Hamilton Renters Guide - 03 Aug., 2013

August 03 - 17, 2013 Volume 21 Issue 16

Brantford-Hamilton-Niagara Edition

Welcome to the neighbourhood

235 Rebecca St.

195 Wellington St. S.

Walking distance to Jackson Square

Quality Family Living in Hamilton

Downtown Location

Affordably Priced

medallioncorp.com

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

SUMMER TIME AND THE APARTMENT LIVING IS EASY!

USE THE WALL TO STORE IT ALL

Our Effort Is For You Apartment Rentals

www.effortrentals.com 1.888.461.0153 rentals@efforttrust.ca

APARTMENTS

LOCATIONS

✓ Bachelor, 1, 2 & 3 bedroom suites

Over 100 buildings located in: Grimsby Hamilton Jarvis Ancaster Kitchener Brantford St. Catharines Burlington Stoney Creek Cobourg Welland Dundas

✓ Ranging from smaller, historic walk-ups to high-rise buildings ✓ 2, 3 and 4 Bedroom Townhomes

2G

Senior's residences in Ancaster and the heart of Downtown Hamilton

ABOUT US ✓ Courteous, knowledgeable and prompt to respond ✓ We strive to provide our tenants with clean, well maintained rentals that represent exceptional value and comfort

Apartment Rentals

BEL GAL ESTATES

KENSINGTON

OAKLAND SQUARE TOWER 1

50, 60 & 70 Jerome Crescent, Hamilton East End

115 Main Street East, Hamilton Central

123 Charlton Avenue East, Hamilton Central

Located near Centennial Pkwy S. & Queenston Rd. Includes tennis courts, exercise room, whirlpool & sauna, and an olympic size swimming pool for all tenants to enjoy. Rental Office is located at 50 Jerome Crescent

Located near John St.S. close to Jackson Square Shopping Centre, Hamilton Farmer's Market, Gore Park, the Hamilton Public Library, the GO Station and St. Joseph's Hospital.

Located near John St. S. Close to St. Joseph's Hospital and a short walk to downtown Hamilton, Jackson Square, restaurants, parks, and schools.

On major bus routes and close to the GO Station.

Features outdoor swimming pool.

1.877.469.4885

1.877.469.5231

1.877.469.4964

DUCHESS APARTMENTS

GRANITE CHALET

95 WENTWORTH APARTMENTS

161 East Avenue South, Hamilton Central

256 Duke Street, Hamilton Central

95 Wentworth Street South, Hamilton Central

Located near East Ave. S. & Stinson St., close to major bus routes and the core of downtown Hamilton. Many nearby amenities including; grocery stores, local shopping plazas, restaurants, hospitals and government buildings.

Located near Main St. W. & Queen St. S. At the heart of Hamilton's business district near St. Joseph's Hospital, Hamilton Place, Copps Colliseum & Jackson Square.

Located near Main St. E. in the downtown core in a quiet community on Wentworth St. Nearby amenities include restaurants, grocery stores, catholic/public schools, parks, local shops and major bus routes.

1.877.512.0189

1.877.246.1755

1.877.458.8623

Availability online at 1.888.461.0153

www.effortrentals.com |

rentals@efforttrust.ca

Apartment Rentals

3G

apartments townhouses Spacious & Sparkling Clean Units, Near Bus Routes & Amenities and the Red Hill Parkway

Kings Forest Manor

288 Mount Albion Rd. | 905-578-5488 - Building Super Offers many features for your active lifestyle. Includes swimming pool, and is only steps away from the Niagara Escarpment. Well maintained with up to date amenities including underground parking for some units.

One and Two Bedroom Apartments

Kently Towers

Hamilton's

543 Queenston Rd. | 905-561-1239 - Building Super Worry-Free living is what you can enjoy in this extremely secure building. Ideal for seniors, close to many conveniences including Eastgate Mall, and bus routes.

One and Two Bedroom Apartments

Kingswood Place

6 Kingswood Dr. | 905-387-0848 - Building Super Your family will enjoy the spacious layout, complete with clean appliances. Steps away from grocery store, bus routes, schools and Glendale Golf Course. Very convenient!

Two and Three Bedroom Townhomes

www.desantis.com email: info@desantis.com

Head Office: 905-777-0252

Providing Hamilton and area with quality dwellings for over 30 years. Call us today, we’ll make you feel at home!

4G

The Villa Marie Community - 43 & 57 Forest Ave., 50 Young St., 151 Hughson St. – 905 528 5253

Main & Bay

Blink Bonnie Apartments - 136 Bay St. South – 905 528 4675

Main & Bay

Bay 200-200 Bay St. South – 905 529 9553

Main & Bay

Haldimand Apartments - 140 Robinson St. – 905 529 9553

Main & Bay

Robinson Place - 33 Robinson St. – 905 525 8373

Bay & Charlton

The Concord - 187 Park Ave. – 905 525 3371

Main & Queen

Savaria & Pannonia Towers - 145 & 165 Queen St. South – 905 570 8691

Bay & King

The Marketeer & Villager - 150 & 160 Market St. – 905 529 9401

Main & John

Landmark Place - 100 Main St. East – 905 528 1414

John & Burlington

Harbour & Marina Towers - 35 Brock St. & 600 John St. North – 905 526 1994

Main & Nash

The Eldorado - 494 Queenston Rd. – 905 573 6361

BRANTFORD

West & Fairview

Westgate Towers - 661 West St. – 519 751 3867

Fairview & North Park

Dornia Manor - 321 Fairview Dr. – 519 752 3596

Fairview & North Park

North Park Towers - 325 North Park Rd. – 519 752 3596

Plains & King

Surrey Lane Apartments - 685,695,705 Surrey Ln. – 905 639 0456

Lakeshore & Brant

The Caledon - 1363 Lakeshore Rd. – 905 637 8431

Lakeshore & Brant

The Sandpiper - 1431 Lakeshore Rd. – 905 632 1427

Queen Mary & Rebecca

Park Terrace I, II, III - 199, 187, 189 Queen Mary Dr. – 905 842 5300

Navy & Randall

Centennial Towers - 155 Navy St. – 905 842 3859

Speers & Kerr

The Premier Court - 41 Speers Rd. – 905 338 3342

Lakeshore & Dixie

Lakewood Apartments - 1257 Lakeshore Rd. – 905 271 5370

Dixie & Bloor

Pacific Way I – 3480 Havenwood Dr. – 905 629 7941

Dixie & Bloor

Pacific Way II – 1485 Williamsport Dr. – 905 629 7941

Lakeshore & Parklawn

Landmark Apt. -2493 Lakeshore Blvd. – 416 255 4559

Lakeshore & Parklawn

Promenade -2301 Lakeshore Blvd. – 416 253 2246

ETOBICOKE

MISSISSAUGA

OKVILLE

HAMILTON

John & Charlton

BURLINGTON

BUILDING DIRECTORY

Same Day Approval! Pre-Authorized

H O M E S T E A D . C A

H O M E S T E A D . C A

A Trusted Place To Call Home Since 1954

Payment Plans Available!

Visit our new website to view our virtual tours and apply online!

Be on the lookout for our new signs!

5G

Picture Yourself Here!

Camelot

TOWERS

WEST HAMILTON Live in Hamilton and work in the GTA • Walk to school and the Hospital • Bus stop at your door • Mature treed setting • Large bedrooms, suitable for roommates • Outdoor pool • GO bus stop at our front door • Easy access to Highway 403

Main St. W. Exit

Longwood

Camelot Towers

McMaster University Hospital

McMaster Innovation Park + Research Centre

Main St. W. 403 Entry from Main

Hwy 403 403 West Ramp

Aberdeen

403 East Ramp

* applicable to all new approved application

6G

JR 1, 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOMS

665

$

FROM

905-522-5246 or 905-528-6922 avcanmanagement.com Proudly Managing for Over 40 Years

Hamilton 01537

townhomes 515 Queen Victoria Drive

• Easy access to the Linc.

Call

905-387-7221

pROpERty ManaGEMEnt sIncE 1981

downtown

www. gumieroholdings.com

GUMIERO hOldInGs

2, 3 & 4 BEdROOM $ townhomes from 970

140 Wellington Street South

info@gumieroholdings.com

905.561.8000 August 3 - 17, 2013

Jr. 1, 1 & 2 BEdROOM

from

559

$

• Clean & secure building • Wheelchair accessible Call

905-529-2616

Eastgate square 70 Glenburn Court spacious 1, 2 & $ from 699 3 bedrooms • Close to all amenities • Wheelchair accessible Call

905-561-6352 caledonia 130 Argyle Street North

1 & 2 BEdROOM

from

620

$

• Easy access to the Linc.

• Wheelchair accessible Call

905-765-0895 grimsby 1 & 3 Slessor Blvd.

bachelor 1, 2 & $ from 603 3 BEdROOM • Clean & secure • Wheelchair accessible Call Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!

905-309-8738 1

Hamilton

03880

Follow the editor on Twitter at Twitter.com/ElisaKrovblit

Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/TheRentersGuide 2

Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!

TheRentersGuide.ca August 3 - 17, 2013

Hamilton

01505

INCREDIBLE VALUE! Ideal Downtown location

Walk to GO Station, Hospitals, Shopping, Restaurants. On the Bus Route!

• Individually Controlled Heat • Freshly Painted • Secured Entry • Newly Carpeted • Large Balconies

1 BEDROOMS AVAILABLE Starting from

675

Main floor space for lease $300/mth.

Ideal for accountant

Renaissance ToweRs

The Newly Renovated

• New Appliances

100 Ferguson Ave. S., Hamilton (Ferguson at Hunter)

*Ceramic tile in kitchen, entry, dining room & washroom

ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED

$

905-527-2626

Open 7 Days a Week & Evenings suenicholson@live.ca

For rental Inquiries please email:

Hamilton

• prime downtown location

• free parking

• suitable for professionals

• laundry facilities on-site

• walking distance to GO station, buses or shopping • clean building • quiet tree-lined neighbourhood

• controlled access

• included heat, hot water, hydro extra • blinds included • storage lockers

One Bedroom From

600

$

Rental office located at

>

Duke St.

>

James St.

August 3 - 17, 2013

>

Hunter St. Bold St.

McNab St.

01524

905-527-8893

Main St. W. Bay St.

Call

Caroline St.

Mon, Tues, Fri & Sat 10 am - 3 pm Wed 10 am - 7 pm • Thurs 10 am - 5pm

King St. W.

> > >

47 Bold Street, Unit 1

the.aberdeen.apartments@gmail.com Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!

3

Front Cover

August 03 - 17, 2013 Volume 21 Issue 16

C E L E B R AT I N G 2 0 Y E A R S

Brantford-Hamilton-Niagara Edition

Welcome to the neighbourhood

Feature

Vice-President, Wall2Wall Media

Jacqueline Hill editor in chief, real estate

Susan Legge accoUnt Manager

Amy O’Reilly

235 Rebecca St.

195 Wellington St. S.

Walking distance to Jackson Square

Quality Family Living in Hamilton

Downtown Location

Affordably Priced

medallioncorp.com

editor

Elisa Krovblit contriBUting editors

Sara Duck, Lydia McNutt, Wayne Karl, Elisa Krovblit

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

SUMMER TIME AND THE APARTMENT LIVING IS EASY!

USE THE WALL TO STORE IT ALL

Find out more about Medallion Corporation with their ad on page 12G

eDItorIaL FeatureS

contriBUtors

Sheryl Erenberg, Hellen Buttugieg, Gail Vaz-Oxlade, Brad Warner senior ProdUction Manager

Gnanapandithan Bala ProdUction Manager

Nikki Yarwood art director

Lee Cobham graPhic designer

Brad Smith ProdUction

Kiran Sharma 401 The West Mall, Suite 500 Etobicoke, Ontario M9C 5J1 TheRentersGuide.ca to adVertise:

Phone: 416-626-4200 Fax: 416-626-8097 Please recycle this magazine! Wall2Wall Media participates in the Partner’s In Growth Reforestation Program through St. Joseph Communications. To date, Partners in Growth has planted over 2.5 million trees in parks, recreation and conservation areas, and other public spaces across Canada. Established in 1990, this program was started with Scouts Canada to help replenish the environment.

Published by

Copyright 2013: All rights reserved by Renters Guide, Toronto, Ontario. Reproduction in any form is prohibited.

Contents of this publication are covered by Copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law.

Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada.

Disclaimer: The views expressed by the columnists in this publication are not necessarily those of the publication.

10

17

insider advice 10 Summer time and the apartment living is easy! by sheryl erenberg

quick tips 17 Go vertical or go home use the wall to store it all

by Hellen Buttugieg

finances 19 Renting versus owning

by Gail vaz-Oxlade

décOr 23 Thinking outside the box spring

by Brad Warner

EDITORS’ NOTES

w

here are you at in your search for the perfect rental suite?

Whether you’ve just started looking for a new place or are almost ready to sign on the dotted line, we know you’ll find this publication helpful. Using the information and ads, all the latest in rental accommodations, news and advice is at your fingertips.

Over the last year, we’ve added more content inside our magazine and offer our magazine in digital version through TheRentersGuide.ca. Now you can get more details than ever on rental communities in your favourite neighbourhoods easier than ever.

Leasing a rental property is a serious decision and a significant commitment, so it is imperative that you do your homework and research the marketplace to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

If you have a question about leasing a property, write to us. We love hearing from you!

Susan Legge EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, National Real Estate susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegged

t

here’s nothing like your first apartment. It changes you, allows you to grow, and actually teaches you a lot about yourself.

In my second year at university I opted to move out of the comforts of home and try life on my own. The commute was killing me and the freedom and independence seemed quite attractive. It was exciting to book viewings, talk to landlords and sign my first lease.

I found a third-storey walk-up right in the heart of the city. That the building was painted purple may have played a small part in my decision, but ultimately, the ‘junior-one-bedroom’ fit me to a tee. I had an ensuite bathroom, a large eat-in kitchen and a completely enclosed bedroom. The large room doubled as my sitting room when I converted my futon frame into couch mode. And the deck was massive!

The one thing I didn’t know when I took the apartment was that I would hate living alone. I thought that my cat and I would revel in the privacy. But in reality I found myself lonely. I hated that nobody would walk through the door unless I invited them. I hated that there was nobody to chat with over dinner and I really hated that there was nobody to help with bills!

It’s interesting what you learn about yourself those first years on your own.

In fact, as life changes your needs can change – and the amazing thing about renting is that it’s easy to change your home to suit your needs. With Renters Guide in hand you’ll find that perfect apartment – even if it’s your first! Our magazine and website, TheRentersGuide.ca, offer the best selection of available apartments, 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 at facebook.com/TheRentersGuide

HOW TO

ADVERTISE

PLACE YOUR disPLAY Ad… Amy O’Reilly

Media Consultant 647.524.2841 Amy.O’Reilly@wall2wallmedia.com

PLACE YOUR CLAssifiEd Ad…

BY PhOnE: 416-784-3311 EXT.1 OR fAX 1-855-626-8097 Call 416-784-3311 and charge your ad to your credit card.

An experienced Renters Guide Advertising Consultant will assist you. Office hours: Monday-Friday 9:00am -5:00pm

exTensive disTRibuTiOn TO All The RighT PlACes With more than 1678 distribution points*, including our box program, and relationships with high-frequency retailers, the Wall2Wall Media distribution network ensures your advertisements are available whenever and wherever consumers are looking to buy, rent, decorate and renovate.

We are committed to bringing you the widest audience of customers, helping to generate the greatest number of qualified leads for your business. With our extensive print and digital publications, from the street to the web, we deliver your message to motivated consumers 24/7. *Distribution points may vary for each publication.

All copyright and other intellectual property rights in the contents hereof are the property of Wall2Wall Media and not that of the customer. The customer has purchased the right of reproduction in Renters Guide only and does not have the right to reproduce the ad or photo in any other place or publication. Contents of this publication are covered by copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law.

Copyright 2013. Wall2Wall media. All rights reserved by Wall2Wall Media, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Reproduction, storage in a retrieval system or transmission, in any form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical or otherwise, in whole or in

part, without the prior written permission of Wall2Wall Media is strictly prohibited.

Published every Saturday in Toronto by Wall2Wall Media.

Terms: Advertisers and The Renters Guide are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. Payment in full must accompany the Insertion Order by cheque, money order, Visa or Mastercard.

Please check your ad for accuracy the first issue it appears. If you find an error, report it immediately. The Renters Guide will not be responsible for more than one incorrect insertion. Errors and Omissions Excluded (E.&O.E).

Brantford-Hamilton-Niagara Edition Serving: Hamilton, Burlington-Waterdown, Brantford, Niagara and St. Catharines

Bronte

WENTWOrTH

Now Available in OvEr 2000 locations!

Burlington

Dundas

HAMILTON

St. George

Ancaster

Paris

Stoney Creek

Vineland

ST. CATHARINES

Grimsby Mt. Hope

BRANTFORD Mt. Pleasant

NIAGARA FALLS

Jordan Smithville

BrANT

LINCOLN

Caledonia

Scotland

WELLAND Fenwick

Hagersville Waterford Colborne

HALDIMAND Jarvis

Delhi Courtland Langton

WELLAND

Cayuga Port Colborne

Fort Erie

Dunnville

Simcoe Selkirk Port Dover

Vittoria

NOrFOLK

Are you relocating within Ontario?

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We have 5 editions covering Southern, Central and Eastern Ontario!

Call today to get your free copy.

Rentals By aRea LOCATION

hamilton burlinGton/waterdown brantford st. catharines niaGara classifieds

GLOSSY SECTION PAGE

NEWSPRINT SECTION PAGE

2G-6G, 12G 5G, 7G, 9G 5G 10G, 11G 10G, 11G

1 15 21 16

Complex

Price Range

St ud 1 io/ Be Ba d c 2 ro hel B e om or 3+ dro B e om U dro til o i Pa ties m rk In i Ai ng clu de r Co d Ba n lco di t ny io Po /Pa nin tio g ol /S Fi ol tn ar iu es m s La un d St r y or a Fu ge rn N ish ea e r d Tr Pa an ge sit N o.

Rental Directory

hamilton Effort Trust

Inquire

Effort Trust - Various Locations

Inquire

Kingswood Place-6 Kingswood Drive

Inquire

Kings Forest Manor-288 Mount Albion Rd.

Inquire

Kently Towers-543 Queenston Rd.

Inquire

Homestead Land Holdings Limited - Various Locations

Inquire

Camelot Towers

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Medallion Corp - 235 Rebecca Street

Inquire

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Medallion Corp - 195 Wellington Street

Inquire

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40 Grandville

From $695

70 Glenburn Court

$539-$719

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Aberdeen Apts

From $599

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Centennial & Barton

From $675

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City Housing Hamilton

Inquire

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First Place

From $450

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Medallion - 235 Rebecca St. & 195 Wellington St.

Inquire

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Mt. Albion & King - 15 Albright & 15 Nicklaus

From $725

Parkdale & Barton - 221 Melvin

Inquire

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Renaissance Towers

From $610

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Wellington & Main - 140 Wellington S.

From $609

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John & Charlton - 129 Bold St.

Inquire

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Visit us at TheRentersGuide.ca

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The Renters Guide makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of our index, however availability and prices change daily.

Please refer to the specific ad and call the advertiser for more details.

Complex

Price Range

St ud 1 io/ Be Ba d c 2 ro he Be om lo r 3+ dro B e om U dr til oo i Pa ties m rk In i c Ai ng lud r ed Co Ba n lco di ny tio Po /Pa nin tio g ol /S Fi ol tn ar iu es m La s un d St r y or a Fu ge rn N ish ea e r d Tr Pa an ge sit N o.

Rental Directory

burlington Homestead Land Holdings Limited - Various Locations

Inquire

Cumberland Village-3270 Prospect Dr.

Inquire

Dominion - Various Locations

Inquire

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478 Pearl & 477 Elizabeth Street

Inquire

Brant & Lakeshore - 478 Pearl St.

Inquire

Guelph Line & Prospect - 3270 Prospect

Inquire

Ontario & Maple - 1285 Ontario

Inquire

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brantford Homestead Land Holdings Limited - Various Locations

Inquire

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CLV - Various Locations

Inquire

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Panoramic Properties - Various

Inquire

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Panoramic Properties - Various

Inquire

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Tremont Apts. & Yorkshire Apts.

Inquire

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St. CatharineS

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niagara Panoramic Properties - Various

Inquire

CLV - Various Locations

Inquire

Visit us at TheRentersGuide.ca

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The Renters Guide makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of our index, however availability and prices change daily.

Please refer to the specific ad and call the advertiser for more details.

insideradvice of colourful plants and hanging baskets of fruit, vegetables and herbs designed especially for small spaces. Many landlords encourage residents to garden on their balconies and even have competitions with prizes. All you need is about three or four hours of sunshine, say the experts. It’s best to avoid excessively heavy planters and be respectful of your neighbour below when watering.

If you’re planning to entertain on your balcony, say cocktails and watching fireworks on the long weekend, just reduce the noise level after 11pm.

If you’re watching from the roof garden, don’t bring glass upstairs. If your balcony doesn’t hold all your friends, reserve a patio table at your local pub or bistro. This way, you won’t have to worry about running out of refreshments.

Installing a window air conditioner is fine too.

Check with your building representative. Units that are installed from a bedroom window (without balcony) may require a specific contractor to ensure the safety of those below.

If your hydro is included in your rent, your landlord may charge an additional fee for the seasonal hydro useage. Depending on your exposure, you can keep the temperature down in your apartment by closing the blinds or drapes, avoiding the use of your stove (try a toaster oven) keeping the lights off and try a ceiling fan.

Summer Time And the apartment living is easy!

By Sheryl Erenberg

L

ong day at work, long walk from the subway, it’s humid and you’re tired. You can’t wait to jump into that great pool in your apartment community! You’ll chill on a deck chair for a while after your swim and bring down a burger to grill on one of the shared propane barbecues for tenants’ use. Some of your friends in the building will already be at a picnic table chowing down, but you’ll bring a blanket just in case. After TheRentersGuide.ca dinner, you’ll all stroll over to the local gelato place.

Apartment communities offer many summer amenities. Yours might have garden plots where you can grow your own veggies for the season. If not, there’s always balcony gardening, which has become a huge sensation.

TheRentersGuide.ca Almost every nursery now sells wind-resistant, drought resistant varieties

Don’t miss your building’s annual gathering.

Many landlords now host a summer barbecue as a way of saying thanks for your business. It’s a great way to meet your neighbours and avoid cooking a meal yourself!

If you prefer more “me” time, take a backpack and load a book, blanket, sandwich, sunscreen, water and your favourite tunes. Head over to your local park and enjoy a sunny afternoon of leisure. The season is short here. Why not make the most of it?

Sheryl Erenberg is president of Sheryl Erenberg and Associates.

Her marketing consulting firm has advised hundreds of developers and landlords over the past three decades.

The company TheRentersGuide.ca specializes in repositioning stigmatized properties and marketing under-performing communities. sherylerenberg.com

TheRentersGuide.ca

Hamilton 03840

162 King William Street

101 Broadway Avenue

Great Downtown location

Beautiful west end location near MacMaster

One bedroom apartments include Fridge, Stove, Heat and Air conditioner.

The apartments are well maintained and in a very sought after location on a major bus route and just minutes from Dundas or Downtown Hamilton.

Won’t last long 1 Bedrooms from

One bedrooms in a very quiet setting

$761 + Hydro

1 Bedrooms $725 + Hydro

Many great locations to choose from

To view call Laurie Ward at 905-546-2424 Ext.7874 Hamilton

Vittoria Apartments

600 $ 2 Bedroom 700 $ 3 Bedroom 900 1 Bedroom

$

+ hydro + hydro + hydro

Tenants that honour a 1 year lease agreement will get a

13th month

frEE rent!

*Some conditions apply, please ask for details

Features: • Clean apartment in modern building • Large balconies with view • Shopping nearby & on bus route • Security monitored premises • New private underground parking available • Quick access to QEW & Niagara

Call

02467

221 Melvin Ave., Hamilton (Parkdale/Barton)

August 3 - 17, 2013

905.545.0244 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm

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11

LARGE 2 BEDROOMS

$745

✔ OnLy $250 DEpOSit!

01693

Hamilton

all utilities included!

– heat, hydro, parking & water

✔ Super convenient location ✔ Breathtaking views of Lake or Escarpment ✔ Convenient location – only 850 steps to Eastgate Mall, Lake Ave. Elementary School & Riverdale Rec. Centre

40 gRAndviLLE

Call

905-561-1106

Email:

violettowers@hotmail.com Hamilton

CONDOMINIUM LIVING! 2-bEDroom unit:

795

$

per month plus hydro

3-bEDroom unit:

15 Albright

& 15

nicklAus

895

$

per month plus hydro Lifestyle choice is important to many of us and these buildings offer many amenities. Spend the summer in the gazebo, watch the kids in the playground or cool off in the pool; stroll around the landscaped lawns or under a shade tree. Major building renovations undertaken over the past three years. Top quality found in this family-oriented condominium complex offering various suites -some in a unique two storey design.

COMMUNITY FEATURES: Highway Access, Grocery / Supermarket, Pharmacy, Movie / Theatre, Elementary School, Middle School, Daycare Center PLUS: Tenants pay personal use hydro only, Seasonal Pool, Exercise room, Dishwasher, Controlled Access

Contact us at the following email addresses: nicklaus@shaw.ca or albright1@shaw.ca

For viewing call (905) 573-2378 12

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02442

August 3 - 17, 2013

Hamilton

129 Bold Street Hamilton

Your complete rental source.

01606

Clean & Spacious

Centrally located near St. Joe’s Hospital.

Juniors $670 + Hydro 1 Bedrooms $770 + Hydro 2 Bedrooms $870 + Hydro Parking $30 For rental InquIrIes please call 905-920-8810

Hamilton

affordable &

Convenient

Large 2 Bedroom

675

01680

from $

includes heat, hydro & parking

• small walk to Elizabeth Bagshaw elementary and Bishop Ryan Secondary schools!

• On-Site Childrens Activity Centre!

• Seasonal Pool for your family to enjoy!

• Parking for Multi-car families!

55 Tindale courT

Call today August 3 - 17, 2013

905-578-6365

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13

03932

Hamilton

14

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August 3 - 17, 2013

Burlington/Waterdown

1, 2 & 3 BDRM. SUITES • Utilities and windows coverings included • Individually controlled heat and A/C • Indoor heated pool, sauna & fitness Centre • Outdoor sundeck, tennis courts BBQ areas & playground • Recreational activities • Close to the GO station, QEW, 407, 403 Hwys, Joseph Brant Hospital, Spencer Smith Park • Parking available

905-639-8583 1285 OntariO Street

(at Maple avenue) Burlington, On

burlingtontowers.com

01543

Ontario Street Lakeshore Road

Joseph Brant Hospital

Unfurnished

To Hamilton

Furnished

407 Brant Street

QEW

nue e Ave Mapl

To Toronto

Mapleview Shopping Centre

BURLINGTON TOWERS

Lake Ontario

corporatesuites.ca Burlington/Waterdown

Prime Downtown location Burlington AA walk walk to to shops shops •• lake lake •• park park •• public public transportation transportation

478 Pearl St.

477 Elizabeth St. ■ Upgraded Windows

■ Upgraded Suites/Utilities Incl.

■ Outdoor Heated Pool

■ Garden Terrace (Pearl)

■ Newer Laundry Machines

■ Indoor Parking Available

■ In-house Maintenance Staff

■ On-site Management

■ Beautifully Maintained Buildings

■ Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms

■ Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms

(subject to availability)

478 PEARL ST.

(905) 632-1643

01555

■ Modern Elevators

(subject to availability)

477 ELIZABETH ST.

(905) 634-9374

After more than 40 years of apartment management ...

Stellen knows how to make you feel RIGHT AT HOME. August 3 - 17, 2013

Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!

15

Hamilton

Hamilton

11276788_1.JPG

401 Main Street -East 1 bdrm apts $735/mo & 2 Bdrm apts $850/mo Hydro extra. Underground prkg included. Security cameras. Keyless entry. Close to all amenities,shopping & Bus Routes Call Kevin at (905)317-9885 Owned & operated by Rainco Inc

Hamilton

11277191_1.JPG

Melvin Ave Near -expressway. Spacious, bright, painted & upgraded 1 bed apt. $650 +Hydro.

Includes parking, fridge & stove. Convenient location. Bus stops at door. Laundry room, spectacular views!

(289)396-8500, www.smar.ca

11276789_1.JPG

STONEY CREEK - -Newly renovated Building 2 bdrms, $825 & $835 Heat, hydro & prkg incl. Quiet, well-kept adult bldg. Hrdwd/ceramics, laundry, Seniors welcome. Elevator. Walk to amens. No dogs.(905)319-1835, (905)662-8953

Hamilton APARTMENTS (EAST HAMILTON) -- Near Mount Albion. Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms from $595 Clean, well kept building, close to schools & shopping. No pets. Call (905)573-7813

Hamilton UPPER JAMES & -QUEENSDALE Single room for rent $520/mo with shared accomodations First/Last Quiet Building avail Immed. Call Gord (905)383-7737

Your complete rental source.

TheRentersGuide.ca is your FREE apartment guide.

Pick one up today from over 4000 locations in the GTA.

16

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August 3 - 17, 2013

quicktips

Go vertical or go home

use the wall to store it all by hellen buttigieg

C

learing clutter and putting everything away can be a challenge when you don’t have enough storage space. You’ve got to be creative in finding new places to store things, because closets and furniture will only get you so far. Take advantage of your condo’s height. Use the wall to store it all, and make a statement with decorative shelving and storage possibilities.

Go vertical or Go home. When you’ve run out of storage space, lie on the floor and look up. There is a limited amount of horizontal space (countertops, desks, tables and the floor) but vertical space is abundant and often overlooked. Consider putting shelves above door frames or around the perimeter of the room, like a border. Hang things from the ceiling in the kitchen. When purchasing armoires, bookcases or shelving units, choose the tallest you can find and put baskets on top of them. clear up valuable tabletop space. We all have a limited amount of counter and tabletop space, but our wall space is often under-utilized. By hanging photos and framing special mementos in shadow boxes on the wall, you’ll free up space on your tabletops and create a lesscluttered, more-spacious look. runninG out of kitchen-cabinet space?

If your kitchen supplies exceed your cabinet space, consider mounting a metal rail to your wall. Use hooks (usually TheRentersGuide.ca included with a rail) to hang everything from utensils to hand towels. This attractive storage solution gives you easy access to your items and utilizes previously unused wall space.

Make the most of ceiling space. Rather than putting up a TheRentersGuide.ca wallpaper border, install shelves a foot or so below the

ceiling around the perimeter of your children’s rooms. On them, display prized belongings and collectables. This gets your treasures out of the closet where they take up valuable space, yet still allows the kids to enjoy them.

adjust your storaGe systems. A common misconception is that once you have organized your entire home, you’re done. However, organizing is a process, not a destination. As your interests change, so will your organizing systems. Put some time aside to tweak existing systems on a regular basis – especially when you experience a lifestyle change. avoid shampoo overload in the bath. For a more streamlined look in your bath or shower, consider attaching wall-mounted soap and shampoo dispensers.

This will eliminate the sticky mess of shampoos, soaps and lotions crowding the bath or shower, contributing to a more serene, spa-like space.

store maGazines creatively. When looking for interesting ways to store magazines, think outside the box.

As a creative alternative to a magazine stand, consider using a ladder. Propped up against a wall, a ladder is an interesting way to display magazines and make use of otherwise wasted vertical space.

Hellen Buttigieg, CPO, is a Certified Professional Organizer, life coach, TV host, author 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 TheRentersGuide.ca peace. Contact Hellen at 905.829.2219 or info@weorganizeu.com

TheRentersGuide.ca

Burlington 01553

18

$1,200

Three-bedroom without garage

$1,300

Three-bedroom with garage

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August 3 - 17, 2013

finances

Renting Versus Owning B y Gai l Vaz -Ox lade

One isn’t better than the other. Whether you rent or own is a matter of personal preference and lifestyle.

TheRentersGuide.ca TheRentersGuide.ca TheRentersGuide.ca

finances

The housing market has gone wild

miscellaneous expenses that you don’t

People who relocate for work are often

in much of the country recently and

pay if you are renting. Assume five

better off as renters because they don’t

every time real estate looks like a good

percent of the purchase price on the

have to worry about the horrendous

“investment” people start questioning

home.

home acquisition and disposal costs (selling commissions alone average six

whether they should make the jump First-and-last-months’-rent is also

per cent). Unless you get lucky and the

a ways smaller than the typical

value of the home you purchased goes

There’s someThing AbouT money

downpayment on a home.

up by at least 10 per cent, you’ll be losing

Did you see that? Did you? The question

Of course, all that has to be balanced off

moved from the issue of “shelter” to the

against the fact that no matter how small

Buying a home in a neighborhood

issue of “profit”. That’s because people

the principal portion of your mortgage

you don’t know well is one of the top

often believe that a home is a good

is (and it’s miniscule in the early years),

mistakes home buyers make. If you’re

investment. Unfortunately, and I speak

as long as the market is stable or rising,

new in town, you may be better of

from experience, this isn’t always so. I

homeowners are building equity and

renting a house for six months or a year

was one of those people who bought

increasing their net worth with every

to get a feel for it. If you like living there

into the market during the boom of the

mortgage payment. And that money is

and you like your neighbors, you’ll feel

1980s only to watch my equity evaporate

earned tax-free since with the principal

much more comfortable signing on the

when the real estate bubble burst.

residence exemption the capital gains on

dotted line later on.

from renters to home owners.

money.

the sale of a home is zip, zero, zilch.

sTeAdy As she goes

While the money is one of the considerations - and it’s a pretty

iT’s A Wonderful life

Your employment prospects should be

complex one - it shouldn’t be the only

When I was in my 20s, I lived in a

pretty stable before you consider buying

consideration. That being said, if you’re

neighbourhood that was suited to a

your own home. Home ownership

going to make this decision, you have to

single girl hell bent on a good time.

requires a number of regular payments

look at the dollars and cents.

Back then renting was the perfect

- the mortgage, property taxes, utilities,

solution: one of limited responsibilities

maintenance, and insurance. Missing

First there’s the straight calculation

and commitment. If a window broke, I

any of these payments can trigger dire

that compares the cost of carrying your

called the landlord. If the fridge stopped

consequences.

own home (your principal and interest

working, I called the landlord. Renting is

payments and property taxes) with the

virtually a worry-free existence. (All this

There are a number of financial factors

cost of renting. Sometimes that comes

is assuming you have a decent landlord).

that will weigh in when it comes to

out a wash, which immediately brings

the rent versus buy question. But the

people to the conclusion that renting

Home ownership is a pain in the

decision involves much more than

sucks.

rump, make no mistake. There’s always

just running the numbers. You’ve also

something that needs fixing. But home

got to look at the emotional rewards

Hang on now; there are some other

ownership also brings a tonne of warm,

and challenges of each alternative. I’ve

factors. Renters aren’t responsible for

fuzzy feelings. It means you can put

been a renter and I’ve been an owner

maintenance. Generally the older the

down roots. You have complete control of

and overall I like home-ownership

home, the higher the maintenance.

your environment so, yes, you can paint

more. Course, like the weather and my

A good rule of thumb is to estimate

your living room red. And if you’re handy

underwear, that could change. Who

maintenance costs to be three to five

around the house and enjoy puttering

knows what the future holds.

percent of the home’s value per year.

about, you’ve just secured yourself years

So a house worth $200,000 would TheRentersGuide.ca

of weekend entertainment.

cost $6,000 a year or $500 a month to maintain.

on The roAd AgAin Do you suffer from wanderlust? Are you

You also need to consider “closing costs”:

TheRentersGuide.ca legal fees, land transfer tax, and other

Gail Vaz-Oxlade is the host of Til Debt Do Us Part and author of Debt Free TheRentersGuide.ca Forever and blogs daily at www.gailvazoxlade.com.

upwardly mobile and constantly on the move in your career? Stick with renting.

TheRentersGuide.ca

03861

St. Catharines

August 3 - 17, 2013

Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!

21

St. Catharines

tremont apartments

1 bedroom from $795 2 bedroom from $895

}

16 Tremont Drive

utilities included

01686

• Parking available • Laundry on-site • Storage on-site • Ceramic tile in bathroom • Parquet floors throughout • Outdoor pool - life guard on duty from 11:30am to 8pm (Open June 26th to Labour Day) • Patios with ground floor apartments • Upper floors with balconies Community Information: • Public transit • Schools nearby • Easy access to Hwy 406 • Close to Pen Center, entertainment, restaurants, grocery store and all other amenities you could ever wish for.

Call to arrange a showing

1-888-636-3582

w w w. e f f o r t t r u s t . c a 22

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August 3 - 17, 2013

décor

Thinking Outside

THE BOX SPRING

By Brad Warner

It’s interesting that many people look at mattresses as merely a category, rather than what they are – personal furniture.

We spend about a third of our lives sleeping, so this simple item has a tremendous impact on our health and wellbeing. The good news is that lately, mattresses have taken an elevated place of importance, as celebrities are associating their names with manufacturers, specially branded products and their retailers. This practice has raised a new level of awareness and attracted attention to a topic that for far too long has been viewed as an afterthought by the general public.

A well-made mattress is, in fact, a piece of furniture that will last for years. In North America, most warranties cover a mattress for a decade, and they should perform well for that length of time. Despite warranty claims, some low-quality mattresses fail after only five or six years. This is significant enough that a mattress deserves to be selected with as much care as a dining table, dresser, sofa or the bed itself.

Speaking of mattresses as a piece of furniture, the sofa bed is another example. This popular item provides extra sleeping facilities for overnight guests without having to take up space in the room with a conventional full Double or Queensize bed. It is dual purpose functional furniture that if made properly, sits identically to a high quality sofa. Many of today’s designs are superior to those that were on the market years ago, but you will still find a range of quality.

The same issues confront shoppers when looking for the right sofa bed. Since the sofa bed offers two complete functions sit-and-sleep, you would expect to pay more for both qualities.

Unfortunately, when treated as a discount item it is built most often with a lesser quality mattress inside the bed-mechanism and the result is compromised sitting and sleeping. The sleeper mattress will offer short-term sleeping comfort (sometimes not all!) and in use compromises and degrades the seating comfort of the sofa itself by failing to support the cushions.

Skimping on quality will mean a hard sofa, TheRentersGuide.ca lumpy mattress, or perhaps both – defeating your purpose. How many of us hear stories of ‘good’ company staying overnight, using the sofa bed

TheRentersGuide.ca

and experiencing an uncomfortable night’s sleep? They hate to complain, but they do to your embarrassment!

We have been making sofa bed mattresses for over 50 years.

When shopping a good quality sofa bed, consider the quality of both the mattress and sofa. Consider its functionality in addition to its beauty. It should be easy to open and close, and comfortable in both its forms – your obvious goal in the first place. Take a look at the mechanism to observe how the mattress folds up into the sofa.

In addition to being constructed with top-quality materials using today’s technology, a mattress can also be hand-crafted rather than merely mass produced. Marshall designs and assembles its sofa bed mattresses with quality layered natural-source padding, with a final step that involves tufting the padding throughout the full mattress construction. To the eye the upholstery padding is channeled, drawn together into place, dimpled

and looks as attractive below the cover as it is comfortable.

Barrymore Furniture carries our product, as do many other manufacturers. You can also find high-quality sofa bed mattresses sold as upgrades in some stores that specialize in sofas, chairs and sofa beds. Many purchasers find it well worth the extra expense for the added comfort.

The point is to pay as much attention to your mattress purchase as you do to other furniture items, whether it’s for a full-size bed or part of a sofa bed.

You and your guests deserve a good night’s sleep, and the right mattress can make all the difference in the world.

Brad Warner Co-President Marshall Mattress, marshallmattress.com, in Toronto.

TheRentersGuide.ca

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Finest Apartments for Rent in Hamilton Queenston Plaza 385 Queenston Rd. 905-547-7092 Meadowbrook 75 Barlake Ave. 905-561-1397

The Argyle 265 Melvin Ave. 905-547-6617 7G

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$1,200

Townhouse 3 bedroom without garage

$1,300

Townhouse 3 bedroom with garage

9G

10G

YOUR RENTAL SEARCH IS OVER,

e m o c l e W Home

St Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland Apartments & Town homes • Beautifully Renovated • Five appliances included • Excellent neighbourhoods close to all amenities • Private courtyards and garden walk-out balconies • Outdoor inground pool

ST. CATHARINES

NIAGARA FALLS

THOROLD

196 Cushman 246 Lakeshore Rd. 30 Bradmon Dr. 473 Linwell Rd. 349 Queenston St.

7591 Scholfield Rd. 3401 Weinbrenner Rd. 6635 Thorold Stone Rd.

40 Front St.

WELLAND 155 Hagar St.

905-371-1201 Toll free#

1-855-371-1201

www.panoramicproperties.ca butera@iaw.com *Prices, specifications and availabilty subject to change without notice. E&O.E.

11G

Welcome to the neighbourhood 235 Rebecca St.

REBECCA & WELLINGTON

Downtown Location

Walking distance to Jackson Square

Wellington St. N.

Cathcart St.

Wilson St. Ferguson Ave. N.

• On bus route • Underground parking • Friendly staff • Secure building • Laundry on Smart Cards

Rebecca St.

King William St.

$650* 2 Bedrooms from $850* 3 Bedrooms from $1000* 1 Bedrooms from

905-540-8086

*plus hydro

195 Wellington St. S. Affordably Priced

CHARLTON & WELLINGTON

Quality Family Living in Hamilton

Forest Ave.

ss

Charlton Ave. E.

Wellington St. S.

John St. South

Main St. E.

Claremo nt A c ce

James St. South

King St. E.

Wellington St.

• We offer a clean, well-maintained, secure home for you and your family • Enjoy the convenience of schools and shopping • Large finished suites • On-site management • Base of the mountain • Beside park • Family surroundings • Laundry on site • Video cameras at doors & door fobs for additional security

Victoria Ave. W.

Quality Family Living in Hamilton

St. Joseph's Hospital

$680* 2 Bedrooms from $780* 1 Bedrooms from

905-522-7599

*plus hydro

medallioncorp.com email: 195WellingtonSite@medallioncorp.com