Brantford-Hamilton-Niagara Edition
December 08 - 22, 2012 Volume 20 Issue 25
A Trusted Place To Call Home Since 1954
PANNONIA TOWER
165 Queen Street South 905-570-8691
homestead.ca INSIDE THIS ISSUE
AN APARTMENT HOME IS A “HOME” FOR RENTERS
REPLACE HOLIDAY STRESS WITH HOLIDAY JOY
striving for
excellence
LOCATION
PROPERTY NAME
MAIN INTERSECTION
285 Dundurn Street
DUNDURN COURT
Close to convenience store, local bus routes and Hwy access. Free outdoor parking
•
$
75 Mericourt
WHITNEY COURT
Close to McMaster University, local shopping and all major bus routes.
•
$
126 Charlton Avenue West
CANADIANA
Close to Jackson Sq. Local bus service and shopping
20 Erie Ave
ERIE
Close to the downtown core, bus service and local shopping.
GRAND APTS.
85 Barlake Ave
WEDGEWOOD
2641 King Street East
CENTENNIAL COURT
Quick highway access. Close to amenities
GLEN VALLEY
Located just minutes away from the Lime ridge Mall and Eastgate Square. Backs onto a group of beautiful parks including King's Forest Park, Mohawk's Sports Park and Upper King's Forest Park
7 Catherine Street North
NORWICH
872 Upper Gage Ave
GAGE MANOR
123 Charlton Avenue East
OAKLAND 1
70 Jerome Crescent
1
•
2
•
3
TH*
FROM
PHONE
Call
877 6508 849
Call
888 693 6540
Call
888 723 6152
Call
877 469 5002
Call
519-896-3270
Call
877 469 4002
Call
888 822 9118
Call
888 693 1655
Call
888 726 7563
Call
866 804 3694
Call
877 469 4964
Call
877 469 4885
Call
877 469 4882
Call
877 469 4993
•
$
•
$
•
$
•
•
$
$
$
Minutes from McMaster University and the McMaster University Medical Center. Quick and easy access to the 403 and QEW for commuters or travellers Excellent location, close to transit, Tim Horton’s, MacDonald’s, KFC, banks & Lincoln Alexander Parkway
•
$
•
•
$
Close to the Hamilton Go Station, local shops and Jackson Sq.
•
•
$
BEL GAL
Great location, close to shopping, Hwy access and Bus routes.
•
•
$
1928 Main Street W.
WEST MOUNT
Close to McMaster University, local bus service and shopping.
•
•
$
644 Main Street West
BEVERLY HILLS
Beautiful building with Easy Hwy access, Close to Westdale village and local shopping.
Visit us online at
$
www.effortrentals.ca
1.888.648.4751 ext. 4111
2G
Jr1
The Grand is located near Lackner Centre, Ottawa River Centre, Stanley Park Mall, Stanley Park Conservation Area and many parks. Easy access to major highways and transit. Just minutes away from Eastgate Square, Lake Avenue Park and Centre Mall. Easy quick access to QEW, Lincoln M Alexander Parkway and Chedoke Expressway
Indian Road, Kitchener
420 Greenhill Avenue
Bach
|
rentals@efforttrust.ca
striving for
excellence
CHEDOKE
1,2 & 3 bedrooms available
MOUNTAIN PARK 1 & 2 bedroom available 8 East 36th Street
760 Mohawk Road West
Close to schools, transit, parks, hospital.
Close to walking trails, shopping and local bus service.
1.877.469.4891
1.877.469.5237
DELMONICO
UPPER JAMES
1 & 2 bedroom available
1 & 2 bedrooms available 631-633 Upper James Street
Close to Local shopping, Malls and all public transport.
1.877.469.5244 Visit us online at
33 Fennell Avenue East
Close to local schools, busses and shopping.
1.877.469.4998
www.effortrentals.ca
1.888.648.4751 ext. 4111
|
rentals@efforttrust.ca
3G
striving for
excellence
KENSINGTON
Bachelor, 1 & 2 bedrooms 115 Main Street East
OAKLAND 2
1 & 2 bedrooms available 100 Forest Avenue
Down town core location, walking distance to the Go Station, Jackson Sq. and all local bus services.
Close to the Hamilton Go Station, local shops and Jackson Sq.
1.877.469.5231
1.877.469.4971
SEVILLE
1 & 2 bedrooms available 45 Fennell Avenue East
Conveniently located with a grocery store across the street. Churches, schools and parks all within walking distance. Easy highway access for commuters.
1.888.280.1816
Visit us online at
VILMA
1 & 2 bedrooms available 230 Montmorency Drive
Quiet residential area. Near Felkers Falls Conservation Area
1.888.605.2701
www.effortrentals.ca
1.888.648.4751 ext. 4111
4G
|
rentals@efforttrust.ca
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.
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 Place | 905-387-0848 - Building Super Your family will enjoy the spacious layout, complete with clean new appliances. Close to grocery store, bus routes, schools and Glendale Golf Course.
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! 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
610
$
FROM
905-522-5246 or 905-528-6922 avcanmanagement.com Proudly Managing for Over 40 Years
OKVILLE
BURLINGTON BRANTFORD
HAMILTON
BUILDING DIRECTORY John & Charlton
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
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. – 289 813 0261
Navy & Randall
Centennial Towers - 155 Navy St. – 289 813 0128
Speers & Kerr
The Premier Court - 41 Speers Rd. – 289 813 0262 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!
7G
2 Great Reasons to move here!
• 1st month FREE * • Downtown’s Best Rental Value 1 BDRM from $720 • 2 BDRMS from $820 • 3 BDRMS from $995 Includes heat, hydro & water
• Start the Week off Right with free Breakfast in the lobby every Monday • Across from McLaren Park with playground, splashpad and basketball court • Bus stop at the corner • Walk to Jackson Square Mall, Farmer’s Market, Public Library • Renovated lobby GYM COMING • Overnight security patrol SOON! • On-site Laundry Room *For qualified prospects. Must move in by December 31, 2012. Bart on S tree t We
181 John St. N.
8G
Blvd
th rth
Nor
r th
n St reet
et W est
Joh n St reet No
York
Stre
Jam es S tree t No
Stre et N orth
non
ert S tree t
Hug hso
Rental Office Hours: Monday – Thursday 10 am – 6 pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10 am – 4 pm
Can
Bay
905.522.1043 hamiltonrentals@greenwin.ca
st
Rob
McL a Park ren
Jack so Squa n re
www.greenwin.ca
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 December 8 - 22, 2012
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
Hamilton
ALL UTILITIES INCLUDED
MAIn fLOOR SpAcE fOR LEASE $300/Mth IDEAL fOR AccOuntAnt
1 BEDROOMS AVAILABLE StARtIng fROM
• Individually Controlled Heat • Secured Entry • Large Balconies
660
$
• Freshly Painted • Newly Carpeted • New Appliances
*Ceramic tile in kitchen, entry, dining room & washroom
01505
INCREDIBLE VALUE! The Newly Renovated
Renaissance Towers
100 Ferguson Ave. S., Hamilton (Ferguson at Hunter)
(905)
527-2626
Walk to GO Station, Hospitals, Shopping, Restaurants. On the Bus Route!
IDEAL DOWNTOWN LOCATION Open 7 Days a Week & Evenings 2
For rental Inquiries please email: amelinproperty@yahoo.ca
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
December 8 - 22, 2012
Hamilton 03840
430 Cumberland Ave.
1884 & 1900 Main St. W
• Updated & well maintained building
• Large bright newly painted units with Fridge, Stove and Air Conditioner • 24 Hour video surveillance and on site staff • On a major bus route and just minutes from Dundas
• Large closed in balconies • Fridge, stove and laundry • Close to major bus routes Clean & spacious 2 & 3 bedrooms
Beautiful west end location with scenic views 1 & 2 bedrooms $692-$821 + utilities
$755 & $885 + hydro. Parking is $20. To view call Lauri Ward at
905-523-8496 Ext. 7874 or 289-921-7368
Many great locations to choose from
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)
December 8 - 22, 2012
905.545.0244 Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
3
Brantford-Hamilton-Niagara Edition
December 08 - 22, 2012 Volume 20 Issue 25
Feature
C E L E B R AT I N G 2 1 Y E A R S Vice-President, Wall2Wall Media
Jacqueline Hill
Front Cover
A Trusted Place To Call Home Since 1954
PANNONIA TOWER
editor in chief, real estate
Susan Legge accoUnt Manager
165 Queen Street South
Amanda Bell
905-570-8691
homestead.ca
editor
Elisa Krovblit contriBUting editors
Sara Duck, Lydia McNutt, Wayne Karl, Elisa Krovblit
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
AN APARTMENT HOME IS A “HOME” FOR RENTERS
REPLACE HOLIDAY STRESS WITH HOLIDAY JOY
Pannonia Tower by Homestead find out more with their ad on page 7G
eDItorIaL FeatureS
contriBUtors
Jane Herman, Ted Whitehead, Dan Hopkins, Hellen Buttigieg, Jodi Gimour senior ProdUction Manager
Gnanapandithan Bala ProdUction Manager
Nikki Yarwood art director
Lee Cobham graPhic designers
Hannah Yarkony ProdUction
Kiran Sharma, Bala Menon 401 The West Mall, Suite 500 Etobicoke, Ontario M9C 5J1 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
12g
26
ScrumpdillyiciouS 12G Decorating beyond the tree by Erica Gelman
rEntErS' hElp 12 Looking to downsize? Make the smart choice and rent by Jane herman
frpo rEport 14 An apartment home is a "home" for renters by ted Whitehead
quick tipS 17 Replace holiday stress with holiday joy by hellen Buttigieg
22 Decorating your rental space by Jodi Gilmour
décor 20 Putting together the perfect guest room Copyright 2012: 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. 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.
financES 26 The marriage merge: Practical tips for combining your lives makE your movE 30 Moving etiquette: Follow the golden rule by dan hopkins
EDITORS’ NOTES
w
here are you at in your search for the perfect rental suite?
Whether you’ve just started looking or are almost ready to sign on the dotted line, we know you’ll find this publication helpful. Using our information and ads, all the latest in rental accommodations, news and advice is at your fingertips. Over the last few months, we’ve added more in the way of getting more details on rental communities and more tips on renting, design, recipes, expert advice and ways to make your space your very own. 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. Let us know what you think of this issue. We love hearing from you!
Susan Legge EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, homeTRADER susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge
w
ho’s in holiday mode? Or should I ask who isn’t? The halls of every mall are decked and Christmas music is floating through the air in nearly every restaurant and store. Many apartment buildings get into the spirit of the season with some decorations – some communities even arrange for tenant gatherings and festivities. For some it’s a deeply religious time of year, for others it’s not. But it’s not just about Christmas, it’s about community. If you want to decorate, just find out what your building permits. Some management companies will encourage you to add your own personal touches to decorative installations in common areas. Some reserve the common area decorations to company-approved and owned items. Some buildings allow you to put a wreath on your door while others prefer you limit your festive decorations to the inside of your suite. This time of year isn’t just Christmas, it’s Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice, Festivus or something else. Some buildings recognize and decorate by sticking with a winter theme, others incorporate different traditions. There is no reason you can’t approach the property management and ask whether you can share your traditions too. For me, this time of year isn’t about a specific holiday, it’s about enjoying, sharing, recognizing all that’s happened in the year that’s coming to a close. Whatever your traditions are, make it a time of sharing and warmth, and include those in your community. It’s a great time of year to find that new apartment. We’re here to help. 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
HOW TO
ADVERTISE plACe your Ad…
displAy Advertising
photo Ad
1
By phone: 519-748-4830 or 1-866-234-9879
2
By fAx or mAil: 1-855-626-8097
3
online: hometrader.ca
49.95
$
Fill out the Renters Guide Ad Insertion Form (below) and fax it to 1-855-626-8097 or mail it with payment to: Renters Guide, 401 The West Mall, Suite 500, Etobicoke, ON. M9C 5J1
Visit our website at hometrader.ca or call 519-748-4830 or 1-866-234-9879 for details on internet/print combo package.
word Ad
(ClAssified)
$
Please call Amanda Bell Amanda.bell@ wall2wallmedia.com Cell phone: 416 819 8901 for advertising rates and deadlines.
Call 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
39.95
$
(for 2 Weeks)
49.95+ 6.49(HST) = 56.44 $
(ClAssified) (for 2 Weeks)
39.95+ 5.19(HST) =$45.14
$
$
$
(Rates based on single unit classified ads)
69.95
$
(+ HST)
Four weeks
ClAssified Ad deAdlines Photo ads must be received by noon Thursday. Word ads and renewals are accepted until noon Thursday. Cancellations and changes (to existing ads) must be made by noon Thursday.
renters guide ClAssified Ad insertion form 401 The West Mall, Suite 500, Etobicoke, ON M9C 5J1 • Tel: 1-855-626-4029 • Fax: 1-855-626-8097 Name:
Rental Address:
Address:
City:
City:
Postal Code:
Rental Category (House, Apartment, etc.):
Phone: E-mail: Payment Method: Card Number: Signature:
Ad Description: Visa
Mastercard
Expiry Date:
(25 words or less)
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Rentals By aRea LOCATION
hamilton burlinGton/waterdown brantford st. catharines niaGara classifieds
GLOSSY SECTION PAGE
NEWSPRINT SECTION PAGE
2G-10G 7G, 11G, 16G 7G 13G, 15G 14G
1 19 29 23 25
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Price Range
Complex
St ud 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 C d Ba on lco di ny tio Po /Pa nin tio g ol /S Fi ol tn ar iu es m La s un S t dr y or a Fu ge rn N ish ea e r d Tr Pa an ge sit N o.
Rental Directory
hamilton Effort Trust - Various Central and West Hamilton Locations
Inquire
Effort Trust - Various East Hamilton and Stoney Creek Locations
Inquire
Effort Trust - Various Locations Hamilton Mountain
Inquire
Kingswood Place-6 Kingswood Drive
Inquire
Kings Forest Manor-288 Mount Albion Rd.
Inquire
Kently Towers-543 Queenston Rd.
Inquire
Camelot Towers
Inquire
Homestead Land Holdings Limited - Various Locations
Inquire
Greenwin - 181 John St.
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6G
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7G
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8G
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9G
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Timbercreek - Glen Road
Inquire
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Pinedale Properties - The Woodlands
Inquire
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195 Wellington St. S.
Inquire
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40 Grandville
From $695
70 Glenburn Court
$539-$719
Centennial & Barton
From $675
City Housing Hamilton
Inquire
First Place
From $450
Greenwin - 181 John Street
Inquire
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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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 Cumberland Village-3270 Prospect Dr.
Inquire
Homestead Land Holdings Limited - Various Locations
Inquire
Drewlo Holdings - The Trillium
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478 Pearl & 477 Elizabeth Street
Inquire
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Brant & Lakeshore - 478 Pearl St.
Inquire
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Drewlo Holdings
Inquire
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Guelph Line & Prospect - 3270 Prospect
Inquire
Lakeshore & Brant - 1249 Lakeshore Blvd.
Inquire
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Ontario & Maple - 1285 Ontario
Inquire
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16G
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7G 11G
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28
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28 21
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brantford Homestead Land Holdings Limited - Various Locations
Inquire
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St. CatharineS Briarfield Apartments-33 & 44 Berkley Drive
Inquire
Garden Terrace Apartments - 24 Ida Street
Inquire
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Panoramic Properties - Various
Inquire
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Garden Terrace / Briarfield TH
Inquire
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Panoramic Properties - Various
Inquire
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Tremont Apts. & Yorkshire Apts.
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niagara Panoramic Properties - Various
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Victoria & Hwy 6 - 704 Canboro
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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.
23
Pick up the STUDENTRENTAL GUIDE Its easy-to-read format clearly lists amenities, features and other important infoall the things you need to make the right choice for you
The Student Rental Guide makes finding a place to live a no-brainer! Pick it up for FREE located next to Renters Guide
Hamilton
AFFORDABLY PRiceD quality family living in hamilton
Bachelors 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom
580 $ from 680 $ from 780 from
$
• WE OFFER A CLEAN, WELL-MAINTAINED, SECURE HOME FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY • LARGE FINISHED SUITES • ENJOY THE CONVENIENCE OF SCHOOLS AND SHOPPING
• BESIDE PARK
King St. E.
Charlton Ave. E.
Wellington St. S.
cALL TODAY!
Forest Ave.
ss
• VIDEO CAMERAS AT DOORS & DOOR FOBS FOR ADDITIONAL SECURITY
John St. South
• LAUNDRY ON SITE
Main St. E.
Claremo nt A c ce
James St. South
• FAMILY SURROUNDINGS
Wellington St.
• BASE OF THE MOUNTAIN
Victoria Ave. W.
• ON-SITE MANAGEMENT
St. Joseph's Hospital
195 wellington st. s.
email: 195wellingtonsite@medallioncorp.com
www.medallioncorp.com
04179
522.7599 Hamilton
CONDOMINIUM LIVING! 2-bEDroom unit:
765
$
per month plus hydro
3-bEDroom unit:
865
$
15
per month plus hydro
Albright
15
&
nicklAus
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@mountaincable.net or albright@mountaincable.net
For viewing call (905) 573-2378 December 8 - 22, 2012
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
02442
11
renters’help
LOOKING TO DOWNSIZE?
Make the smart choice and RENT B Y JAN E H E RMAN
A
re you an empty nester and looking to downsize? Most people do not realize how much equity they are sitting on in their houses. By selling your home at this stage of your life, you could tap into the enormous equity you have accumulated, invest the proceeds, and then use the income to pay for your monthly rent. That’s like living rent-free!
The actual amount of money you could generate depends on the value of your home and the rate of return on your investment. For argument’s sake, let’s assume that you can net $800,000 on the sale of your house and then earn a modest three per cent annual return ($24,000). That would give you up to $2,000 a month to spend on rent. Since most rental apartments in the city go for considerably less than that, you should be able to rent a great apartment in a great building, in the neighbourhood of your preference and still reinvest a portion of the interest income to maintain the principal. After 28 years in their house, and, with their two children grown and living on their own, Benjamin Applebaum and his wife did just that.“We had a big, fivebedroom house which we thoroughly enjoyed, but it was 85 years old and there were always headaches associated with owning, in terms of major repairs and maintenance,” said Applebaum. “We had always talked about selling it at some point in time. We felt that given the present state of the real estate market that it was an opportune time to sell.” After looking at a number of townhouses and other properties for rent, the Applebaums stumbled on the apartment they ultimately rented – a huge, 2,500-ft penthouse that’s walking distance to work, with underground parking, a fabulous kitchen, a huge outdoor terrace where they can barbecue and three bathrooms. Not your typical downsizing scenario, by any stretch of the imagination. “We did the math and were astounded,” said Applebaum.“ By investing the principle from the sale of our house, and compounding the interest, we are more than covering our annual rental expenses. And the best part of it all is that we do not pay property taxes, heating, or monthly maintenance fees like we would in a condominium. Nor did we have to pay any transaction costs, like when buying or selling. Most people
do not realize how costly it is to live in a condominium. It’s true that underground parking in our climate is a perk – at my age, a necessity – but you can join a gym for a lot less than you would pay to have a fancy health club right in your building. And most apartment buildings have underground parking.” A persuasive case for renting (vs. owning a condo) is also made by chartered accountant David Trahair, in his highly publicized book Cash Cows, Pigs and Jackpots: The Simplest Personal Finance Strategy Ever. Trahair argues that the way to wealth is less though acquiring assets, and more through improving cash flow. Trahair urges would-be condo buyers (like seniors, particularly those who might be tempted to downsize from a house to a condominium) to avoid the pitfalls of condominium ownership that include whopping monthly maintenance fees, property taxes, and potential special assessments (to pay for major repairs
or poor construction). As a senior, you should be especially careful to avoid such unnecessary expenses at this stage of your life. For those who have just sold the family home Trahair advises “You sit on a ton of cash and you just rent.”Wouldn’t you rather be using your capital for travel and other priorities than home maintenance? “At this stage of our lives, selling our home and renting was one of the smartest moves we could have made,” says Applebaum. It could be yours, too.
Jane Herman is a communications consultant who has worked in the rental property industry. Jane provides communications solutions for a diverse range of clients and has written about food, fashion, apartment living and personal finance for several publications.
frporeport
An apartment home is A “home” for renters B y Te d Whi T ehead
F
or most of us, home is everything. When we’re in our homes, we feel comfort, a sense of familiarity and belonging. it’s our haven, our refuge from the hectic day-to-day lives most of us lead today.
For those who rent rather than own, that need is not diminished. Walking into an apartment should be a relaxing, pleasant experience – which is why selecting a building that is clean, well kept and professionally run is important. With this in mind, a few years ago the Federation of Rental-housing Providers of Ontario (FRPO) created the Certified Rental Building Program (CRBP) to help apartment shoppers zero in on excellent residences more easily. In a nutshell, the CRBP promotes best practices in operating apartment buildings in Ontario. The idea is to offer consumers an easy, recognizable way to find top-quality residences in their search for an apartment home, and from the feedback we’ve had, it’s working. When shoppers see the CRBP certification logo displayed, they know that they are looking at a building where the living conditions are safe and efficient, and where customer service is considered a priority. The logo tells you that the property manager and staff practice more than 38 established building management and customer service standards. To be certified, applicants must complete and pass the training and education component of the program, which covers everything from safety procedures and building code compliance to knowing the Human Rights Code and what is expected for information and privacy law compliance. Participants cover the requirements of meeting CRBP’s Standards of Practice and learn how and why upholding them improves operations and customer service. Annual random-audit site inspections ensure that the professionalism of the program is being upheld. To provide even more peace-of-mind to renters who select a CRBP building, FRPO enlisted J.D. Power and Associates to conduct all the building audits for participating companies. This well-respected third-party independent performance measurement firm conducts unbiased surveys of customer satisfaction, product quality and buyer behaviour. Judging from last year’s results, we’re on the right track with CRBP.
In 2011, the J.D. Power Canadian Resident Survey results indicated that: 74 per cent cite building certification as ‘somewhat’ or ‘extremely’ important in their decision to rent; 26 per cent are aware of the CRB Program administered by FRPO (one in four prospective renters cited the CRB Program as a part of their decision criteria in choosing a rental home); and 80 per cent ‘definitely’ or ‘probably’ will recommend their building to others if it was certified (compared to 77 per cent for all Ontario residents). Tenants deserve to live in buildings that are well-run, well-managed, are kept clean and maintained professionally. They also have the right to receive courteous, prompt service from qualified staff and contractors. Tenants’ rights are stipulated in the Residential Tenancies Act, which has honesty, integrity and professionalism as its foundation – as does the CRBP. CRBP standards are high, and rightly so. After all, we’re talking about your “home.” For information on a variety of topics regarding renting an apartment in Ontario, visit www.frpo.org and www.crbprogram.org Ted Whitehead is director of Certification, Certified Rental Building Program (CRBP), Federation of Rental-housing Providers of Ontario (FRPO).
35G
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 December 8 - 22, 2012
905-578-6365
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
15
Hamilton
is your FREE apartment guide. Pick one up today from over 4000 locations in Ontario.
16
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
December 8 - 22, 2012
quicktips
replace holiday stress with holiday joy by Hellen Buttigieg Holiday season strikes fear in tHe Hearts of
many. Instead of visions of sugar plums we get visions of mad mall dashes, credit card bills and lots of cleaning to do. Put years past behind you and make a few simple changes. These tips will help replace the holiday stress with holiday joy. avoid gifts that clutter: Give gifts that can be consumed rather than those which take up space. Consider giving candles, gourmet food baskets, vintage wines, fresh floral arrangements, jams and jellies, etc. Gift certificates are also appreciated by those who want to streamline their homes. Clear away the ‘every day’: For more impact and less clutter, remove your every day decorative items from tabletops and mantles before you display your holiday decorations. You can store them temporarily in the boxes that held your decorations. Help for the host: Hosting a holiday soirée this year? Don’t be a superhero – accept help. Make it a potluck. People enjoy contributing and it makes the meal more interesting. While you’re at it, consider putting your kids to work during the event or hiring students to help out. They can take coats as guests arrive, freshen up the appetizer plates and load the dishwasher. They’ll be learning valuable skills and perhaps making some extra money and you’ll be a more relaxed and joyful host! avoid mall madness: Do you get stressed when shopping for gifts at the mall this time of year? Do the long lineups and limited parking dampen your holiday spirit? If you hurry, there’s still time to shop online and have your items delivered in time. Many retailers offer free shipping or other incentives this time of year. Another option is to hire a personal shopper. Some major department stores actually offer this service at no cost, so ask. Make it meaningful: Connect to what the holidays are really all about – spending time and making special memories with the people you love. Make time for doing fun things together, like baking cookies, going downtown to see the holiday lights and festive store windows, renting a favourite family movie or going skating at the local rink. An effective way to make time for these activities is to let go of the need to create the perfect home, buy the perfect gifts, and cook the perfect holiday meal. Perfection is unattainable, no matter how organized and talented you are (especially this time of year).
Be an early bird: Wrap and ship your holiday gifts to out-of-town friends/family early to avoid rush postage costs and long lineups at the post office. track your spending: Consider paying by debit instead of credit when shopping for gifts to avoid the shock of your credit card statement in January. Another option is to put all your purchases on one credit card and only use that card for gift-buying; with most cards you can track your spending by viewing the balance online. Guilt-free Holidays: Take a day to catch up on unfinished business like filing, returning calls, etc. Most of these ‘loose ends’ take only a few minutes, but are put off because they don’t seem urgent. However, you still worry about getting them done, and it takes up space in your brain. Eliminate these energy leaks and you will be free to enjoy your holidays. Hire help if you need to. Under-decorate: If you find it overwhelming to decorate every room of your home for the holidays, consider a new approach. Decorate the one or two rooms you’ll use the most over the season and see how you feel. Chances are you and your family won’t miss the extra knick-knacks and you may even enjoy the holidays more because you’ll be less stressed. You will be especially appreciative when it comes time to take down the decorations and put them away. Pick a calendar that works: Invest time in choosing the right calendar system for you. Go to an office supply store and take a few minutes to look through the options. Are you a visual person who prefers a paper-based planner or a digital person who relates to an app or a computer program? Do you like a large desk blotter-type calendar or does a pocket-sized appointment book make more sense? Which format do you prefer: day-, week-, or month-at-aglance? Making the best decision for you now will pay off many times over the new year.
Hellen Buttigieg 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 peace. Contact Hellen at 905.829.2219 or info@WeOrganizeU.com
Hamilton
03899
18
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
December 8 - 22, 2012
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 Burlington/Waterdown
From the very first day... you’re at home
BURlInGtOn tOWERS • Utilities and window coverings included • Individually controlled heat and A/C • Indoor heated pool, sauna & fitness centre • Outdoor sundeck & tennis courts • Recreational activities • Close to the GO station, QEW, 407, 403 Highways, Joseph Brant Hospital, Spencer Smith Park. • Parking available • Playground
01543
1, 2, 3 BdRm. SUItES
Short Term Furnished Suites Also Available 1285 Ontario St. at Maple
905-639-8583
December 8 - 22, 2012
Unfurnished
Furnished
vickie@corporatesuites.ca www.burlingtontowers.com
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
19
décor Flowers – A great way to add a personal touch to your guest room is by putting flowers on a bedside table or bureau. The flowers don’t have to be fresh necessarily; dried hydrangeas, for instance, live longer and provide an elegant, vintage look to a room. During the holiday season, try filling a vase with dry arrangements or a large bowl with pine cones for a festive and eye-catching addition. Provide Privacy – Part of making your guests feel at home is providing adequate privacy. Choose window coverings that not only add character to the room, but provide privacy and light control as well. Products such as Silhouette window shadings from Hunter Douglas do just that: the shadings diffuse light through two fabric layers for a radiant and calming effect with the added benefit of providing privacy.
Putting together the perfect
guest room
W
hat to expect when you’re expecting…houseguests. The key to making a lasting impression on your guests is to provide all the comforts you would expect to find at home, but with a personal touch. As the proverb goes, “a home without guests is a home without soul,“ so as the host, return the favour by filling your guest room with some of that soul. Sally Morse, director of creative services for window fashions company Hunter Douglas, offers the following tips on guest room décor:
Luggage Racks – How many times have you entered a guest room and there was no place to put down any luggage? Arranging a place for your guests’ belongings in a small bedroom can be a challenge, but consider a folding luggage rack that can easily be put away and won’t take up too much space. Closet – A closet is useless without any hangers, so don’t forget to supply at least eight to 10 hangers for your guests. It’s also a good idea to put simple hooks on the wall or behind a closet door for coats, scarves or bags.
Converting Your Office Space – Many people don’t have the extra room in their homes to set up a special guest room, so they combine spaces into multifunctional areas. The work space/guest room is a great option for creating a cozy and versatile space. Once you’ve determined how your multiuse space should be divided, consider investing in a pullout couch, especially if you have frequent visitors. Mirrors – Be sure that there is at least one mirror in the room, whether it’s in the bedroom itself or the bathroom. A floorlength mirror is an added luxury that your guests will definitely appreciate. Small Touches – A little gesture can go a long way. Consider leaving a welcome note or a pouch of lavender on the pillow to make your guests feel special. Also give your guest room an intimate feel by including a family photo or two or some of your favourite books With these simple tips you’ll have a hard time getting your guests to leave. More information is available online at www.hunterdouglas.ca. NC
03895
Burlington
December 8 - 22, 2012
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21
quicktips
Decorating
your rental space Here are some tips for renters from rental guru Jodi Gilmour
❖
When decorating small spaces, you don’t necessarily have to go with pint-sized furniture. Just pare down the number of pieces.
❖
Make sure there’s balance and create interest by drawing the eye to varying levels throughout the space. Multi-purpose pieces go a long way.
❖
One of the quickest ways to change the look of a rental, aside from paint, is to change the lighting. Invest in new light fixtures and take them with you when you leave.
❖
When decorating on a budget, try to look at old items in a new way. A desk can become a buffet table, and who knows ,maybe an old door would make a great headboard!
❖
Never underestimate the power of a coat of paint! Paint a tree stump in a bold hue to create a cool side table or stool.
❖
Walk through a second-hand store with a mind to breathe new life into an old piece of furniture; try using two tones of your favourite colour.
❖
To create a gallery wall you have to start with a commitment; your frames should either match, but vary in size or they can be mismatched but uniform in size. Oh, and make a choice; black and white or colour for the entire collection.
❖
Collections are a starting point for your accent pieces and carry themes on in other ways. If you collect bird figurines, find a ‘birdie’ pillow to complete the look.
❖
We improved a kitchen for a budding chef by capping inexpensive bookshelves with a slab of granite we found in the sale section at one of our suppliers. Instant island! Widely recognized for her professionalism, resources, and winning charm, Jodi helped many into new rentals when she hosted HGTV’s hit series For Rent. She was also a featured contributor on Marriage Under Construction. Her experience managing one of Canada’s largest and most successful RE/MAX franchises sets her apart from the competition. Jodi’s says she’s committed to improving their quality of life.
Niagara
01444
1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom
Phone:
$679 $719
905.892.6025 •
December 8 - 22, 2012
Call Tracking:
289.273.0201
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
23
Looking for an apartment home where quality assurance makes a difference, then choose a Certified Rental Building!
Why live anywhere else?
Burlington/Waterdown
Northshore Towers 1249 Northshore Blvd. East. Burlington
WESTDALE PROPERTIES A Limited Partnership Residential - Industrial - Commercial
Great Lake Views & Gorgeous Sunsets! 1 & 2 Br. Suites Available
02476
Utilities Included (Parking Extra)
An immaculate, quiet residential property conveniently located in downtown Burlington across from Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital
and Spencer Smith Park. Right outside your front door is the new lake front trail made for walking, biking and blading!
Cozy Lobby
To View this Outstanding Property Please Contact Sylvie, 9 am - 7 pm at (905) 637-8304 sylview@westdaleproperties.com www.westdaleproperties.com
24
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
December 8 - 22, 2012
Hamilton
Hamilton
Hamilton
11268741_1.JPG
11268351_1.JPG
401 MAIN STREET -East 1 bdrm apts $725/mo & 2 Bdrm apts $840/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
AMBIANCE VICTORIAN HUGE:ENTIRE -2nd flr apt,106 Blake street(1 blk East off of Main str East & Sherman ave(right hand turn).4 Huge Rms with levels:living rm,dng rm,bed rm kitch with pantry,full bath, sun porch, side porch, Prkg, close to amens,huge yard.$1000/monthly+ hydro. Avail now.MUST SEE!!! (905)548-0113, (905)543-0011
Hamilton
Hamilton
11266847_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
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
11268745_1.JPG
STONEY CREEK - -Newly renovated Building 2 bdrms, $825 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
COME HOME IN -COMFORT DOWNTOWN HAMILTON AREA - Affordable Large 2 bdrms $650/mo- $750/ mo & Large 1 bdrms $550/mo Self contained units. Newly renovated.Avail now. Please call Daniel 1(866)294-3546
is your FREE apartment guide. Pick one up today from over 4000 locations in Ontario.
December 8 - 22, 2012
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
25
finances
THE MARRIAGE MERGE:
PRACTICAL TIPS FOR COMBINING YOUR LIVES December 31 of the year for which you’re filing taxes, you qualify as having been married for the entire year. Talk about bills. As much as you can count on taxes, you can also count on bills. Whether they’re monthly, quarterly or annually issued, you need to figure out who will take care of which bills and where the money will come from. Setting up autopay can lessen the bill-paying chore list. You should also make sure that both spouses’ names are on the appropriate accounts. Even if you use autopay, it’s important to check in on your accounts to make sure that nothing is going wrong.
YOUR WEDDING IS SURE TO BE THE HAPPIEST DAY OF YOUR LIFE, but marriage stretches well beyond the big day. Merging your lives as spouses starts even before you say your “I do’s” and will require some effort and patience – which will be good practice for your future life together. The technical side of getting married can be a little confusing, so seeking advice from friends and family is a good idea. However, there will be some questions that might need professional advice, so don’t be afraid to consult the pros when necessary. As you start your journey through life together, keep these key tasks in mind to make sure you’re well prepared. Discuss your finances. Having an open and honest discussion with your fiancé about finances is very important, and it should include the bad with the good. Because you’re getting married, you’ll be with each other through thick and thin, so having a forthright conversation about money ahead of time is a good idea. If you have debt, discuss how much and how you’ll pay it off, but you’ll also need to talk about things like creating joint accounts, as well as how and whether you want to divide or share money. Understanding your credit portfolio and status as well as protecting against identity theft should also be part of the discussion and credit monitoring products like the Equifax Credit Watch enables each person to see and receive notifications when changes occur to their credit files, helping to keep track of potential impacts to their credit histories while detecting potential identity fraud. Prep for taxes. Married couples file taxes jointly. Seek the advice of a tax preparer or financial adviser who can help you understand the advantages and disadvantages and the adjustments you’ll need to make to prepare for tax time. Keep in mind that if you’re married before
Make decisions about moving. If you’re living separately prior to getting married, you’ll need to decide which home you’ll live in. For some couples this might mean one giving up an apartment or going apartment hunting to find a new place to start your lives together. When you’re discussing homes and moving, talk about how your feelings regarding moving away from your current home city, in case you’re ever offered a job transfer opportunity. Get insurance in order. Meet with your insurance agent or agents to go over your current plans and add your spouse to them. There may be advantages to using one insurer for all of your policies, so if you are currently with different insurers, speak to each to see where you’ll get the best deal. You should also explore your options for benefits and extended health plans – one spouse’s employer might offer a better plan than the other. Taking care of these practical financial tasks might seem less than exciting compared to the thrill of your wedding day, but getting them done right is important. Since finances are a notorious source of stress, having a clear understanding with your spouse will ensure that you have a good foundation for your marriage. For more information on tools to monitor your credit and help protect against identity theft, go to www.equifax.com. ARA
Burlington 01553
December 8 - 22, 2012
$1,200
Three-bedroom without garage
$1,300
Three-bedroom with garage
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
27
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
■ Modern Elevators ■ Garden Terrace (Pearl) ■ Indoor Parking Available ■ On-site Management
■ Upgraded Hallway Broadlooms ■ Outdoor Heated Pool ■ Newer Laundry Machines
01555
■ Upgraded Suites/Utilities Incl.
■ In-house Maintenance Staff ■ Beautifully Maintained Buildings
■ Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms
(subject to availability)
478 PEARL ST.
(905) 632-1643
■ Spacious 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms
(subject to availability)
477 ELIZABETH ST.
(905) 634-9374
After more than 30 years of apartment management ... Stellen knows how to make you feel RIGHT AT HOME.
28
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
December 8 - 22, 2012
St. Catharines
03861
December 8 - 22, 2012
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
29
Make your move
Moving etiquette: FOLLOW THE GOLDEN RULE B Y DA N H O P K I N S
E
ven at the best of times, moving day can be stressful for everyone involved. Whether you are moving into or out of a condominium, lowrise home or a commercial property, a move involves trucks, boxes, packing materials, workers and a certain amount of organized chaos. As with any major event, preparation is key. There are certain things to do on moving day to make things go as smoothly as possible. The first is to be sure to bring your manners with you. Think of the following tips as “moving etiquette.” • Let your neighbours at both ends know when to expect the movers to pull into your place. Ensure that the movers park and unload to avoid blocking anyone else’s driveway or trespassing on other property while items are being carried into or out of your new place. It is important to respect your neighbours’ privacy and property. • If you are booking a residential move and have the choice, select 9 or 10 a.m. for your truck to arrive. This is a time when people who work the 9-to-5 shift are not at home, and you are less likely to cause them any inconvenience. • Everyone wants to move at the same time, but this can tie up the elevators and make it impossible for residents to come and go, so instead of chaos, the property management will book a block of time for you to move. Book the elevators well in advance – in both the building you are leaving and the building you will be moving into – so that you can have the benefit of arranging your time comfortably. You should also check to see if movers are restricted to using specific doors. Sometimes there are service areas to use for moving so that the rest of the tenants aren’t disturbed or inconvenienced, or to accommodate large, heavy pieces of furniture. • Make arrangements for your pets to be cared for elsewhere. The very nature of a move means that doors will be open for long periods, and having animals wandering in and out can be dangerous for them and for those carrying your belongings. • If the movers are playing a radio, ask them to keep the volume down to avoid bothering small children or elderly neighbours who may want peace and quiet. • The physical nature of moving means that your movers will get thirsty and hungry. Although it is not necessary, offering cool drinks and some snacks is always greatly appreciated. Cold water and pop during the summer or coffee and hot chocolate in the winter can go a long way to keeping movers refreshed and energized. • Most people wonder about whether to tip movers. Tipping is not compulsory in our industry, so it is totally up to you. If you feel your moving crew has done an exemplary job, by all means, show your appreciation that way. Whether or not you tip, you should expect excellent service.
• Most moving companies are good about removing packing materials, crates, boxes, etc. when they leave. If anything is left behind, collect it yourself and dispose of it. • As items are moved out of rooms, take advantage of the opportunity to sweep, mop and clean what you can. Think about how you would like to find the place you are moving into and act accordingly. Some people hire cleaners to come in and work their magic before turning in the key to the landlord or new owners. You may even want to check your lease, some leases and tenant agreements stipulate the condition of cleanliness and you don’t want to be sent a bill from your old landlord because you didn’t fulfil your obligations at your old apartment when leaving. • Keep your cool. By moving day, you are likely to be tired and worried about all your items arriving at your destination without any damage. So, it’s all about common courtesy – treating others the way you would like to be treated – and it works both ways. That’s why at Two Men and a Truck – Canada, we follow “The Grandma Rule.” We treat everyone the way we would want our grandmothers to be treated, and we appreciate clients who do the same in return! Dan Hopkins is chief operating officer, Two Men and a Truck Canada. For more information visit the website at twomenandatruck.ca
St. Catharines
1 bedroom from $795 2 bedroom from $895
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16 Tremont Drive
utilities included
• 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
01686
tremont apartments
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 December 8 - 22, 2012
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
31
WESTDALE PROPERTIES
01566
St. Catharines
A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP
Residential - Industrial - Commercial
Garden Terrace Apartments call: 905.682.5104 or 905.682.3214 anytime email: sylview@westdaleproperties.com address: 24 Ida Street, St. Catharines, Ontario (Between Queenston & Welland St.)
• Free Outdoor Parking • Easy Access to Shopping • Close to Schools • (no pets)
SERVICE RD. BERRYMAN
24
IDA STREET
SCHOOL
QUEENSTON
• 1 & 2 Bedrooms • Hardwood Floors • Laundry Facilities • 2 Appliances • Utilities Included
NIAGARA ST.
QEW to NIAGARA Cut off
Now Accepting Payments Interac Only
www.westdaleproperties.com
Briarfield Townhomes call: 905.646.2469 email: sylview@westdaleproperties.com office: 116A-44 Berkley Dr. address: 33 & 44 Berkley Dr., St. Catharines, Ontario
32
• Great Highway Access for Commuters • Close to Schools, Shopping & Buses • Situated Near Park • (no pets)
ST. TON CARL
VE. AND A
WELL
QEW
Please say you saw it in Renters Guide!
★ BUNTING AVE.
• 2 & 3 Bedrooms • Carpeted • Full Basements • Some with Rec. Rooms • 2 Appliances
R.
LEY D
BERK
Now Accepting Payments Interac Only
December 8 - 22, 2012
2 Great Reasons to move here!
• 1st month FREE * • Downtown’s Best Rental Value 1 BDRM from $720 • 2 BDRMS from $820 • 3 BDRMS from $995 Includes heat, hydro & water
• Start the Week off Right with free Breakfast in the lobby every Monday • Across from McLaren Park with playground, splashpad and basketball court • Bus stop at the corner • Walk to Jackson Square Mall, Farmer’s Market, Public Library • Renovated lobby GYM COMING • Overnight security patrol SOON! • On-site Laundry Room *For qualified prospects. Must move in by December 31, 2012. Bart on S tree t We
181 John St. N.
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Rental Office Hours: Monday – Thursday 10 am – 6 pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday 10 am – 4 pm
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905.522.1043 hamiltonrentals@greenwin.ca
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McL a Park ren
Jack so Squa n re
www.greenwin.ca
plus hydro, includes heat and water
plus hydro, includes heat and water
888-275-5107
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1710 -1716 Main Street
905-521-0299
www.pinedaleprop.com
$50 Gift Certificate On All Approved Applications
The Evolution of Apartment Living™
Fall Special 1 & 2 Bedrooms Starting at $660 10G
THE CYPRESS
BURLINGTON'S BRAND NEW N O N - S M O K I N G TOW E R
AT THE ROYAL GARDENS
1 2 0 P L A I N S ROA D W E S T
G N I T N W RE
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VISIT FURNISHED MODEL/RENTAL CENTRE AT 130 PLAINS RD. W Open Daily 10 am - 6 pm ■ ■
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Quality 2 bedroom suites 5 Appliances Including Ensuite Laundry Massive unit size Sauna, Whirlpool & Exercise Room Salt Water Indoor Pool Individual Central Air & Heating Controls
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2 Baths in 2 Bedroom Models Controlled Entry/Cameras Oversized Balconies Indoor Parking, Bicycle Storage On Bus Routes, Close to Shopping, GO Train, Bus Station & QEW access phone, internet and satellite available in unit
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Completely NON-Smoking Building including balconies Granite Kitchen Countertops and Stainless Steel Appliances now available on top floor 7th
GO/VIA
w w w. d re w l o h o l d i n g s . c o m
CALL 289.812.0102 11G
designeradvice
BABY, IT’S COLD OUTSIDE!
The leaves are gone, the temperature has dropped and Jack Frost has begun nipping at your nose; the good news is that it can only mean one thing — Christmas, Chanukah, Christmaka and/or Kwanza are just around the corner. Regardless of which holiday you celebrate there’s one thing for certain; it’s time to start decorating.
decorating BEYOND THE
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tree by ERICA GELMAN
If you’re one of the lucky ones who has a large mantle, do not forget to adorn that fireplace with colour, texture and elegance. Typically, when you think of decorating for the holidays it’s all about the tree but I say the tree is just the first step. It may even be your source of inspiration but it doesn’t have to end there. Think ornaments are just for hanging? Think again. With the dynamic colour and style options now available you can decorate every nook in your home, well, maybe not every single one. The assortment and price range varies dramatically from luxury pieces at Teatro Verde to budget-friendly options at HomeSense, Bouclair and even Home Depot featuring the Martha Stewart Collection, so this year there really is no excuse. It’s not where you put these ornaments, it’s how you place them. Be mindful of consistency and harmony. I love the idea of using multiple layers of colour and filling clear vases to spread across your table as décor. The tables in your home are really the best place to start your decorating frenzy. We always like to draw inspiration from fabrics, so we recommend starting with your tablecloth. For a really unique setting I like to have our clients’ covers custom-made to order. Don’t let the word “custom” fool you. Depending on the size of your table, you probably won’t need more than two yards of fabric and a seamstress to sew the edges. You can invest in small unique items and give your space a real holiday presence. If you’re one of the lucky ones who has a large mantle, do not forget to adorn that fireplace with colour, texture and elegance. Instead of the traditional evergreen, try a homemade wreath of feathers for a glamorous look or rustic branches in an urban setting. Start with a circular piece of florist’s foam, and then use wooden florist’s picks to secure large items and wrap the object around as much as desired. And there you have yourself an easy DIY project that will reinforce the look you are trying to achieve. If you’re hosting an elegant soirée, dim the lights and illuminate the room with candles and allow the mood to develop through nightfall. It’s so simple to work with items you already own, it just takes a little creativity and perhaps a second opinion. Set the table with your favourite accessories and layer sections with different finishes for a look that suggests you’ve been collecting pieces over time. For an otherwise crisp and modern approach, my preferred table accessory is a serving tray. In lieu of a placemat or traditional charge plate the tray comes in small, large, matte and lacquered finishes — it will make your décor seem flawless.
For me, it’s always the details that truly elevate the décor. There are so many easy ways to embrace the holiday spirit and enhance the beauty in your home. From small, subtle design touches to large over-the-top custom pieces, the possibilities are endless. Enjoy the season and just remember — decorating your home for the holidays far exceeds dressing up just the traditional tree.
Erica GElman Toronto-based designer Erica Gelman, Principal of Erica Gelman House Of Design. Specializes in both large and small scale residential design projects throughout Toronto and the GTA. Known for enhancing and creating new possibilities in every space of your home. House Of Design www.ericagelman.com
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Your Rental Search is Over,
Welcome Home
*Prices, specifications and availability subject to change without notice... E&O.E
AVAILABLE AT:
• 196 Cushman • 7591 Scholfield • 246 Lakeshore • 473 Linwell • 30 Bradmon • 40 Front • 3401-3421 Weinbrenner Road
PRIVATE VIEWINGS • Fully renovated • Inground pool onsite • Excellent neighbourhood; close to all amenities • Private courtyards with garden walk-out or balcony • Five appliances
St. Catharines & Niagara Falls
1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM APARTMENTS AND TOWNHOMES
1.905.351.7367 butera@iaw.com
w w w. p a n o r a m i c p r o p e r t i e s . c a 14G
WESTDALE PROPERTIES A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP Residential - Industrial - Commercial
Garden Terrace Apartments call: 905.682.5104 or 905.682.3214 anytime email: sylview@westdaleproperties.com address: 24 Ida Street, St. Catharines, Ontario (Between Queenston & Welland St.)
• Free Outdoor Parking • Easy Access to Shopping • Close to Schools • (no pets)
SERVICE RD. BERRYMAN
24
IDA STREET
SCHOOL
QUEENSTON
• 1 & 2 Bedrooms • Hardwood Floors • Laundry Facilities • 2 Appliances • Utilities Included
NIAGARA ST.
QEW to NIAGARA Cut off
Now Accepting Payments Interac Only
www.westdaleproperties.com
Briarfield Townhomes call: 905.646.2469 email: sylview@westdaleproperties.com office: 116A-44 Berkley Dr. address: 33 & 44 Berkley Dr., St. Catharines, Ontario
• Great Highway Access for Commuters • Close to Schools, Shopping & Buses • Situated Near Park • (no pets)
ST. TON CARL VE. AND A
WELL
QEW
★ BUNTING AVE.
• 2 & 3 Bedrooms • Carpeted • Full Basements • Some with Rec. Rooms • 2 Appliances
R.
LEY D
BERK
Now Accepting Payments Interac Only 15G
$1,200
Townhouse 3 bedroom without garage
$1,300
Townhouse 3 bedroom with garage