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Air Conditioning Repair and Replacement

Author: Anne Pryde
Categories: Halifax,Homeowners,News,Selling

Depending on your climate, air quality, and use, a well-maintained air-conditioning unit could last between 10 and 20 years. HVAC technology, refrigerant, and efficiency have advanced quite a bit in the last decade, so if your unit is more than 10 years old, you may want to consider replacing it with a more efficient model.

You can ask an HVAC technician for more information the next time they’re performing your annual check-up. Regular maintenance is important to keep your AC unit running efficiently and cooling properly, as well as to extend its life span.
Some signs to call your HVAC tech include:

Strange noises – loose belts may be a simple fix, but a failing motor is a costly repair and may be a sign it’s time to replace your unit.

Bad smells – if it smells musty or moldy, or like refrigerant when you turn on your air conditioning, get it looked at right away. It’s not worth the risk of introducing bacteria or fungus around your house, risking everyone’s health.

Frozen coils – a potentially blocked coil or refrigerant leak needs to be taken care of right away to avoid further damage.

Failure to cool – if your unit just can’t keep the house cool anymore, or if it’s humid inside despite running the AC, if some areas of the house are cool while others are not, or if the unit isn’t responding to the thermostat correctly, call your HVAC tech to find the problem.

Increased energy bills – if you’re scratching your head trying to figure out why your energy bills keep going up when nothing seems to have changed in your power usage, it could be pointing to an increasingly inefficient air conditioner.

An air conditioning unit is a major cost for a homeowner, and you’ll want to have any of these issues addressed by a qualified HVAC technician as soon as possible to protect your investment as well as your home, family, and utility bills.

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How to Know if You Are Ready to Buy a Home

Author: Anne Pryde
Categories: Buyers,Halifax,Homeowners,News

Purchasing a home early in life can set you up for an early retirement

Buying and holding a primary residence is a sure win for accumulating equity that can be accessed and used as part of your retirement plan. The earlier you buy, the more equity you will gain.

So, how do you know when you are ready to buy a home?

What follows is a checklist to audit your home buying potential.

  • You’re past the age of majority in your province (in Nova Scotia, you have to be 19+ years of age to purchase property)
  • You’ve got job security and are past any probation period at work.
  • You’ve got at least a five per cent down payment saved. (or qualify for the provincial downpayment assistance program).
  • You’ve built up strong credit with a 680-plus credit score, but preferably 720 or better.
  • Your total housing costs plus debt payments are less than 44% of your gross income.
  • You can prove enough income, or you have a co-signer.
  • You’re a disciplined spender.
  • You’ve done the math, and buying makes more sense than renting.
  • You’ve developed an honest monthly budget.
  • You’ve got access to three-plus months of living expenses, a.k.a an emergency fund.

This is not an exhaustive checklist, but if you check all these boxes, you probably should be buying a home. If you don’t, prepare an honest budget and focus on saving a little bit each month while you work on the other items.

For more home-buying tips and advice, follow me on Instagram or Facebook or send an email to arrange a personal call. I will answer your questions and help you get started.

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What to look for in older homes in Halifax

Author: Shanea MacIsaac
Categories: Buyers,Halifax,News

When considering older homes in Halifax, Nova Scotia, it’s essential to pay attention to specific aspects that are particularly relevant to the region’s climate, geography, and historical construction practices. Here are five key things to look for:

Foundation Integrity

Halifax has varying soil conditions, and some areas may be prone to issues like settling or shifting. Inspect the foundation for cracks, signs of water damage, or uneven settling. Look for any repairs or renovations to the foundation and ensure they were done correctly.

Weatherproofing and Insulation

Older homes may have inadequate insulation, which can be a concern given Halifax’s cold winters. Check the condition of the insulation in the, attic, and basement. Look for drafts around windows and doors. Consider the type of windows installed and whether they provide sufficient insulation.

Roof Condition

Halifax experiences a mix of weather, including snow and rain, which can impact the longevity of a roof. Inspect the roof for missing or damaged shingles, signs of leaks, and the overall condition. Ask about the age of the roof and whether any recent repairs or replacements have been made.

Heating System and Energy Efficiency

Older homes may have outdated heating systems. Check the type of heating in the house and its efficiency. Consider whether the home has been retrofitted for energy efficiency, such as updated insulation, double-pane windows, and an energy-efficient heating system. This is crucial for comfort and cost savings, especially during the colder months.

Environmental Concerns

Halifax’s homes have been traditionally heated with oil which carries a risk of spilling. Ask if there have been any oil spills, tank leaks or buried tanks on the property.

Before finalizing a purchase, it’s strongly recommended to hire a qualified home inspector familiar with the local conditions and challenges. They can provide a detailed assessment of the property’s condition and identify any potential issues. Additionally, consult with local experts, such as real estate agents and contractors, to gain insights into the specific considerations of older homes in the Halifax area.

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How To Apply For Funding To Build a Secondary or Backyard Suite on Your Property

Author: Anne Pryde
Categories: Halifax,Homeowners,News
Image shows a small apartment or secondary suite equipped with a kitchen, island dining area and futon. There is a small bookshelf to the right and a hallway.

Incentive Program to Encourage More Affordable Housing

If you are looking to renovate or build a secondary suite to offer to a family member or to rent out, this program may be the right fit for you. Secondary and Backyard Suite Incentive Program is an initiative driven by the provincial government to partner with homeowners in Nova Scotia to build affordable housing. This pilot program aims to provide loans to eligible homeowners to help construct secondary suites, whether in the basement or detached from the primary residence that can be offered to others as affordable residence. 

The program’s goal is to assist Nova Scotians in addressing the housing crisis and empowering individuals to make a meaningful contribution.

Eligible homeowners can receive funding to cover up to 50% of the project cost, with a maximum limit of $25,000. If your application is successful, you will be granted a forgivable loan that extends over a period of up to 5 years. Depending on the municipality’s discretion, you may also be eligible to apply for funding for more than one secondary suite. 

There are certain prerequisites of the program and the homeowner must meet the criteria set by the government to be able to apply for this program, 

  • Be a Canadian citizen or have permanent resident status in Canada.
  • Own the property on which you are proposing to build the secondary suite.
  • Be willing to use the space to offer affordable housing to a family member or to non-family members.
  • Rent the secondary suite at a price that is 20% lower than the average market rent for the area.
  • Ensure that the secondary suite meets all applicable building codes and zoning regulations. 

The application process for the loan is completely free of charge, and straightforward. All you need to do is access the form on the Government’s website, provide the necessary supporting documents, and complete the checklist. After submitting your application, you can expect it to be reviewed within a reasonable timeframe of 3-4 weeks.

This presents an exceptional opportunity for individuals seeking financial support to construct a secondary or backyard suite on their property, providing an avenue to enhance housing options and take advantage of this valuable funding opportunity.

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How to Buy a Home in Halifax

Author: Shanea MacIsaac
Categories: Buyers,Halifax,News

If you are in the market to buy a home, here are a few top tips to help you make a smart and successful purchase:

Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage

Before you start house hunting, get pre-approved for a mortgage. This will give you a better idea of how much you can afford and ensures you are viewing homes that are realistic for your situation.

Work With a Good Real Estate Agent

A good real estate agent can help you find homes that meet your criteria, negotiate with sellers, and guide you through the home buying process. Look for an agent with experience in your desired area and a track record of successful transactions.

Be Prepared to Move Quickly

In a competitive housing market, good homes can sell quickly. Be prepared to move quickly if you find a home you love. This may mean making an offer quickly, being flexible with your closing date, or even waiving some contingencies.

Do Your Due Diligence

Once you make an offer, do your due diligence. This may involve getting a home inspection, reviewing the seller’s disclosures, and researching the neighborhood. This will help you identify any issues that could affect your purchase decision.

Stay Within Your Budget

It can be tempting to stretch your budget to buy a dream home, but it’s important to stay within your means. Consider not only the cost of the home but also the ongoing costs of homeownership such as property taxes, insurance, and maintenance. It’s better to buy a home that you can comfortably afford than to be house-poor and stressed about finances.

For more home buying tips and advice  follow me on Instagram or Facebook @annepryde.realtor or send an email to arrange a personal call. I will answer your questions and help you get started.

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How to Get a Mortgage in Nova Scotia

Author: Anne Pryde
Categories: Buyers,Homeowners

Getting a mortgage in Nova Scotia is similar to getting a mortgage in any other part of Canada. Here are some general steps to follow:

Determine how much you can afford. Before applying for a mortgage, it’s important to determine how much you can afford to borrow. Use a mortgage affordability calculator to estimate your monthly payments based on your income, expenses, and debt.

Mortgage calculator 

Shop around for lenders. Compare mortgage rates and terms from multiple lenders to find the best deal. You can do this easily by working with a mortgage broker who will take on the work of shopping around for you and often have access to better rates than big bank reps. 

Get pre-approved. Once you’ve chosen a lender, get pre-approved for a mortgage. Lenders will usually lock in a rate for you during the pre-approval process. This rate will stay locked in for a period of time protecting you from potential rate increases while you look for the right home. They will also reduce the rate if the percentage has decreased between pre approval and closing so you will always benefit from getting pre approved.

Find a home. Once you’ve been pre-approved, start looking for a home in Nova Scotia. Work with a real estate agent to find properties that fit your budget and needs.

It’s important to note that the mortgage process can be complex and time-consuming, so it’s a good idea to work with professionals like a mortgage broker who can guide you through the process.

I have access to a great team of mortgage brokers who will do the shopping around for you and present you with the best options. I also have direct contact with the major banks and many of the smaller lenders if you want to do the work yourself. Send me an email and I will help you get started anne@domus.ca

Check out these links

First Time Home Buyers Guide
Benefits of Working with a Realtor
Book a appointment with Anne
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5 Easy Home Energy Efficiency Improvements

Author: Shanea MacIsaac
Categories: Homeowners,Selling
Photos shows potential of being environmentally conscious while loving a modern life

Increasing energy efficiency in your home is a great way to add value. Modern home buyers are looking for green upgrades and willing pay more for homes that are environmentally friendly. Bonus, efficient homes are more comfortable to live in and cost less to run. You don’t have to go into debt to increase the efficiency and value of your home. Check out the list below and if you would like more tips or advice, here is my free Home Selling Guidebook

1. Install Programmable Thermostats

A programmable thermostat is a device that allows you to set different temperatures for different times of the day, such as when you are away from home or when you are asleep. The thermostat can be programmed to adjust the temperature automatically, helping to save energy and money.

2. Replace Incandescent Bulbs With LED  

LED bulbs are energy-efficient using up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and up to 50% less energy than compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs. LED bulbs also last much longer than traditional bulbs, with some models lasting up to 25 times as long.

3. Add Weather Stripping to Windows and Doors 

Weather stripping is a material applied around windows and doors to create an airtight seal and reduce drafts. It is usually made of foam, rubber, vinyl, or metal and helps to improve the energy efficiency of a home. Weather stripping can also be used to reduce noise and dust infiltration.

5. Add expandable Foam Insulation to The Sills

The sill is the horizontal part of the wooden wall that sits on the top of the concrete foundation of most homes. There are gaps where the wood and concrete meet. Running a bead of expandable foam along this gap will reduce heat loss significantly.

5. Add Insulation to The Attic

Insulating your attic can significantly reduce your energy bills by preventing heat loss during the winter and heat gain during the summer. The attic is often the most poorly insulated part of a home and heat naturally rises, so a lack of insulation can lead to a significant amount of energy loss.

Home Selling Guide Book
Benefits of Working with an Agent
First Time Home Buyers Guide
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Things To Do This Winter In Nova Scotia

Author: Shanea MacIsaac
Categories: Halifax

Winter on the east coast of Canada can be a really great experience if you embrace the damp and bundle up.  Here are some fun outdoor activities to try this winter.

Winter Hiking

Nova Scotia has some incredible hiking trails with picturesque views. Most of them are maintained through the winter months. Wear waterproof boots because if the trails are not frozen, they are bound to be wet.

Snow Shoeing 

This is a great activity in February or March if the snow finally arrives. 

If you don’t own snowshoes that’s okay! Here is a link to places in the Halifax area that you can rent or purchase  rent or buy snow shoes . Some trails even offer rentals on site

Down Hill Skiing 

Yes, we do call them mountains! They officially qualify and we take full advantage of them in the winter for skiing and snowboarding. (I take advantage of the lodge. I’m not a skier) 

Family Fun

If your family is less into long hikes and mountains, here are some of my favourite things to do during winter that are fun for everyone.

When you get out and experience what this province has to offer. I would love to see what you get up to. Tag me on Facebook or Instagram when you do!

Other things to check out

First time home buyers guide
Benefits of working with an agent

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DIY Home Improvements That Increase Value

Author: Shanea MacIsaac
Categories: Buyers,Halifax,Homeowners,Selling
An example of DIY home improvements

A universal value adding project is a fresh coat of paint. If you intend to sell your home within the next few years, I suggest going with neutral tones now so you don’t have to paint again before selling.

The list below breaks things down room by room so you can start in one space and move through your home in an organized way. Have fun giving each room a new look without breaking the bank. If you would like more tips or advice on increasing value and preparing your property to sell, here is a free download of my Home Selling Guide Book

Curb Appeal

The first impression is crucial when selling a home, so make sure the exterior of your home is in good condition. This can include simple tasks such as trimming bushes, mowing the lawn, and adding colourful plants or flowers.

Kitchen/Bathroom

Kitchens and bathrooms are two of the most important areas for potential buyers. Simple updates such as new hardware, a fresh coat of paint, or new faucets can make a big difference without breaking the bank.

Lighting

Good lighting can make a home feel warm and inviting. Consider adding new light fixtures or replacing bulbs to brighten up dark spaces. Adding some table or floor lamps can also help create cozy ambiance.

Declutter and Clean

One of the most important things you can do to increase the value of your home is to declutter and clean it thoroughly. This can include deep cleaning carpets and floors, getting rid of excess clutter, and organizing storage spaces such as closets and cabinets. A clean and well-organized home can make a big difference in how it’s perceived by potential buyers.

These simple updates are budget friendly and will add value to your home. Potential buyers will appreciate the work and place higher offers on your home. I would love to see before and after shots of your project. Tag me on Facebook or Instagram when you post about your progress!

Links to check out

Free Home Selling Guide Book
Benefits of working with a realtor
Mortgage Calculator

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