Luxury Homes Vancouver Island Blog about buying and selling homes

8May/100

Dave Knapp – Remax Nanaimo Real Estate AgentHOME EDUCATION CENTRE

Waterfront Nanaimo Real Estate, Vancouver Island Real Estate Listings, Remax Nanaimo, Real Estate Agent, Nanaimo Homes for Sale, Remax Vancouver Island, Waterfront Nanaimo Home For Sale
NEW HOME PRODUCTS

Home ownership is about to enter a new era of design as a result of several construction trends intended to reflect the new ways in which we live, work and play. Evolving lifestyles and new long-term realities such as energy and environmental issues will affect the way we use our homes, and the way we design, build, and renovate them. These trends are already noticeable in some circles, and will eventually lead to widespread changes in the way many of us address our living spaces in the future.

renewed respect for nature
Whenever extreme weather strikes, designers, manufacturers and builders become more aware of the need for long-term durability in our homes. This need is sometimes enforced through tighter building codes, or more stringent demands by insurance companies for better construction materials and higher endurance standards. Meanwhile, as we seek to protect ourselves from nature's extremes, there is also a need to protect nature from our own extreme behavior. Environmental protection is a growing trend that inspires more people every year to take on new initiatives, either to save energy costs or to avoid environmental deterioration caused by excessive waste.

social and family needs
With the members of the "baby boom" population bulge approaching their retirement years, there is a greater demand for homes and properties with lower maintenance requirements and higher accessibility standards. Thanks to more enlightened planning and renovating, homes can be made accessible for all ages by including no-step thresholds, wider doorways, wheelchair-friendly sinks and cabinetry, and main floor bathroom and laundry facilities. Contemporary lifestyle patterns such as the long-predicted trend of "cocooning" have already evolved enough to spawn entire industries specializing in home decor and renovation designed to meet these lifestyles.

technological renolution
Rapid technological advances in household operational systems and home convenience products are assisting both the aging population and young families on the go. When discussing technology, many people think of entertainment and information advances, but these are only the beginning. The new multi-functional equipment that has been developed will virtually run all household system operations for the homeowner. Physically speaking, home designs will need to make space to accommodate the new equipment. The "smart home" management centers connect with equipment within your home in order to provide automatic intervention of systems such as heating, ventilation and air conditioning, as well as indoor and outdoor security systems monitoring.

adjusting for tomorrow
Perhaps the most significant trend in space planning is thinking ahead to accommodate technologies and lifestyles that will affect our homes in the future. It is no longer acceptable for one function to be included without consideration for another. Just as a traditional carpenter allows for electrical and plumbing installations, the modern home builder or renovator will need to plan space for managing future systems. For example, even though our hot water, heating and air conditioning units are getting smaller and more efficient, we may soon need extra space for electricity storage units and back-up battery cells.
So as technology continues to advance, we will also need to adopt new trends and habits that will help us make better use of our space. Even cherished garage space could become more coveted in the future. While switching to a smaller electric or hybrid car may fit with out environmental objectives, we will eventually have to include a battery charger system alongside it. In fact, there just may come a time when we dedicate our garages to contribute to energy production and conservation, rather than energy consumption.
Our home space is becoming increasingly more important to us. As newer building materials are used, new designs are developed, and new technological innovations and coordinating systems are installed, our homes will adapt to the new trends and lifestyles of our population. Of course, a lot of these advances will cost money. Choosing from the many options will be part of making a carefully managed real estate decision.

Dual-Purpose Barbecue and Fireplace
A new hybrid barbecue/fireplace unit is designed especially for cool outdoor evening. Its a fireplace cage suspended on wheels with the addition of a cooking grill. You can start the unit with charcoal for cooking and then add a couple of logs for instant ambience.

Auto-Lid Trash Container
This trash can opens when you approach it, and it closes after its been fed. Its a touchless system that could save a nasty spill if you have a handful of disposables.

Solar-Powered Fountains
These decorative water fountains are powered by a built-in solar panel. Some are made to float on your pond and draw water from beneath, while others can be wall-mounted or fence-mounted in a cascading step design that circulates its existing water supply.

Dual-Purpose Refrigerating Range
This state-of-the-art product is the hot new oven with the cool refrigeration feature. You can keep your chicken chilled or your casserole cool until its ready for cooking right in the oven! It keeps your dinner in Cold Storage prior to the programmed start time, then automatically switches to roast or bake. In the event you arrive home late, it keeps it warm, or even refrigerates it again.

12Apr/100

3266 Shearwater DriveNanaimo, British Columbia

This exclusive custom built ocean view home is located in upscale Stephenson Point. Designed by Ian Niamath and built by Doug Rathy, this 5,000+ square foot home offers numerous features not found in other homes. The large solid oak entrance doors and 28’ vaulted ceiling you encounter upon entering will foreshadow the capacious and luxurious feeling of the entire house.
The main floor living offers a ‘Magazine Featured’ one-of-a-kind kitchen, sunken living room, media/games room, private dining, family room, laundry and access to three separate private patios. With custom built wood Pella doors and windows throughout, an abundance of hardwood flooring, pot lighting, 9 foot ceilings and an open concept the home has an upscale, bright and comforting ambience.
Upstairs you will find four oversized bedrooms with one being an entire ‘Guest Suite’ with ensuite. Three of the bedrooms, including the master, walkout to fabulous viewing decks offering spectacular ocean, city and mountain vistas. There is also a hobby room (with sink and cupboards) and library on this level. The vaulted ceiling and massive square footage of the master bedroom are accented perfectly by the large and spacious ensuite and walk-in closet.
Wandering into the backyard you may be overwhelmed by the beauty, serenity and privacy of the pristine ‘Japanese Style’ walled garden. This unique offering will truly appeal to purchaser’s with lavish taste who enjoy spacious and luxury living combined with spectacular views and the serenity of nature

2Mar/100

BEST OF THE BEST, MILLION DOLLAR HOME, MILLION DOLLAR VIEW

BEST OF THE BEST, MILLION DOLLAR HOME, MILLION DOLLAR VIEW and has been reduced by $300,000 from the original listing!! Enjoy breathtaking 360 degree ocean, city & mountain views while sitting on top of the world. Perched on one of the highest points in Nanaimo, this opulent home enjoys views including the Sunshine Coast, Vancouver, Gabriola Island, Georgia Strait, Departure Bay, Mount Benson & the City of Nanaimo. This magnificent Westcoast Contemporary designed home features luxury & upgrades to the highest possible level. Expansive rooms, an abundance of windows and 8 decks & patios integrate the beautiful natural surroundings into the capacious living space. Set on 1/3 of an acre, this 5,000 Sq. Ft. home offers a feeling of intimacy & privacy while located in an accessible & convenient city location. If you are looking for lavish, upscale living in an incomparable ocean view setting, then this is your dream home. Manage reputation with scam reports!

23Feb/100

1598 Dorcas Point RoadNanoose, British Columbia

Executive rancher on a waterfront street in the Beachcomber area of Nanoose. Everything in this 1920 Sq. Ft. one level home is built to the highest quality. Gunstock oak hardwood floors run throughout the home with heated tiled floors in the 2-5piece bathrooms. 12’ ceilings & huge windows offer a spacious and bright feeling in the great room area. The spectacular kitchen boasts a large entertainment island, 8 ft high birch shaker cabinetry, Jenaire gas stovetop, double ovens, pantry, high end stainless appliances, tiled floors, & a bank of windows above the cabinets. Other upgraded features of the home include; premium upgraded Low E Argon windows, crown moulding throughout, transom glass above all interior doors, decorative baseboards & trim, built-in vacuum, RV parking & 2 fireplaces with heatilators. The lavish master bedroom boasts vaulted ceilings along with a spacious walk-in closet & a spectacular ensuite with Jacuzzi tub & separate shower and underfloor heat systems. The fully fenced back yard is immaculately landscaped & has a beautiful 18’ x 16’ patio with lanai that offers wonderful south facing exposure & a nice transition to indoor/outdoor living. This is an exceptional home in a safe & desirable area. It is everyone’s retirement dream!

14Jan/100

Dave KnappHOME REMODELLING TIPS

Drywall Repair

Dents and Dimples Drywall joint filler compound can repair most minor blemishes with a small dab of the compound and a smooth damp cloth.

Split or lifting joint tape Replace any loose tape with fresh drywall joint tape then apply compound over the area with a broad flat putty knife. Once the area is dry, then sand to a smooth finish. Repeat with another coat and feather the edge to a taper so that it melds with the existing wall finish.

Nail-Head pops Countersink loose nails and add new drywall screws in an adjacent spot to ensure the wallboard is fixed firmly. Smoothly apply joint compound with a putty knife over the indentations and allow the area to dry before sanding.

Small and medium holes if a hole is a bit too big to support wet compound, apply the compound in stages around the edge and let it dry between applications. Alternatively, secure mesh inside the hole is filled and dried, sand the surface to a smooth finish before priming and painting.

Designing a NEW Kitchen

Kitchens have evolved a great deal since the fifties, when the standard "work triangle" consisted of three focal points - the sink, the refrigerator and the "stove" or oven/range combination - each positioned about three or four steps apart. Today most kitchens have many extras, such as dishwashers, dual-ovens, microwaves, toasters, cook-top ranges, double sinks and freezers - not to mention computers, televisions, breakfast bars, and stools. Although the three basic work points of the traditional kitchen remain central to any well-planned modern-day kitchen, the introduction of so many other appliances has affected the present-day layout and requires consideration for the efficiency of the design. Added conveniences like kitchen islands, secondary ovens, burners, sinks and refrigerators have expanded the kitchen configuration into more of a hub-style layout, to accommodate additional work stations near the traditional focal points.

Plan with an open Mind
The kitchen of the future could become even busier. Despite the decline in average family size, there is often more traffic in the modern kitchen. Frequent snack times (and fewer formal meals) due to busier schedules combined with a greater acceptance of casual interaction in the kitchen during social gatherings have made the kitchen space ven more popular. So, when planning a new kitchen, consider expanding the size of this space, especially if you recognize it as the best use of your common household area. Also consider "big-picture" ideas for your kitchen, like wider doorways for easier access and more window space to increase natural light. Your design considerations might also address "universal accessibility" which would allow for wheelchair mobility. Plan ahead to make large and small appliances, utensils and supplies easy to reach, through flexible cabinet and counter height positioning, easy pull-out drawers, and strategic door arrangements.

Right to the Finish
The kitchen is often referred to as the physical and emotional heart of the home. Before beginning a renovation, think about newer and bigger kitchen appliances, as well as the plumbing, electrical, nets and exhaust fans that may be necessary for them to function safely and efficiently in the future. Watch for new trends that may influence the activities and aesthetics of your kitchen, especially if they come from professional planners. Here are just a few predictions, taken from a recent survey at a major kitchen trade show:

1. Stylish appearances
both modern and traditional designers are calling for more flexible yet cohesive theme arrangements, often utilizing colors and styles inspired by exotic locations and eras. Stainless steel is still growing in popularity for both vertical and horizontal surfaces, compared to established materials like stone, brick, tile and wood. But the door is now open for other kitchen metals, such as oiled bronze and hammered or brushed copper.

2. Durable and clean
New kitchens need to be easy to maintain and clean. smooth countertop materials like polished quartz, glass and high-grade plastic are rapidly gaining in popularity. Hands-free faucets, high-temp dishwashers and anti-bacterial soaps all indicate greater emphasis on kitchen cleanliness. The latest trends even incorporate clean ways to store composting and recycling.

3. Gourmet foods and wines
Fine food and wine consumption is increasing in the home, and occurring more frequently as integral parts of in-home menus. Newer kitchens will be reflecting this trend with wine racks, wine bars, wine gadgets, wine refrigerators and other custom cooling units.

Space / Time continuum
Whether your kitchen was designed in the 50's, the 90's, or over the last five years, the most important element of its function is in its utilization of space - no matter what the size. Planning a modern kitchen to make the most of your space may take up valubale time and money, but there is much to be gained in return. by focusing on increased storage and easy access, plus convenient preparation and quick clean-up, you could ransform your kitchen into the most accommodating room in your home. Once you determine how to best utilize and enjoy your kitchen space, it will make all the difference in the world.

20Dec/090

Dave Knapp – Ocean View, Waterfront Vancouver Island Real Estate

Our Area

Remax Vancouver Island Property and Real Estate for Sale, Nanaimo Homes for Sale , Ocean View , Waterfront Nanaimo Homes for Sale, Remax Nanaimo, Real Estate Agent, , Nanaimo Townhomes for sale, Waterfront Nanaimo Real Estate

If your looking for Ocean View or Waterfront Vancouver Island Real Estate for sale, I specialize in the sale of Vancouver Island Property and Nanaimo homes for sale in the Central Island Region. Due to the geographical structure of Vancouver Island, much of the real estate, property and homes are on the waterfront or enjoy an ocean view. The majority of homes are just minutes from the ocean. Nanaimo is in the Central region and there are often many Ocean View and Waterfront Nanaimo homes for sale to be found on my Remax Vancouver Island listings page.

The map below is a map of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. It is broken into 6 categories as follows:

  • North Island
  • North Central Island
  • West Coast - Pacific Rim
  • Central Island
  • South Central Island
  • South Island

Vancouver Island Property for sale in the Central Island Region

Note that Nanaimo is located in the Central Island region of the map. To view information about a specific region on the map, just click on that region and you will be directed to a more detailed map of that region. There you will also find resources for that region such as accomodations and recreational activities, as well as a detailed description of region. The information is provided courtesy of Tourism Vancouver Island.
Contact an expert Remax Nanaimo Real Estate Agent if your interested in selling or buying a Vancouver Island Property.

15Aug/110

Bring more variety into real estate hunting

Today we have less time than ever so it is important to make sure we spend it wisely. That is why when people look for real estate they should be looking for realistic solutions for themselves and realize where they are going with this. It is very important to look at orangeville homes for sale with the plan of your mortgage and your financial situation in mind. You should always also remember to make decisions thinking about what your family and career plans are. You can choose properties from the comfort of your home and realize your potential fully. It is important to make wise decisions and grow from them every day. So make sure you know what you are doing.

1Aug/110

Real estate in Toronto – the lowdown on the best

Property in Toronto is an exciting and wonderful sphere of knowledge and it is important for people to understand where they are coming from and what they are doing. It is essential to remember that with today’s pace of life it is no longer possible to look for property cruising in the car looking out the window for a good loft to snatch. Nowadays if you want to save time and money you have to deal with online real estate companies providing you the most elgant lofts form the comfort of your home. You can browse through countless catalogues and pictures and find the one that suits you best. So don’t waste your time and stay on top of the house hunting game looking at the bohemian embassy lofts and town lofts. These great properties are situated right in the hub of things and you can enjoy lots of exciting activities here from gallery visiting to going to the nearest luxury hotel.

29Jun/110

Make the most of modern materials

If you are about to decorate a great looking house or make sure that your exterior looks elegant and chic it is important to look at the possibilities of a good Stucco Contractor Toronto company that can make all your designer ambitions a reality. With the help of great designers it is possible to achieve really good results in terms of making the building look sophisticate since stucco offers plenty of possibilities to liven up the façade of every building and make it look wonderful. With the help of Canadian Lumber Liquidators Inc you can also get the stuff you need for construction at really attractive prices which will help you get a better chance of keeping to the budget and avoiding overspending. So make sure you do that and be cool about what you are doing next.

9Jun/110

Make used materials work

Many people today are looking for ways to save money and achieve better results when they are redecorating, constructing or building something. This process is usually lengthy, stressful and expensive so it is not surprising that more and more people are looking for building debris that are a great way to save money and achieve the results you are looking for. So make sure you look online and find the best ideas for yourself, getting the right style and design at prices that will be a pleasant surprise. There are lots of opportunities for you to find exactly what you are looking for and get the best designs possible.

5May/110

The best ideas for real estate

Today a lot of people are dreaming of a home of their own. This is not surprising because it is very important to have one and now may be the right time to get down to business and check out what opportunities there are out there for people to avail of. Nowadays there are plenty of great thornhill homes to choose from and they can be found at a variety of prices to help suit the needs of multiple customers. It is very important to make sure you are looking at properties carefully and getting to know them better. In order to do that it’s a good idea to find better real estate agents for you and consult them.

27Dec/100

Dri-Design Launches Textured Series of Wall Panels

Until Dri-Design, wall panels were not very exciting, but now Dri-Design wall panels are the rock stars of architecture, with an unlimited palette of colors as well as unique design features. Dri-Design has just launched a new Texture Series that is sure to make architectural design even more exciting.

The new Texture Series from Dri-Design consists of a basic wall panel, an air space, and a perforated corrugated wall panel cut into a textured pattern. The new wall panels will allow architects to build 3D effects indoors and out, expanding on a theme. For example, consider a honey manufacturing offices covered with small 3-D honeycombs patterns. With the Dri-Design wall panels, it�s possible.

The total system depth of the new Dri-Design wall panels is 6�. Like all Dri-Design products, the new Texture series is easy and fast to install, arriving ready for installation. Businesses and residences can choose any pattern as well as a huge array of colors and finishes for the wall panel system of their choice. Thanks to the unique automated manufacturing process and interlocking design, the new Dri-Design Texture Series wall panels are affordable.

You can learn more about the wall panels you need by visiting the Dri-Design website.

20Dec/100

Great ideas for boilers at National Home Services

If you are wondering what type of heater you need to use it is high time to consider going to good service providers like Energy Savers, Viessmann-us.com, Lochinvar, national home services and The Heater Shop and find useful information on their websites so you can make sure you are doing the right thing. If you follow this advice you will learn a lot about different types of heaters and what they do. This will give you an opportunity to decide what type of equioment you need installed and how you will go about doing it with the help of specialists from national home services that will be ready to help you out. It is essential to make sure you find the right type of services and make the best move.

21Oct/100

The importance of good accommodation

Today people always try to save as much money as they possibly can. This is essential for many of us and it should be a principle whenever we go somewhere otherwise it can become a real problem. There are luckily many options available for people today and it is really important to a look at some of them in order to choose the right option for oneself. It is very nice to stay at hotels but they sometimes be too expensive. Hostels are nice but they are not for everyone. For people with needs to have comfort it is best to try out apartments for rent in Minsk that are not too expensive yet offer all the good things there are in accommodation. It is essential to make a good choice in accommodation in Minsk and it is vital to see that everything goes right in this direction. It is very important to remember about this and make sure you find the right place for you stay which can determine the success of your operation. This is an essential part of planning your trip and you have to be thoroughly prepared. So find the right thing for you and keep cool in whatever new location you are at.

20Oct/100

Find the right home – DNA3 in Toronto

Choosing property is not always easy. There are many choices to consider and each of the m is great in this or that way. So it is not surprising that people sometimes get confused when deciding which type of flat to buy for themselves. It is very important to remember that the right toronto condo is an important aspect of finding what you really want to get out of the property you want to purchase. On the other hand, when you are selling you will want to know how much is my condo worth and find this out before you begin letting the world know you are selling. It is very important because you will find it really lucrative to be aware of the situation. This way you can be sure you will not fall prey of people who want to take advantage of your situation and will be more are less guaranteed to get a great dna3 condos and spend your happy hours and days there. When you look for properties ask as many questions you can come up with. You have to look at everything and make a conscientious decision about your choice.

Idea by Chad B of www.Freecondoguide.com

12Sep/100

The joys of suburban real estate

Getting a house in the country is something all of us dream of at a certain stage in our lives. Cramped cities are fun for a while but when one wants to raise a family and stay happy in terms of raising a family it is important to invest in to a good Kelowna real estate and enjoy the benefits of the comfortable suburbs in peace. Kelowna is known for its beautiful nature and interesting attractions, warm people and lots of hospitality. It is important to make sure that you find out as much as possible about the place before you decide to get it and looking in to all aspects of the deal with professionals is a good idea. With a Kelowna home you can be sure to find comfort and lots of exciting things to do in the neighbourhood at different times of the year. This is especially important when it comes to raising a family that can play different sports, go hunt and fish. There are great wineries in the area and it is possible to get good results out of all of these activities which are fun and healthy. So go for it today!