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2016 is almost here; and if you are anything like myself along with a new year comes the inevitable vows to lose weight, to save money or to spend more time with family and friends, but what about your home? So many of our clients want to simplify there lives, ditch the clutter or be more environmentally conscious this upcoming year? To help the process here are my top picks for t home improvement resolutions for the New Year.

Sales of single-family homes declined in October, reflecting typically slower fall market conditions. However, due to a robust spring and summer housing market, the board is on target to end out the year as one of the stronger years for sales within the last 5 years.

The Housing Market Assessment publication for Canada evaluates the extent to which there is evidence of problematic housing market conditions in selected Census Metropolitan Areas

Looking for the best way to control all the connected devices in your home? While still in its infancy, the number of smart home products – devices that let you control lighting, thermostat, security camera, or even an automatic pet feeder – from your smartphone, is rapidly growing. But how does it all work, and is a home automation system feasible for you? We asked the expert: Ryan Wenner, Director of the Wenner Group of Companies to answer our questions on home automation systems.

Phase one lots 90% sold out, One Oak town homes has only 2 left. Phase 2 new selling in Nanaimo first livable community. The Ridge introduces functional ‘traffic-calmed streets’ that enhance pedestrian safety and minimize hard surfaces to reduce storm water run-off and nurture the significant wetlands on the site. These innovative ‘sustainable streets’ allow rainwater to infiltrate the ground and be filtered by the natural vegetation. Impervious road surfaces are minimized (eliminating several acres of asphalt), resulting in cleaner water and a more natural run-off that mimics the areas original conditions. Beautiful, energy efficient homes are set in a forested mountainside setting with leafy sidewalks, community walking trails, and extensive green spaces. Majestic trees, dramatic rock outcroppings and lush wetlands are complemented by effective bioswales, indigenous landscaping and porous surfaces.

As environmentally conscious consumers we at DG|associates are constantly looking for energy-saving products to help the environment and save money. With so many manufacturers offering more “green” gadgets than ever before it can be almost impossible to choose. In order to help you decide which gadgets are right for you we have assembled a list of our top 6 gadgets we believe are worth the investment!

We are in an information age where almost limitless information is at your fingertips yet there are still several mistakes that buyers typically make that end up costing them money, time and stress. Carefully choosing your Realtor who is committed to devoting the time and has the experience needed to save you energy, stress and money is key to avoiding these mistakes or others.

Last month, 431 single-family homes sold on the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) compared to 405 in September 2014, an increase of six per cent. Month over month, sales decreased by 1.8 per cent from August 2015.

Long since popular in Europe, the concrete house now makes its way to Canada’s west coast! While still a very niche market, concrete homes are gaining popularity amongst buyers seeking more energy efficient and comfortable living experiences. Some of the key benefits to this building technology include lower energy bills, great comfort and quiet, lower repair and maintenance costs. They are pest proof, fire resistant and offer a healthier indoor environment. However, without any first-hand experience, I decided to ask the Mayer family of Nanaimo BC about their experience building and living in a concrete home.

Fall is the perfect time to take care of the little things that can make a big difference for you and your home. Some of these tasks are with-in the average person’s ability, but even if you choose to have a professional handle them, it’s worth the expense. You’ll save money in comparison to costly repairs.

Tesla Motors Inc. introduced its Powerwall home battery last week as part of their new venture in Tesla Energy – a company focused on energy innovation. As we have many Vancouver Island recreation properties off the grid which could benefit from this we also think some Nanaimo homes might also see the advantage with adding extra solar power to keep them charged and lowering power consumption.