two REALTORS® recommend avoiding them. 

Image via: Photo by Green Chameleon on Unsplash

1. Attempting to manage without professional assistance 

For Regan O’Rourke, a…

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What to store in your garage

When you own a home, outside of the closets, there are likely two main places where you can store your possessions: your garage and your basement. However, certain items will do better in one location over the other. Read on to learn about what to store in your garage and what is best to store in your basement.

What to Store in the Garage

In general, the items you should store in your garage have a common theme: they are all items that are used outdoors.

Car supplies – If you have a car, truck, or other vehicle, it likely spends a lot of time either in the garage or parked nearby. Therefore, it is only logical to store items for your vehicle, such as wiper fluid and extra tires, in your garage. The garage is also a…

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Along with heating and cooling, plumbing in your home is one of the most essential systems. But how does your plumbing system work exactly, how do you know there’s a problem, and when should you consult an expert? 

Let’s take a look at the basics of your home’s plumbing, how to identify potential issues, and identify when it’s time to call in a professional.

Your home’s plumbing comprises two main systems—the water supply line, and the sewage and waste line. These work in tandem to make sure your home has a fresh water supply and all the wastewater is taken away. 

Water supply 101

As the name suggests, the water supply provides you with water throughout your home. The water snakes through pipes installed in your walls and ceilings…

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Google search balanced market

Over the last few years, home sellers have had the upper hand. But with Canadian housing market conditions expected to shift this year, you may be wondering, what is a balanced market? Let’s explore recent history, and what this recent change means for you.

At the height of the market during the pandemic, many Canadian cities experienced skyrocketing home prices, from single-family residential properties in major urban centres to townhomes in rural communities. In the process, prospective homeowners also had to endure intense bidding wars, causing some buyers to ditch conventional homebuying best practices, including home inspections. During this time, the Canadian real estate market transformed into a seller’s paradise…

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