JANUARY 2018
HOME & L I F E &S LIFESTYLE T Y L E M MAGAZINE AGAZINE HOME
KingLiving.ca
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January 2018
PUBLISHED BY
Rainmaker Realty Inc. King Living Home & Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and delivered to over 7500 homes and businesses in King Township by Canada Post. Agreement #41362062.
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to publish this magazine as accurately as possible; however errors and omissions can occur. King Living Home & Lifestyle Magazine’s employees, agents, representatives and vendors are not liable for any damages relating to errors or omissions in the editorials or advertising which may appear herein except where a specific charge has been made.
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Secrets to sell your home successfully
6 Sustainable
Seafood
12 Questions to ask
your doctor before any test or treatment
Groundhog day
Chinese New Year
Valentine's Day
Family Day
Friday, February 2nd Wednesday, February 14th
Ash Wednesday
Wednesday, February 14th 2
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Thursday, February 15th Monday, February 19th
HEALTHY ON-THE-GO POWER CRUNCH BARS When you're hungry and in a hurry, sticking to your new year's resolution can get tricky. Plan ahead and beat your cravings with these power crunch snack bars, made with Orville Redenbacher Smart Pop microwaveable popcorn. The popcorn is 100 per cent whole grain, high in fibre and now made without any artificial colours, flavours or preservatives.
Power Crunch Bars Ingredients • No-stick cooking spray • 1 1/2 cups (375 mL) quick-cooking rolled oats • 3/4 cup (175 mL) all-purpose flour • 1/2 tsp baking soda • 1/4 tsp salt • 1 mini bag (34 g) Orville Redenbacher's Smart Pop microwaveable popcorn
• 3/4 cup (175 mL) firmly packed brown sugar • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon • 1/2 cup (125 mL) margarine • 1 tbsp water • 1 tsp vanilla extract • 3/4 cup (175 mL) dried cranberries Directions • Preheat oven to 375°F. Spray 15x10-inch shallow baking pan with cooking spray. Combine oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt in medium bowl; set aside. • Prepare popcorn according to package directions. Remove all un-popped kernels; set aside. • Combine brown sugar and margarine in large bowl using electric mixer on high speed. Add water and vanilla; beat until light and fluffy. Gradually
add flour mixture; blend well. Reduce speed to low and add cranberries. • Cover hands with plastic gloves or sandwich-size plastic bags. Incorporate popped corn into cookie dough. Spread mixture in pan. Bake 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown. • Cool before cutting into 24 bars. Store in tightly sealed container. www.newscanada.ca
W E L C O M E T O P O S T O PA N I N O A stylish Italian eatery specializing in Italian cuisine. Come and enjoy one of our many feature menu items: pasta, Italian sandwiches, stone baked pizzas, gourmet salads and signature “stone chicken”. Whether you eat in or take out, the tradition of homemade, high quality food with a contemporary twist will be sure to impress! C AT E R I N G & TA K E O U T B O O K Y O U R H O L I D AY E V E N T S W I T H U S ! Birthdays, Children’s Parties, Wedding Rehearsal Dinners, Showers or any Religious Events. T R E N D Y AT M O S P H E R E • C AT E R I N G & TA K E O U T I TA L I A N G O U R M E T C U I S I N E
PLEASE CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION. WE WILL CUSTOMIZE YOUR MENU TO SUIT YOUR NEEDS. FOLLOW US
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SECRETS TO SELL YOUR HOME SUCCESSFULLY
Here are some tips from the Ontario Real Estate Association that will help your home stand out when you decide to sell.
DID YOU KNOW? In a survey conducted by Nanos Research for the Ontario Real Estate Association (OREA), 9-in-10 Ontarians aged 30 to 39 (91%) and 88% of those 60 plus, agree or somewhat agree that owning one’s own home is more difficult for young people now than it used to be. Yet the dream of home ownership persists, with more than 9-in-10 Ontarians across all age groups agreeing or somewhat agreeing that home ownership is important to them.
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Focus on first impressions You only get one, so make sure everything potential buyers see first is in top shape. During winter, keep your driveway shovelled and hats and mittens neatly stored for a clutter-free entryway. Empty your closets A great trick is to create the illusion of extra storage space with half-empty closets, drawers and cabinets. Upgrade strategically Skip costly major overhauls — quick fixes are cheaper, easier and can often deliver a better return on your investment. Things like a fresh coat of paint, cleaning the carpets, and replacing door and cabinet handles in the kitchen are big-impact projects that can be accomplished in a weekend. Edit personal touches Buyers are more likely to make an offer if they can visualize themselves living in your home, so put away family photos and kitschy personal mementoes. Stick to simple
artwork and accessories that make the space feel lived-in, but neutral. Understand legal documents When you list and sell your home, there are several real estate documents you need to complete the transaction, like the Agreement of Purchase and Sale and the Listing Agreement. Work with your Realtor to make sure you understand the important information in these agreements and that they contain the specific wording that suits your needs. Make sure the price is right You don't want to leave money on the table but you also shouldn't set the price unreasonably high, or you may scare away buyers and keep your house on the market longer than necessary. Your Realtor can help you determine what's right for your local market. Light it up A home that looks bright, airy and spacious is more welcoming and feels larger. Get the look by opening the curtains before viewings, choosing pared-down window treatments in light colours, and adding a few strategic lamps. Find more information at www.orea.com. www.newscanada.ca
Make a resolution to prepare your will in 2018 As you are preparing your New Year's resolutions, experts say you may want to add writing a will to your list. No matter what the size of your estate, every adult should have a will. Without one, you risk leaving distribution decisions to an impersonal formula with the government writing the terms. A valid will ensures your property will be dealt with according to your wishes and with a minimum of complications and expense for your estate. Without a will, your spouse may not receive as much as you would wish, your heirs will receive fixed percentages regardless of their needs, and a court appointed administrator will handle your affairs. When making your will, it is important to give careful thought to the people, needs or organizations you would like to benefit. It is best to consult a lawyer or notary to ensure your will is properly drawn — and this is much less expensive than most people imagine.
Here are five more reasons for drafting a will: Children & grandchildren A will provides for the care of any children who are minors, enabling you to choose a guardian. Should both parents die, it assures the children do not become wards of the court. Speedy settlement of affairs Without a will, lengthy court delays could create undue hardship for your family. Estate planning When skillfully drafted, a will allows you to incorporate tax-saving measures and avoid unnecessary taxes, resulting in increased funds for your beneficiaries. Peace of mind A certain peace of mind comes from knowing that you've drafted a will that sets out your true intentions.
Without a will, your spouse may not receive as much as you would wish, your heirs will receive fixed percentages regardless of their needs, and a court appointed administrator will handle your affairs.
Supporting your favourite causes A will assures that you can continue to help organizations you have believed in during your lifetime, such as a health, education or sports charity or a human rights organization like Amnesty International.
You can receive a free information package on wills and bequests by writing to Amnesty International, 1992 Yonge Street, Suite #310, Toronto, Ontario, M4S 1Z7 or online at www.amnesty.ca/legacy. www.newscanada.ca
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Sustainable Seafood Want to feed your family something that is delicious, nutritious and sustainable? Try wild seafood — when sourced responsibly, it is healthy for you and for the planet.
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ild seafood is a renewable resource that requires minimal freshwater to produce, emits little carbon dioxide, uses no arable land, and produces a lean protein at a cost-per-pound that is lower than other animal proteins. Seafood is also rich in nutrients and filled with healthy omega-3 fats. Omega-3 can help lower the risk of heart disease, is linked to brain development in infants, and research shows it can play a role in lowering the risk of cancer, dementia, Alzheimer's and depression. Health Canada recommends eating at least two servings of seafood a week, which will allow you to get the nutritional benefits that are found in food sourced from the ocean. But ensuring seafood is sustainable has becoming an increasingly important issue. “When you are planning your next meal, remember that not all seafood is created equal,” explains Josh Laughren, executive director of Oceana Canada. “Some seafood has a bigger environmen6
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Dungeness crab Try this sustainable seafood in pasta recipes or on its own with butter. Look for Dungeness crab trap-caught in Canada, California, Oregon or Washington. Sablefish This fish is considered a delicacy in many countries. A great source of omega-3 fatty acids, sablefish is perfect for grilling, smoking, frying or serving as sushi. Swordfish This large fish is often sold as steaks and its relatively firm meat makes it ideal for cooking over the grill. Make sure it is caught by harpoon or handline and is from Canada or the United States.
tal impact and often can't be consumed sustainably.” Eating sustainably usually means choosing food that takes into consideration the Hand-dug clams long-term preservation of our planet's This tiny seafood is a big source of iron, resources. Sustainable food is generally protein, calcium, zinc, vitamin B and very good for you, and there are even omega-3 fatty acids. Clams are delicious more health benefits from choosing sus- eaten raw, steamed, boiled, baked, fried or in a hearty bowl of clam chowder. tainable seafood.
Health Canada recommends eating at least two servings of seafood a week, which will allow you to get the nutritional benefits that are found in food sourced from the ocean. “To find more seafood that is healthy for the oceans, check with your local grocer and favourite restaurants to see if they buy from sustainable fisheries,” recommends Laughren. Here's a list of some great seafood options that will help keep you and the oceans healthy:
Spot prawns Trap-caught prawns from the Canadian Pacific are considered sustainable, cook quickly and easily and are great in soups, pastas, stir-fries or on their own with butter. Learn more about sustainable seafood at www.oceana.ca.
Worth Celebrating
On November 30th, the King Township Women of Influence Giving Circle gathered at Locale in King City to celebrate one year of their circle and to share some holiday cheer.
Because giving back matters The King Township Women of Influence Giving Circle is a dynamic group of like-minded women who have come together to make a difference for Seneca’s King Campus students.
The Giving Circle continues to grow and new members are always welcome. Benefits include empowered philanthropy, networking and a charitable tax receipt.
LEARN MORE Joy.Gooding@senecacollege.ca 416.491.5050 ext. 77945
senecacollege.ca/king KING LIVING
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TheRainMakerTeam.com
137 Dennison St., King City
Beautiful custom built home with exceptional attention to detail. Featuring Cortina custom kitchen, vanities, family room and mud room built-ins with quartz counter tops throughout. High-end appliances, faucets and fixtures. Soaring 10-foot ceilings on the main level. Fully finished walk up basement with 9-foot ceilings the quality of upgrades and craftsmanship in this home must be seen to be fully appreciated!
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168 Oxford St., Richmond Hill
50
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Completely renovated and fully landscaped on 100 X 217 ft lot in the heart of King City. Ready to move in, close to schools, trails, shopping, GO transit.
$2
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Custom built home with exquisite high-end finishes throughout! Chef's kitchen with s/s appliances, massive breakfast area, island, servery and pantry with walkthrough to dining room. Hardwood floors throughout main & 2nd floors, 10ft ceilings on main, 9ft ceilings on 2nd floor & basement, and all bedrooms have their own ensuites! The quality of upgrades and craftsmanship in this home must be seen to be fully appreciated!
$1 ,9
17 Creekview Ave., Richmond Hill
88 ,0 00
we make “sold” happen
*The top one percent of the Royal LePage residential sales force for 2016
TheRainMakerTeam.com
we make “sold” happen
let us make “sold” happen for you!
Joseph Cartaginese Broker
Paula Perri Broker
Stephen Ferritto Sales Representative
Domenic Spina Sales Representative
Jamie Goldenberg Sales Representative
Chris Campoli Sales Representative
Christine Field Sales Representative
Palma Dametto Sales Representative
TheRainMakerTeam.com
we make “sold” happen
born, raised & work in king
Questions every homeowner should ask about their property Many homeowners are not aware that service line failures are not covered by most home insurance policies. Before the unexpected happens, make sure you're covered.
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id you know that homeowners are responsible for the maintenance and replacement of service lines on their property when they fail? The costs associated with digging up, repairing or replacing service lines can run into thousands of dollars. More than that, any damages to trees, shrubs and driveways due to repairs must be paid out-of-pocket by homeowners. Alarmingly, many homeowners are not aware that service line failures — including water, sewer, septic, electrical and telecommunications lines — are not covered by most home insurance policies. “Every homeowner needs to be knowledgeable on what they're covered for and what they're not,” advises Isabelle Bientz, insurance expert from Aviva. “Most service lines run underground, making it easy to forget the importance of getting them checked for repairs. A lot of homeowners are also not aware that they own
the outdoor service lines from their property line to their house, and behind their house to a well, septic tank or out-building.” Before the unexpected break, leak, tear, rupture or collapse occurs, homeowners need to ask themselves these questions about their service lines: How old are your pipes? The average lifespan of water pipes is 25 years, but the average age of pipes in many areas in Canada is over 50 years old, and several municipalities have water systems of comparable age. Knowing the age of your own water pipes will help you determine whether they're due for a repair or replacement. What are your pipes made of? Depending on what your pipes are made of, the life expectancy will differ. It's important that you check the material of
your sewer and water pipes in order to make an educated assessment, or consult an expert to see when they're due for a repair or in need of a replacement. Do you have mature trees near your property? If you own a home with mature trees on or near your property, the roots could cause serious damage to your service lines. Clay pipes, which are most commonly used to build water and sewer lines in older homes, can be easily penetrated and damaged by tree roots. If you suspect a tree root problem, contact a professional to investigate before the situation worsens. Not sure if you need coverage for your service lines? Find more information from your insurance broker or online at www. avivacanada.com. www.newscanada.ca
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5 questions to ask your doctor before any test or treatment The cold winter months usually see us spending more time in doctors' offices. Whether you're getting a flu shot or checking on a lingering cough, the more information you have the better decisions you can make about your healthcare. Here are five questions you should ask your healthcare practitioner before any test or treatment.
only on the male body while not considering the differences that are unique to women and their health. This is why you likely need to remind your doctor to account for gender differences when prescribing a test or treatment. “Many healthcare practitioners are not aware of the gender bias in clinical studies and the implications for women's health," explains Karen Jensen, a natuDo I actually need this test ropathic doctor whose new book, or treatment? Women's Health Matters: The Tests are used as diagnostic tools Influence of Gender on Disease, to help you doctor determine the explores this issue in detail. “As best course of treatment, but in a result, it becomes a bottom-up many cases they can use less inva- situation, requiring the public, sive criteria to make a recommen- and women in particular to dation. Similarly, certain treat- educate themselves.” ments are elective, so it's good to know if something is necessary What are the risks and or optional. potential side effects? Understanding the risks of a Have physiological specific test or treatment can give differences been taken into you a clearer picture of possible account? advantages and drawbacks, while Diseases, treatments and chem- knowing the side effects lets you icals affect men and women know what's normal, what's to differently, with most drug trials be expected and what requires and medical research focusing reaching out to your doctor.
Diseases, treatments and chemicals affect men and women differently, with most drug trials and medical research focusing only on the male body while not considering the differences that are unique to women and their health.
Are there alternatives? This gives you a chance to learn about newer test or treatment options that may offer comparable results, as well as find out if lifestyle changes or alternative therapies can help.
What are the costs? It's important to know if your doctor's recommendations are covered by your provincial healthcare plan, and if not, what percentage you can expect your insurance to reimburse. You also need to know what time and emotional costs may apply; for example, if a test requires taking a whole day off work. Find more information online at wvmagonline.com. www.newscanada.ca
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Photography
CONTEST WINNER Photo by
WILSON MARKLE Location
King City
Ontario Trillium
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TheRainMakerTeam.com
we make “sold” happen TheRainMakerTeam Difference The Other Guys! Most Realtors operate as a “one person does all” show.
FACT: An agent who is a great marketer,
HOW DOES TheRainMakerTeam’s SYSTEM WORK?
does not necessarily mean that they are a great negotiator or administrator, etc. One size definitely doesn't fit all.
Our team is modeled on the most successful major corporations. They have departments that specialize in a particular element or task and so do we.
You get where we’re going with this… A jack of all trades and a master of none, won’t work for you in today’s world of competitive real estate.
What you get from us is an entire team of experts handling your transaction, instead of a single agent.
TheRainMakerTeam is a full service real estate team. Helping you is what we do! All calls and internet inquiries answered by a team member 24/7
Décor & Staging: Specialists will work together with you to enhance your home’s features and benefits to prospective buyers enhancing the probability to maximize your return.
Our dedicated administration specialists handle all the documentation, so that your personal realtor can devote their full attention to the sale of your home.
Data & Technology Department: Our data specialists utilize our customized computer software to examine market conditions, trends and comparable sales together with our expert home evaluators to arrive at the ideal list price of your home. In today’s real estate world it requires a scientific approach... No guesswork with us.
Negotiation Department: Our negotiators are seasoned professionals who are always up to the challenge to get you the most money for your home.
It is our belief that only full time Realtors who are fully engaged in real estate can best serve your best interest… no part timers here!
Administration Department
Specialized Website for King Township
Full Time Realtors
Client Care Department Our full time client care specialists are always available to liaise with our clients. While your personal realtor may be helping another client, you are never forgotten or left alone.
Legal Department: Associated Real Estate specialist lawyers who are well versed in all aspects of your transaction and the hidden pitfalls to ensure a smooth process.
Finance Department & Mortgage Department: Specialists who assist prospective buyers of your home to obtain mortgages at competitive rates so that they can purchase your
Other Departments: Property search Renovation Home Care and Cleaning
#1 BROKERAGE IN CANADA
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*For Royal LePage Based on Real Estate Sales of Independently Owned Franchises in 2017
TheRainMakerTeam.com
we make “sold” happen
Congratulations to TheRainMakerTeam on achieving The Chairmans Club Award for 2017, recognizing the Top 1% of Royal LePage Realtors Canada wide
TheRainMakerTeam.com
we make “sold” happen