• Closing Day Preparations
  Closing day refers to the date mutually agreed to by the seller and buyer for the transfer of funds, title and the keys (usually). This can be a stressful time for both parties considering that this may be the largest sale or purchase of a lifetime. A few essential preparations can make the transaction flow smoothly. [ read more ]
  
  
• How much rent is too much?
  Everyone seems to have one on television. Magazines are filled with them. Now it's time to get one of your own. That beautiful, bright, stylish apartment you've always dreamed might be out there but wait till you see the rent. [ read more ]
  
  
• Home Insurance
  Whether you are a first time homeowner or an old hand at buying and selling houses, there are several things you should know about home insurance...[ read more ]
  
  
• Renovation Financing: The First Steps
  If you have decided to borrow to finance your renovation project, you should take time to research the various ways that banks, trust companies and other financial institutions have of offering financing. In this first of a two-part series on renovation financing we look at the various ways to borrow.
  
  Sit down with your lender, and find out how much you are qualified to borrow comfortably. Once you have a better idea of the amount you can afford, you are ready to shop around for estimates from at least three professional renovators. You should add a 10-20% contingency margin to the prices you are quoted. This should cover any unexpected costs that may arise during the course of your renovation project. [ read more ]
  
  
• Renovating: How to Finance your Dream Project
  If you have decided to borrow to finance your renovation project, you should take time to research the various ways that banks, trust companies and other financial institutions have of offering financing. In this article on renovation financing we look at the various ways to borrow...[ read more ]
  
  
• Home Buying - Give Yourself a Negotiating Advantage By Planning Ahead
  Buying a property requires good knowledge of market conditions, personal finances as well as the ability to judge what is a good investment. Equally important is being in a position to negotiate realistically when you do decide to make an offer. That comes of doing as much up-front thinking and preparation as you can before you are actually in the position of preparing a formal offer to purchase. [ read more ]
  
  
• Renovating? Start with the Money
  The decision to renovate a home often starts with a dream: a new kitchen, a new bathroom, another bedroom, and so on. Such dreams are often based on a sound business decision. Renovating what is probably your biggest and best investment - your home - can increase both its value and your enjoyment of it. [ read more ]
  
  
• Self-Employed means Creative Lending
  Self-employed homebuyers have historically presented a challenge to realtors when dealing with conservative lenders. But many self-employed Canadians are now realizing their goal of home ownership, and there are more self-employed individuals in this country than ever before. [ read more ]

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Adrien has answers to your questions and more professional tips to make your real estate transaction more pleasurable. Call or e-mail Adrien or click on Ask Your Own Questions. Adrien can send you information on any Property Listed For Sale on the Multiple Listing Service in the Ottawa area. If you would like him to help you locate a home, please fill out his Information Request Form. Surfing the Real Estate Board's web site or MLS.CA and found a house that you like but doesn't give you the civic address. Adrien can also help. Just fill out his Would like an address form, please ! Or perhaps you are considering selling your home in the near future, he can also offer you a Free No-Obligation Market Evaluation Form.