13Aug
Local Oshawa Businesses to Support Next to Park & Lake
Community & Lifestyle
businesses to support next to park & lake

The ongoing pandemic has made a significant impact on small businesses around the world. Now more than ever, we feel the importance of coming together to show support for our community. Purchasing locally is one of the best ways to keep small businesses running! Have you been searching for some local businesses to support in Oshawa? Read below to learn about five locally owned businesses less than 10 minutes away from Park & Lake.

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06Aug
5 Benefits of Moving to the Suburbs
Savvy Owner
benefits of moving to the suburbs

Do you recognize that? The lightness in the air, the vast areas of land, the feeling of peace — oh yeah, it’s the suburbs! City living is beginning to quiet down, and people are flocking to the suburbs. Understandably so, since this area provides a variety of advantages. Read on to learn our top five benefits of moving to the suburbs. 

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30Jul
What’s Hot in Patio Furniture This Summer
Design & Decor
patio furniture

With the amount of time spent at home this year and summer in full swing, patio furniture is a must!. With this year’s hottest trends, it may just be time to step up your patio game! Why not feel luxurious while enjoying your yard? Read below for the five trendiest patio additions to try this summer. 

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23Jul
Convenient Transportation Options Next to Royal Oaks
Community & Lifestyle
transportation options next to royal oaks

Before moving to your dream home, it’s essential to research the transportation options in the area. Luckily, Royal Oaks provides several methods of transit, no matter if you’re travelling from Toronto to Oakville or Oakville to Mississauga. Read on to learn all about the convenient transportation options next to Royal Oaks.

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16Jul
5 Oshawa Restaurants with Patios to Try This Season
Community & Lifestyle
oshawa restaurants with patios

Not only is Oshawa surrounded by beautiful lakes, but it offers a unique downtown core with some of the city’s best restaurants. Even better, these delicious places boast vibrant patios that are perfect for dining in safety while enjoying the summer!

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09Jul
5 Home Upgrades that Aren’t Worth the Money
Home Improvement
home upgrades that aren't worth the money

Just because a home upgrade is expensive doesn’t mean it’ll add value to your home. Turning your extra bedroom into a home office may serve your needs but might not appeal to future buyers. Don’t waste your money. Read on to learn which home upgrades just aren’t worth it. 

Swimming pools

Did you know most homeowners recoup only 43% of the cost to install a pool, according to a NAR report? Typically, it costs more than $51,000 plus extra charges on your insurance! If you’ll genuinely love having an outdoor oasis, then installing a pool could be nice—but keep in mind that the cost and labour involved don’t make this upgrade worth it.

Sunrooms

On the plus side, adding a sunroom provides space and function that all buyers love. However, this upgrade can increase your property taxes, and you’ll only see a 50% ROI at best, according to HomeAdvisor. What’s more, a sunroom can take away from yard space, which some buyers won’t be happy about. Plus, you’ll have to factor in the extra cost of heating this extra space if you want to enjoy it in the winter.

Wall to Wall Carpeting

It costs an average of $1,632 to install carpet, but it can actually drop the value of a home! If you’re trying to sell, you need to replace carpet with permanent stains, holes, or heavy wear. Still, if the existing carpet is in good condition, chances are buyers will want to replace it with something of their choosing. Moreover, if you’re going to replace stained and worn-out carpeting, replace it with hardwood. According to HomeAdvisor, buyers are willing to pay up to $2,080 more for wood!

Converting Your Garage

You might love having a new home gym or spare bedroom but keeping your garage available for cars adds the most value. Besides, converting your garage into a bedroom or basement can be extremely costly when you factor in flooring, electricity, plumbing, and heating. If possible, use your attic or basement as an extra space instead.

High-End Tech

Expensive sound systems, high-end pool lights, or LED showerheads and toilets may look cool. Still, they won’t add significant value, and they can be expensive to install. If you love having the latest gadgets in your home, opt for high-end Wi-Fi access, a smart thermostat, and keyless entry.

If you’re looking to add serious value to your home, don’t waste your money on any of the projects mentioned above. Instead, focus on areas like the kitchen and bathroom. For more helpful home advice, read the Falconcrest blog.

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25Jun
A Guide to Oshawa’s Food Culture
Community & Lifestyle
oshawa food culture

Have you had the chance to explore Oshawa’s dining options? If not, after reading this article – you’ll definitely want to. Oshawa is home to a variety of cultures and delicious cuisines. We have compiled a list of popular dining choices that will be sure to satisfy the whole family. Keep reading to choose your next spot to feast.

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18Jun
Things to Consider When Choosing a Term for Your Mortgage
Savvy Owner
choosing a term for your mortgage

When deciding on a mortgage plan that is right for you, there are various factors to consider. For example, can you afford to pick a shorter amortization period and pay higher monthly payments but less interest overall? Is a fixed interest rate better for you than a variable interest rate? It can be an overwhelming process, but we’re here to simplify it for you! Continue reading to learn more about the things to consider when choosing a term for your mortgage.

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11Jun
Oakville Summer Events Next to Royal Oaks
Community & Lifestyle
oakville summer events

Are you looking to add some excitement to your life this summer? You’re in luck! Oakville is hosting a variety of events next to Royal Oaks that everyone will enjoy. If you need some wonder and enjoyment, take advantage of these fantastic summer events below!

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04Jun
Easy Perennial Flowers to Plant This Year
Home Improvement
easy perrrenial flowers

Don’t slave away in your garden when you can get the same look for less work! Several perennial flowers are hardy plants that will thrive in any outdoor space, no matter how much sun your backyard or balcony gets. Plant them in a good spot, and you can enjoy their beautiful blooms for years to come.

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