South Western Ontario Renters Guide - Aug 18, 2018

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO EdITION

AUG 18 - SEP 1, 2018 | rentersguide.ca

Luxury rentals on King Street in London

400 Lyle Street 519.601.7386 RentRevo.com

downtown Guelph: A lIvEly cOmmUNITy

WHAT’S yOUR home decor personality?

Our Effort Is For You Call or email to book a viewing today.

BELGAL ESTATES

50, 60 & 70 Jerome Crescent Hamilton East Located near Centennial Pkwy S. & Queenston Rd. with an Olympic size indoor swimming pool for all tenants to enjoy. BelGal Estates is a triplex high-rise residential apartment complex. The buildings are well maintained and several updates are being completed.

Rental Office located at 50 Jerome.

KENSINGTON

HELEN MANOR APARTMENTS

115 Main Street East, Hamilton Central

1296 Fennell Avenue East, Hamilton East Mountain Just moments away from the serene environment of the Mountain Brow and Bruce hiking trails. Spacious suites for comfortable living. Many nearby amenities including; grocery stores, banks, schools, parks, and major bus routes are just steps away along Fennell Ave.

Centrally located near Jackson Square, Farmer's Market, Gore Park, Public Library, the GO Station and St. Joseph's Hospital. This building features elevators, air conditioning and a laundry room on each floor for your convenience.

1-844-582-2282

1-844-822-9911

1-800-823-6157

MOUNTAIN PARK

PROCTOR PLACE

TALIA MANOR

8 East 36th Street, Hamilton East Mountain

12 Proctor Boulevard, Hamilton Central

400 East 42nd Street, Hamilton East Mountain

Located next to Mountain Brow Park near Concession St. with spectacular views of the city. Near many amenities including shopping & public transit. Within walking distance of The Juravinski Hospital.

Charming building located in the east end of downtown Hamilton. Student friendly and on major bus routes for quick transportation to McMaster University and Columbia International College.

1-800-705-3543

1-844-226-5738

Located in a great area near shopping plazas, Food Basics, banks, schools and parks. This student friendly building is just steps from public transit and access to the Lincoln M. Alexander Parkway is a 5 minute drive away.

1-844-496-3339

Over 100 buildings located in Hamilton, Burlington, Cobourg, Dundas, Kitchener, Waterloo, St. Catharines, Stoney Creek and Welland. As well as a Senior’s Residence in Ancaster and one close to St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton.

Availability online at 1-844-582-2064

www.effortrentals.com |

rentals@efforttrust.ca

burlington Townhouse 3 bedroom without garage (including 2 parking spots) + utilities Townhouse 3 bedroom with garage + utilities

Features: Renovated units New stainless steel appliances In-suite washer and dryer Ceramic tiles and hardwood floor Private backyard Full basement Children's play area On-site management

Rental Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 8pm; Weekends and holidays by appointment

3

Welcome to the neighbourhood • On bus route • Underground parking • Friendly staff • Secure building • Laundry on Smart Cards

900* Jr. 1 Bedrooms from $950* 1 Bedrooms from $1100* Jr. 2 Bedrooms from $1200* 2 Bedrooms from $1500*

REBECCA & WELLINGTON Walking distance to Jackson Square

905-523-6556 Hamilton@medallioncorp.com

Bachelor from $

*plus hydro

medallioncorp.com

Rebecca St.

King William St.

Wellington St. N.

Cathcart St.

Wilson St. Ferguson Ave. N.

London

DOWNTOWN LOCATION

N

aug 18 - sEp 1, 2018 | volumE 26 issuE 17

CoNTeNTS

2

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Susan Legge EDITOR

Marlene Eisner ART DIRECTOR

Tammy Leung CONTRIbuTINg EDITORs

Sara Duck, Marisa Baratta CONTRIbuTINg wRITERs

Jennifer Braun, Kim Carlton, Joanna Goodman, Jane Herman, Jackie Marchildon Anne Marshall, Mary Potter, Gail Vaz-Oxlade MEDIA CONsulTANT

Daniela Francia daniela.francia@nexthome.ca sAlEs CO-ORDINATOR/ MEDIA CONsulTANT

Gary Chilvers gRApHIC DEsIgNER

Mike Terentiev

On the Cover:

revo oN KING STreeT IN every ISSue

6 Editor's Note 16 index 26 movers, services & Classifieds INSpIrATIoN

22 lifestyle Tips from Joanna goodman on choosing quality sheets

11 get organized Transitioning into a smaller living space

12 The Rentalist Non-reno renos to personalize your space

13 Renters' Help Tips for living amicably with a roommate

18 money sense Here's a plan to get out of 'odious overdraft'

20 Rentable

AdvICe

8 Rental Help use this checklist to help find what you're looking for

9 Renters' Help

First-time renters: Questions to ask your potential landlord

25 Rent Rantings what your home decor style says about you

Make sure your apartment is safe for baby and toddlers

14

neIGhBOURhOOD PROFILe:

dowNTowN Guelph

Advertising Call 416.626.4200 for advertising rates and information.

Copyright Notice All copyright and other intellectual property rights in the contents hereof are the property of NextHome, and not that of the individual client. The customer has purchased the right of reproduction in NextHome and does not have the right to reproduce the ad or photo in any other place or publication without the previous written consent of NextHome.

Contents of this publication, in hard copy format as well as online, are covered by copyright law, and offenders will be prosecuted.

Copyright 2018. All rights reserved.

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 prior written permission of NextHome is strictly prohibited.

Editorial submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the editor by email to marlene.eisner@ nexthome.ca. The views and data expressed by columnists do not necessarily represent those of the publication.

Aug 18 - sep 1, 2018  5

EDITOR’S NOTE

THE FIRST-TIME RENTER EXPERIENCE

MARLENE EISNER EDITOR NextHome EMAIL: marlene.eisner@nexthome.ca TWITTER: @MarleneEisner

Some people are happy living in the family home and are in no rush to move into their first apartment. Others can’t wait to leave the nest, counting down the days until they are out the door and in their own space.

Regardless of which end of the spectrum you’re on, when you’re ready to spread your wings and become a renter, you should be prepared. Friends and family will happily tell you of their experiences and make suggestions on how to proceed. And you should listen closely. But for an added perspective, in this edition of Renters Guide, we’ve included two great articles filled with useful information to set you on the right path.

Before you even start looking for an apartment, there are things you should consider – what kind of space you want and need, the neighbourhood you’d like to live in and how much of your income you should spend on rent so you can afford other aspects of your life.

The story on page 20 will help you thread through the options.

Once you’ve found some places to view, you’ll want to ask your potential new landlord a bunch of questions before you sign a lease. The renters’ checklist on page 8 is pretty comprehensive and a good place to start.

So enjoy renting, and when it’s time to make a move, let Renters Guide help. If there is something you’d like us to write about, or if you have a comment or suggestion, please send me an email.

GETCE I ADV

What your decor says about you 25

+ get social 6 RentersGuide.ca

+

ONLINE: Highrise, lowrise, condo, loft – there are so many different types of apartments out there, when you’re looking to rent, you need to know what you’re looking for. nexthome.ca/what-type

Interact with us on social media: nexthome

London - central

Downtown London 310 Dundas & 405 Waterloo

Ideally located downtown London, within walking distance to restaurants, retail, entertainment, offices & more!

1&2

BEDROOM SUITES • Newer Large Luxury Suites

• 2 Baths in 2 Bedroom Models

• Excellent Location with

• Private Oversized Balconies

• Exercise Room, Sauna, Indoor Saltwater Pool • Close to Entertainment, Retail, Restaurants & More

• Covered & Secured Parking • Rogers Cable & Bell available • Dinner to Garlics of London on us! $50 Gift Card included

MODEL

CALL TO VIEW

WELLINGTON ST.

SUITES OPEN RICHMOND ST.

310 Dundas: 877-503-2752 405 Waterloo: 877-220-4258 Visit: www.drewloholdings.com Follow:

QUEEN AVE.

DUNDAS ST.

COLBORNE ST.

in- suite laundry

• Individual A/C & Heating Controls

WATERLOO ST.

Great Views of the City • 5 Appliances including

YORK ST.

7

ADVICE

DO YOU HAVE A

RENTERS’ CHECKLIST? Congratulations. You’ve found an apartment. Typically, you may have some questions for the owner.

Here is a list from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.

(CMHC) to get you started.

1. Are utilities such as heat, electricity, water, cable television or Internet included in the monthly rental fee?

Do you have to pay for some or all of them separately, or are the costs shared with other tenants? If the costs are shared, not everyone has the same usage or requirements, so make sure you understand how the usage is divided up.

2. What type of heating is used – natural gas, oil or electric?

Some energy sources cost more than others.

3. On average, how much did the previous tenants pay for utilities each month? Use this as a guideline since they could have had different energy needs than your own.

4. Is there parking? How much does it cost? What about additional vehicles, including guest parking?

5. Is there extra storage? Is it included in the rental cost?

6. Is laundry extra? If so, how much does it cost?

7. Is there rent control in place?

If not, how will future rent increases be handled?

8. Who handles installing or moving telephone jacks, satellite dishes, or television cables?

9. Is there high-speed Internet available?

10. Can changes be made to the unit, including painting and hanging pictures on the walls?

8 RentersGuide.ca

11. Why are the current tenants

leaving? If pets are allowed, what kind? Does the property need to be professionally cleaned at the end of the lease?

12. Is smoking permitted?

13. What security systems are in place? Have the locks been changed recently? Are there parts of the building that require key access?

SAFETY AND HEALTHY LIVING

Safety, security and healthy living are also important considerations when looking for a place to live. Before deciding to rent, make sure to: • Consider the nearest transit stop and parking areas if you have a vehicle. Are they isolated, or are there enough people around to walk to and from safely?

• Look for added security beyond what you would expect for the area as this could signal a higher crime rate.

• Check the locks on the windows and doors, and ask the landlord to change them at their expense before you move in. (They are, however, not legally obligated to do so.)

• Examine sliding glass doors, like patio doors, for a reinforcement rod in the track that prevents them from being forced open.

• Check for working smoke detectors, fire exits and/or fire escapes, and fire extinguishers.

For basement units, make sure the windows are large enough to crawl through.

• Look for properly vented space heaters and fireplaces with plenty of room around each for furniture to be placed safely.

• Look for the presence of mould (stains on the walls, musty smells, or rotting wood) to make sure the air you are breathing is clean.

Source: CMHC

ADVICE | RENTERS’ HELP

CHILDPROOFING CHALLENGES

by KIM CARLTON Having a baby is an exciting, but nerve-wracking experience. Here are some strategies to help you keep your home safe and sound.

• Make sure your electrical outlets are covered. There are many kinds of outlet covers – choose the one that is right for you.

• Confirm that you have reliable smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure that the batteries are working.

• Use doorknob covers on doors to non-childproofed areas (like the bathrooms and laundry room). Baby gates are also an effective solution for keeping kids in or out of a room.

• Don’t use toys or pillows in

the crib, especially with young babies - your baby could suffocate. Never use an electric blanket for a child (could cause a fire).

• Never leave a child unattended in the bathtub. Drowning can occur in seconds, and mere inches of water pose a risk.

• Make sure your bathtub has a non-skid mat or pads to avoid slips. You can use a baby tub inside the bathtub - one with baby slings are especially helpful with infants.

• Lock up all medications, alcoholic beverages, chemicals and cleaning products. Make sure matches and lighters are

out of reach. Use cabinet locks to secure these items.

• Make sure cords for blinds are not tied together at the bottom (this is a strangulation hazard).

• Make sure knives and sharp items are in an area where kids can’t access them.

• Check toys for broken parts/ bits that are a choking hazard or sharp. Keep small toys for older children (like figurines, game board pieces and small building blocks) away from your baby.

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

Colonial Court

Oxford Square East

Canterbury Court

WESTMOUNT

ACROSS FROM FANSHAWE COLLEGE

SARNIA

• Great Neighbourhood in West London • Close to Schools and Shopping • Excellent Bus Service • Seasonal Pool

• Quiet Family Orientated Complex • Walk to Schools and Shopping • Great Bus Service • Seasonal Pool • Free Parking • Large 1 & 2 Bedroom Renovated Suites

• Shopping and Schools Nearby • Quiet Area, Private Grounds • Recently Renovated Units

750-780 Viscount Road 519-649-4159

727-769 Second Street 519-951-7169 519-453-2985

160-190 Canterbury Court 519-344-5560

Another Quality Project Managed By

www.viscountproperties.com Aug 18 - sep 1, 2018 9

GUELPH WATERLOO

BURLINGTON

KITCHENER CAMBRIDGE

WATERLOOWELLINGTON

HAMILTON

NIAGARA FALLS ST. CATHARINES

HAMILTON-NIAGARA BRANTFORD

WELLAND

STRATFORD WOODSTOCK INGERSOLL LONDON

LONDON

SARNIALAMBTON

ST THOMAS

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO

SARNIA

CHATHAM

WINDSORCHATHAM WINDSOR

SERVING: WINDSOR, SARNIA, CHATHAM, LONDON, ST. THOMAS, WOODSTOCK, STRATFORD, KITCHENER, WATERLOO, CAMBRIDGE & GUELPH, HAMILTON, BURLINGTON-WATERDOWN, BRANTFORD, NIAGARA AND ST. CATHARINES

HAMILTON/ NIAGARA Hamilton Niagara Falls St. Catharines Welland

SARNIA/ LAMBTON

Burlington Guelph Kitchener Waterloo Cambridge Brantford

Sarnia

PAGE 2, 19

WATERLOO/ WELLINGTON

PAGE 15

PAGE 5, 23

LONDON Stratford Woodstock Ingersol St Thomas London

PLACE YOUR DISPLAY AD GARY CHILVERS

MEDIA CONSULTANT 416.626.4268 daniela.francia@nexthome.ca

MEDIA CONSULTANT 416.626.4890 gary.chilvers@nexthome.ca

Chatham Windsor

PAGE 3

HOW TO ADVERTISE DANIELA FRANCIA

WINDSOR/ CHATHAM

NOW AVAILABLE IN OVER

1595

LOCATIONS!

+ TO PLACE YOUR CLASSIFIED AD

BY PHONE: 1-866-234-9879 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

10  RentersGuide.ca

ADVICE | GETTING ORGANIZED

TRANSITIONING INTO A SMALLER LIVING SPACE With rents rising, families are getting creative and moving into smaller spaces. Going compact can be daunting for some, says Marie Potter, marketing director for Professional Organizers in Canada. “One way to approach small-space living is to enjoy the benefits. Simply put, less space means less things, less mess, less stress and more time.”

Here are some tips for transitioning into a compact home: OFFICE

If you need a home office (or, at least, a workspace) it’s essential to have a filing system versus a piling system. Invest in a decent, compact filing cabinet on wheels that tucks under the desk. You’ll have every file at your fingertips if you set it up with hanging file folders and tabs in alphabetical order. If you don’t have a desk, use floating shelves and magazine holders, or a wall organizer to manage papers vertically. Stack and label clear bins with supplies on a shelf.

KITCHEN

Maintain small quantities of food and only have what you need. Free up counter space with hanging baskets that hold fruit or other kitchen essentials. In very small spaces, install a wall-mounted table that folds down when you need it, and folds up and away when the meal is over.

Open shelves will create the illusion of more space. Also consider items on wheels – they are easier to move around if necessary.

LIVING SPACE

It’s best to keep things light and airy.

Use limited colour palettes, plain white items or mirrors to create the illusion of space. Seek multi-purpose furniture such as an ottoman, which can be used as an all-in-one foot rest, table and storage unit.

BATHROOM

Hang a clear shower curtain or use a clear liner with mesh pockets behind it to store your bathroom necessities. Install a towel rack at the back of the tub, like you see in hotels. Have plenty of hooks to keep clothes off the floor. Stack clear, labelled bins under the sink for added storage.

BEDROOM

Condo beds are all the rage for good reason: The mattress platform lifts up using pressurized pistons, so you can store and easily access belongings inside it. Otherwise, use under-the-bed bins for seasonal storage. Only have one set of sheets and towels,

and just stay on top of laundry.

Over-the-door hooks and a shoe organizer are a must. Thin design flock hangers create 30 per cent more space than plastic or wood ones. If the bedroom is really tiny, consider using curtains instead of bi-fold closet doors, or simply remove the closet doors for an open-concept closet.

BONUS TIPS

Watch Tiny Houses and read Everything That Remains: A Memoir by the Minimalists by Joshua Fields Millburn and Ryan Nicodemus. Also consider re-evaluating how you shop by skipping big bulk stores altogether.

Remember, your apartment or condo is a reminder that the most important things in life aren’t things!

Marie Potter is a trained professional organizer, and the marketing director for Professional Organizers in Canada, POC Silver and Gold Leaf member, recent recipient of the POC President’s Award. mariepotter.ca Aug 18 - sep 1, 2018 11

ADVICE | THE RENTALIST

THE BEST NON-RENO RENOS FOR

YOUR RENTAL UNIT JACKIE MARCHILDON

As a renter, you’ve likely had a moment or two when you wished you could make a big change to your rental unit — the countertops, the flooring — or, on a bad day, everything. But you also know you can’t make drastic changes, and you probably don’t really want to invest that much time and money into it.

Luckily, there are a number of options for renters that can help make big changes without the headache (and illegality) of renovating a rental.

USE CONTACT PAPER

Generic countertops are a staple in rental units but they are easy to change without renovations.

Contact paper comes in all kinds of colours and designs and applying it can make a huge difference in the kitchen. You can

“

Luckily, there are a number of options for renters that can help make big changes without the headache (and illegality) of renovating a rental.

”

12 RentersGuide.ca

change your counters or even add a backsplash without painting or breaking the bank.

they tend to look nice, too.

INVEST IN A PORTABLE DISHWASHER AND/OR AN

REMOVE CUPBOARD DOORS

ISLAND

Most of the time we think we need to add things to make a big difference, but that’s not always true. If you remove the doors of your kitchen cupboards, for example, you create a bright, open-concept look. For an even richer effect, you can paint the insides of the cupboards or use contact paper to liven it all up.

In the spirit of creating more space (and keeping you sane if you feel like you’re always doing dishes), buy a portable dishwasher.

Not only will it save you hours of dishwashing time, it’ll give you more counterspace! If you already have a dishwasher, and simply crave more counters, buy an island — it works as storage, a counter and a table.

CHANGE LIGHT FIXTURES AND SWITCHES

ADD SMART STORAGE

Replacing boring light fixtures with new distinctive ones like chandeliers or pendant lamps can really alter the look of your unit. If your home feels dark, this helps in the obvious way of brightening the space up, but it also helps a rental feel more unique. Check with your landlord before you play with anything electrical and you need to hire a professional. You can also change your light switch plates.

Replace the dull plastic ones with something fancy like gold or brightly coloured plates to create little pops of colour throughout your home.

If you wish you could build more closets in your house (or build a garage), find unique ways to store stuff. Ceiling hooks are a great way to hang big items like bikes, and shelves can double as storage and decor.

CHANGE THE HARDWARE

A new showerhead can make a huge difference in the bathroom.

If you buy the right one, it’ll make you feel like you’ve renovated your shower and it’ll look nice and shiny. While you’re at it, see if you can change up your faucets and little drawer knobs, too. These little changes yield big results.

PAINT AND HANG MIRRORS

Painting can be a pain, but it can have dramatic effects on a space.

To mimic the look of a chair rail, paint two-tone walls — use a dark colour in the upper area and a lighter one in the lower section. If your wish is for spaciousness, paint a light colour and hang mirrors.

Incorporating mirrors into your decor helps lighten up a space and

Jackie Marchildon is a bilingual writer and editor. She spends her time searching for hidden gems across the city, whether it’s new neighbourhoods and restaurants or upcoming trends in real estate and home decor.

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

ADVICE | RENTERS’ HELP

TIPS FOR LIVING WITH A ROOMMATE JANE HERMAN

There are legal obligations when all parties are listed on the lease. What about your hydro, Internet and cable (and land line, if you have one)?

Your approach to having a roommate should reflect what it would in any relationship. Be considerate and strive for good communication.

FURNISHING: How will the apartment will be furnished? You need to discuss in detail how you will make decorating purchases and decisions.

CLEANING: Ask your potential roommate how clean they like/ need the apartment to be. Clarify at the outset who will clean the bathroom(s) and how frequently; take out the garbage and recycling; vacuum the living room, and when.

Or, discuss sharing the cost of a cleaning service if you need it to keep everyone happy.

EXPENSES: Discuss beforehand

PERSONAL SPACE AND

how you will be paying your rent.

PERSONALITY: Everyone needs

some private space and time.

Be sure to discuss your lifestyle preferences with your roommate so there won’t be any surprises.

Ground rules are a good idea.

FOOD AND INCIDENTALS: Will you share the cost of food items and toilet paper, dish soap and light bulbs? Decide before issues arise.

Jane Herman is a communications consultant who has worked in the rental property industry.

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

Bonaventure Meadows 2228 or 2230 Trafalgar Street (near Hwy 100 in London)

RENOVAT ED SUITES

WASHER & DRYER IN SUITE

OUTDOOR POOL • Dishwasher, Fridge & Stove • Contemporary Decor • Convenience to 401 • Parking • Private Balconies

• Hardwood Floors • 24 hour Surveillance • Ensuite Storage • Natural Gas Fireplace

519.659.6629

1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM SUITES

740

$

From

+ utilities

email: info@bonaventuremeadows.com Aug 18 - sep 1, 2018 13

NEIGHBOURHOOD PROFILE

+MORE PHOTOS AND STATS ONLINE: nexthome.ca/downtown-guelph

DOWNTOWN GUELPH A LIVELY COMMUNITY ANNE MARSHALL

With hills sloping down to it on every

Art on the Street. Situated near the

Hall, and the wide range of housing

confluence of the Speed and Eramosa

options that attracts people of

rivers, it’s great for those who love

all incomes and backgrounds to

the outdoors.

the area.

This is the still-beating heart of a

Guelph Central Station, at the

side, Downtown Guelph really earns

progressive, smaller city with artistic

corner of Wyndham and Carden

the name. Beginning with Waterloo

sensibilities and agricultural roots.

streets, is the hub for VIA and GO

Ave. in the west, the area locals

Downtown Guelph has hung onto its

trains, Greyhound, GO and city

consider ‘downtown’ covers the north

place in the community despite the

buses. Downtown Guelph is a highly

bank of the Speed River from below

city’s outer expansion into suburban

walkable community, however,

Wellington Street to London Road

strip malls and big-box heaven.

and there are far more bike racks

The downtown population

available than parking places most

comprises an eclectic mix of

days. There’s good access to local

long-time older residents, younger

highways and Hwy. 401 via Gordon

freaky, Downtown Guelph is made

professionals, families, students,

and Wellington Streets.

more magical by the presence of its

artists and academics. There are

colourful denizens. This community

no better places in the city to get a

draws few divisions between work

sense of its increasingly diverse ethnic

and play, and this is reflected in

make-up than the summer splash

events such as the Jazz Festival and

pad/winter ice rink in front of City

and runs east to Woolwich Street and the Eramosa River.

Fashionable, funky and just a little

14 RentersGuide.ca

Anne Marshall has lived in New York City, Glasgow (Scotland), Greensboro (NC), Toronto, and somehow ended up back in the fabulous small city of Guelph, where she grew up.

London/sarnia

Your rental search is over. Welcome home.

Beautiful Renovated Apartments & Townhomes in London, Sarnia, Wallaceburg & Corunna

• Great neighbourhoods • Appliances included • Close to all amenities • Excellent management Toll free#

1-855-371-1201

WALLACEBURG 750 Wallace St. 695 Wallace St.

www.panoramicproperties.ca info@panoramicproperties.ca *Prices, specifications and availabilty subject to change without notice. E&O.E. 15

RENTAL DIRECTORY

ADVERTISERS 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.

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Po ol Fi tn e La ss un d St ry or ag Fu e rn i N she ea d r Tr an si

1

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m iu ar ol /S g n io at ni /P tio i ny g in lco nd Ba Co ark P ir ed A ud cl In om s ie dro lit e m ti B U oo 3+ dr e m B oo 2 r ed lor B he ac B

u St

INTERSECTION & ADDRESS

PRICE FROM

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LONDON Medallion - 235 Rebecca Street

$900

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Medallion - REVO - 700 King St. - King St. & Adelaide St. N.

$750

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Old Oak Properties - Various Locations

Inquire

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Panoramic Properties - Various Locations

Inquire

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Viscount Properties - Various Locations

Inquire

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$690

Medallion - REVO - 700 King St. - King St. & Adelaide St. N.

Drewlo - City Place - Waterloo & Dundas - 405 Waterloo St.

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BC

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LONDON - SE Bonaventure Meadows - 2228 & 2230 Trafalgar

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SARNIA Panoramic Properties - Various Locations

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KITCHENER Weigel - Homer Watson & Pioneer - 55 Green Valley

Inquire

Drewlo - 121 Fallowfield Dr.

Inquire

16 RentersGuide.ca

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RENTAL DIRECTORY

ADVERTISERS 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.

Po ol Fi tn e La ss un d St ry or ag Fu e rn i N she ea d r Tr an si

B

ac

PRICE FROM

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tio Pa y/ g on in lc on Ba iti g d n ki on ar d C P ir e A ud cl In om s ie dro lit e m ti B U oo 3+ dr e m B oo 2 r ed lor he 1

/B io ud St

INTERSECTION & ADDRESS

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HAMILTON Effort Trust - Various Locations

Inquire

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Gumiero Holdings - Wellington St S. & Main St E. - 140 Wellington St S.

$699

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Gumiero Holdings - 70 Glenburn Crt - Queenston Rd & Centennial Parkway

$795

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IBC

BURLINGTON Shelter Corp - Cumberland Ave & Prospect St - 3270 Prospect St

$1500

ST. CATHARINES Panoramic Properties - Various Locations

Inquire

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17

ADVICE | MONEY MATTERS

GET OUT OF

ODIOUS OVERDRAFT GAIL VAZ-OXLADE

The families I work with are often in overdraft at some point in their month. Some of them spend virtually the whole month in overdraft. And some have no overdraft protection (or the wrong plan) so they end up paying exorbitant fees. You’ve no doubt seen me give people the What For because they’ve been racking up $300/month bank fees. What a waste of money!

BEING IN OVERDRAFT IS A STRONG INDICATION THAT YOU’RE NOT:

a) living within your means, and b) keeping track your expenses.

If you want to get out of overdraft and back into the black, it will likely take some belt-tightening for a few months.

Here’s how to do it.

Make a list of your monthly Fixed Essential Expenses… The bills that you have to cover every month like your mortgage and car payment, your minimums on your debt and your childcare expenses.

Total it up.

Make a list of your monthly Variable Essential Expenses…The costs that you simply can’t avoid, like food and gas. Be careful now, we’re not talking fancy food and lotsnlotsa gas… we’re talking the bare minimums to get you through the month. There’s no clothing, no movies, no shopping at all on this list. Total it up.

18 RentersGuide.ca

Subtract these two totals from your income. How much do you have left? If you don’t have enough to cover the unessential expenses in your life – the fancy cell phone, the uppity satellite service and the like, you can see your problem.

Time to cut back on the nice-tohaves until you’re out of the hole.

Change your services to the most basic you can get away with.

Commit to living on this very harsh, very tight budget for a month. Just one month. Take all the rest of the money you make and stick it in an envelope, a jar, or a high interest savings account… as long as you don’t spend it.

Clearly you’re not allowed to use your credit during this process.

You’re, in essence, having a No Shop Month.

When you get to the end of the month, add up how much you’ve got left after all your bills have been paid. Is it enough to cover your overdraft? If it is, then you’ll have to live through this belttightening horror for one more month to build up the buffer you need to never go into overdraft again. If it’s not, you may have to feel the pain for a couple more months until you’re in the clear.

From here forward, you want that buffer stored in an account that’s linked to your primary transaction account so that if you see your account running a little low, you can transfer some money from your buffer account to keep you afloat.

You are also going to become meticulous at tracking your spending. (gailvazoxlade.com/ blog/archives/719) After all, you don’t want to have to go through this pain again, right?

Some people create a buffer in their transaction account to prevent overdrafts, keeping, let’s say $100 in the chequing account that they never allow themselves to spend. If their balance ever falls below that $100, they simply stop spending. While they’re not overdrawn as far as the bank is concerned – so there are no fees – they’re overdrawn in their own eyes and go without until the next paycheque hits the bank.

Getting out from under the Odious Overdraft is not an easy task. But you can do it if you’re determined to stop paying the bank for your lack of self-control.

Yes, it’ll hurt for a month or four.

But the relief of being back in the black is fabulous. Let me know how it goes.

Gail Vaz-Oxlade is the host of Til Debt Do Us Part and author of Debt Free Forever. gailvazoxlade.com.

Follow Gail on Twitter at Twitter.com/ GailVazOxlade

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

hamilton

Downtown 140 Wellington Street South

GUMIERO HOLDINGS

www. GumieroHoldings.com

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SINCE 1981

info@gumieroholdings.com

from

$

714

• Clean & secure building • Wheelchair accessible Call

905-529-2616

Eastgate Square 70 Glenburn Court Spacious 1, 2 & 3 bedrooms from

$

847

• Close to all amenities • Wheelchair accessible Call

905-561-6352 caledonia 130 Argyle Street North

1 & 2 BEDROOM from

$

724

• Easy access to the Linc.

• Wheelchair accessible Call

905-765-0895

01537

905.561.8000

Jr. 1, 1 & 2 BEDROOM

19

ADVICE

FIRST-TIME RENTER? HERE’S WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW You’ve just starting to look for your first apartment. That’s so exciting.

But as a newbie, you may not know how to begin the search or even what to look for. The first thing to realize is that although there is no such thing as a perfect rental, there is a close-to-perfect one out there for you. The reality is, you will have to compromise on a few of your wants, but finding a place to rent becomes a lot easier when you know what you will and won’t settle for, including how much you want to spend.

As a general rule, housing costs should be less than 30 per cent of your before-tax income. This includes: Utilities (electricity, heat and water), rent and municipal services (if applicable).

DIFFERENT KINDS OF RENTALS

Apartment Apartments vary from walk-up units in lowrise buildings to units located in buildings with elevator access. Amenities can vary from a single on-site washer and dryer, to full laundry rooms, in-suite laundry facilities, common rooms and fitness facilities. Some of the advantages of apartment living include secured access and no maintenance of external grounds.

House House rentals include townhouses, duplexes, semi-detached and single-detached houses. A basement apartment in a house is often considered an apartment.

House rentals provide more space than most apartments and sometimes have access to some outside spaces such as a patio, lawn, garden and parking.

20 RentersGuide.ca

Rooming House Rooming houses are shared accommodations with both shortterm (week-to-week) and longerterm rental options. Many rooms have their own refrigerator for a tenant’s personal use.

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING A RENTAL

Affordability: Perhaps the most important factor is your personal budget: How much you can afford

to pay for rent each month and still have money left over for your other bills – tenants’ insurance, cable, telephone service, Internet connection, parking, credit card, etc. – not to mention food, transportation, entertainment and clothing costs.

Location: Think about the neighbourhood in which you’d like to live. Do you want to live near work? Or do you prefer to be close to school, family and friends?

“

As a general rule, housing costs should be less than 30 per cent of your beforetax income.

”

Parking and public transportation: If you have a car, is there parking nearby? Will you need a permit to park in the area?

If you don’t have a car, how easy is it to go grocery shopping or to get to appointments? Are you near public transit?

Surroundings: Do you prefer a quiet neighbourhood in the suburbs, or do you thrive being at the centre of activity, with access to bars and clubs? If you like to cook, you may want to live near a lot of grocery stores, and if you don’t, an area rich in restaurants and takeout joints might be more appealing.

Availability: Some rental properties are harder to find during certain months of the year. Try to move during prime season so you have more variety from which to choose.

Safety: Are there a lot of break-ins or crime in the area that you need to consider?

NEW TO CANADA?

Visit the Citizenship and Immigration Canada website to find an organization that might be able to help you with settlement services, including locating suitable housing and employment.

Source: CMHC Aug 18 - sep 1, 2018 21

INSPIRATION |

bedroom

UNDER COVER JOANNA GOODMAN, OWNER OF AU LIT FINE LINENS, EXPLAINS IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT THE THREAD COUNT! CHECK OUT HER TOP TIPS BEFORE YOU HIT THE SHOPS

There are three components to look for when purchasing authentic quality sheets:

1.

THE TYPE OF COTTON. Long staple cotton is considered to be the best in the world, due to the strength and softness of its long fibres. Egyptian and American Pima are two of the world’s best cottons.

2.

WHERE THE FABRIC IS WOVEN. Italian mills are the world’s foremost experts thanks to their long history of weaving and superior technology. Sheets woven in Italy, or other parts of Europe such as Portugal and Switzerland, will typically be of a higher quality than parts of the world where weaving is a more recent industry and technology is not quite as advanced.

3.

THE THREAD COUNT. Look for a thread count higher than 200 (less than 200 is called muslin), but remember, thread count is a personal preference. It’s all about determining what feel you like best. Do you prefer your sheets to feel soft or crisp? Fine or heavy? It’s up to you! What matters most is that the sheet has the very best raw materials: Longstaple Egyptian or Pima cotton, and a superior weave.

02744

22 RentersGuide.ca

KITCHENER

LIVE A N

ACTIVE

LIFESTYLE

AT T H E FA L LO W F I E L D S

Kitchener | 121 Fallowfield Drive

Ideally located within walking distance to Laurentian Trail, Activa Sportsplex & medical clinics. Just a 5 minute drive away from retail & restaurants. Join the Rockway Golf Course & participate in numerous activities for seniors.

1&2

BEDROOM SUITES • Eat-in kitchens featuring stainless steel appliances • In-suite laundry • Individual thermostats • Dishwashers • Air conditioning • Walk-in closets • Crown moulding • Bell Fibe HD TV, internet, and home phone available • Video surveillance

• Indoor saltwater pool (ask about aqua fit classes) • Hot tub & sauna • Fitness room • On-site staff • Secured entrance • Underground parking • Parks & trails nearby • Public transit nearby • Schools nearby

D ER LIN CK BLO

CALL TO VIEW

WWW.DREWLOHOLDINGS.COM FOLLOW: FACEBOOK & TWITTER

BLVD WATSON HOMER

226-400-3877

FALLO WFIEL D DR

23

SPRING/S

AL  | NATION

UMM ER 2018

erties near Rental prop & colleges s ie it rs ive un

Pick up the Spring/ Summer issue of the national Student Renters Guide or view it on any digital device anytime

studentrentersguide.ca

ADVICE | RENTAL RANTINGS

WHAT YOUR RENTAL DECOR SAYS ABOUT YOU

JENNIFER BRAUN Like it or not, your home style says a lot about you. It’s your most intimate and personal space and the one place you run back to day in and day out. Your friends and family are reading the signs when they enter your home and are making some interesting notes.

Don’t send out mixed signals.

This is what your home decor is saying about you: STILL LOOKS LIKE MOVE-IN DAY

Decorating a rental might feel impossible because of painting and other decor restrictions, but leaving your apartment bare gives off the impression that you’re lazy and uninventive. You have paintings to hang up, they’ve just been leaning against the wall since move-in day and any other attempt at home decor basically began and ended when you bought red pillows for the living room. White walls and parquet flooring is not a home style! Stop being afraid of taking a few risks and start adding some personality to your home.

MIX AND MATCH EVERYTHING

You don’t like to be confined by labels or limited by a certain aesthetic. You have eclectic taste.

Your home style is a mix and match of second-hand furniture from your parents’ home, a combination of bad housewarming gifts and items you refuse to live without. You just can’t say no to the things you love or bear to let a good item go to waste. Your

taste won’t please everybody, but at least we know you’re all about functionality and living by your own rules.

easily, so you occasionally punch things up with new pillows or faux fur throws. No big deal, you’re all about easy-going living.

I REALLY, REALLY LOVE MY HOBBIES

MY LIFE IS A MESS, I’LL JUST LEAVE THIS HERE

It doesn’t matter if you’re a sports fanatic or a movie enthusiast, your love for whatever hobby you choose is self-evident at firsthome glance. Your favourite sports teams and movie series dominate your home decor in the form of colour schemes, wall decor, coffee mugs, pillow shams and more. We can tell you’re passionate for the things and people you love, and you’re not afraid to show it. You take the time and you put the time into the things you care about.

You are constantly on the go and your home is a reflection of that.

Somehow your kitchen table has been turned into your home office and your living room is now a leftover snacking ground.

Everything seems to be in the wrong place and you are quickly running out of home necessities like toilet paper and coffee. Luckily, your home is just a reflection of this current life period. You’ll come around right after this work rush and piece your home decor style back together.

MODERN MINIMALIST

If your home has a modern and minimalist style, you like to be on trend without taking big risks. You are low maintenance just like your home style. Clean lines, modern furniture and low-key colours like black and white dominate your home’s decor. Still, you get bored

Jennifer Braun is a freelance lifestyle writer from Montreal. Follow Jennifer on Twitter @justbejealous and find her blog at justbejealous.com

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

Aug 18 - sep 1, 2018 25

You’ve just found your nexthome!

26 RentersGuide.ca

Your rental search is over. Welcome home.

Beautiful Renovated Apartments & Townhomes in St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Thorold & Welland

• Beautifully Renovated • Five appliances included • Excellent neighbourhoods close to all amenities • Private courtyards and garden walk-out balconies • Outdoor inground pool

Toll free#

1-855-371-1201

ST. CATHARINES

NIAGARA FALLS

THOROLD

196 Cushman Rd. 246 Lakeshore Rd. 30 Bradmon Dr. 473 Linwell Rd. 349 Queenston St. 99 Church St. 143 Westchester St. 375 Scott St. 483 Linwell Rd.

7591 Scholfield Rd. 3401 Weinbrenner Rd. 6635 Thorold Stone Rd. 8083 Pell St.

WELLAND

40 Front St. 155 Hagar St.

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

luxury rentals on king street in London

RevoAd_Final.pdf

1

2018-01-25

2:51 PM

B  ACHELORS • 1 BEDROOM • 1 BEDROOM + DEN • 2 BEDROOMS 2 BEDROOMS + DEN  * $1000* • 3 BEDROOMS • STARTING FROM $900 *Hydro is metered separately

Why rent someplace old, when you can rent someplace that’s brand new!

400 LYLE STREET

These smartly designed suites (many with den options) offer many of the luxuries of condo living, but at rental prices. Not only that, everyday conveniences, green spaces, funky coffee houses, London Transit, Budweiser Gardens and more, are practically outside your door. › Concierge / Security › 24 hour Fitness Centre › Party Room / Games Room › Study Lounge / Library › Screening Room › 24 hour ground floor laundry › Secured underground parking › Secured bike storage room › And more

 Rental Centre: 700 King St.

*See Rental Agent for details. Illustrations are artist’s concept. Prices and specification subject to change without notice. E. & O.E.

 Monday - Thursday 11am - 7pm Friday, Saturday & Sunday 10 am - 4 pm 905.523.6556 or RentRevo.com