Renovations or repairs to your home can make it a nicer place to live and add resale value for the future. But when it comes to home improvement projects, the first decision to make is whether you should do it yourself or leave it to the professionals.

Mikael Anderson, Western Canada director of field services with Lowe’s Canada, says customers at the company’s Lowe’s and Rona stores tackle all sorts of home renovations, but preparation is key.

“Preparation can make the difference between a project that you fall in love with, versus a project that you actually end up regretting that you attempted,” he said.

Anderson says skills, materials and tools should all be considered when deciding whether a project should be DIY or “do not attempt.”

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The home improvement industry has become a key economic driver in the country over the last few years as more Canadians look to add value to their humble abodes.

A poll by CIBC in the spring found that 45 per cent of Albertans plan to renovate within the next 12 months. The average spend on a home renovation was expected to be $8,073. That’s nine per cent higher than a year ago, but off by 65 per cent from 2016, when homeowners said they were spending on average $23,000 to improve their homes.

Those are impressive numbers, and figures that fuel economic prosperity for several different trades and retailers. They also add value to a home.

In the same poll, 86 per cent of Canadians said they believe any renovation is an investment in their home.…

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When remodeling a kitchen, deciding on the right design layout is crucial. After all, the exact location of your various countertops and appliances will dictate just how smoothly you can cook, clean up, and chat with your guests while rinsing the arugula.

You probably have a dream kitchen already built in your head, but that doesn’t mean it’s a perfect fit for your space. That's why, in the latest installment of our Dream Kitchen Remodeling Guide, we highlight the various kitchen design layouts you should consider, as well as their pros and cons.

For starters: "The size of the kitchen will largely determine the layout, since many kitchen functions require certain amounts of space around them to be the most efficient," explains Nancy Vayo, senior…

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Whether you’ve recently purchased it or lived there for years, an older home in an established area is chalk full of lifestyle benefits, from great schools to stunning streetscapes with mature trees. However, older homes often need a little bit of love when it comes to design.

Fear not, though, as refreshing the look can be easy. With a few simple upgrades, that ’50s bungalow or ’70s split-level can sparkle with style, making it feel brand new.

“The key to success is to use neutrals as the backdrop, along with timeless materials and finishes,” said Julia Lindsay, an interior designer with Crush Interior Design and Flooring.

Lindsay suggests hiring a designer and mapping out a plan. “Because often there can be a domino effect once you start a…

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How Calgarians are putting living, working and play areas first

Given Calgary’s traffic, the only way to cover the critical elements – live, work and play – in three different parts of the city each day is to cut out the fourth one: sleep.

Fortunately, a new philosophy in home development lets you have it all without sacrificing the shut-eye.
“When you can live, work and play in the same area of the city, it creates a stronger sense of community,” said Elton Ma, director of commercial development for Brookfield Residential in Calgary.

A prime example of this approach is Brookfield’s Seton project, a suburban residential/commercial/institutional community under construction in southeast Calgary. Seton includes over 2.5 million square feet of office…

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According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), more than 160 people are injured each year in BBQ mishaps. That doesn't sound like a lot considering the thousands of people who flip burgers on their backyard grills each year. But, you certainly don't want to be one of those injured!  The best way to prevent fire and injury is maintenance. Remarkably, few people are even aware that BBQ maintenance is necessary. But, it is.   Every spring, experts say you should clean out the venturi tubes. Those are the little metal pipes that carry propane or natural gas. Pipe cleaners work well, although hardware stores also carry specialized tools for this purpose. The goal is to clean out any builtup dirt and debris. Don't be surprised if you find…

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I just finished uploading this House for sale, 17448 119 Street, Edmonton, Alberta

5 Bed Bi-level in beautiful Newcastle! Close to all ammenities including groceries, restaurants, a gym and more. This property is fully complete with a finished basement with large windows and large bedrooms all the way to full landscaping done. The main floor is open concept and can be opened up further at the cost of the seller if you want to (currently they added a den in place of part of the living room). Master bed with walk in closet and ensuite bath, stucco exterior, double attached garage are just some of the features of this home.

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We've all been there—trying to decorate a first apartment or home on a beer budget when you have champagne taste. Hand-me-downs often come easy from parents, older siblings, and other relatives, and free is a beautiful thing. Remember: Pieces that mean something will always be special, even if they're worse for wear or not quite what you had in mind. But that doesn't mean your place has to look like a hodgepodge of random castoffs either. There are ways to be smart about working with inherited goods. In fact, we asked a few designers for tips on how to make it all go together, from grandma's painting to mom's dresser. And guess what? It's easier than you may think.

https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/decorating-with-hand-me-downs-261334 

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