Issuu

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO EDITION

JAN 6 - 20, 2018 | rentersguide.ca

medallioncorp.com | 905.523.6556

DOWNTOWN GALT: A LIVING HISTORY

TIFFANY PRATT NEW YEAR, NEW SPACE

HAMILTON

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

RESIDENCES ON AUGUSTA

AYNSLEY APARTMENTS 95 Barlake Avenue, East Hamilton

644 Main Street West, West Hamilton

Independent Living Centre for Seniors in Downtown Hamilton. Beautiful suites starting as low as $990.00 per month, depending on the service plan that you desire.

Located near Barton St. & Lake Ave. Close to many amenities including Eastgate Square, restaurants, major bus routes, access to highways and the Red Hill Parkway.

Located in the west end of Hamilton, near Macklin St. & Hwy. 403. Tenants can enjoy the seasonal outdoor amenity area with green space and pool.

1-844-831-3709

1-800-822-1958

1-844-333-6532

BURTON GARDENS TOWNHOUSES

KENSINGTON

PROCTOR PLACE

(Seniors' Residence) 155 James Street South

111 Burton Street, East Hamilton

Located in a family oriented North East community in Hamilton. Newer 24 unit townhouse complex, close to all amenities. Just a 20 minute walk to downtown Hamilton. 3 bedroom unit is currently available.

1-844-822-4233

BEVERLY HILLS

115 Main Street East, Hamilton Central 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.

1-800-823-6157

12 Proctor Boulevard, Hamilton Central 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.

1-844-226-5738

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

Availability online at 1-844-582-2064 2

www.effortrentals.com |

rentals@efforttrust.ca

LONDON

DOWNTOWN LOCATION

Welcome to the neighbourhood Walking distance to Jackson Square

905-523-6556 Hamilton@medallioncorp.com

Jr. 1 Bedrooms from $

*plus hydro

Ferguson Ave. N.

Wilson St.

Rebecca St.

Wellington St. N.

900* 1 Bedrooms from $950* 2 Bedrooms from $1200* 3 Bedrooms from $1500*

REBECCA & WELLINGTON

Cathcart St.

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

King William St.

medallioncorp.com 3

LONDON - CENTRAL

City Place I & II

310 Dundas Street 877.503.2752 405 Waterloo Street 877.220.4258

Luxury Suites

Condo-Like Amenities

Resort Style Living

OPEN HOUSE DAILY 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites • PRIVATE BALCONIES • AAA LOCATION • 5 Appliances Including Ensuite Laundry • Sauna, Whirlpool & Exercise Room • Indoor Saltwater Pool • Individual A/C & Heating Controls • 2 Baths in 2 Bdrm Models • Controlled Entry/Cameras • Oversized Balconies • Indoor Parking, Bicycle Storage • On Bus Routes, Close to Shopping • Bell phone, internet and satellite available in unit

www.drewloholdings.com or call our London Rental Agent at 877-607-6917

Family Built, Owned & Managed 4

Fantastic Downtown Views

Great Location

LONDON

MOVE UP Why settle for run-of-the-mill apartment living when you can come live with Old Oak Properties? Our properties are the result of many individuals understanding that each plays a role in creating something more than just an apartment building. Thatâ€™s why we donâ€™t just design and build our properties, we manage them too. We strive to ensure that each and every space we create sets a new standard of design, comfort, quality and amenities that exceeds not only your standards, but our own. Welcome to the new standard of apartment living.

519 641-1505

oldoak.ca 5

LONDON

COME HOME

UTILITIES INCLUDED

WALK DOWNTOWN... Close to shopping, night life, downtown & UWO

• Ensuite Storage • Laundry Facilities • 3 Appliances • Fully equipped fitness centre

• Controlled Entry • On bus route • Individual Climate Control • Balconies • 1 Parking included

SPACIOUS 1 & 2 BEDROOM SUITES Utilities included

699 Talbot Street London

Call Marg

NICEST TOWNHOMES IN NORTH EAST LONDON

519-434-6774

GREAT NEIGHBOURHOOD Near Schools, Shopping & Bus

• Some newly renovated • 4 Appliances • Finished Rec. Room • Quiet surroundings

• Attractive, well maintained grounds • On-site Complex Managers

LARGE SPACIOUS 2 & 3 BEDROOM TOWNHOMES Some with Carport or Garage

295 & 305 Briarhill Avenue London

BRIARHILLS

Call Erna

519.675.1581

GREAT LOCATION Close to shopping, schools and Victoria Hospital • 1½ bathrooms • 4 Appliances • Finished Rec. room • Quiet surroundings

• On-site Complex Manager • On bus route

LARGE SPACIOUS 3 BEDROOM TOWNHOMES Some with Carport or Garage

CHERRY TREE MEWS Professionally managed by 6

310 Westminster Avenue London

Call Carla

NORQUAY PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD.

519.438.5411 www.ndev.ca

JAN 6 - 20, 2018 | VOLUME 26 ISSUE 1

CONTENTS

VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF PUBLISHING OFFICER

Caroline Andrews PUBLISHER & GENERAL MANAGER

Shawn Woodford ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Anne-Marie Breen DIRECTOR, CONTENT & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Jennifer Reynolds DIRECTOR, MULTIMEDIA SOLUTIONS

Nora Wallace MANAGING EDITOR

Wayne Karl SENIOR EDITOR

Elisa Krovblit Keay ART DIRECTOR

Megan Pike CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Sonia Bell Marlene Eisner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jackie Marchildon, Anne Marshall, Tiffany Pratt, Chuck Resnick, Hellen Buttigieg

3 ON THE COVER:

235 REBECCA DOWNTOWN LOCATION IN EVERY ISSUE

ADVICE

8 Editor's Note

20 The Rentalist

16 Index 12, 22 & 24 What's Online 34 Movers, Services & Classifieds INSPIRATION

30 Style File Three tips for sprucing up your space in the new year

How to handle unpleasant neighbours

26 Moving Helpful hints for a cleaner, greener move

28 Quick Tips Find a place and a space for everything

32 In the News Renters with roommates don't have insurance: survey

PROFILE: 14 NEIGHBOURHOOD DOWNTOWN GALT

MEDIA CONSULTANT

Daniela Francia daniela.francia@nexthome.ca SALES CO-ORDINATOR/ MEDIA CONSULTANT

Gary Chilvers SENIOR MANAGER, DISTRIBUTION

Dwayne Rutherford NATIONAL CIRCULATION MANAGER

John Jenkins MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Anthony Majetic GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

Swinder Jodhka Mike Terentiev

#500-401 The West Mall Etobicoke, ON M9C 5J5 T 416.626.4200 F 416.784.5867 nexthome.ca ADVERTISING Call 416.626.4200 for advertising

rates and information. CIRCULATION Highly targeted, free distribution

system aimed at real estate buyers using street level boxes and racking, plus door-to-door insertions in key audience segments. Call 1-855826-4200 to discuss distribution opportunities. COPYRIGHT 2018 All rights reserved by Yellow

Pages Homes Limited. Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Contents of this publication are covered by copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law. TERMS Advertisers, editorial content and Renters Guide are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All prices are correct as of press time and are subject to change without notice. E. & O. E. EDITORIAL Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Email to wayne.karl@nexthome.ca. DISCLAIMER The views and data expressed by

columnists do not necessarily represent those of the publication.

JAN 6 - 20, 2018â€ƒ 7

EDITOR’S NOTE

THE PERFECT PLACE FOR 2018

ELISA KROVBLIT KEAY SENIOR EDITOR NextHome EMAIL: elisa.krovblit@nexthome.ca

GET ED! IR NSP

New Year, New Space 30

+ get social 8 RentersGuide.ca

Happy New Year! I hope that 2018 is off to a great start for you. It’s a time of year with a lot of anticipation – resolutions, changes, taking account of things. I, for one, don’t like the pressure. What I do like about the arrival of a new year is the idea of a fresh start. I like to think of January 1 as the first day of a fresh slate. I know it’s arbitrary, and that there’s no magic at midnight, but I like to give myself the break and the encouragement each year. On January 1 you are free of last year, free to make what you want out of this year. From mistakes and missed opportunities to taking chances and tackling your dreams, the year holds opportunity. And that’s one reason why I find the new year an ideal time to assess your living situation. Is it time to make a change? Have you been living somewhere that isn’t quite working for you – or been tempted by a move to a place or a space that would embrace your needs and your lifestyle much better? Do you love your space but need to get the cobwebs out and give it a bit of TLC? Is it time for some new furnishings? Is it time to toss stuff that’s taking up space and not helping your home to be all that it could be? Whether you’re moving, making changes, reclaiming space or just undergoing a little style makeover, start the year off right – with the intentions and follow-through to make your space the perfect place for 2018. Check us out online at NextHome.ca, and get ready to rent your new home!

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

Model suites open Saturday & Sunday 12 – 5 PM or by appointment SUITE DETAILS

BUILDING FEATURES

• In-suite laundry • Stainless steel appliances • Quartz countertops • LED lighting • Balconies

• Fitness and social room • Future indoor pool facility • Farm Boy across the street • Covered parking

790 Capulet Lane, London, ON

II DrewloHoldings.com or call our London Rental Agent at 1-855-639-9170 Family Built, Owned & Managed

LONDON

If you’re looking for “just the right place” we’ve got the right place to start. Visit our Residential Rental Information Centre in Forest Hill and find everything you need to choose your “right place”. Old Oak’s friendly advisors will help you find the location, floor plans and amenities that are just right for you.

HYDE PARK PLACE 1595 & 1605 Dyer Drive Studio, 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom suites *Smoke free property

hydeparkplace.ca SUGARCREEK TRAIL 405-445 Sugarcreek Trail 1 & 2 Bedroom suites

PROUDFOOT PLACE 535 & 565 Proudfoot Lane 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom suites

PINERIDGE PLACE 740 & 744 Proudfoot Lane 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom suites

FOREST HILL 575-605 Proudfoot Lane Bachelor, 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom suites

HORIZON DRIVE 700 Horizon Drive 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom suites

POMEROY PLACE 885 & 905 Southdale Road West Studio, 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom suites *Smoke free buildings

pomeroyplace.ca MOSAIK AT PARC CENTRE 365 & 385 Sugarcreek Trail Studio, 1 & 2 Bedroom flats and soft lofts

mosaiklondon.com

Residential Rental Information Centre Open Mon/Wed/Fri 8:30am-5:00pm. Tues/Thurs 8:30am-7:00pm, Saturdays 10:00am-5:00pm. Phone: 519-641-1505 22391

*Smoke free buildings

www.oldoak.ca

10 10-22391 Old Oak 12-23-17.indd 1

12/20/17 1:03 PM

LONDON

Occupancy begins January 15, 2018 Ideally located in popular Sunningdale neighbourhood, close to Masonville Mall, Loblaws & walking distance to YMCA gym/pool. 1&2 bedroom suites

SUITE DETAILS

BUILDING FEATURES

• Stainless steel appliances and OTR microwave • Quartz countertops • Individual thermostats • Soaring 9 foot ceilings • Tall kitchen cabinets • Oversized windows • Abundance of natural light • Great views of city • Backsplashes • Bell Fibe HD TV, internet, and home phone available

• Outdoor parking • Elevators • Barrier-free access to entrance • Onsite staff • Hydro paid to Wyse Meter Solutions • Shopping nearby: Masonville, Loblaws, Sobeys

670 Garibaldi Avenue, London, ON MODELS OPEN SAT&SUN 12-5PM

DrewloHoldings.com or call our London Rental Agent at 519-472-8200 Family Built, Owned & Managed 11

LONDON

WHAT’S ONLINE

TRENDING NOW THE LATEST RENTAL INSIGHTS FROM ACROSS CANADA

PRODUCTS TO STRETCH YOUR SMALL SPACE

TOP 4 TIPS FOR NEW RENTERS

nexthome.ca/stretch-space

nexthome.ca/4-tips

Twitter @nexthome_ca

Facebook nexthomeca

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Visit our website: 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 12 RentersGuide.ca 12-03898 Viscount Half BW.indd 1

12/20/17 1:03 PM

Fanshawe Park Rd. E.

Windermere Rd.

on hm

Huron St.

dS t.

Thames River

Adelaide St. N.

655, 665 & 675 Windermere Rd.

Ric

Enjoy a wonderful park-like setting along the Thames River

WINDERMERE PLACE 655 & 665 Windermere Road

Fanshawe Park Rd. E.

Windermere Rd. 655

665

St.

Thames River

1 & 2 Bedroom Suites and 3 Bedroom Penthouses 877-294-1461

675

Huron St.

Adelaide St. N.

3 or 5 appliances • Eat-in kitchen • Exercise room • Sauna, whirlpool, • Indoor saltwater pool • Contolled underground parking • Lobby/parking cameras • Minutes to shopping, banks, theatres & restaurants at Masonville • Minutes to University Hospital & University of Western Ontario

Along the Upper Banks of the Thames River

WINDERMERE BY THE RIVER 675 Windermere Road

5 appliances • Ensuite laundry • Individual central air & heating controls • 2 baths in 2 or 3 bedroom models • Controlled entry/cameras • Oversized balconies • Sauna, whirlpool • Indoor saltwater pool • Indoor parking • Bicycle storage • On bus route • Close to shopping • Exercise room • Bell phone, internet and satellite available in unit

1, 2 & 3+Den Bedroom Suites 877-612-9315

Ask About Our Move-In Bonus

www.drewloholdings.com or call our London Rental Agent at 877-607-6917

Family Built, Owned & Managed 13

LONDON - NORTHWEST

Massive Units in Great Locations with River & Park-Like Views

NEIGHBOURHOOD PROFILE

DOWNTOWN GALT A LIVING HISTORY

ANNE MARSHALL

Galt is the largest of the three smaller towns that amalgamated to form the City of Cambridge in 1973. Downtown Galt begins at the towering, Galt Collegiate Institute.

The neighbourhood comprises both banks of the Grand River and stretches south to Ainslie/ Concession and up the hill to Dundas in the east. It’s a slower pace here, owing partly to the older population. But it’s still a lively downtown. While it retains an urban feel, this is still relatively small-town Ontario. It’s a family-friendly community on the cusp of gentrification.

AVERAGE HOUSEHOLD INCOME

FAST FACTS

14 RentersGuide.ca

$71,443

Old meets new in this diverse community. The surroundings are beautiful, with a living history feel, which is why so many movies and TV series are filmed here. The Grand River dominates the core, appropriate considering the river and its many mills are what drew so many to what was once the largest town around. The converted mills are now beautiful loft condos or shopping complexes. While most of the population falls into the Boomer category, young professionals in their 20s and 30s are moving into lofts and condos. They’re attracted to the area for its reasonable cost of living, nightlife options and cultural scene. Downtown Galt is very easy on the budget, great for those who want to save money and still enjoy the perks of living right downtown. It’s a highly walkable community with lots of amenities. Commuters can reach Brantford in a matter of minutes via Hwy. 24. North via Hespeler, it’s 10 minutes to the 401. Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph are within easy reach, and there are GO and Greyhound buses in addition to Grand River Transit for public transportation.

ON TAP

OWN VS. RENT

36%

FAMILY STRUCTURE

FAMILIES

COUPLES

SINGLES

29%

34%

37%

26%

18%

20%

COORS LIGHT

CORONA

ALEXANDER KEITH’S

RENTERS

64% OWNERS

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. Catherines Welland

SARNIA/ LAMBTON

Burlington Guelph Kitchener Waterloo Cambridge Brantford

Sarnia

PAGE 2, 27

WATERLOO/ WELLINGTON

PAGE 23

PAGE 24, 31

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

JAN 6 - 20, 2018â€ƒ 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.

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

o/ di

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

u St

INTERSECTION & ADDRESS

PRICE FROM

Page

LONDON ◆

◆

Norquay - Various Locations

Inquire

◆

Viscount Properties - Various Locations

Inquire

◆

Drewlo - 810 Capulet Lane

Inquire

◆

Drewlo - 790 Capulet Lane

Inquire

◆

Drewlo - 670 Garibaldi Avenue

Inquire

◆

Old Oak Properties - Various Locations

Inquire

◆

5&10

Panoramic Properties - Various Locations

Inquire

◆

Sifton - West Five

Inquire

◆

Medallion - 235 Rebecca St

$900

◆

Drewlo - Wonderland & Oxford - 50, 60, 70 & 80 Capulet Lane

Inquire

◆

Drewlo - Windermere by the River

Inquire

◆

$690

◆

$922

◆

$750

◆

9 11

◆

LONDON - NW

LONDON - SE Bonaventure Meadows - 2228 & 2230 Trafalgar

◆

LONDON - SW Norquay - 80 & 90 Highview Ave./ 9 Commissioners Rd.

◆

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

16 RentersGuide.ca

◆

RENTAL DIRECTORY

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

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

/B io ud St

INTERSECTION & ADDRESS

PRICE FROM

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

Inquire

Drewlo - Ridout Place / Kingswell

Inquire

◆

Inquire

◆

Page

◆

IFC

◆

SARNIA Panoramic Properties - Various Locations

◆

KITCHENER Homer Watson & Pioneer - 55 Green Valley

Inquire

MetCap - Various Locations

Inquire

◆

HAMILTON Effort Trust - Various Locations

Inquire

◆

Wellington Street S. & Main Street E. - 140 Wellington Street S.

$699

◆

70 Glenburn Court - Queenston Road & Centennial Parkway

$795

◆

IBC

BURLINGTON Cumberland Avenue & Prospect Street - 3270 Prospect Street

$1500

Ontario Street & Maple Avenue - 1285 Ontario Street

Inquire

◆

Inquire

◆

ST. CATHARINES Panoramic Properties - Various Locations

LONDON - NORTHWEST

CAPULET TOWERS I, II, III & IV 50 Capulet Lane • 877-620-1734

60 Capulet Lane • 877-290-3205

Great Views of City

New Unit Style Available: 1 Bedroom + Den

70 Capulet Lane • 877-715-7852

80 Capulet Lane • 877-439-0677

London's First Non-Smoking Building: 1 & 2 Bdrms

Granite Countertops and Stainless Steel Appliances Available

The New Art of Fine Living! GRANITE & STAINLESS STEEL APPLIANCES NOW AVAILABLE! • Ideally located in Northwest London-in Oakridge Crossing (Beaverbrook & Capulet Near Oxford & Wonderland) • Granite Kitchen Countertops & Stainless Steel Appliances are available on upper floors (70 & 80 Capulet) • 1, 1 Bedroom + Den or 2 Bedroom Suites • 2 Bedroom suites have 2 Bathrooms • 5 Appliances Including En-suite Laundry • Individual Air Conditioning & Heating Controls • Oversized Balconies • Exercise Room • Indoor Saltwater Pool, Whirlpool and Sauna • Controlled Entry/Cameras • Covered Parking Available • On Bus Routes, Close to Shopping • Bell phone, internet and satellite available in unit MODEL AT 50 CAPULET OPEN DAILY 10AM-6PM OR CALL OUR LONDON RENTAL AGENT AT 877-607-6917

www.drewloholdings.com Family Built, Owned & Managed

LONDON - SOUTHWEST

apartment living at its finest Highview GLEN

80 & 90 Highview Ave. E. Wharncliffe & Commissioners

1 & 2 Bedrooms from $

942

Utilities Included Call

• • • • •

laundry facilities air conditioner on-site staff controlled entry balconies

Commissioners Rd E

LHSC

n Wellingto

• fully equipped fitness centre & sauna • individual climate control • ensuite storage • 3 appliances

Base Line Rd E

Wharncli

Country Living – 5 Minutes from Downtown & LHSC!

ffe Rd

519.851.1537

Highview Ave E

Highland RIDGE 9 Commissioners Rd. E. Wharncliffe & Commissioners

1 & 2 Bedrooms from $

950

Utilities Included Call

519.668.0902

spectacular city views Professionally managed by

Norquay Property Management Ltd.

www.ndev.ca 19

ADVICE | THE RENTALIST

TO BE, OR NOT TO BE,

PASSIVE AGGRESSIVE JACKIE MARCHILDON Chances are, as a renter, you’ve experienced your share of interesting neighbours. There are neighbours who turn into lifelong friends, neighbours you keep as acquaintances and dog walkers, 20 RentersGuide.ca

“

and then there are the not-sogreat neighbours you tell stories about to your friends. The loud neighbour, the nosey neighbour, the barking-dog neighbour, the “I’m a jerk for no reason” neighbour — they all have a special spot in your story repertoire. Like it or not, living with a bad neighbour is almost like a rite of passage in the renting world, and we all have to learn how to deal with it.

Like it or not, living with a bad neighbour is almost like a rite of passage in the renting world, and we all have to learn how to deal with it.

THE LOUD NEIGHBOUR

Before accusing someone of being a loud neighbour, you need to take a few things into account. If you live in the basement of an old building, your upstairs neighbour is probably going to seem loud. There is a difference, though, in regular routine noise that unfortunately echoes through old buildings due to the recklessly loud and annoying schedule an actual loud neighbour insists on keeping. If you have a neighbour who consistently plays music at full volume past 11 p.m., or who is just generally excessively loud at all hours, it can be unpleasant for everyone. So, how to deal with it? The passive-aggressive way: Leave an unsigned note on their door or on the front door of the building for all residents to see in an attempt to embarrass them into submission. The other way: Go chat with them. Sometimes people genuinely don’t realize how clearly others can hear their music (and singing). Asking someone nicely to turn in early occasionally is far more likely to result in a compromise than leaving a note or banging on the ceiling. THE NOSEY NEIGHBOUR

When I think of a nosey neighbour, I picture the old lady that used to live next door to me who never seemed to approve of male guests coming over. In reality, she was nothing in comparison to a legitimate nosey neighbour — a neighbour who is constantly prying into other tenants’ lives, seemingly trying to catch them doing something wrong, like painting their walls without asking the landlord. If it’s truly bothersome, you need to find a way to deal with it. The passive-aggressive way: Make up some worrisome gossip about another tenant to send the nosey neighbour scurrying in fear

to get them off your back. The other way: You can talk to your neighbour — nicely— and let them know you’re a private person and don’t always want to share everything with them. Or you can be kind and still chat with them, but avoid divulging too much information. THE BARKING NEIGHBOUR

If you’re annoyed with a dog barking in your building, try to remember that a little barking is normal for dogs, especially in busy buildings. If the barking is excessive — and happening at all hours — then it’s a different story. You might be worried the dog is upset or alone too often. But you really don’t know, so again, you can go about this one of two ways. The passive-aggressive way: Leave an unsigned note on the door for the owner telling them you’re going to call animal control. The other way: Knock on your neighbour’s door and chat with them about their dog’s barking. It’s likely they don’t know that their dog barks when they aren’t home and they’d appreciate hearing your concern rather than a threat. THE DISAGREEABLE NEIGHBOUR

Ah, the worst neighbour of them all. They are loud when you don’t want to be, call the landlord when

you do want to be, and they don’t hold the elevator when you’re struggling to run in with multiple bags of groceries. If they have a dog, the dog is always barking. If they don’t have a dog, they are always complaining about yours. All around, they are the jerk of your community. How do we go about living with this kind of neighbour? The passive-aggressive way: There are many options here. Call the cops when they are loud, make up things to try to get them evicted, leave them notes, be mean to them, etc. The other way: Be the bigger person and ignore their quirks. If something big comes up (bigger than them just not holding the elevator), go talk to them, or talk to your landlord about options that might work for everyone. Remember — sometimes we just happen to catch someone on a really bad day. They might not be so bad all the time. 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

JAN 6 - 20, 2018 21

LONDON - SOUTHEAST

WHAT’S ONLINE

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WANT TO GET FIT IN 2018? HOW TO USE YOUR BUILDING’S GYM

HOW TO CHOOSE FURNITURE THAT FITS YOUR NEW HOME

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Visit our website:

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 22 RentersGuide.ca 22-33219 Bonaventure Meadows.indd 1

1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM SUITES

740

From

+ utilities

email: info@bonaventuremeadows.com 12/20/17 1:03 PM

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. 23

KITCHENER

WHAT’S ONLINE

TRENDING NOW THE LATEST RENTAL INSIGHTS FROM ACROSS CANADA

BUYING ART? ASK THE ARTIST

THE PERFECT RENTAL CHECKLIST

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Visit our website: 02744

24 RentersGuide.ca 24-02744 Weigel Green Valley.indd 1

12/20/17 1:03 PM

KITCHENER

226-926-2979

59 Ridout St.

59 RIDOUT STREET • Close to public transportation 1 BD - $869 • Elevator

• Enterphone Security System • On-site laundry facilities • On-site management

519-497-9140

37 & 49 Vanier Dr.

37 VANIER DRIVE 2 BD - $1,229 2 BD+DEN - $1,329 49 VANIER DRIVE 1 BD - $1,069 2 BD - $1,249

• Above ground parking • Close to public transportation • Elevator • On-site laundry facilities • On-site management • Underground parking • Visitor parking • Includes heat & water

WWW.METCAP.COM JAN 6 - 20, 2018 25

ADVICE | MOVING

FIVE WAYS TO MAKE MOVING A CLEANER, GREENER PROCESS

CHUCK RESNICK We need to think of the environment with every activity — even moving day can be cleaner and greener, and it doesn’t take much effort. Waste caused by the moving process not only stems from packing supplies, but also from the waste accumulated over many years within a home. Both can be extremely taxing on the environment if not properly managed. Here are some suggestions on how to make your move a cleaner, greener process: 1 PLAN AHEAD. Waiting until the

last minute to prepare for a move will make any environmental concerns an afterthought. Start early so you have the extra time to sort through recyclable items – in your apartment and in storage – for delivery to recycling depots prior to moving day. Typically your storage contains the highest concentration of recyclable waste, so start the sorting process there first. Consider holding a garage sale or donating gently used but no longer wanted items to a charity rather than have them end up in a landfill site. 2 RESEARCH. Survey local

recycling options to find the most convenient solution for recyclables. Many cities offer curbside pick-up or “sort and 26 RentersGuide.ca

drop” depots. Visit earth911.com for a list of local organizations that can dispose of all types of recyclable materials. 3 ORGANIZE. Prepare recyclables

by organizing into categories: plastic, glass, aluminum, paper, cardboard, etc. Look up the requirements of the local recycler to see if there are any additional steps needed to prepare recyclables beforehand. 4 CARE FOR HAZARDOUS MATERIAL. As you clean in

preparation to move, be conscientious about the kinds of materials being packed to move with you and which items are to be disposed. Toxic items, such as paint, batteries, house cleaning products, automobile oils, pesticides and fertilizers are dangerous and cannot be transported in the back of a commercial moving truck. Also consider these items cannot be thrown out with your regular garbage. Look up the specialized

recycling depots for toxic products in your city. 5 REUSE. Do not throw away

used moving boxes when the move is complete. A well-made corrugated box is great for storage or may be reused for a future move or passed on to someone else who is moving. Contact local schools or charity organizations, such as women’s shelters, scout troops, and food banks to ask if they need boxes to redistribute donated items. Donating gently used boxes not only reduces waste, but can be a big help in support of a good cause.

Chuck Resnick is vice-president Marketing and Operations for Two Men And a Truck - Canada, a division of Heron Capital Corporation. Visit twomen.ca

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

City Living in a Park Setting

HAMILTON

ASK ABOUT OUR FULLY RENOVATED 2 BEDROOMS! WITH NEW KITCHEN & BATHROOM

1710 -1716 Main Street

905.521.0299

hamilton@pinedaleprop.com

www.pinedaleprop.com

919 1129

$ 1 Bedroom suites from $ 2 Bedroom suites from • New high-efficiency laundry facilities • On-site maintenance staff • Dedicated on-site management team and management office • Less than 10 minutes from Highway 403 & QEW

• Ample parking • Walkers Creek Trail • Minutes to McMaster University & the University Plaza • Minutes away from the University Plaza

The Evolution of Apartment Living

™

ADVICE | QUICK TIPS

A PLACE AND A SPACE

FOR EVERYTHING HELLEN BUTTIGIEG Whether you have a sprawling apartment with plenty of room or a cosy place with little extra space, you need to create a system so your home functions to accommodate your lifestyle needs. Without designated spaces, you’re forever tucking things away that don’t have a real home – and wasting far too much time trying to remember where they are. EVERYONE NEEDS A HOME OFFICE.

Are you using your kitchen or dining room table as an office? It can be frustrating and time consuming to have to pack up your papers and bring them out again. Although it would be ideal to have a room devoted entirely for processing paperwork, you can also use an armoire in the family room that closes up when not in use, or a closet that has been refitted with a countertop and drawers. You’ll also need good lighting, a comfortable chair, and a functional filing system. WHERE DID I PUT THE... Have you ever stored a special item in a safe place and then forgotten where you put it? A simple solution is to create a document on your computer to record the location of seldom-used articles. Use the ‘find’ feature to retrieve the information quickly within the document. NAME THAT ROOM. Rooms that

don’t have a specific purpose 28 RentersGuide.ca

often become dumping grounds for clutter. Before you begin decluttering, go through your home, room by room, and determine how you want to use each space. Identify which items support the purpose of the room and which ones should be moved elsewhere. Keep a few boxes handy so you can easily transport smaller items to their appropriate rooms. A SHOE-IN FOR OFFICE SUPPLY STORAGE. Use the pockets of a

clear vinyl shoe bag to hold just about everything you need for the office, from spare scissors to extra batteries. These usually come with hooks so you can hang them over the door, allowing you to tap into previously unused space. EVERYTHING NEEDS A HOME.

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

instruction manual and tape it to the bottom of the item so it’s easy to find. For portable items like cell phones and MP3 players, store the manuals in an accordion file by category. WHERE DID I LEAVE MY KEYS? The

most common excuse for lateness? “I couldn’t find my keys.” It’s hard to be successful if you can’t even leave your home. Save yourself the frustration and embarrassment by simply making an extra set of keys and keeping them in a special place. Give another set to a relative or neighbour in case of emergency. Create a home for your keys and always place them there when you arrive. You can use a bowl, a small basket or a hook. If all else fails, attach a beeper to your keys that you can activate when they go missing. Hellen Buttigieg, is a Certified Professional Organizer, life coach, TV Host and owner of We Organize U. To contact Hellen or for information on hiring a We Organize U organizing specialist, call 905-829-2219 or e-mail info@WeOrganizeU.com.

WHAT DID I DO WITH THAT MANUAL? Did you add new

appliances and electronics to your collection recently? Staple the receipt and warranty to the

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

HAMILTON

Downtown 140 Wellington Street South

GUMIERO HOLDINGS

www. GumieroHoldings.com

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SINCE 1981

Jr. 1, 1 & 2 BEDROOM

699

• Clean & secure building • Wheelchair accessible Call

905-529-2616

Eastgate Square 70 Glenburn Court Spacious 1, 2 & $ from 795 3 bedrooms • Close to all amenities • Wheelchair accessible Call

905-561-6352 caledonia 130 Argyle Street North

1 & 2 BEDROOM

from

789

• Easy access to the Linc. • Wheelchair accessible Call

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

bachelor 1, 2 & $ from 704 3 BEDROOM

905.561.8000

Call

905-309-8738

01537

info@gumieroholdings.com

• Clean & secure • Wheelchair accessible

29-01537 Gumiero Holdings.indd 1

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JAN 6 - 20, 2018 29 12/20/17 1:04 PM

INSPIRATION | STYLE FILE

NEW YEAR, NEW SPACE

DESIGNER, STYLIST AND CREATIVE COLOURISTA TIFFANY PRATT, HELPS YOU REACH YOUR 2018 #DECORGOALS IN THREE EASY STEPS

A COMMON STRUGGLE PEOPLE FACE WHEN DECORATING THEIR SPACE IS DECIPHERING THEIR OWN PERSONAL STYLE AND HOW TO INCORPORATE IT INTO THEIR HOME. I SPENT THE FALL SEASON TRAVELLING ACROSS CANADA, SPEAKING ABOUT TRANSFORMATION; THESE ARE MY TOP THREE TIPS ON HOW TO EASILY – AND AFFORDABLY – TRANSFORM YOUR SPACE TO MAKE IT YOUR OWN.

1. KEEP A COLOUR LOG For a week, pay attention to colours you see when you’re watching TV, shopping at the mall or grocery store, or even taking a walk through a park. If you really open yourself up and pay attention to colours, you’ll notice which ones you react positively to. Take photos on your phone and when it comes time to decorate, try to incorporate those colours into your home.

2. WALLPAPER IS YOUR FRIEND Gone are the days of your grandmother’s wallpaper that took forever to remove and sometimes damaged the walls. Today’s wallpaper is easy to apply and is hassle-free when the time comes to change it up. I always recommend wallpaper, especially for accent walls, as it’s a cheap and easy way to totally change the look of a room, and it can be done as often as you like.

3. USE WHAT YOU ALREADY HAVE We all have items that are dated or beat up that we can’t wait to get rid of. But, often all these pieces need is a fresh coat of paint and new hardware to give your space a fresh new look. Be creative with that chipped bedside table, and don’t be afraid to reupholster those dining room chairs with a fun new pattern and material. There are many step-by-step tutorials you can follow online. 30 RentersGuide.ca

GET MORE INSPIRATION FROM TIFFANY IN HER BOOK THIS CAN BE BEAUTIFUL. $25. chapters.indigo.ca

Her trademark hair and big energy make Tiffany Pratt unforgettable. Tiffany fell in love with beautiful things at a young age. Today, that appreciation for beauty has carried through to her day-to-day work. As a designer, stylist, maker and author, she is trained to see the exquisite in the unexpected. Her style mixes old with new and merges elegant with livable. Above all, she lives and breathes her truth that “this can be beautiful.”

Twitter/Instagram: @thetiffanypratt Facebook: facebook.com/thetiffanypratt/ Website: tiffanypratt.com

BURLINGTON

$1,600

Townhouse 3 bedroom without garage + utilities

$1,700

Townhouse 3 bedroom with garage + utilities

Features: Range and refrigerator In-suite washer and dryer Carpet and hardwood flooring 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

TRENDING

SQUARE ONE FINDS THAT 41 PER CENT OF RENTERS WITH ROOMMATES DON’T HAVE HOME INSURANCE Square One Insurance Services recently surveyed over 1,500 renters in British Columbia, Alberta and Ontario. The survey revealed that 30 per cent of renters share their homes with unrelated roommates. Alberta had the highest percentage at 34 per cent, followed by Ontario at 31 per cent and British Columbia at 26 per cent. “We conducted this survey because we’ve been receiving more inquires for home insurance by those living with roommates,” states Daniel Mirkovic, Square One’s president. “We wanted to understand what 32 RentersGuide.ca

was driving this trend.” While there are many reasons why renters choose to have roommates, the top reasons for those surveyed were: • To help with rent (63 per cent); • For companionship (25 per cent); and, • For added security (seven per cents). According to Statistics Canada, residential property values across the country increased by 11 per cent in 2016. While increased property values build equity for homeowners, they make it even

harder for first-time buyers to enter the real estate market. This, in turn, causes more pressure on the already tight rental market. In fact, the average cost to rent a two-bedroom apartment continues to rise every year across Canada. “With the high cost of rent, it makes sense that most renters have roommates for financial reasons,” says Mirkovic. “However, it is surprising how many renters (and their roommates) go without home insurance given the increased risks faced when living with unrelated persons.”

Square One’s survey found that renters are eight times more likely to go without home insurance than homeowners. As illustrated in the table, renters in British Columbia are the least likely to have home insurance whereas those in Alberta are the most likely. Based on Square One’s experience, renters have three common misconceptions about home insurance: 1. LANDLORD’S INSURANCE PROTECTS RENTERS.

Landlord’s insurance specifically excludes the personal property and liability exposures of renters. Accordingly, renters need a home insurance policy to protect their belongings, cover extra expenses if their homes are damaged and can’t be occupied, and pay amounts for unintentionally injuring someone else. 2. HOME INSURANCE IS TOO EXPENSIVE FOR RENTERS.

Policies can start from as little as $15 a month. Most insurance providers offer both annual and monthly payment options. To help reduce costs even further, renters can increase the standard policy deductible. A deductible is the amount the renter must pay before the policy will respond. 3. IT’S DIFFICULT FOR RENTERS TO GET HOME INSURANCE.

Of the three misconceptions, this one has some truth to it. Many renters, especially those living with roommates, may have had difficulty getting home insurance. In recent years, providers, like Square One, are actively offering insurance to renters. So, renters are encouraged to shop around to find a policy that works for them. For those living with unrelated roommates, you can expect to pay a little more for the added exposure. Most companies charge

an extra 10 per cent, which isn’t very much on a $15-a-month policy. You can also expect to be assessed a $2,500 deductible for crime-related losses. That means you’ll have to pay the first $2,500 if your belongings are stolen or mysteriously disappear. When applying for home insurance, you should be prepared to describe how many roommates you have. If you have just one roommate, then you can often be insured under a single policy. If you have multiple roommates, then each of you will need to purchase separate policies. It’s also important to describe your relationship with each roommate. While you may consider a sibling or partner to be your roommate, the insurance provider may classify them as a family member. Most policies automatically cover family members at no extra cost. Getting the right home insurance, while essential, is just one side of the coin. With a greater pool of roommates to choose from, it’s now more important than ever that you do your due diligence when finding and selecting a roommate. A bad roommate can cause countless headaches and financial stress. Square One has created an online resource centre for tenants. It offers tips to Canadians on how to find the perfect roommate, structure a lease, and prepare a roommate agreement. To view this resource centre, please visit squareoneinsurance.

ca/tenant-resource-centre. One of the articles in this resource centre outlines how to avoid selecting the wrong roommate. As a short summary, here are the top tips to finding the right roommate: • Be upfront about your lifestyle and ask a potential roommate to describe theirs. If you’re an early sleeper, then you might not get along with a night owl. Alternatively, if you wake up early for work, then you probably don’t want a roommate who enjoys partying on weeknights. • Ask potential roommates to complete an in-depth application about their work, income, and references. Keep in mind you cannot ask questions around certain topics, such as religion, sexual preference, or marital status. • After obtaining permission, conduct a background check. If an applicant provides consent, check their credit score, employment history and rental history. You can also browse their social media profiles on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn. If you’re a renter living with a roommate, it’s important to stay informed and to have the right insurance coverage in place. To learn more, speak with your insurance provider or call Square One at 1.855.331.6933 squareoneinsurance.ca. JAN 6 - 20, 2018 33

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You’ve just found your nexthome! FREDERICK & VICTORIA STREET Bachelor From $719, 1 bdrm From $819 Hydro Extra. With Balcony & Laundry Facilities. Clean Quiet Low Rise Building, Spacious Suites with Large Windows. Close to Shopping, Schools & Transit call 519-579-6720 www.linwood.ca

34 RentersGuide.ca

WILLOW-WESTWOOD RD - 199 Westwood Rd. 3 bdrm townhome $1069+ utils, 4 bdrm townhome $1169/ mo + Utils Fridge/stove incld. Full basements. Fenced backyards. Current Wait List. Call (519)8372944

ST. CATHARINES

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.

40 Front St.

WELLAND 155 Hagar St.

www.panoramicproperties.ca info@panoramicproperties.ca *Prices, specifications and availabilty subject to change without notice. E&O.E. 35

BRAND NEW RENTAL LIVING AT KING & ADELAIDE

Now Renting West Tower!

RE-VISIT EVERYTHING YOU THOUGHT ABOUT RENTAL LIVING If you can think of it, it’s probably already at REVO. Why live in an older building, when you can rent someplace brand new! REVO offers many of the luxuries of condo living, but at rental prices. Not only that, everyday conveniences, green spaces, funky coffee houses, London Transit, the Budweiser Gardens and more, are practically outside your door.

Remarkable amenities include: • 24 hour fitness centre • Games room & party room • Screening room • Security/Concierge • Study lounge/library • 24 hour ground floor laundry • Secured underground parking • Bike storage • Security cameras throughout • On-site Super & Management Office • Guest suite • Some units have dishwashers • Medallion’s S.O.S. (Superior On-Call Service)

1 bdrm • 1 bdrm + den • 2 bdrms • 2 bdrms + den & 3 bdrms from $750* *Hydro is metered separetly

Ask About Our Incentives! Dundas St.

King St.

Hewitt St.

Lyle St.

Adelaide St.

Queen’s Ave.

MOVE IN NOW! RENTAL OFFICE NOW OPEN! Call now to live in this brand new building 519-601-7386 or revo@medallioncorp.com

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

RENTAL OFFICE: 700 King Street Mon - Thurs 11 am - 7 pm; Fri, Sat, Sun 10 am - 4 pm 519-601-7386 | rentrevo.com