Renters Guide Calgary - Nov 23, 2012

Calgary Edition

November 09 - 23, 2012 Volume 23 Issue 23

FROnT COvER

FEATuRE

Vice-President, Wall2Wall Media Jacqueline Hill editor in chief, real estate Susan Legge account executiVe Carolyn Porteous national account Manager, MediatiVe Paul Slizys editor Elisa Krovblit contriButors Hellen Buttigieg, Dan Hopkins, Leslie Styles

Do your research and

CHOOSE YOUR MOVER WISELY

senior Production Manager Gnanapandithan Bala Production Manager Nikki Yarwood Production coordinator Bala Menon art director Lee Cobham design & Production Mike Terentiev, Swinder Jodhka circulation Bill White (587) 226-1439

10 moving Do your research and choose your mover wisely by dan Hopkins

SECTIOnS 9

Local News

19 Calgary Marketplace

EDITORIAL FEATuRES

RENTERS GUIDE is published every two weeks. To submit articles or advertising, call Carolyn Porteous on: Tel. 780-688-3570 The magazine is free to the public.

Proud MeMber:

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Published by

Copyright covers the contents of this publication and prevents reproduction in whole or in part; offenders will be prosecuted. We may reserve the right to refuse any advertising, to make changes or edit advertising as necessary. Care will be taken to ensure copy accuracy but no warranty is implied or given by the publisher.

The publication, the publisher and the printers shall not be responsible for any typographical errors, mistakes, misprints, spot colouring or any information or lack of information furnished by the advertisers. © 2012 Wall2Wall Media™ Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada homeTRADER and The homeTRADER & Design are trade-marks of Apax Partners LLP, used under license Disclaimer: The views expressed by the columnists in this publication are not necessarily those of the publication.

local news 9 Calgary: Arts, Crafts, commerce quicktips 12 A place and a space for everything

by Hellen Buttigieg

wHat’s new 13 Get this look!

by silvana longo

scrumpdillyicious 20 Pumpkin cheesecake with Praline sauce by leslie styles

EDITORS’ NOTES

e

veryone knows that real estate is about location, location, location.

Since it’s one of the biggest considerations you’re faced with when it comes to choosing a rental, just what are the critical things to consider when choosing a location?

There are so many personal variables it’s really up to you to decide. As an example, if it is just as important to you to be close to your children’s school as it is to your place of work, then look for a place that offers a balance between the two locations. If you own a car and want to use public transportation whenever possible to save on parking and gas costs, look for a well-connected mass transit location. If you’re a walker, close proximity to major amenities should be a definite consideration. Doing errands such as grocery shopping and banking on foot has many health benefits and gives you a chance to meet your neighbours and discover new places too.

Don’t let the cost of rent solely dictate your choice of location. Make a list of your personal priorities first and then take the time to assess each location for its merits and weigh your options. Unlike paint and decor, location is the one thing that you cannot change so it’s important to choose well.

Susan Legge EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, homeTRADER susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge

a

ll trends have their moment and then slowly slip out of fashion as popular views adopt the next. Last year it was boot-legs and and wedges, this year it’s skinny jeans and tall boots. For the last few years it’s been “Buy! Buy! Buy!” and now it’s “Rent! Rent! Rent!”

With low interest rates, lots of new condos, starter home developments and easy terms to borrow, everyone was preaching the virtues of property ownership. But as the dust settled and prices started rising, debt levels began to mount and new homebuyers started feeling the weight and burden of homeownership. Its popularity has begun to slide. Renting is becoming a very popular option instead of the can’t-buy-so-I-have-no-choice option, a status that shows you’ve got freedom, more disposable income and less responsibility and worries. Renting longer allows you the opportunity to save up a bigger down payment and wait for a more favourable ‘buyers market’ if buying is truly your ultimate goal. No need to rush, renting offers a lot of advantages like living in a neighbourhood you might not be able to afford to buy in, moving with only 60 days notice with no hassle, and no maintenance!

Those that bought into the idea that a mortgage carries like rent were right – especially as mortgage rates hit an all-time low. But the reality is, there are a lot of other homebuyer expenses: property tax, increased insurance premiums, utilities, repairs – from $250 for the plumbers to $10,000 for a new roof – emergencies, trash disposal fees, landscaping, snow removal, condo fees, etc.

Add those to that rent/mortgage price tag, and it seriously gouges that comfortable rental budget that allowed for vacations dining out and trendy boots. And when the mortgage rates do start to rise, that once-low mortgage definitely won’t carry like rent.

Your spot on trend with renting, and we’re here to help with the search.

With Renters Guide in hand you’ll find the perfect place. Our magazine and website, homeTRADER.ca, offer the best selection of available apartments as well as informative articles and advice, making it easy to make your move!

Elisa Krovblit EDITOR elisa.krovblit@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/ElisaKrovblit Like us on Facebook Renters Guide

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Take a look at the market and see what’s out there.

Vacancy rates are currently very low – and due to supply and demand, rent may be higher than the last time you looked around the market. Skim through 22X apartments that are available and appeal to you to familiarize yourself with the market.e sure you have

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TO ADVERTISE IN

1. PROVEN TRACK RECORD – 28 years’ experience in publishing magazines for the rental community 2. CIRCULATION – hundreds of high-traffic locations including stores, banks & other easily accessible distribution points throughout the city 3. AD DESIGN – included in your contract is the option to work with the creative team at Renters Guide 4. EDITORIAL • Timely and topical industry-related editorials and articles • In-house writers and celebrity contributors that speak to the rental market and current lifestyle trends 5. CALL TRACKING – we use a third party, independent call tracking company to provide timely and relevant metrics 6. THE LOOK – Renters Guide has a sophisticated design created to attract readers 7. VOLUME – the largest and most comprehensive grouping of rental properties in the greater Calgary area 8. PHOTOGRAPHY – included in your contract is the option for exterior site photography 9. SEGMENTATION – magazines are divided and are specific to each neighborhoods for ease of use by potential renters.

10. homeTRADER.ca – comprehensive listings of rental properties in the greater Calgary area with a growing number of the most unique monthly visitors.

For Advertising information call Carolyn @ 780-668-3570

Local news

Calgary:

Arts, Crafts, Commerce

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ovember 15th to 18th will mark the 26th annual Calgary Art Market Art and Craft Sale at the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre.

What began as a 40 table show in 1986 has expanded to include more than 200 Canadian craftspeople who have the chance to showcase their work in everything from porcelain, leatherwork and fashion, to woodwork and exotic jewelry. While Art Market gives shoppers the chance to find one-of-a-kind goods, it gives Calgary the chance to build its cultural profile.

Art Market is all about creating a rewarding and unique shopping experience.“The consumers who support Art Market are those shopping outside of the box and looking for something special,” says Marlene Loney, Art Market promoter.“We recognize that people have busy lives, so we work hard to make sure time spent at Art Market is special.”

That unique experience begins with event organizers carefully screening artisans in order to ensure there is quality and variety. With many artisans travelling across Canada to showcase their work, it offers that once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to find and buy oneof-a-kind goods.

The quality goods combined with the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre’s (CTCC) great facilities and dedicated staff creates just the right atmosphere for the successful event.“Hosting our event at the CTCC gives our artisans access to a very urban-city clientele who appreciate the quality and diversity of the work being presented,” says Loney. Held just before the holiday season, Art Market allows shoppers to pick up original gifts ranging anywhere from $10 to $5000.

While the event provides a great shopping opportunity, it also helps the city nurture its cultural side while providing a healthy economic boost.

With 20,000 Calgarians attending the annual event, the city benefits from advertising revenues, dining, parking fees and more. It’s great for the artisans too, who can negotiate business arrangements with local galleries and retailers and build their business beyond the event.

Art Market Art and Craft Sale is open Thursday November 15th through Sunday November 18th with admission covering unlimited show access for all four days, plus the chance to win one of six $1000 Gift Showcases.

The website, artmarketcraftsale.com, features full event details, interviews, artist biographies, videos, and holiday gift ideas.

While it takes quality craftsmen to create a successful Art Market, Calgary also offers the right location, the right audience, and the right venue - the Calgary TELUS Convention Centre. The Calgary TELUS Convention Centre has been one of Canada’s premier convention and meeting facilities since opening its doors in 1974. Operated by the Calgary Convention Centre Authority on behalf of the City of Calgary its mandate is to market, manage and operate in an efficient and competitive manner in order to maximize overall economic benefits to the City of Calgary.

SOURCE: Calgary TELUS Convention Centre

moving

do your research and choose your mover wisely

BY DA N HOPK I N S

When it comes to moving, a little homework ahead of time can save a lot of headaches later on.

Face it – your “stuff” is important to you, and you want movers who treat your furnishings and accessories that way. Some items like toasters and even sofas can be replaced if they are damaged, but other things such as family photos and heirlooms are irreplaceable. At Two Men And A Truck, we adopted the tag line “Movers Who Care” to reflect how critical it is to treat every move with complete respect for our clients and every one of their possessions.

When you shop for a mover, remember that the lowest bidder is not necessarily your smartest pick. You want a company that has a track record for providing excellent service – with “service” being the key word. Customer service includes much more than the actual packing and transporting of your items; it starts with the first contact. You should be able to expect a pleasant, professional representative to provide you with an estimate that is well thought out and fair.

Service extends to promptness, cleanliness and thoroughness at both ends of the move. It also involves open lines of communication. Ask questions of the movers you are considering – and if they are reluctant to give you a straight answer, move on to the nest candidate.

One of the best ways to find a mover is through word of mouth. Ask your friends, neighbours and relatives which companies they used and how pleased they were.

Another valuable resource is the Internet. Research moving firms and find out how long they have been in business. Find out if and how their workers are trained in the packing and transporting of goods. Ask what you can expect before, during and after the move.

You can also check with the Canadian Association of Movers (movers.net), which has a web page for consumers. This trade association represents moving and storage companies and is aimed at helping customers connect with reliable, professional moving services. A look through the member directory and posted articles on this website is one more tool that can help in your search.

Moving can be one of the most exciting – and most stressful – times of your life. Hiring a mover who cares as much as you do about getting your possessions from point A to point B efficiently, economically and safely will reduce the stress and increase the fun. Your movers play an integral role in helping you adapt to your new surroundings.

If you are planning a move in the future, think ahead and start your research now.

The more comfortable and confident you feel in the mover you select, the smoother moving day will go. Customer service, walking the walk and talking the talk is really what it’s all about!

Dan Hopkins is chief operating officer, Two Men and a Truck Canada. For more information visit the website at twomenandatruck.ca

quicktips

a place and a space for everything

by Hellen Buttigieg

Whether you have a spraWling home With plenty

of room or a cosy place that has little in the way of extra space, you need to create a system so that your home functions in a manner that accommodates your lifestyle needs. And whether you live large or small, chances are there’s a favourite spot in your home that sees more than its fair share of action. It’s a corner of the sofa you curl up in, or a spot at the breakfast counter that has a pile of things you want to get to ‘when you have a minute’ that could use a little bit of help. Without designated spaces you’re forever tucking things away that don’t have a real home – and wasting far too much time trying to remember where and when you go to retrieve them.

Develop a place for each activity you do and space to keep those items that go with it to add some organization to your home – and your life!

Everyone needs a home office. Are you using your kitchen or dining room table as an office? It can be frustrating and time consuming to constantly have to pack up your papers and bring them out again.

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a student or a homemaker, you need a space in your home specifically designated for processing paperwork. Although it would be ideal to have a room devoted entirely to this purpose, you can also use an armoire in the family room that closes up when not in use, or a closet that has been refitted with a countertop and drawers. You’ll also need good lighting, a comfortable chair, and a functional filing system.

Where did I put the... Have you ever stored a special item in a safe place and then forgotten where you put it when you need it three months later? A simple solution is to create a document in MS Word or a similar program on your computer to record the location of seldom-used articles. Use the ‘find’ feature in Word (located in the Edit drop-down menu) to retrieve the information quickly within the document. Be sure to name the document something obvious so you can find it on your computer.

Name that room. Rooms that don’t have a specific purpose often become dumping grounds for clutter. Before you begin de-cluttering, go through your home, room by room, and determine how you want to use each space.

Identify which items support the purpose of the room and which ones should be moved elsewhere. Keep a few boxes handy so you can easily transport smaller items to their appropriate rooms.

a shoe-in for office supply storage. Use the pockets of a clear vinyl shoe bag to hold just about everything you need for the office, from spare scissors to extra batteries.

These usually come with hooks you can use to hang them over the door, allowing you to tap into previously unused space. everything needs a home. Whenever you bring a new item into your home, immediately find a permanent place for it to live. To help you determine the best spot for it, ask yourself what else is like it, and where (and how often) you will use it. Store similar things together and store items near their place of use. Items used daily should be placed in the most accessible areas (within arm’s reach), whereas seldom-used items can be stored in out-of-the way spaces. Keep a label maker handy to label drawers, shelves and containers so you don’t have to rely on your memory when you need to find something quickly.

What did i do with that manual? Did you add new appliances and electronics to your collection recently?

Staple the receipt and warranty to the instruction manual and tape it to the bottom of the item so it’s easy to find if you need to refer to it. For portable items like cell phones and MP3 players, store the manuals in an accordion file by category.

Where did I leave my keys? The most common excuse for lateness? “I couldn’t find my keys”. It’s hard to be successful if you can’t even leave your home. Save yourself the frustration and embarrassment by simply making an extra set of keys and keeping them in a special place.

Give another set to a relative or neighbour in case of emergency. Create a home for your keys and always place them there when you arrive. You can use a bowl, a small basket or a hook. If all else fails, attach a beeper to your keys that you can activate when they go missing.

Hellen Buttigieg Hellen Buttigieg, CPO, is a Certified Professional Organizer, life coach, TV host and owner of We Organize U. Visit her website, WeOrganizeU. com, for a free e-Book on how to find more time, energy and inner peace. Contact Hellen at 905.829.2219 or info@WeOrganizeU.com

what’snew

what’s new

We follow the trends and put together this handy guide of the latest and greatest products on the market and where to find them. b y S ILV ANA LONG O

Dine in style and be transformed with this stunning, dramatic dining collection with signature marquise motifs, elegant bronzed metal hardware, and textured linen.. Irresistibly fresh.

Full collection available. $3,499, Set price includes: Dining table, four side chairs, two arm chairs. Sideboard $1,999, China cabinet $2,299. VISIT DECORIUM.COM

{ GET THIS LOOK! { 1 Crystal Pier Table Lamp $345 - $445 US. VISIT RESTORATIONHARDWARE.COM

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2 Rustic White Vases. $50.35 – $76.17 .

VISIT POTTERYBARN.COM

,

3 Small Round Capiz Pendant

16 dia. by 18 h, $129.

VISIT WESTELM.COM

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Starbucks aficionados can bring their love for coffee home with the new Verismo system, the first-ever single cup system that combines Starbucks coffeehouse expert recipes with highpressured Swiss technology. Now you can make Starbucks caffĂŠ lattes, espressos, Americanos as well as brewed coffee at the touch of a button. $199. VISIT STARBUCKSSTORE.CA

Method wants you to ditch the dryer sheet and try their DryerActivated Fabric Softener Spray with a plant-based formula that delivers excellent static control.

Four sprays is all it takes and this innovative spray formula prevents millions of dryer sheets from being sent to the landfill. Available in fresh air and lavender lilac. $7.49.

VISIT METHODHOME.COM

Budget-savvy shoppers are wise to the gorgeous finds at HomeSense. This tufted leather chair with velvet flame stitch detail is a beautiful and cosy addition to any seating area in your home, only $399. VISIT HOMESENSE.CA

They say two is better than one but what's even better is two and a half - the Esperia two and a half seater from French furniture manufacturer Gautier. The Esperia sofa lends itself to relaxation, with its flawless ergonomics that allow seats, footrests and backrests to be adjusted independently.

Available in a range of colours, fabrics, microfibres and leathers.

180 L by 80 H by 110 D cm. $3,500. VISIT GAUTIER.FR

{ PSSST! { Appliance Canada has opened their new 10,000 square foot appliance showroom showcasing the latest in design and technology in appliances for your home. Visit 1380 Castlefield in the Design Living Centre, Toronto.

what’snew

Stylish SERVEWARE After a summer of outdoor dining, fall is a great time to bring the party indoors and get fancy. Add these to your table this season.

Sagaform Oval Oak Wine/Water Carafe, $29.95.

Slim and sleek hand-blown glass and oak.

DHS Fia Carafe, $69.

Handmade carafe in clear glass. The ball is grinded to stop it from rolling and can be used as lid or placed in the nest at the bottom of the carafe for a visual effect.

Based in Sweden, Sagaform is committed to Scandinavian design for the kitchen and table. From playful dishes, to functional decanters and more, Sagaform strives for smart solutions and functional design.

Both products available at EQ3.COM

Need some funky but budget-friendly lighting to dress up a youth's bedroom? HD&R likes the Austen Wood Veneer Pendant. Handcrafted of interlaced wood veneer strips shaped into a globe to create a naturally warm presence.

The design casts playful shadows on surrounding surfaces. Wood veneer pieces have a natural finish and are secured with metal pins $120.95. VISIT PBTEEN.COM

{ PSSST! { Aspiring chefs can learn all the fancy chopping moves in the kitchen thanks to Cutlery Seminars & Demonstrations offered thru Victorinox Swiss Army this fall.

Lead by culinary experts, classes will cover themes that include: carving, butchering basics and knife sharpening.

Check out the upcoming classes at 95A Bloor Street West, Toronto, ON. Contact Victorinox Swiss Army at 416.929.9889 to register.

HOME SECURITY TIPS

Rely on good judgement when it comes to safety in your home!

For more information contact Edmonton Police Crime Prevention Unit 780-421-3475

• Install security-rated locks on doors and windows.

• Change locks upon moving into a new residence.

• Install a peep-hole in your door and ask visitors to identify themselves. You should not open the door to strangers.

• If someone you don’t know comes to the door asking to use your phone, offer to make the call for them.

• Always be aware of your surroundings - especially in laundry room, parking garages and elevators.

• List only your initials and last name on the mailbox or in the telephone book.

• Don’t list your first name.

• Never give personal information to telephone solicitors or wrong number callers.

• Get to know your neighbours.

Arrangements can be made to keep an eye on each other’s homes or apartments when away.

• Make sure that all entrances are well lit.

• Draw drapes or close blinds after dark.

• Have your key ready as you approach the door.

• Don’t hide spare keys.

• Have emergency telephone numbers on or near your phone.

• Have an escape plan that allows you to leave your residence quickly.

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Visit a Community Recycling Depot

calgary.ca/recycling Or find a private recycler 2012-1683

recyclinghotline.ca

calgary.ca | call 3-1-1

o Onward/ By 2020, per capita waste sent to City of Calgary landfills is reduced from 2007 levels by 80 per cent.

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central | NE | NW | SE | SW | marketplace | rental classifieds

FIND YOUR HAPPY PLACE

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Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide” • 19

Scrumpdillyicious

LesLie styLes, foodie & traveL aficionado, shares some deLicious dishes found on her traveLs around the worLd.

PumPkin cheesecake with Praline sauce

directions Set a rack over a baking sheet and line the rack with two layers of paper towels. Spread the pumpkin purée over the paper towels and let drain for two hours, until the purée is fairly dry.

Preheat the oven to 450°F. Butter the bottom and side of a nine-inch springform pan. In a food processor, pulse the graham crackers until finely ground. Add the pecans and brown sugar and pulse again until finely ground. Add the melted butter and pulse just until incorporated. Press the crumbs onto the bottom of the prepared pan. Bake the crust for about six minutes, just until it is fragrant and lightly browned. Let the crust cool completely.

In the bowl of a standing electric mixer fitted with the paddle, beat the cream cheese until it is very smooth. In a small bowl, whisk the sugar with the salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. With the machine on, add the spiced sugar to the cream cheese and beat until creamy, scraping the bottom and side of the bowl repeatedly. Carefully add the drained pumpkin puree and beat until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well and scraping down the bowl between each addition. Beat in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and vanilla until the cheesecake mixture is smooth.

l

uscious and creamy, this decadent recipe for Pumpkin Cheesecake with Praline Sauce is a delicious combination of cream, sugar, eggs, pumpkin purée with an intoxicating blend of traditional pumpkin pie spices: ground cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and allspice. Once it’s baked, the cheesecake is then topped with a sweet buttery pecan praline topping. The key to this dessert’s success is threefold: draining the pumpkin purée on paper towel at the beginning, so it’s as thick as possible; ensuring that the cream cheese, eggs and cream are at room temperature before starting; and finally, beating the cheesecake mixture thoroughly so that the final result is lighter than air. Rest assured, the extra effort pays off. This Pumpkin Cheesecake is very light, not heavy at all, and wonderfully delicious. I’ll wager that you’ll never make a Pumpkin Pie again. As a final flourish, a dollop of whipped cream or scoop of homemade Cinnamon Ice Cream, would be pretty hard to resist!

Pour the cheesecake mixture over the cooled crust and bake for 12 minutes. Lower the oven temperature to 225°F and bake the cheesecake for about three hours, until an instant-read thermometer inserted in the center registers 150°F; the centre will be very jiggly but not liquidy. Let the cheesecake cool on a rack, then cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

Run a hot knife around the cheesecake and loosen the springform ring. Carefully remove the ring and transfer the cake to a plate.

Using a warm knife, cut the cake into wedges and serve with the Pecan Praline Topping and a scoop of Cinnamon Ice Cream.

ingredients serves 12 1 15-oz can pumpkin puree, equal to 1 3/4 cups 8 whole graham crackers, broken 1/2 cup pecans 1 tbsp light brown sugar 5 tbsp unsalted butter, melted plus more for greasing the pan 14-oz cream cheese, at room temperature 1 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 tsp salt 1 tsp cinnamon

1/4 tsp freshly ground nutmeg 1/4 tsp ground cloves 1/4 tsp ground allspice 5 large eggs, at room temperature 1 cup heavy cream, at room temperature 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice 2 tsp pure vanilla extract Whipped Cream, for serving (optional) Pecan Praline Topping Cinnamon Ice Cream

Leslie Styles is president of Styles Design Inc., a Toronto-based branding and communications agency, and author of Scrumpdillyicious, a food & travel blog dedicated to all things delicious. She can be reached at stylesdesign.net and scrumpdillyicious.blogspot.com