Luxury Homes Vancouver Island Blog about buying and selling homes

OUTDOOR TIPS

Caring for outdoor plants means more than providing adequate water you must also provide the right environment. So, you should ensure that the plants you buy are intended for this region as identified by the official government hardiness zones. A plants hardiness is identified by its ability to survive in one or more of these specific geographic zones. The zones are designated according to duration and intensity of sunlight, length of growing season, amount and timing of rainfall, length and severity of drought, drainage, soil characteristics, slope, elevation, humidity and frost potential.

Wood
Wood remains a very popular fencing material due to its traditional appearance, workability, and serviceability. It is usually available in a wide range of choices, including inexpensive spruces and pines (which need regular weather finishing with paint or stain treatment), as well as weather and rot resistant cedars and premium redwoods. Pressure-treated posts and fence boards are also very popular due to their low maintenance and relative cost effectiveness. However, some environmentalists are cautious about the potential long-term effects of certain chemical treatments.

Vinyl
Some vinyl fencing is merely a smooth PVC casing designed to fit over steel posts or aluminum rails. Other vinyl fence panels are manufactured to look like imitation wood, and are similar to artificial decking materials. Although these fences are available in many styles, manufacturers tend to limit color options to lighter shades in order to avoid attracting UV rays. Nonetheless, vinyl fencing is gaining popularity because it is becoming more competitively priced, and some brands offer the benefits of waterproof, fireproof, recyclable, and virtually maintenance free products.

Metal
Wrought iron or steel bars arent just for large estates or public institutions. Metal fences, arbors and gates manufactured on a smaller scale can provide reasonable property protection and traditional flourishing garden or a classic home entrance. However, these fences typically require a metal paint application to protect the material. A simpler, less expensive alternative is chain-link or vinyl coated chain-link. These options remain popular because they offer a relatively secure but inexpensive fence alternative. Plus, these styles dont block the view of a well-landscaped property and also provide plants with maximum sunshine.

EXTERIOR PAINT

Don't Overlook the Paint
A thorough paint job on your home's exterior may be one of the faster, easiest and least expensive "major" renovations you should consider. The visual impact of just a few coats of paint may even result in an increase in the value of your home. Whether you are inclinded to take on such a project yourself or hire a professional, it's worthwhile knowing a few details that might have an effect on your job's cost and overall outcome.

Choose the paint type as carefully as the color
Most people spend a lot of time choosing the right paint colors for their home, but they rarely spend the same effort choosing the right type of paint. There are several key components that contribute to the quality of house paint, including pigments (which affect color and sheen), and binders which affect a paint's adhesion adn durability. When paint is drying, the liquid component evaporates, leaving the pigments and binders behind as the actual coat of paint. Logically, higher quality paint will have more pigments and binders by volume, resulting in a thicker application, richer looking color, and a more durable coating. (Clearly you shouldn't thin your house paint, unless specified by the manufacturer.)

There are two types of house paint: water-based "latex" (which cleans up with soap and water) and oil-based "alkyd" (which cleans up with mineral spirits). It is widely acknowledged that modern high-quality latex paints have improved to such a degree that they outperform alkyd paint on most factors, including application, appearance and durability. For example, 100% acrylic latex paint is generally less likely to blister, flake, peel or chalk. In addition, latex dries more quickly, and maintains more elasticity and breathing ability. Nonetheless, oil based paints may be preferred under specific circumstances, where reliable adhesion is required, or when high-hiding properties are a concern.

Think of the Results
Don't compromise the quality and life span of your paint job by using the wrong paint, just because it's cheaper. High quality paint means high value: it goes on faster and easier, and requires less brushing, less retouching, and possibly fewer coats to achieve an attractive, uniform appearance. Also, less spattering results in less waste and faster, easier cleanup (especially with latex). When top quality paint is applied to a properly prepared surface, the actual cost of paint on a per year basis may well be lower than a cheaper exterior paint because of the paint's life span. However, since every paint type has its own unique characteristics, it's wise to ask a qualified paint dealer to recommend the right paint for the job at hand.

Regardless of the type of paint, read the label carefully before you buy. Check the manufacturer's warranty and look for the features and properties that will achieve the intended results. Below are a few desirable paint characteristics that may add confidence to your decision:

Features Benefits
High Adhesion Resists blistering, peeling, etc.
Chalk Resistance Delays aging from exposure
Mildew Resistance Suppresses bacterial growth
Color Retention Maintains original appearance longer
Alkali Resistance Prevents deterioration on fresh masonry
Dirt Resistance Sheds airborne dust and dirt

Your Home Deserves the Attention
Most homeowners know that they need to care for their investment through regular upgrades and maintenace. Yet, some don't realize that a fresh paint job can actually enhance the perceived value of a house. A new coat of top quality paint protects the hom's exterior against the elements. Plus, when you show your interest in the appearance of your home, you communicate your intention to protect the hom's integrity. That is the kind of pride that gets noticed by visitors and prospective buyers. It's also the kind of pride that can easily catch on throughout an entire neighborhood, and help maximize everyone's property values.

Home's Exterior

If your home's exterior requires repair or replacement, you may want to consider changing the finish or material. While the objective may be to find a product to effectively withstand the elements, the result will also impact the overall appearance and first impression of your home. Of course, certain choices will be more appropriate than others, depending upon the style, location, elevation and exposure of your home. You'll also need to consider the fire safety, maintenance and utitity requirements of each product - not to mention the cost of the product and its installation. When you get right down to it, you'll discover that there are some great choices available to give any house or extension a whole new look and feel.

WOOD Siding
Wood siding has long been a practical and stylish home exterior, thanks to a plentiful supply, ease of handling and resistance to weather. Even though newer more durable siding materials are available, wood siding remains viable due to improved treatments and coatings that help ensure its weather resistance. This product is commonly positioned in horizontal planks, slightly overlapped to keep water out. However, there are also many other exterior applications for wood siding, including vertical "board and batten" siding, treated exterior wood paneling sheets and reclaimed barn boards.

PREFABRICATED Siding
Manufactured siding has improved significantly over the years, and offers many advantages. It comes in a wide range of materials, (vinyl, aluminum, steel, etc.) and has many color and finish options to match or coordinate with any home whether rustic, colonial or modern in style. This siding has virtually no maintenance issues, so your choice will be entirely personal, and based on visual preference, availability and cost.

STUCCO and sheathing
Stucco has evolved from its Native American and Mediterranean heritages and has become well established as a reliable home exterior throughout North America. A professionally installed stucco finish is very resilient and easy to maintain. Small cracks can be easily repaired and should be addressed before they get bigger. However, larger cracks may indicate structural problems, so an authorized building inspector and a reliable repair person should be consulted. A modern alternative to a traditional stucco exterior utilizes large sheathing panels with a waterproof plaster-like finish, which allow for quicker installation and individual replacement. This method is often combined with wood strips to conceal seams, such as in Tudo or ranch-style homes.

LOGS AND Log Facings
Modern log cabins look a lot like their predecessors, but newer methods and materials make them a very practical and long-lasting choice for a home exterior. If you don't plan to replace your exterior walls with full-sized logs, you can still achieve the look with a "log veneer" facing on an existing weatherproof wall. Plaster-like "chinking" between rows prevents moisture penetration while maintaining that authentic log cabin look.

STONE, BRICK, or inlay
Stone and brick have always been considered weatherproof. While stone tends to only b used in areas with a nearby supply, brick is available just about anywhere and provides solid protection if graded accordingly. Look for a performance guarantee from both the manufacturer and the installer, since even the best bricks are only as strong as the mortar used to hold them together. A cost-saving alternative to a stone or brick exterior is inlaid flagstone or brick facings set in a watherproof compound. Consult a qualified professional to ensure you get a worry-free finish that lives up to its appearance.

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.

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

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!

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!