South Western Ontario Renters Guide - Mar 3, 2018

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO EDITION

MAR 3 - 17, 2018 | rentersguide.ca

The Six On Lancaster 416 Lancaster Street West, Kitchener

www.effortrentals.com 1-844-582-2064

CLOSET CONFIDENTIAL: ADVICE FROM DESIGNER JO ALCORN

INGERSOLL: SMALL TOWN CHARM

KITCHENER

The Six On Lancaster 416 Lancaster Street West, Kitchener The Six On Lancaster is professionally managed by Effort Trust with bright, spacious and clean 1 Bedroom and 2 Bedroom units. Cozy low-rise, recently renovated walk-up located close to schools, Joe Thompson Park, Grand River Hospital, convenience stores and the well-known Lancaster Smokehouse Restaurant.

• Easy access to Highway 85 North to Waterloo and Highway 7 East to Guelph • Nearby parks, schools, hospitals, shopping centers, and many more amenities • The University of Waterloo, Wilfred Laurier University and the Kitchener School of Pharmacy are about a 10-15 minute drive away • Just minutes from the Woodside National Historic Site

Call 1-844-386-0119 for a viewing today!

www.effortrentals.com 1-844-582-2064

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.

That’s why we don’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 3

LONDON - CENTRAL

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

• 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

4

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.

YORK ST.

COLBORNE ST.

in- suite laundry • Exercise Room, Sauna, Indoor Saltwater Pool

• Individual A/C & Heating Controls

WATERLOO ST.

Great Views of the City • 5 Appliances including

BURLINGTON

Live Life in

LUXURY at the TRILLIUM Burlington | 168 Plains Rd

Ideally located in the Aldershot area of Burlington within walking distance to Hamilton Harbour. Close to Parks, Retail, Grocery Stores, Schools & More!

1, 2 & 3

BEDROOM SUITES • In-suite Laundry • Dishwasher • Eat-in Kitchen • Individual Thermostats • Air Conditioned • Balconies • Great Views of the Lake • Indoor Saltwater Pool

• Hot Tub & Sauna • Fitness Room • Video Surveillance & Secured Entrance • Covered & Secured Parking • Large Social Room • Bell Fibe Services Available

D

R WA HO RD

LW

DP

OO

RW FAI

LD RY DA R

Call (289) 769-9587 Visit www.drewloholdings.com Follow

D

SR

IN PLA

NOR

VD E BL

HOR

TH S

5

LONDON

COME HOME

TO

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

MAR 3 - 17, 2018 | VOLUME 26 ISSUE 5

CONTENTS

2

VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF PUBLISHING OFFICER

Caroline Andrews PUBLISHER & GENERAL MANAGER

Shawn Woodford ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

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

Jennifer Reynolds MANAGING EDITOR

Wayne Karl EDITOR

Marlene Eisner ART DIRECTOR

Megan Pike CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Sara Duck CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Jo Alcorn, Hellen Buttigieg, Sheryl Erenberg, Anne Marshall, Jackie Marchildon, Chuck Resnick, Gail VazOxlade MEDIA CONSULTANT

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

Gary Chilvers

ON THE COVER:

THE SIX ON LANCASTER

SENIOR MANAGER, DISTRIBUTION

Dwayne Rutherford NATIONAL CIRCULATION MANAGER

John Jenkins MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Anthony Majetic GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

IN EVERY ISSUE

ADVICE

8 Editor's Note

10 Industry Insider

16 Index 33 What's Online 34 Movers, Services & Classifieds INSPIRATION

24 Style File Turn a messy space into a dream closet

28 Home Eight ways to incorporate organization into your home

Choosing the right rental

12 Moving Take care when moving electronics Living on a budget: The dreaded B-word

20 The Rentalist Why you should consider renters insurance

22 Finances Tips to help you with your taxes Your bedroom should be a tranquil space

NEIGHBOURHOOD PROFILE:

INGERSOLL

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

18 Money Sense

26 Quick Tips

14

Swinder Jodhka Mike Terentiev

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 marlene.eisner@nexthome.ca.

DISCLAIMER The views and data expressed by

columnists do not necessarily represent those of the publication.

MAR 3 - 17, 2018  7

EDITOR’S NOTE

WHAT’S THE RIGHT SIZE RENTAL FOR YOUR LIFESTYLE?

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

GETIZED N GA OR

The art of order 28

+ get social 8 RentersGuide.ca

How do you know which rental is the best for you? Once you determine your budget for rent, utilities and even the neighbourhood in which you’d like to live, it’s important to understand your ‘apartment personality’ before you start your search.

Are you the type of person who likes lots of space in which to roam and put your stuff? If so, you may consider renting a large loft with 12-ft. ceilings and lots of windows. A space such as this can accommodate an array of furniture, decor accessories, and perhaps a strategically placed divider or two for a touch of privacy. Conversely, if you hate to clean and are a bit of a minimalist, consider a studio apartment. Your utility bills will be less and you won’t need much furniture. If you work from home and want a designated room as an office for tax purposes, a one-bedroom with den may suit your style. Of course, if you have children or roommates, an apartment with two or more bedrooms and a separate living room and dining room may fit the bill.

In spite of a tight rental market, there are a lot of options out there from which to choose. If you flip through the pages of this Renters Guide, you will see a nice selection of properties that may suit your needs. Choosing to live in a multi-roomed apartment or a cozy studio is a matter of personal taste and lifestyle — what matters is that you find the right amount of space that is best for you.

When it’s time to make a move, let Renters Guide help. You can also check us out online at NextHome.ca, and get ready to find 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

BURLINGTON

$1,995

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

$2,095

Townhouse 3 bedroom with garage + utilities

Features: Upgraded units Stainless steel appliances In-suite washer and dryer Ceramic tiles and 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

9

ADVICE | INSIDER

CHOOSING THE RIGHT RENTAL lot to the person who rents apartments. Ideally, a sign above the enterphone panel should tell you who to call.

SHERYL ERENBERG

Here are five tips from Marketing Consultant Sheryl Erenberg, who specializes in rental communities: 1. HOW ATTRACTIVE IS THE EXTERIOR OF THE BUILDING?

We call this “curb appeal” in the industry. Are the grounds kept? If the property looks neglected, the chances are good that tenants will be too!

3. FIRST IMPRESSIONS ARE IMPORTANT

Are you made to feel welcome when you arrive? How hard is the person representing the building trying to assist you? If they are distracted or unpleasant, would you want to live there?

4. WATCH AND LISTEN TO HOW THE STAFF INTERACT WITH

landlord by who they choose to represent them.

5. THE LOBBY TEST

After your visit, sit in the lobby and ask passing/waiting tenants how long they’ve lived at the property and whether they would recommend it. A good sample is five to seven people.

Sheryl Erenberg is president of Sheryl Erenberg and Associates.

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

ONE ANOTHER 2. FINDING THE PERSON WHO DOES RENTALS

It shouldn’t be an obstacle course to get from the parking

Do they appear to be working as a team? Is the conversation between employees pleasant?

A lot can be learned about the

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

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

905-639-8583 1285 ONTARIO STREET

(At Maple Avenue) Burlington, ON

burlingtontowers.com

QEW

Lakeshore Road

To Hamilton

Joseph Brant Hospital

Lake Ontario

Brant Street

Ontario Street

Unfurnished

407

BURLINGTON TOWERS

nue e Ave Mapl

To Toronto

10 RentersGuide.ca

Mapleview Shopping Centre

01543

Visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/burlingtontowers

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

804

$

• Easy access to the Linc.

• Wheelchair accessible Call

905-765-0895

01537

905.561.8000

Jr. 1, 1 & 2 BEDROOM

MAR 3 - 17, 2018 11

ADVICE | MOVING

TECHNOLOGY ON THE MOVE

CHUCK RESNICK Let’s face it, your electronic devices make the world go ‘round.

Being in the moving business, we realize how important these items are to families.

One of the most common questions we get is how to transport electronics safely, especially big-screen TVs. During a move, whether it’s across town or across Canada, it is important to give these items special treatment so they arrive in one piece and in good working order. The best advice we have for accomplishing this goal requires some forethought: keeping the original boxes and foam spacers the electronic items came in.

That is truly the safest method for moving them.

Of course, people rarely keep these boxes, so there are specialty boxes and crates designed specifically to move big-screen TVs safely. People who do their own packing and moving should be aware of how easy it is to damage one of these units. Spending a few dollars extra to purchase or rent one of these special boxes can make all the difference.

Another thing to remember is that most of these television sets are mounted on wall brackets, and moving companies are reluctant to disassemble the wall mounts or assemble them at the other end. Usually, if something is going to go wrong, that’s when it will happen – and again, people rarely keep the installation instructions 12 RentersGuide.ca

“

During a move, whether it’s across town or across Canada, it is important to give these items special treatment so they arrive in one piece and in good working order

”

for the brackets. It’s far too chaotic on moving day to try and find instruction manuals. The best plan when preparing for your move is to take the TVs off the walls yourself ahead of time and have them ready to be packaged properly.

Here’s a tip for anyone disassembling electronics for a move: get your digital or phone camera and take photos of the wiring connections on the backs of the TVs, cable boxes, DVD players and the like. When it comes time to reassemble them, it will be much easier to reference how they were set up originally, saving time, stress and frustration.

The same goes for stereos and gaming systems. Many teenagers leave their entire gaming systems hooked up until moving day. It’s up to them to disassemble their systems and hopefully place them into their original packaging. If not, the best thing to do is wrap consoles in anti-static bubble

wrap and place them into appropriately sized boxes so they won’t move around during the trip. In fact, this is the best way to treat most electronics. That includes computers – especially desktop units. And here’s a handy tip: pack the associated hardware with the electronic item. For instance, place your computer’s mouse, keyboard, power cord, scanner and printer cables into the same box. When these items all arrive together at your new digs, you’ll be very glad you did!

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

™

13

NEIGHBOURHOOD PROFILE

+MORE PHOTOS AND STATS ONLINE: nexthome.ca/ingersoll

INGERSOLL COUNTRY COMFORT CLOSE TO THE CITY ANNE MARSHALL

fashioned family values dominate

public transit system, but it does have

the cultural landscape, where all the

a downtown VIA Rail station. It’s a

tallest buildings are churches.

small enough town that it’s relatively

A neatly preserved downtown core

easy to get around on foot or by bike,

of mom-and-pop businesses looking

and there’s a neat network of scenic

Set among the rolling hills of Oxford

more and more like grandma-and-

trails that can keep you off the roads

County, just west of Woodstock

grandpa shops, it’s also well-situated

and east of London, Ingersoll is the

for a hipster gentrification process,

Depending on your perspective, this

birthplace of Canadian War of 1812

and the signs are already there.

could be a very good thing, although

heroine Laura Secord.

The Thames flows right through

it probably means doing a lot of your

downtown, and after work and school

shopping elsewhere. Fortunately,

undergoing a renaissance, as

it’s not uncommon to see people

its proximity to London means that

development creeps ever closer to

fishing or skipping stones in the

higher-end chain retailers are only a

the 401. Country comfort close to

almost impossibly pretty river.

short drive away.

This former sleepy town is

the city is what Ingersoll is all about.

Surprisingly more affluent than a

While farming has long since given

lot of neighbouring communities,

way to indoor employment for most,

employment rates and annual

the community still feels connected

incomes are both higher than the

to rural roots, and the impressive

provincial average. Cultural diversity is

Tremblett’s Independent Grocers is

somewhat lacking, but that’s likely to

the biggest supermarket in town.

change soon.

Small town charm and old14 RentersGuide.ca

Ingersoll is a small town.

Ingersoll doesn’t have its own

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. She loves nothing more than exploring new areas, peering into other people’s apartments, houses and yards.

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 11, 35

WATERLOO/ WELLINGTON

PAGE 32

PAGE 2, 5

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

MAR 3 - 17, 2018  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.

t

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

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u St

INTERSECTION & ADDRESS

PRICE FROM

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Norquay - Various Locations

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Viscount Properties - Various Locations

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Drewlo - Cinque - 670 Garibaldi Avenue

Inquire

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Old Oak Properties - Various Locations

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Medallion - 235 Rebecca Street

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

$750

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Killam - 180 Mill Street

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

Inquire

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Drewlo - Windermere by the River

Inquire

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LONDON - SE Bonaventure Meadows - 2228 & 2230 Trafalgar

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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

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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

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/B io ud St

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PRICE FROM

Page

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

$750

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

Inquire

Drewlo - Ridout Place / Kingswell

Inquire

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KITCHENER Weigel - Homer Watson & Pioneer - 55 Green Valley

Inquire

Effort Trust - 416 Lancaster Street West

Inquire

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IFC

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

$699

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

$795

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$919

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

$1500

Drewlo - The Trillium - 168 Plains Rd.

Inquire

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Ontim - Ontario Street & Maple Avenue - 1285 Ontario Street

Inquire

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ST. CATHARINES Panoramic Properties - Various Locations

17

ADVICE | MONEY MATTERS

THE DREADED

B-WORD GAIL VAZ-OXLADE

Trying to get through life without a budget is like trying to drive a car without a steering wheel. You can lurch your way along, jamming on the brakes every time a threat looms, or you can put the pedal to the metal, but the whole time you’re careening down the road, you’ll be worrying about what you’re going to hit. And if you’ve got any passengers, there will be some mess to clean up when you finally reach your destination.

Anyone I know who lives on a budget couldn’t get by without it.

And it seems it’s only the people who refuse to make a plan who end up bellyaching about getting to the end of the money before they get to the end of the month.

If you were building a house, you wouldn’t dream of using an architect who declared, “Relax.

I’ve done this before. I promise I’ll put everything in the right place.”

No. You’d insist on seeing some drawings. And here’s why you should, as the architect of your financial house, draw up a budget.

Whether paper-based or electronic, the discipline of managing your budget will help to keep you organized. Annual bills, like car insurance, won’t surprise you, sending shock waves through your cash flow. And unexpected expenses, which have a category in a spending plan, won’t throw you for a loop.

A spending plan is made up of two parts: income and expenses.

18 RentersGuide.ca

Income is the money that comes in: your salary, commission, dividends or interest income, alimony, child support, pension, or disability income. It doesn’t include money you think you might get. So, if your bonus is not guaranteed, don’t include it in your budget. Keep it in reserve to boost your RRSP or take you to the sunshine next winter.

Expenses are the items you have to pay for monthly. (Divide annual bills, such as insurance, by 12 to come up with a monthly amount.)

The best way to figure out your expenses is to look at what you’ve been spending. Collect your bank statements, credit card bills, and whatever other records you have of where your money went over the past year. Put each bill in an appropriate category — i.e., utilities, food, clothing, childcare, gifts — total the figures for each category and divide by 12. That’s your monthly average. Add the categories together. That’s what you’ve been spending.

Now, for all of you out there who can’t gather together two months’ worth of paperwork, never mind a year’s worth, here’s the other way to make a budget: You can use the nifty Gail’s Guide to Building a Budget along with the even niftier Gail’s Interactive Budget Worksheet (gailvazoxlade.com).

If you think you can keep flying by the seat of your pants forever, good luck with that.

If you’ve decided to take control of your financial future, congratulations. Create a budget that balances and you’ve taken the first step to making your money work for you.

Gail Vaz-Oxlade is the host of Til Debt Do Us Part and author of Debt Free Forever, and she blogs daily at gailvazoxlade.com. Follow Gail on Twitter at Twitter.com/GailVazOxlade

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

LONDON - NORTHWEST

CAPULET TOWERS I, II, III & IV

Walking distance to retail, grocery stores, restaurants, nature trails, the Thames River, parks & more.

1 & 2 BEDROOM SUITES

Located in Northwest London • 2 bedroom suites have 2 bathrooms • Suites include 5 appliances, ensuite laundry, individual A/C & heating controls and oversized balconies.

• Amenities include indoor saltwater pool, whirlpool, sauna, exercise room, covered parking & secured entry.

• Granite kitchen countertops and stainless steel appliances available at select units in 70 & 80 Capulet.

• Bell Internet, Phone & Satellite available in unit

50 CAPULET

70 CAPULET

60 CAPULET

80 CAPULET

877-620-1734

877-290-3205

877-715-7852

877-439-0677

SARNIA RD.

CAPULET LN

BEAVERBROOK AVE.

WONDERLAND RD.

Call: 877-607-6917 Visit www.drewloholdings.com Follow

OXFORD ST. W.

19

ADVICE | THE RENTALIST

DO YOU REALLY NEED

RENTERS INSURANCE? JACKIE MARCHILDON If your apartment building or rental home doesn’t require you to have proof of renters insurance, you might hum and haw about having to pay an extra monthly fee and decide it’s not necessary. I’m all for avoiding extra monthly payments – but that renters insurance policy might really help you out should you come across a series of unfortunate events.

Your landlord probably has property insurance on your building, but their policy doesn’t likely protect your personal belongings, any of the upgrades you’ve made to your unit, or cover you if someone hurts themselves in your home.

It will cover certain things, but disregard others – know what’s what when it comes to your landlord’s insurance versus your own.

IF A FIRE BURNS DOWN YOUR BUILDING: Property insurance: Generally

speaking, your landlord’s property insurance would pay for the demolition of the building (if necessary), as well as cover the expenses required to repair or rebuild it. This means it would pay to fix the structure itself, as well as any permanent fixtures – lights, built-in cabinetry, etc. Their insurance would not cover your personal belongings.

VS Renters insurance: In most cases, 20 RentersGuide.ca

renters insurance would cover all of the contents in your unit in the case of a fire. Most policies would also cover your expenses if you needed a place to live while your home was out of commission.

IF SOMEONE GETS HURT IN YOUR HOME: Property insurance: Chances are,

if you organize a get-together and a party-goer slips on a spill and is hurt in your home, your landlord’s insurance would not be of any help if that person decided to sue you.

VS Renters insurance: If you had liability coverage included in your renters insurance, it would protect you financially if you unintentionally caused bodily harm to someone in your home. It would also likely cover you if you accidentally caused damage to the property in which you lived.

IF SOMEONE BREAKS IN AND STEALS YOUR STUFF: Property insurance: As you now

know, the landlord’s property insurance doesn’t extend to the contents of your unit, which means

that without renters insurance, you’d be on the hook for replacing everything in this situation.

VS Renters insurance: In most cases, your renters insurance policy covers your possessions and personal property if your apartment gets broken into.

Whether you’re renting a basement apartment in a home, a unit in a mid-rise or one in a massive highrise, insurance is all the same – the property owner insures the structure and property, and the resident insures the contents.

Take a look around your place – how would you feel without everything in your home? Is it all worth paying a small monthly fee to protect?

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

LONDON - NORTHWEST

WINDERMERE Affordable rental suites. Located along the beautiful Thames River within walking distance to parks & more

675 Windermere Rd 1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM + DEN SUITES • 5 Appliances & In-suite Laundry • 2 Baths in 2 & 3 Bedroom Models • Oversized Balconies • Indoor Saltwater Pool, Sauna, Whirlpool & Exercise Room • Indoor Parking & Bicycle Storage Facilities • On Bus Route, Close to Shopping & Western University • Lobby & Parking Video Surveillance

877-612-9315

655 & 665 Windermere Rd 1 & 2 BEDROOM SUITES & PENTHOUSES • 3 or 5 Appliances in 1 & 2 Bedroom Models • Indoor Saltwater Pool, Exercise Room, Sauna & Whirlpool • Underground Secured Parking • Minutes to Masonville Mall, Restaurants, Banks & More • Close to University Hospital & Western University

877-294-1461

Call our London Rental Agent 877-607-6917 Visit: www.drewloholdings.com Follow us:

21

ADVICE | FINANCES

HOW TO GET THROUGH TAX SEASON Spring is not far off, but with one hurdle first: tax time. Here are a few helpful tips: FILE, PAY ON TIME – AND ONLINE

If you owe taxes, file and pay on time and you won’t get charged late filing penalties and interest. If you don’t owe taxes, you should still file on time. This will ensure that you receive your Canada child tax benefits or GST/HST credit without delay. If you’re expecting a refund, you can have it in your bank account in as little as eight days if you file online and sign up for direct deposit.

ASK FOR HELP

If you have a modest income, a

simple tax situation, and need help completing and filing your return, many community organizations host tax clinics that may be able to help you. To see if you are eligible for the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program go to cra.gc.ca/volunteer.

ASK FOR A PAYMENT PLAN

The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) understands that some taxpayers may be going through a tough time. If you owe taxes but can’t pay, talk to the CRA. You may be able to set up a payment arrangement that lets you pay in smaller chunks over time. More information is available at cra. gc.ca/paymentarrangements.

DON’T LEAVE YOUR TAXES TO CHANCE

Getting a refund or having a balance owing when you file your return is not like winning or losing the lottery. It’s simple math.

If you’re consistently getting a refund, it means you’re paying too much tax during the year. If you always have a balance owing, consider having more taxes deducted at source, increasing your installment payments, or putting money into a registered retirement savings plan. —NC

+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 22 RentersGuide.ca

1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM SUITES

740

$

From

email: info@bonaventuremeadows.com

+ utilities

LONDON - SOUTHWEST

apartment living at its finest Highview GLEN

80 & 90 Highview Ave. E. Wharncliffe & Commissioners

1 & 2 Bedrooms from $

952

Utilities Included Call

• • • • •

laundry facilities air conditioner on-site staff controlled entry balconies

Rd

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 $

960

Utilities Included Call

519.668.0902

spectacular city views Professionally managed by

Norquay Property Management Ltd.

www.ndev.ca 23

style file

DESIGNER JO ALCORN TURNS A DISORGANIZED SPACE INTO A DREAM CLOSET WITH A SPOT FOR EVERYTHING As a city dweller in a small space myself, I love the challenge of creating useful spaces in my clients’ homes. For this reason, I worked with digital influencer and radio personality Taylor Kaye. She has a ton of outfits, shoes and bags but nowhere to put them! So I turned a small room into a space where she can glam up for all her special events.

The first step was to clean out the space and declutter. When cleaning out an area, I always tell my clients it’s a great time to purge unwanted clothing, purses, shoes and accessories that are not useful to them anymore. My client for this project has a soft spot for Diabetes Canada (diabetes.ca), who also operate a reusable clothing and household goods donation program. I worked with them to have her gently used clothing picked up. For the items that were of a bit more value, she posted them on Kijiji (kijiji.ca) to help make a few extra bucks.

After the paring down was complete, we had the space cleaned and painted to give it a fresh new look. The base of the closet system we were going to use was white, so I chose a dramatic colour to complement the lightness – Hale Navy

by Benjamin Moore (benjaminmoore.com).

Professional organizing company Tailored Living (tailoredliving.com) took inventory of my client’s clothes, shoes, belts and accessories.

They discussed how the space would be used and how they could maximize the floor and vertical space. In the end, they were able to provide my client with more than 25 linear feet 24 RentersGuide.ca

of hanging space that is organized based on clothing style (long hanging, medium hanging and doubled-up short hanging spaces) to maximize the vertical space. They also added shelving for shoes, purses and folded clothing.

To add even more organization to the space, I chose a few key pieces from Neatfreak (neatfreak.com), which specializes in home organization. We used its Harmony Twill collection of small and large bin drawer organizers. These are great to help keep scarves, accessories and jewelery in place within the drawers. They even take care of the little details like non-slip felt hangers, so clothing stays where it’s supposed to, and garment bags for when you have to travel and want to keep your clothing clean. We also used Neatfreak’s Everfresh laundry baskets that have a probiotic natural odour control. I love it when practical items have a dual purpose.

To finish off the space, I had tons of fun shopping at Bouclair Home (bouclair.com) for the little yet important details that tie the space together. I picked up a huge mirror, drapes that matched perfectly, artwork and a few other accessories that make the room all that it is, at a great price. My client says she could not be more thrilled with her new organized closet space.

Jo Alcorn is a design specialist and designer on HGTV’s Home to Win, out this spring. She has her own furniture collection, signature pillow and dog bed line, and is known for her savvy design concepts. Visit Jo at whitewashco.ca

PHOTOS: JASON HARTOG

TWO WAYS I

ORGANIZED THE CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES FOR A STREAMLINED

LOOK! MAR 3 - 17, 2018  25

ADVICE | QUICK TIPS

IS YOUR BEDROOM A DREAM OR A NIGHTMARE?

HELLEN BUTTIGIEG

is otherwise wasted. If your bed is too low, you can now purchase bed risers for a clever and easy way to lift the bed higher so that the storage containers fit.

Your bedroom should be a tranquil spot. Clutter in the bedroom can prevent you from getting a good night’s sleep.

LINENS – THE BIGGEST THIEVES OF CLOSET SPACE

DROP THE TOP SHEET

If beds go unmade every morning, eliminate the top sheet and instead, trade blankets for a duvet. Take a moment to straighten out the duvet every morning and you’re done.

NEED EXTRA SPACE IN YOUR BEDROOM?

Under-bed storage containers will help create storage in a space that

Let go of sheets and towels that are torn, stained or kept “just in case.” Store bulky off-season bedding in space-saving bags, which allow you to suck out the air with a vacuum. Roll hand- and face-towels and place them in pretty baskets on the shelf. Fold pillowcases and fitted sheets into their matching flat sheets so that the set stays together neatly.

Want to get a better night’s sleep? Planning your day the night

before will silence that little voice inside your head that may be keeping you up at night. Use your calendar or day-timer system to list priority tasks and note any items you need to take with you.

The bonus? Adequate sleep will result in less stress and increased productivity the next day.

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

+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 26 RentersGuide.ca

LONDON

DOWNTOWN LOCATION

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.

Ferguson Ave. N.

Wilson St.

INSPIRATION | HOME Remodelista: The Organized Home by Julie Carlson and Margot Guralnick. $35. Indigo.ca

THE

OF

ORDER

The new book Remodelista: The Organized Home

by Julie Carlson and Margot Guralnick is all about promoting better living through organization, and we couldn’t agree more! Here are eight ways to implement organization into your life now.

Buy fewer (and better) things.

Resist impulse and stopgap purchases. Instead, zero in on quality.

Donate the stuff you don’t use.

That includes unwanted gifts. Let someone else put your castoffs to good use.

Ditch the plastic. Seek out products made of sustainable natural materials, such as wood, glass and ceramic. They’re better for the planet, and you won’t have to stash them out of sight.

Know what you’ve got. Ample storage is not necessarily a good thing. We’ve been conditioned to think that huge closets are desirable, but the truth is, they can encourage you to avoid pruning your belongings (and to lose track of what you have).

Establish habits and routines that simplify your life. Always keep your keys and eyeglasses in designated spots.

Relax and make yourself at home. Too much enforced order is uninviting for occupants and guests alike; rooms are for living.

PHOTO: MATTHEW WILLIAMS

Shop your own house. A surprising array of storage challenges can be solved with a well-made basket, tray, or hook—chances are, you already own most of the supplies that you need.

Steal ideas from organizational masters.

Experts, such as hoteliers and shopkeepers, know how to come up with novel, affordable approaches to storage.

Excerpted from Remodelista: The Organized Home

by Julie Carlson and Margot Guralnick (Artisan Books).

Copyright 2017. Photographs by Matthew Williams.

Used with permission of the publisher.

28 RentersGuide.ca

M I L L

S T R E E T ,

L O N D O N

LONDON

1 8 O

LUXURY SUITES & TOWNHOUSES 2 & 3 bedrooms available • • • • • • • •

Air Conditioning Balcony Dishwasher Elevator Fitness Room Free Underground Parking Available In-Suite Laundry Social Room

Walking distance to Victoria Park, the John Labatt Centre, fine dining and downtown activity, 180 Mill Road is located in the Richmond Row district. These luxury suites and townhouses offer granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, in suite laundry, and great balcony views.

180 Mill Road features a welcoming lobby, study space, and underground parking. This spectacular property is luxury living in an ideal location.

866-947-8O48 www.KillamReit.com/ apartments/london-on/180-mill

29

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

30 RentersGuide.ca

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

LONDON

MAKE THE SMART MOVE, TO A SMART RENTAL. West 5 is a sustainable, active community surrounded by nature. Scenic paths will connect you to nearby shops, parks and entertainment, and the latest technology will connect you to your new SMART home. Each of our seven rental townhome layouts have been designed to ensure the comfort of your family and the health of the planet. Every light is LED and can be controlled from your smartphone, all faucets are low flow, each window is triple glazed, and every home includes ultra efficient heating and cooling systems. Feel the future‌today.

Stainless Appliances

Vibrant Park

Quartz Countertops

Your West 5 lifestyle starts now

Balconies & Terraces

In-suite Laundry

519-434-1000 31

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 32

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.

WHAT’S ONLINE

TRENDING NOW THE LATEST RENTAL INSIGHTS FROM ACROSS CANADA

FIVE THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT CANADIAN REAL ESTATE

THE BEST INVESTMENT STRATEGIES BY MARKET

nexthome.ca/things-to-know

nexthome.ca/investment-strategies

Twitter @nexthome_ca

Facebook nexthomeca

Instagram nexthome_ca

Pinterest nexthome_ca

Visit our website: 02744

MAR 3 - 17, 2018 33

Your nexthome is here!

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

34  RentersGuide.ca

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

luxury rentals on king street in London

B  ACHELORS • 1 BEDROOM • 1 BEDROOM + DEN • 2 BEDROOMS 2 BEDROOMS + DEN  • 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