You have just moved into your first home. Whether you are renting or purchased your first home, making it feel like an actual home can take some time and settling into.

It may be harder to decorate a rental property as it’s mostly used for short term provisions but creating a sense of home is something to be perceived in our minds. A house can become more than a home. In this article we are going to look at two of the happiest nations on the planet, Canada and Denmark.

Both these nations have similar values in how we handle the long, cold and dark winters. As Canadians we have the feeling of hominess in our culture whereas our cousins in Denmark have something called, "hygge" (pronounced hoo-ga). Although people don't really know the actual translation of hygge and what makes a home "hyggelik" or homey as it's a broad ranging topic.

It has been called everything from,"coziness of the soul", "the art of creating intimacy", and "taking pleasure from the presence of soothing things" to "the absence of annoyance" and many more. One thing we do know for certain about hygge and hominess is that they are both about creating an atmosphere and experience. A feeling of home.

Here are 9 tips for decorating your first home.

1. Lamps and Lighting

Creating the right atmosphere in most situations has something to do with lighting. Making your first home have warm, ambient lighting such as candle light can create a warm, welcoming experience for you and your guests. Be warned that candles can create fire hazards and dangerous fumes so let's look at a healthier alternative – lamps.

When choosing a lamp, the light temperature matters. We often think of fancy restaurants having warm, dim bulbs to be welcoming. The same goes with your first home. To create a "hyggeligt" atmosphere the lower the bulb temperature is the best rule of thumb. Think about that first hot date watching the sunset. We want the room to be the same light temperature as the sunset and candle light which is roughly 1,800 K. A recommended bulb type is the Edison bulb.

2. Things made of Wood

There's just something about wooden objects that create a sense of home. It’s raw, it has textures, it is simple and best of all it connects us to nature. The feel of snuggling up in a log cabin chalet in the Rockies, seeing children play with simple wooden toys or the creek of a wooden floor. Things made of wood give us the connection to nature and a simple sense of hominess.

3. Throw Blankets and Cushions

With our cold, long winters is there anything better than snuggling up in a blanket by the fire? Adding a faux fur throw is a great way to make your first home feel more welcoming.

Adding cushions to your blankets is also an essential. What's better than leaning your head on a cozy cushion reading your favourite book?

A quick visit to Ikea can certainly help. When adding your blankets consider the weight for the season. Add a glass of wine and perfect mood lighting and you're in for a perfect night.

4. Tactile Goods

We talk a lot about the atmosphere and mood lighting but we want to take into account all our senses. One we don't often think about when decorating our first home is how things feel. Running your fingers along the grain of a wooden table, the warmth of a coffee cup we take for granted or the softness of a faux fur throw.

Add some textures to your home. You won't regret it.

5. House Plants

Bringing nature into our home goes beyond wood. We've mentioned faux fur throws and now we are mentioning plants. House plants and flowers are well-recognized for their ability to positively impact our mood and reduce stress, among other things. When we go out in nature, we de-stress and create a sense of calm in our souls. What's better than bringing this into our homes?

Like fresh food? You may want to think about adding a windowsill herb garden to cook with.

Adding artwork to your home is a great way to make your home feel welcoming overnight. Have you walked into an empty house? One of the first things you notice is the bare walls making a house feel like just a house. Adding vibrantly coloured art work can make a space more pulled together, less empty and more welcoming

7. Declutter Your Space

A cluttered home leads to a cluttered mind. In this article we mention that creating a home is often about atmosphere. Adding clutter to our atmosphere is like pollution for our minds. Taking a couple moments each day to put your clothes away or make your bed can greatly add to our sense of hominess. If you don't notice it in the short term, you'll notice that keeping your first home clean and decluttered will be a lot easier on your mind long term.

8. Add a Mirror

Placing a mirror in strategic locations can make any room feel bigger and brighter. If you have a small apartment or room this can make a huge impact. Not only functional, you can often find vintage mirrors that add some character to your room.

9. Add Vintage items to your space

Let nostalgia come into play. Adding Vintage items to your first home creates many new narratives as the objects often hold a story of their own. All things have a history and adding them creates hygge.

Come Home to Happiness

While hygge is very suggestive and open to one’s interpretation we can see many commonalties when it comes to fostering a safe and welcoming atmosphere in our first home or even presenting our homes to sell. More often than not we see that nature plays an important role in our homes but if you want the most of hygge be sure to add some outdoor time to your life as well. If you're looking to purchase or rent your first home contact our office and one of our agents will help you on your way to living well!

Hiring a property manager is a great step to take when owning rental property. Property managers take a lot of the weight off the shoulders of the owner when it comes to maintaining the property, dealing with tenants, and much more. It's even more beneficial to hire a property manager when your rental property is in a different state than you.

When this happens, it makes it more difficult to manage your property since you can't be there in person to see everything through. However, you need to take your time and ensure that you're hiring someone who you can trust with your property and your income.

The best way to give yourself peace of mind when leaving your property in someone else's care is to know the right questions to ask a property manager during the hiring process. Below is a list of several different questions that you'll want to ask before deciding which property manager to hire.

Continue reading to learn more!

1. Do You Have Experience with All Tenants?

As a property owner, you need your property manager to handle all tenant questions and concerns. If you own multiple properties, the amount of time you would need to spend answering all tenants' questions would consume your entire week. You'd rather be focusing your time and energy on other things.

That's why it's important to ask your potential property manager about the experience he or she has dealing with all types of tenant interactions. You want to hire someone who can handle all of these things for you and only bring to you the questions or concerns that require your attention. 

2. How Will You Help Keep My Unit Occupied?

Keeping your unit or units occupied at all times is essential for a property owner to keep constant cash flow. Without a tenant to occupy a unit, there's no money to be made. Because of this, be sure to ask how the property manager will help you keep all of your units occupied. 

A good property manager understands how the market works and will get to know all of your tenants. A property manager who gets to know tenants is essential. This helps keep everyone on the same page. 

For example, if your property manager knows that your tenants are planning on moving out, he or she can begin to find a new tenant before the current one leaves.

3. How Will You Help Me Improve Cash Flow?

The entire purpose of having a rental unit is to rent it out and make some kind of profit out of it. Ask your potential property manager how he or she will help you improve your cash flow. Ideally, you would bring in tenants and they would pay their rent on time each month and there would be no problems with the property.

However, this isn't always the case. You need a property manager who's going to ensure the rent is paid on time each month and will take appropriate actions when it's not. Your property manager should also help you with finding the best prices on service providers for repairs and maintenance around the unit. 

Find someone who's going to help manage your expenses and create the cash flow you need. 

4. Do You Have Established Relationships? 

Property managers sometimes have established relationships with companies, which can help you get discounted prices. This might not always be the case, but it's worth a shot to ask your potential property manager about the types of connections or established relationships that they have.

These relationships could be with electricians, landscapers, plumbers, and other types of services. These companies are more willing to provide the best of their services to people they have relationships with. You might not have the time to build these connections, but a property manager does. 

In return, this could help you save dramatically. 

5. How Are Tenants Screened Before Renting?

Your rental unit is your investment. The only way to keep it that way is to ensure your renters are honest and overall good tenants. To be sure of this, ask your potential property manager how he or she will screen tenants before allowing them to rent the unit. 

Some screening processes might include speaking to past landlords, looking up job history, and running background checks. You want to know what all will be done to determine which renters are selected and which ones aren't. Make sure that the property manager you choose has a plan of action for how he or she will screen the tenants. 

6. Do You Have References for Me to Review?

Prior to hiring a property manager, ask him or her for a list of references. A good property manager won't have any trouble offering you a list of references that might include past clients, contractors, real estate agents, and more. When speaking to these references, be sure to ask them about any good aspects and bad aspects of working with the property manager. 

7. Do You Have the Proper Licenses? 

One of the most important things to ask your potential property manager is if he or she has the proper license. Depending on what state your unit is located in, there might be different licenses required for property managers to have. 

There are also trade organizations that provide property managers with certifications. Ask your potential property manager about what types of licenses or certificates he or she has. 

Know What Questions to Ask a Property Manager Before Making the Hire! 

Don't hire your next property manager blindly. Know these questions to ask a property manager before working with them. Doing so ensures the best rental experience possible. 

Ready to get started? Contact us today to see how we can help you!

They say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover but should you judge a house by its curb appeal? Much like a book, your home's outside can give an impression on what's inside.

Whether you are selling or preparing your home for rent small changes can lead to a greater curb appeal. Here are ten tips on how to increase your home's curb appeal on a budget.

1. Take care of your front lawn

Taking care of your lawn is much like your hair. To look presentable, in most situations you want your hair styled. You want the same for your lawn. When you mow the grass, kill the weeds and rake the leaves it will also lead to a healthier, thicker lawn. Add some water and you will reduce the brown spots. This will show potential buyers and renters that your home is generally well cared for.

2. Trim trees and bushes

Thinking green and increasing your home's curb appeal on a budget brings up something for the green thumbs. If you cannot see your home from the curb then what's the point of adding curb appeal?

More often than not, a basic pair of pruning shears can cut down overgrown trees and shrubs hiding your home. Trim runaway plants and shrubs to create a neat and orderly look and feel. A pair of pruning shears only costs a few dollars so consider it a tree-t on the pocket book.

3. Clean the exterior

It may not seem like much but dirt and grime build up fast on the siding, especially in newer areas where there is construction. Using your garden hose, turn it to the strongest setting and blast the dirt and grim way. For situations with lots of dust, a light bristle brush or a power washer can add an extra punch when it comes to rinsing off the dust. Just don't apply too much pressure because you can blast through the siding. Once you're done your home's colours will be brighter.

4. Paint the front door

This little step can make a dramatic change for the better. Adding some colour to make your door pop is a sure-fire way to increase your curb appeal on a budget. Some colour coordination is needed here. You will want to pick a colour that contrasts well with your house. In this case you'd want to opt for a bold colour that will help accentuate the other colours. Optionally you can use the Front Door Paint app which will let you test out alternative colour options or, you can go to a local paint store and ask a store associate.  They are well trained and have seen many ideas passed by them.

5. Enhance the door

Since we're on the topic of doors let's open up more options by adding more décor. If you don't want to paint, consider adding a wreath or planters. If you're feeling extra creative you can pick up an old set of planters from a thrift store or garage sale and a can of spray paint. You can bring new life to something old to create a memorable and welcoming front entrance.

6. Updating the lighting

We don't often think about the lighting but a quick swap from an outdated or builder grade fixture can instantly brighten your home. If you're doing this yourself make sure the circuit breaker is off with no chance of accidental energization. Prove zero energy with a testing meter to reduce the risk of accidental shock however here at Bermont Realty we always suggest to work with a qualified electrician.

Feeling thrifty? Grab a can of spray paint and add a new colour for a fraction of the cost. From colour choices to new fixtures you will have watts to think about.

7. Clean the Windows

This tip will leave you seeing clearly. When you clean both the outside and inside panes you will add a sparkle to your home.  Clean the outside with a garden hose and then wipe both the inside and outside down with a micro-fibre cloth. This will leave a streak free shine.

For hard to reach places you may need a ladder or a squeegee on an extendable pole. Safety first, always have a friend or family member nearby to steady the ladder.

8. Upgrade the numbers on your house

Removing your old house numbers is a quick way to increase the appeal of your home to the modern age. You can add more character by replacing them with something that aligns better with your home's architecture. Choose a distinctive font that's not overly bold but will grab the eye.

You don't have to have a lot of hands on experience.. Replacing the numbers is an easy task that can be completed in a relatively short time.

9. Create Symmetry

Creating symmetrical patterns adds a focal point that is pleasing to the eyes and will immediately increase your home's curb appeal on a budget. One can easily achieve this look by adding the same planter or wall lanterns on each side of the door. Don't have room on the front porch? Consider doing the same on your garage door.

10. Clean your gutters

Gutters that are overflowing with sticks and leaves makes for a very unorderly, unclean look. Clearing out and cleaning gutters can make them like new. A clean gutter will drain water away from the home to prevent flooding.

The Take away

In a day you can transform your home by doing general maintenance or light touch ups that will boost your home's curb appeal on a budget. Most homes will have many beautiful elements to them and a quick touch up is all you need. By putting in a little effort you'll be amazed at the results and you may even fetch a higher asking price. If you are looking to sell or rent a home contact one of our agents today.  Oh yeah - Puns intended.

Edmonton is the capital city of Alberta. It's home to 1.3 million people. The Edmontonians live in a city with year-round interest, North America's largest mall and access to wonderful natural beauty.

Moving to St. Albert means you get the peace of living in a suburb, without being far from a world-class city. Learn about different things to do in Edmonton.

Things to Do in Edmonton

Barely a week goes by without a festival in Edmonton. Many of these events are annual celebrations with long traditions.

As well as the special events there are attractions that are available all year round. Edmonton has museums and attractions for all tastes. Add to that a diverse food and drink offer to please the most demanding of tastes.

Living in St. Albert means you can have the best of the small city of St. Albert and the big city that is Edmonton. Let's start the adventure.

Indigenous Experiences

The indigenous people of the Edmonton area include the Métis, Blackfoot, Salteaux, Nekota Sioux and Cree. This rich culture is celebrated in Edmonton with several festivals and permanent exhibitions.

The Edmonton Indigenous Peoples Festival is held every year. It's led by the Canadian Native Friendship Centre of Edmonton. These events are also part of the National Indigenous Peoples Day and feature entertainment, an artisan marketplace and opportunities to taste indigenous food.

Museums

If you love to visit museums there's plenty for you in Edmonton. The Alberta Aviation Museum features a display of historic aircraft and information about them. Little ones can be pushed around the exhibits in strollers made to look like small planes.

The Alberta Railway Museum preserves an important aspect of Canadian heritage. The contribution of railway engineering to the development of Canada and Edmonton is displayed here with something for old and young alike.

A museum with a very niche interest is the quirky Neon Sign Museum. It's a unique insight into a time when neon was the innovative way of attracting the attention of customers to stores, bars, and restaurants. It's nostalgic for those that remember these former downtown features and educational for the young.

Natural Beauty

Mill Creek Ravine is a popular attraction with trails and plenty of flora and fauna to see. Take a walk and enjoy peace and quiet while in the city. The trails are suitable for exploring at all times of the year and you can even ride a bike here.

William Hawrelak Park is a venue for several festivals but it's great to visit anytime too. Take a paddleboat for a ride, take a picnic or simply explore the trails. In winter there is a skating pond for the more energetic visitor.

If your preference is indoor natural beauty take a visit to Muttart Conservatory. The botanical garden isn't just a visitor attraction. It's also a centre for scientific research.

On a bigger scale, the Elk Island National Park on Highway 16 East is place for encounters with truly wild Canadian fauna. Bison, elk, moose, and beaver can be found here. There is also a wide range of birds including herons, owls, and geese.

Shopping

The largest mall in North America is here in Edmonton. The West Edmonton Mall is huge with over 800 stores. It also has entertainment, restaurants and fun for the whole family.

For a retail experience that's a little smaller but still very special, visit Old Strathcona Farmers' Market. It's an indoor farmers market providing all-year-round fresh produce direct from the farm to you. It includes handmade crafts, skincare products, plants and you can have a tasty meal there too.

If your preference is outdoor shopping rather than malls, then 4th Street Promenade may be for you. Shops and restaurants share this more traditional shopping area. See it at Christmas time when the lights are twinkling everywhere and there's plenty of Christmas spirit.

Food and Drink

Craft breweries have sprung up all over the world in recent years. Edmontonians have their fair share.

Town Square Brewing Co. is an award-winning tap house. This is a venue for friends to meet or a family gathering.

Sea Change Brewing Co. combines supplying craft beer with being a venue on the Edmonton music scene. A great night out.

Take a trip downtown to the H.V. Shaw Building. Here you'll find Yellowhead Brewery. It's a historic location and a tried and tested craft brewery with 10-years’ experience of brewing.

Your choice of coffee shop may be as important to you as a restaurant is to a gastronome. In Old Strathcona, try Block 1912 for fine coffee and fruit pies.

Café Leva serves meals along with their very special coffee. Coffee Bureau serves coffee and tea with fresh cookies and croissants.

If food is your thing then take a food tour. The walking food tour takes in Edmonton's food highlights as well as introducing you to the people who make it. Chefs, business owners, and artisans share their stories to bring to life the food of Edmonton and its culture.

Dining in Edmonton is an eclectic mix of styles. Uccellini is a popular Italian restaurant with a reputation for service and a special tasting menu. Baijiu is a small intimate characterful restaurant with an Asian vibe. 

Music and Dance

Dance and music are always part of great nightlife and Edmonton has plenty to offer. The Funky Buddha, The Buckingham and The Common might make it into your list of favourite places to strut your stuff. If you need a little Dutch courage, the tequila cellar at El Cortez's might help.

Live music is a regular feature of The Station and the Starlite Room. Both feature local, national and international musical talent.

Blues music fans will love Blues on Whyte. There's a dance floor and the live music is on seven days a week.

Make a Plan

There are so many things to do in Edmonton you need to plan. Check the festival calendar and clear your diary. Make a date with friends and family and take some time out to get to know Edmonton.

Contact us about real estate in St. Albert. 

As an entrepreneur growing your business is exciting but leasing your first office space can be both thrilling and overwhelming. You know there is risks in business but mitigating the risks with an education approach will help you grow your business to success. Right now, you've likely been working from home, café’s, pubs and numerous other community areas. Whether you need that office space now, or you're looking, our experts have some free tips to make sure you get the right space for your business. Please call Guy Hebert at 780-445-4723 to view office spaces that might fit your needs.

1. Know Your Needs

Do you need space for your business or is it something you'd like? Some businesses will require a place to call their own but with technological advancements some businesses run just fine working from home or a cozy café. Having your business function and thrive in these alternative environments can save you a lot of time and money.

2. Business Location

How many times have you heard, "location, location, location" in real estate. This mantra does not only remain true for buying your property, it is true when it comes to leasing.

Choosing a prime location that will be easy to access and is close for your employees for commuting will not only impact your business directly it will make your employees happier which has numerous other benefits for your business. In fact, a study of 1000 people said the ideal commute to work was no more than 16 minutes.

3. Nearby Amenities and Services

When considering your first office space think about the desired amenities you'd like close to your business. Being close to a café, restaurant or other boutiques can increase foot traffic whilst keeping your employees happy. Being close to shops helps but thinking about your day-to-day activities is another factor. Often you may need to do regular visits to banks, or other meeting spaces.

Being relatively close to your employee's homes can broaden their modes of transportations. For these reasons it’s important to consider other factors such as parking stalls and a secured area for bike storage. With the increase of bike lanes and paths in St. Albert, Edmonton and other major cities more and more people are biking to work. If you do not have a dedicated spot consider a bike rack or storage space within the building.

4. Property Accessibility

When considering an office space how accessible do you want your business to be? Is the office building you're looking to get close to public transportation such as the LRT or bus stop? Is it close to a free way? How visible from the street will your business be?

5. Business Locations Affects SEO

These days Google is everything. From asking Google for directions to a friend's house or a local business. Where your business is located physically can impact you digitally. According to Snap SEO the ideal business location to better impact your businesses online presence is closest to the city centre.

With this in mind you'll be better positioned to rank better than your competitors.

6. Consider your Budget

Looking past your business location your monthly lease payment can be one of your business's largest bills. Knowing this it is important to set a budget and stick to it. Putting your company into debt or stunting its growth can be detrimental to business growth. Make sure you are clear and realistic on what you can afford. Perhaps you can forego a larger extravagant space for something cozier.

Consider the Expenses

When renting an office space there is extra expenses to consider. Your lease is just one factor when it comes to your budget but the added expenses can really add up. Consider other expenses such as:

• Property tax
• Phone and Internet
• Utilities (Power, Water gas)
• Insurance

Consider rent to own furniture

To cut down initial purchase costs it may benefit you to look into rent-to-own furniture to fill up your space. In the short term this is much more cost effective and allows you to modernize your technology when something greater and better comes to market.

7. Lease Agreements

Once you have picked out the property for your business you will want to look at the lease agreement. Having a lease agreement that is clear and concise will reduce a lot of headaches in the future. Make sure the lease clearly defines all the provisions. A verbal agreement between your landlord and you with some additional costs such as the power being included is just that – a verbal agreement. Having items in writing will protect both you and your landlord.

Who is responsible for building maintenance?

In your lease make sure it is clearly defined who is responsible for repairs. An unexpected water leak can damage goods and information. If you are responsible for repairs leave some extra room in your budget.

Lease Length

The length of your lease may vary in options from a year to five years and beyond. Locking in your lease for a long-term lease for multiple years may save you a dime but you want to make sure you will not outgrow the space. On the contrary you don't want to be stuck with a bill in case your business folds. Whatever the case it’s important to consider the term you want to carry for your lease.

Tenant Responsibilities

Before signing a lease read it over thoroughly. Scan it and ensure you clearly understand all your responsibilities as a tenant. As mentioned above you may be responsible for power, utilities and more while some locations may have them included.

8. Move Forward with Confidence

Taking your business to the next level requires you to collaborate with the right experts to get the knowledge right from the source. At Bermont Realty we are leaders in commercial leasing and have a huge selection to choose from. Feel free to drop us a line by going to our contact us page.

Being a renter can be tough and getting the first months rent and a security deposit can be daunting task, especially since most of us live pay cheque to pay cheque. Like most renters you want the full amount of your security deposit back.

From a property manager perspective, we want to give back your security deposit and we are usually happy to do so. There are a few things that we will look for when it comes to giving back the full amount of your security deposit.

Before and During the Move in process

Keeping your security deposit starts before you move into the home. The moment you get your keys and do your initial property walk through you want to note any items that need repair, this not only lets the property owner and manager know what needs to repaired but it can contribute to your personal comforts. Having something in disrepair such as a furnace may be ok in the summer however in a cold Canadian winter you will be wishing that furnace was repaired at the initial walk through.

Clean the Space

Cleaning your property before moving out is a great start on getting back your security deposit back. It may vary from property to property however there is some common guidelines.

What was the condition of the property before you moved in?

Take before moving in photos and after. Compare the two. Are there stains on the floors or walls? Perhaps they need cleaning. Have you altered the property? (paint the walls, change flooring, add or remove walls etc.). When doing this be sure to have dated your pictures with written proof detailing the condition of your rental space.

If you have altered the property in anyway you may want to check to see if this was agreed upon by the property manager and landlord. Some times painting is not allowed and if you painted a room by mistake you may be required to paint it back to its original fine. Be careful because some times this comes with a penalty.

Checklist:

We provide a checklist for move-in and move-out inspections. Following the list is a great way to dramatically increase your chances of getting a security deposit back. Go through it and be thorough. After all a security deposit can be a large chunk of change.

Taking care of a rental property as you live in it

Once you have completed a move-in checklist you’re ready to have a place to call your own. Like everything some things may wear out. There may be leaks or severe weather. With this in mind it's important to report things to your property manager or landlord as they happen. If a faucet is leaking or a door handle jiggles more than it should, these are items that may need repair. Report it to your landlord as soon as reasonably practicable. This may not only reduce any further damage but also increase your state of mind knowing you’re living in a sound home.

Moving out of your rental space

Sometimes a living space may only last us so long and we may want to look else were or purchase a house of your own. When you’re ready to move out notify your landlord. When giving notification of your move out write them and ask, “I want to get my security deposit back. What can I do to maximize my return?” Asking this simple question lets the line of communication open up and gives notification to your property manager that you are moving out and looking elsewhere.

In the email also ask for the move-in checklist so you can compare. If none is provided ask for a cleaning list. We are really easy going and love to help. It’s that easy.

Having pets may cause some odours. It is important to do what you can to ensure that’s not the case when you’re ready to move on. Sometimes you become nose blind to these odours and may not get your full deposit back. Get a second opinion on the odours and do some extra cleaning.

Checklist before vacating

For your convenience here is a checklist to complete before vacating your property. Following this list will dramaticially increase the chances of getting your full deposit back.

• Clean in, out, behind and under the fridge and defrost and clean the freezer
• Leave the fridge door open if the power has been turned off
• Clean in, out behind and under the stove and clean the oven and burners on the stove
• Clean the dishwasher inside and out
• Clean the hood/vent and screen
• Clean the microwave inside and outside
• Wash the cupboards inside and outside
• Clean sinks and taps
• Clean inside and outside of all windows/tracks, screens, closet doors/tracks and patio doors/tracks
• Wash all walls, floors, baseboards, doors and stairs
• Dust curtain rods and window coverings/blinds or replace curtains with the landlord’s
• Dust or wash fans and vents, light fixtures, replace burnt out light bulbs
• Check the smoke detector, replace batteries as needed
• Clean bathroom thoroughly including the tub, tile, sink, vanity, mirror, medicine cabinet, cupboards and toilet
• Vacuum and have all carpets steam cleaned by a professional carpet cleaning company
• Clean the fireplace inside and outside
• Clean the washer and dryer inside and outside
• Clean the storage room – wash floors and walls
• Sweep the garage floor and wash if necessary
• Sweep the deck/patio and wash if necessary
• Cut and trim grass, weed flower beds
• Clear snow and ice from driveway and all sidewalks (if moving out in winter months)

Ample notice of move out date.

One of the common reasons you may not get a security deposit returned is breach of contract. Some tenants have moved out before their lease date without giving ample, or proper notice of moving out. Be sure to check your contract. When is the end date? Are you moving out too early or late? Following your contract guidelins is perhaps one of the best ways to ensure you get your deposit back.

Conclusion

As you can see by the list there is numerous reasons you can get dinged on your security deposit but with consideration to the check lists you can greatly increase your chances of getting it back. If you have any questions please contact us and ask for our property manager. We’d be happy to assist.

The commercial real estate market is booming in Canada, and it's not showing any signs of slowing down.

If you're an entrepreneur looking to invest in Canadian commercial real estate, now is definitely the time to take action and start shopping.

Shopping for commercial real estate can be challenging and overwhelming. It's definitely not impossible to find a great property, though. You just have to make sure you're asking the right questions.

Listed below are some key questions you need to ask when you're purchasing commercial property.

Is it in the Right Location?

There are a lot of similarities between the process of looking to rent a property and looking to buy a commercial property. For example, you need to make sure it's in the right location.

When you first start considering a particular commercial real estate property, think about the neighbourhood in which it's located.

Remember, too, that there's a difference between neighbourhoods that are desirable for residential properties and those that are better for commercial properties.

For example, things like self-storage units and car parks might not be appealing to people looking for homes and apartment buildings, but they can make commercial properties much more attractive.

Do plenty of research into a particular area before you decide to set up shop there.

What Developments are Taking Place in the Area?

In addition to thinking about the state of the neighbourhood at the time when you're shopping for a property, you need to think about what it will look like a few years from now, too. 

Certain developments will add to or subtract from a property's value and have an impact on the people who are most likely to patronize your business.

Be sure to ask your real estate broker what kinds of developments are in the works for the near future.

For example, is a new highway going to be built in the area and draw traffic away from local stores? If this is the case, the neighbourhood in question might not be a good option for your business.

How Long Has the Property Been for Sale?

As a general rule of thumb, it takes longer for commercial properties to come off the market compared to residential properties.

If a property has been for sale for a very long time, though, that might be a red flag.

Do some digging to find out how quickly commercial properties in a particular tend to stay on the market. Then, compare that number to the length of the time the property you're considering has been for sale.

If it's been on the market a lot longer than the average amount of time, there might some issues that you need to address.

Is the Developer Trustworthy?

Be sure to learn as much as you can about the property's developer, too.

Find out if they're a trustworthy person or not and how much experience they have. The reliability and business practices of the developer can have a big impact on the long-term potential and profitability of the property.

If you learn anything about the developer that seems shady, you may want to consider purchasing a different building. Even if it's being sold for a great price, there might be a not-so-good reason.

Does it Fit Your Business Goals?

If you're interested in a particular property but aren't totally sold on it yet, be sure to consider whether or not it fits your business goals.

Remember that this extends beyond just the appearance and location of the building. For example, you'll need to find out if there are any zoning restrictions that prohibit you from using the building for your intended purpose.

What Do I Know About the Neighbors?

If you're going to be sharing the property with anyone else -- or working in close quarters with them -- you should do some research to learn about the other businesses and business owners.

Find out if they contribute to common area expenses, how long they've been in the area, and what their annual rent is.

If you plan to rent out properties in the future, this will be useful information. it'll also let you know whether or not they'll be good business neighbours.

Are There Any Issues with the Building?

It's important to do your due diligence and make sure there aren't any serious issues with the building before you purchase it. It pays to have the property inspected by a third-party inspector to make sure everything is in good shape.

Before you hire an inspector, though, you should also be on the lookout for potential issues. This includes signs of wear and tear on the roof, cracks or settling in the concrete, and major health hazards like plumbing or electrical issues.

If you notice any of these issues, find out if the building owner is willing to get them fixed before you agree to purchase the property.

Can I Have a Pro Forma?

A pro forma is an important document for anyone looking to get involved in commercial real estate.

A pro forma provides you with a summary of all the relevant financial figures associated with a particular property. This includes the total income the building produces, as well as lists of expenses the building incurs. It also tells you about the building's total net income.

If you have access to a pro forma, you'll be able to get a better idea of whether or not a particular property is worth investing in. This will save you a lot of time and money further down the road.

Start Purchasing Commercial Property Today

As you can see, there are a lot of questions you need to ask when you're considering purchasing commercial property.

The process of finding the right property can be pretty overwhelming. If you ask the right questions, though, you'll have a much easier time finding a place that suits your needs.

Do you need help finding a great property for your business in the St Albert area? If so, we're here to help at Bermont Realty.

Contact us today to learn more about our services or to take a look at some of the best St Albert listings or check out our commercial listings.

Being on the lookout for a home to rent has its enjoyable moments, but it can also be a harrowing experience. Walking to a sizable pad that is accessible and within your budget: pleasure! Walking into a flat which does not look anything like the pictures: harrowing.

We've observed numerous rental scams in the last few years. To help you avoid scams and to sidestep prospective rentals that are just a waste of time, we have compiled a list of giant rental red flags to keep a lookout for throughout your search.

No invoice or receipt for a deposit

Many renters do not recognize that if a broker or management firm doesn't offer a receipt for your deposit, it is a big red flag. Before giving anyone a big chunk of change, look up their company and be sure they're legit.

If you know you are dealing with real brokers but they say they do not have proper receipts, ask them to email you confirmation, and don't leave them until you see it in your inbox.

You always want a paper trail in case any money changes hands.

Listings without images

Everyone has a camera in their pocket these days, so a property listing without at least a few photos typically suggests that the place is a dump.

If listing details are vague or there are no pictures, there is a good reason.

Too good to be true

You also need to be on the lookout for listings which claim the property is decked out by amenities, is below market value, and attributes photographs that look as though they belong in Architectural Digest.

If an apartment appears to be too good to be accurate in record pictures, then it probably is not accurate.

A bait and switch--where imitation photographs are posted in the list to lure potential renters--can happen, so let your common sense guide you before committing to anything or registering a lease sight unseen.

If it feels just like you are making out like a bandit, then you probably don't have all of the facts, and you need to continue your search elsewhere.

Untidy common areas

It may seem minor, but trash that has blown into the landscaping or a dirty common area may be red flag as well.

"If the property manager does not care enough to arrive a couple of minutes early to set the stage for a fantastic tour, what else might they not care about?" If a rental appears like it isn't well-maintained, then you're bound to become an unhappy tenant.

No credit or background check

A landlord or employee of a management company who doesn't require a background or credit rating might seem easygoing. You do not have to bother with paperwork or cover the fees for these tests? What a dream! However, a laissez-faire landlord might just not care about the condition of the property or having a responsible tenant live there.

A fantastic landlord always wants to get qualified tenants in place, so be careful if you find an apartment and the landlord is quick to ask for money with no background check.

Requesting a large hunk of cash upfront

But if landlords request over the standard amount upfront, then they might be trying to scam you.

Upfront fees vary throughout the nation, and local laws dictate how much landlords can request. Thus doing a simple Google search to see what's normal in your town can save you a lot of money.

Rushed or pristine property showings

If the agent or landlord appears to be trying to rush you through the home, there is usually a reason.

Itt could be a terror of a neighbor, with loudly dogs along with a horrible temper you just never know.

So to find a crystal clear picture of this property--and also the persistent noises about it--take some time to visit the neighborhood at various hours of the day.

Playing phone tag with the property manager

Is it challenging to accomplish a showing with the landlord or property manager? Think about how hard it will be to reach them if you really live there and have a repair or a query about your rent. It may look like a minor inconvenience while looking for a rental, but how they conduct business prior to signing a lease is generally a sign of how they'll treat you after you are officially a renter.

Conclusion

At Bermont Realty we do our best to maintain a high level of customer service.  We are quick to act and available most times of the day to assist your needs be it an emergency repair or a question. List your property for rent or finding a property to rent in St. Albert, Mornville and the surrounding area we are here to serve you better.

When it comes to selling a home, appearances are everything. That is why more and more homeowners hoping to impress buyers are investing in house staging however decluttering, styling, and making your home look its absolute best, this procedure can make you want to pull your hair out.

To make this job a little easier, we asked sellers for their own best home-staging advice, we then compiled their greatest tips. If you are getting ready to put your home on the current market, use these pointers to spruce things up in a jiffy--and help buyers fall in love with your property.

Keep your home tidy 24/7

When showing a home, it is important to keep your house tidy with all your possessions peeled away for two reasons. To begin with, you do not always know who's walking through your house. A listing agent can not be in every room to observe your valuables.

Secondly, a tidy house looks better. You want potential buyers to come in and see a beautiful dream house, not your own clutter. You never know when a potential buyer will need a last-minute tour, so put your dishes away as soon as you're done eating, pick up dirty clothes on the floor, and make your bed daily.

Invest in a few trendy items

Before showing, you need to update your house with a few new, trendy pieces to make it even more on-trend. Look on Pinterest to see what's fashionable at this time, or see open homes to find out how they are staged. After that, re-create the appearance. Don't worry, you are able to do so while being budget-friendly! When selling homes some owners ended up investing in a couple of pieces--a new duvet cover, a few curtains, and a few wall hangings--to make their house look much more like other houses that were on the market. All of this stuff just cost only a couple of hundred bucks, but have a great deal of compliments on personality and, in the end, the home sold for more than anticipated. Bear in mind that spending a couple hundred on décor could end up getting you thousands in the long run.

Make Your House feel like their Property

The very best home-staging wisdom we have discovered is that potential buyers need to see themselves in your property. That is why real estate agents tell you to clean out any personal pictures you have on the walls. You do not want buyers to consider it as your residence, because it is going to make it tougher for them to picture themselves living there. For the exact same reason, do your best not to be home when your house is being toured. If buyers see you, they will recall that they're guests.

Unless you feel very strongly about people taking off their shoes, remember that you're moving, so it doesn't really matter whether people are tracking in dirt. Plus, for some people it's awkward to walk around in their socks, and you don't want potential buyers to feel uncomfortable.

Spray a clean, easy scent

You can kill a individual's curiosity by showing them a house that smells like dirty teenagers and smelly dogs. Houses need to smell fresh and clean, but shouldn't smell like compounds. Invest in a very excellent home odor spray using a gentle odor, like lavender or fresh linen.

Don't try to hide your clutter

It's common to use the garage as a place to stash the boxes you've cleared out of your house for a showing. But you still need the garage to look presentable. People today want to search the entire house. Take this opportunity to clean it all out.

Buyers may also open cabinets. They are not trying to be invasive--they only want to see how much space you've got. Do not believe that you can cram everything behind those doors and it is going to be invisible. People will look through everything, and when they do open closet doors, they probably won't love being fulfilled with an avalanche of stuff. In fact, it will most likely make them think your house does not have sufficient storage, and they'll move onto another.

Get your pets out of the house

The best advice we give before selling a house was to make sure that your my pets and potential buyers feel comfortable. Meeting somebody else's creatures can be stressful. Pets might be protective of their possessions, so owners should think about taking them someplace else during showings.

If someone is coming over for a tour, take that opportunity to walk your dog. However, if you must leave your pets in your home, always make sure that you leave instructions on how to handle them. Offer your list agent instructions on where to put dogs if they get rowdy (such as a guest room), but don't just assume you can just put your pets in the garden, since buyers want to find that the outdoor space also.

Now that you have discovered how to stage your home contact one of our amazing real estate agents to get your property listed.

Are you planning on selling your home? If so, you'll need to prepare if you want to get the best deal possible. After all, the steps you take before showing your house to prospective buyers can make or break your chance of selling for the best profit possible.

Not sure where to get started? Don't worry. We have all the information you need right here.

Keep reading for ten essential tips about preparing your home for sale. Let's get started!

1. Let Go

If you want to prep your house for sale, you'll need to start by letting go of your emotions and attachments. This will make the entire process much easier. Here are some helpful steps you can take to achieve this.

Make Sure That You're Ready to Sell

If you're not emotionally prepared to sell your home, don't. It's better to wait until you're ready. And if you don't feel ready but you simply have to sell immediately, get support from your loved ones.

Recognize Possible Stress

Selling your home can be stressful and emotional. Recognize that these emotions may be a part of the process for you. Don't fight against them, observe them and work with them.

Think of Your Home as a Product

The first step in preparing a home for sale is to disassociate. Stop thinking of your home as a place where you live, but rather a product for sale.

2. Preparing Your Home for Sale Means Decluttering

Removing the clutter from your home is an important step when it comes to preparing your house for sale. It will make your home look nicer during showings and your eventual move so much easier.

Sort through your belongings and keep only your favourite items or things you need. Put the items you'd like to keep away neatly in boxes. Donate everything else to charity.

If you're struggling to declutter your space, consider renting a storage unit to clear things up.

3. Find a Great Agent

A trustworthy and professional estate agent will make selling your home easier, faster, and more profitable. Before you begin the process of preparing to sell your house, connect with an excellent agent in your area.

To find the best match for you, look for the following qualities:

• Experience
• A personality that's compatible with yours
• Familiarity with your area
• Positive feedback or reviews

With an agent that checks off each item on the list above, you can't go wrong.

4. Perform Updates and Repairs

To make your home as attractive as possible to potential buyers, perform some routine updates before your agent starts showing. Update lighting fixtures, replace light bulbs and repaint any peeling or chipped areas. Making your home look modern, bright, and updated will help it sell faster.

5. Gather the Necessary Paperwork

To begin the process of any final sale, your agent and buyers will need the necessary paperwork. Speed that process up by gathering these documents in advance. Look for mortgage details, tax paperwork, utility bills, etc.

6. Take Advantage of Curb Appeal

"Curb appeal" is how nice your home looks from the street. Skyrocket your property's curb appeal by tidying up the front of your home.

Clean your deck if you have one, give your exterior a fresh coat of paint, and touch up your front door if you need to. Add some fresh plants to make your home's exterior look extra inviting.

7. Don't Forget the Back Garden Too

When people view your home they'll be looking closely. Don't neglect the back of your property while tidying up.

Trim the grass, clean the grill, and make the garden look neat and beautiful. Even if you're selling your home during the winter, you can still ensure that things look well-kept and attractive.

8. Continue Cleaning Daily

Once your home is sparkling clean inside and out, don't let it slip. Throughout the process of preparing your home for sale, continue cleaning every day.

Good daily cleaning habits will keep your home looking spotless. This way, whenever your agent wants to show your house to a potential buyer, you'll be ready.

Here are some simple ways to keep your house clean every day:

• Make the bed right when you wake up
• Continue purging items even after your big decluttering project
• Get rid of junk mail immediately
• Start washing dirty laundry in the morning
• While dinner is cooking, clean up your living areas
• Unload the dishwasher at the beginning of the day to keep surfaces clear

If you can focus on making these tasks a part of your everyday routine, you'll keep your home clean and prepared for showings.

9. Make Plans for Your Pets

Although your family may love their furry friends, potential buyers may feel differently. When you have a showing scheduled, make sure that your pet is either secured in a safe place or out of the house.

Have a family friend take your dog for a walk, or create a relaxing environment for your cat in the laundry room with food, water, and a litter box. Let potential buyers know if you have pets around, just in case they have aversions or allergies to certain animals.

10. Let Your Agent Do the Rest

Once your home is fully prepared for sale, it's time to put all of your trust in your agent. After all, an experienced agent will know just what to do to get you the best deal possible. So sit back, relax, and make sure that they have everything they need to get the job done well.

Wrapping Up

As you can see, learning how to prepare your house for sale doesn't have to be stressful. If you follow the ten simple steps above, you're sure to have a successful sale.

Just remember to declutter your home and complete any necessary repairs and updates to both the interior and exterior. When preparing your home for sale, it's important to work with an agent who you can trust. When you find that person, you can feel at ease.

Do you have any questions about selling your home? Check out our selling resources page for tons of information. We're here to help!

It's no surprise that St. Albert is the seventh best place to live in Canada. Out of a list of qualifications and ratings, it beat 410 other cities.

If you're looking for the perfect city to move to, you need to consider St. Albert.

From natural space to a downtown core, you get the best of both worlds. It caters to growing families and single-dwellers. For a small city, it has everything you need.

Keep reading to find out more about your dream hometown. There are hundreds of awesome reasons to move to St. Albert, Canada, but here are the top ten.

1. It's Super Safe

One of the biggest things families look for when moving is a low crime rate. You want to know your children will be safe to play outside and grow up. Low crime rates allow you to feel comfortable and safe in your city.

St. Albert's crime rate is exceptional; it has the lowest crime rate in the province.

This stat represents a significant drop from previous years. The city has put immense effort and money into making the city safer. This means increased police presence and accessible emergency services.

You can feel safe and secure knowing that St. Albert is one of the safest cities in Canada.

2. There's Plenty of Nature

While concrete jungles can be nice, everyone needs a little nature in their space. Luckily, St. Albert offers more than a little. This stunning city is bursting with parks, conservation areas, and outdoor space.

You can go hiking, running, or for a casual walk on the Red Willow Trail. This trail system has over 85 kilometres of paths that wind through forests and fields.

The city has over 100 parks and playgrounds to explore with your family. Since nature is such a big presence in the city, there are many outdoor events and gatherings to join.

3. The Bustling Downtown Core

We all need somewhere to go out for a night on the town. Head down to St. Albert's downtown core. Here you'll find all sorts of entertainment outlets and dining options.

There are hundreds of restaurants and bars to choose from. See a movie at the cinema or a live show at the Arden Theatre.

Explore the various independent cafes and stores. You can buy all your necessities and gifts from local vendors. Thus, further supporting the local economy.

4. Annual Festivals and Special Events

The community of St. Albert is very connected and close. Part of the reason for this is the list of annual events and festivities. Residents gather together for these year-round celebrations.

Here are some crowd-pleasers you'll want to check out:

• Cultural Kitchen Nights
• St Albert Mixed Bonspiel
• Leading Edge RunWild Race

With a city focused on community and involvement, you'll always have things to do.

5. Thriving Local Eats

St. Albert is a city that prides itself on having local food options. The less you depend on importing food in, the more sustainable you can be.

At the St. Albert Farmers Market, you can shop at one of the 250 vendor stalls. Get your groceries for the week as well as some extra goodies. It's the largest market in Western Canada.

6. The Block Party Tradition

You may have heard of neighbourhoods doing a block party once in a while. But, no one takes this community event as seriously as the residents of St. Albert.

Last year, over 150 neighbourhoods in St. Albert participated in this annual tradition. It's a chance to get to know your neighbours and make connections. Kids play, parents prepare food, and everyone gets together.

7. A Variety of Real Estate Opportunities

There are many housing options for you to choose from in St. Albert. While most young families lean toward single-family houses, you don't have to.

St Albert has plenty of condos, apartment buildings, townhomes, and semi-detached options. Some are for sale and some are for rent. No matter your budget, there's a home perfectly-suited to you here.

8. Excellent Education Options

There's no shortage of quality schools to choose from in St. Albert. From daycare to secondary school, the options are all top of the line.

You can even enrol your kids in French Immersion or International Baccalaureate programs.

When it comes time for university, you're a short drive from all Edmonton's institutions. For example, Athabasca University and the University of Alberta.

9. A Strong Focus on Health and Wellness

St. Albert is a city that values health and wellness. Nutritious food options and active lifestyles are popular here. If you're looking for a city to get healthy in, this is it.

There are dozens of fitness facilities you can join, like Orange Theory and Goodlife. You could hire a personal trainer or make use of the hiking trails with your family.

For every 1000 residents, there are over 2.5 doctors. That's an amazing ratio compared to other cities. With access to the best health services, your wellness takes priority.

10. It's Green and Proud

Canada makes it internationally known that we care about protecting the environment. St. Albert is a city that puts that statement to the test.

As an environmental steward, St. Albert provides organic waste removal. This diverts over 60 percent of the city's waste away from the landfills. It also has an intricate recycling program and encourages re-purposing.

Clothing swaps and food drives are popular. This is a city that cares about the planet and our impact on it.

Ready to Buy in St. Albert, Canada?

There are hundreds of reasons that make St. Albert one of Canada's best cities. From its low crime rates to abundant amenities, there's something for everyone.

And, the real estate market is hot for buyers.

If you're ready to see what's for sale in St Albert, Canada, check out these listings. Bermont Realty will make your home shopping and buying experience smooth and stress-free. You'll be moving into your dream home in no time!

Condo living often elicits images of carefree weekends sitting beside the pool, but there are some pros and cons to consider before making a purchase.

1. The Lifestyle Itself: One of the biggest advantages of condo living can also become a disadvantage. The sense of community, amenities and other features that originally attracted you to a community may change as your needs and desires change. Make sure you select a condo that truly reflects a lifestyle you will love.

3. Privacy and Autonomy: In some instances, condo living can resemble apartment living with less space and individual autonomy. To make the most of condo living it’s essential for residents to remain involved in the decisions and activities of the community. Those with a need for privacy and autonomy may feel more comfortable with single-family homes or other housing alternatives.

4. Still a Need for Repairs: Many major repairs and maintenance items are taken care of by condo associations, but not all, so condo owners aren’t completely off the hook. Condo owners should set aside a little time to take care of routine repairs and interior maintenance on their units.