The number one place that adds value to your home is the kitchen, and understandably so- it truly is the heart of the home where families gather and spend lots of time, this renovation will usually bring the highest return.

Another money maker is adding additional living space, this can be accomplished in a few ways, you can finish a basement to create a large recreational room or finish attic space for a cozy t.v room or home theatre, or you can put an addition on the home to gain an extra family room.

Another renovation to consider is new flooring throughout your home, this will create a nice seamless flow and make your home feel open and spacious which appeals to buyers.

A renovated bathroom will also yield a high return, adding a glass tiled shower, re-grouting old stained grout, adding a fresh modern vanity are all ways to accomplish a clean, crisp, sparkling bathroom.

And lastly this one is low cost and most people can do it themselves – Paint! A fresh coat of paint throughout the home in a modern colour scheme will tie everything together and give your home a stunning face lift. Go a little further and add some accents while you’re at it like an area rug and throw pillows these finishing touches will warm and cozy up your space.

Keep in mind a bad job can cost you to lose money so if you’re not handy, leave the renovations to the experts. When doing any renovation be sure to keep it neutral and modern so you appeal to the masses, don’t make anything too personal if the goal of your reno is to sell in the near future.

The post Best renovations to add value to your home! appeared first on The Eden Team.

“The speed of your success is limited only by your dedication and what you’re willing to sacrifice.”

Nathan W. Morris

Now that we can all agree that nothing comes easy and sacrifices must be made we’ll jump right into our first money saving tip!

1. Prioritize! Pick the most important things to spend your money on and find cheaper ways to do them. Limit yourself to a determined amount of spending money a month and don’t go over it!
2. A big money pit is your vehicle, I’m sorry to say it but as convenient as a vehicle is it’s costing you! Gas alone is a huge expense and on top of that you have car payments, insurance and maintenance. Invest in a bus pass or bike – you’ll be doing the environment and your health a favour on top of your wallet!
3. Move in with family or find a room mate to share the cost of living with. Let’s face it rent isn’t cheap and it’s hard to save up while you’re paying to live. Let’s say average rent is $1300/month, for 12 months that’s $15,600 splitting the cost with a roommate equals a savings of $7,800 a year!
4. Stop eating out – not even coffee! Take a little time to meal plan and invest in a nice thermos, trust me it will get easier as you develop the habit of making a lunch and buying the right groceries. Focus on the added health benefit to get you through!
5. Cut the cable! This one might sound difficult especially for the TV lover, but with the inexpensive cost of Netflix these days it’s an easy money saver! Cable will cost you around $60/month versus Netflix at $10/month, this is a savings of $50 a month and $600 a year!

It’s all about finding cheaper smarter ways to do things while keeping the ultimate goal of home buying in mind!

The post How To Save For A Downpayment appeared first on The Eden Team.