HRG has had a great time at the 2010 National. It was the first year that we had a booth and it was great to get feedback from the attendants as well as other exhibitors about how our site HomeRenovationGuide.com is a great resource for people looking to renovate their homes. HRG is the official online sponsor of MarketPlace Events, which holds this annual trade show and HRG provides a little welcome gift for all of the exhibitors. The spring flowers by local florist Cool, Green, and Shady were lovely and really brightened up the show room with a breath of spring.

As well, it was the first time I had the opportunity to live blog from the National for spotlight.rogers.com, a Rogers Communications Inc. lifestyle site where you can catch up on the latest pop culture news.

Here are my articles, with a look at the show and lots of green tips:

http://www.spotlight.rogers.com/life/green/8289/live-national-home-show

http://www.spotlight.rogers.com/life/green/8411/dream-green

http://www.spotlight.rogers.com/life/green/8436/green-house

Now I leave with some pics of the cool Challenger Cube house as well as this year’s fab Dream Home - enjoy!

Fall is a busy time of the year for home renovations but unfortunately, it’s also high season for home contractor scams. This may come as a surprise to some because it’s not that often heard of; many people are ashamed of reporting that they’ve been duped. Often times, like with other scams it’s often that seniors are the most likely to be victimized — but anyone may fall prey to a slick grifter. And once ripped off, it’s highly unlikely to get that money back. So, how can you avoid a contractor scam? Knowing is half the battle. By knowing what clues to look for if approached with a too good to be true deal you can avoid falling prey to such scams.

When to be Suspicious

Anyone who knocks on your door and offers a ‘one day only’ deal because they happen to be in the neighborhood working on other projects is a prime example of an “opportunity” to be leery of. Keep in mind that the law in most areas require that such salespersons must be licensed with a business permit.

What to look for

A representative from a large company such as a serviceman or repairman will be in uniform with an ID badge, along with business cards that have a physical address of the company. These aren’t guarantees of trustworthiness but they certainly are more clues to legitimacy. If the offer seems legitimate and you’d like to investigate further, remember that it’s important not to feel pressured into anything until you are satisfied with obtaining all the necessary information.

What about payment?

Is there a preferred method of payment? It’s better not to pay in cash and if the demand is cash only, that’s dodgy. Using a credit card or check creates a record of the transaction – don’t forget to get receipts each time. Expect to pay 10 to 20 percent of the total job costs as a deposit after the contract is drawn up and signed. Be wary if more than that is demanded. If the project is comprised of many stages with a longer timeline, it’s likely the contractor will ask for payments to cover material costs. If so, make sure to set installments to align with completed tasks and include all of this in detail in the contract.

Get references

Any reputable contractor would be proud to show his work off. If possible, visit a current site that is being worked on. Contact the references and ask about how well they performed, how satisfied they are with the finished work and whether they would hire them again to do more work. Ask to see what they built. It’s best to hire a company that is bonded and insured and offers a warranty. Call their insurance company and ask for a copy of the policy for proof they are currently insured. Do background checks on the company such as calling the Better Business Bureau or other regulatory agencies to make sure no complaints have been lodged. When interviewing, get a least three detailed estimates of a similar scope to get a good idea of the true cost of your desired project.

Be savvy

With any business deal the old adage is true - “let the buyer beware” - but there’s no need to get paranoid. There are many reputable companies that do excellent work.  By knowing what to be watch out for, first time renovators have nothing to fear when it comes to hiring the right company to build a dream house.

While most people enjoyed one of the last weekends of summer doing something fun like going up to the cottage, perhaps catching the finals of the Rogers Cup, or sunning at the local beach, I stayed in to take care of some much needed de-cluttering.

One of the most annoying little items I hate to deal with is cable & wire storage - where to put my various chargers and USBs that’s not tangled and uggo? There are some cute DIY ideas from Better Homes and Gardens for cell phone cubby and a ladder shelf.

Summer time isn’t usually when we’re thinking about energy efficiency for our windows, but with our air conditioners on full blasts during humid August, it’s just as important offset high energy costs. Windows and doors company JELD-WEN is offering a special “bailout” for the worst utility bill Stateside. In a recent PR blast, the company issued a release about how homeowners can submit an online entry form to win a complete window & door makeover and be featured on the “Emmy-nominated television show, Today’s Homeowner with Danny Lipford®.”

Another US contest is the HGTV’s Front Door, My first home sweepstakes that gives first time homeowners a chance at $2,500.

Winnings would be helpful if you were someone who decided to spend a little less on a house with an intent to fix up the kitchen. But take note that may be a considerable investment not just money-wise of course, but will most likely also be very time consuming and intrusive for your day to day.

Things to consider:

* Dust everywhere!

* a big mess; meaning you may not be able to use your kitchen. consider making some batches of home cooked meals to freeze that can be easily nuked because there will be days you’ll be sick of takeout.

*  delays or long wait times for parts to be shipped

* unexpected costs; some older homes have to be completely rewired while other components need to be brought up to code

These are just some issues you should be aware of. If these don’t deter, and you are ready to go, the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) has a great article on the right questions to ask prospective contractors published on their website. Rather than the “wrong” usual questions that homeowners are prone to ask, these are more in-depth and valuable considerations that first timers might not think of. Have you considered little details like checking if the contractor is going to smoke on the job inside your house and would you be ok with that? Or if the person you are interviewing is actually going to be doing the work, or will there be a different trade/sub-trade (stranger) there everyday?

And don’t forget the people next door. It might be a good idea to be neighborly and let the Joneses know that there will be banging, pounding and a bright green portalet on the front lawn for the next six months.

Maybe such a disturbance will lead them to want to move. And speaking of moving companies,  ABF U-Pack Moving® recently held their “What Moves You” contest, where the winning entrant won free moving services. See the U Pack Contest videos and the winning entry that was a romantic ode from a man about his girlfriend (now, fiancee). They plan to make good use of the prize once they find a new home to buy.

With all the bad news that makes the headlines, it’s nice to hear a happy story to start the work week off.

What? National Home Show
When? Feb. 20 - March 1, 2009!
Where? The Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place, 100 Princes’ Blvd.

The largest home show in Toronto is coming up next week with a plethora of home improvement and decor products, accessories, ideas, and celebrity guest appearances.

What to Expect at the Show: (info provided by www.NationalHomeShow.com - visit the official show site for more details)

* The Dream Home – Built by Probuilt by Michael Upshall and styled by Janette Ewen.

* Toronto Star Dream Gardens

* tySTYLE presented by Toshiba

* Colin and Justin, hosts of HGTV’s Home Heist (appearance courtesy of Penguin Books)

* Carson Arthur, host of HGTV’s Green Force

* Scott McGillivray, host of HGTV’s Income Property

* Cheryl Torrenueva, host of HGTV’s Home Heist and Restaurant Makeover

* Corbin Tomaszeski, appearing on HGTV’s Restaurant Makeover

* Igor Shamraychuk, appearing on HGTV’s Restaurant Makeover

Show Date & Hours

Friday, February 20th
11 am to 9pm

Saturday, February 21st
10am to 9pm

Sunday, February 22nd
10am to 6pm

Monday, February 23rd to Friday, February 27th
11 am to 9pm

Saturday, February 28th
10am to 9pm

Sunday, March 1st
10am to 6pm

Admission

Adults: $15.00 (at the door)
Adults: $12.00 (online)
Seniors (65+): $11.00
Seniors: $8.00 (online)
Youth 13 – 17 years: $11.00
Youth 13 – 17 years: $8.00 (online)
Children 12 and under: FREE

* Tickets can be purchased online or at the door. Buy online and save (use promo code:RENOVATION) !

Show Venue & Location

The Direct Energy Centre,
Exhibition Place,
100 Princes’ Blvd.
Toronto ON
416-263-3000

Website:

www.NationalHomeShow.com

Many people have been wondering about the home renovation tax credit and just what exactly it entails.  Information is now available on the Canadian government website, including a pamplet with further details.

Below is a break down of the main points of interest:

What is the time frame during which the credit can be applied?

“…after January 27, 2009 and before February 1, 2010, pursuant to agreements entered into after January 27, 2009.”

For work completed and some necessarily obtained goods!  This credit is for new renovations and ongoing improvements on the residential structure itself, as well as the land it sits on.

What exactly can I get back?

It’s a 15%  credit which can be claimed on an amount which is more than $1000 and under $10,000. The maximum credit that you can obtain is $1350.

What Dwellings are eligible?

* houses

* cottages

* condo units

(must be inhabited or used by the owner)

What Types of expenses can be considered?

* projects (ie: finishing your basement or re-doing the kitchen)

* “associated expenses” (permits, rentals, labour, etc.)

Who is eligible to claim it?

“Taxpayers can claim the HRTC when filing their 2009 tax return…. Family members will be able to share the credit.”

Written by: Guest

Home renovation can be a stressful undertaking. It is wise to deliberate carefully about renovations. All disputes over the renovation plan must be settled before the work begins or you are just postponing an inevitable (and probably heated) argument. Everyone in the family should have a voice in this undertaking, as it truly is a family affair.

The following list could have had three, eight or even 20 entries, but if you stick with the basics and exercise self-control, the following five keys can help guide you to, and through, a successful home renovation.

1. Good relationships mean good business – A home renovation will be a lot less stressful if you have a solid, trusting relationship with your contractor. Trust doesn’t arise between people instantly, but there are ways to speed the process, such as “third-party trust,” meaning referrals. If you don’t already know and respect a builder in your area, ask the people you trust about the contractors that they trust. Get referrals, and interview the prospects to get at least somewhat of a “feel” for them. Get referrals, check credentials, trust your instincts – and call references. Nothing builds trust in a contractor like good, positive reports from previous customers.

2. Accurate budgets are crucial – You need to understand how to budget for the job, and what is really involved, financially, in your home renovation. The better understanding you have of your budget, and the more accurate the estimates you include, the less likely your job will exceed your expectations. Although your contractor can supply some good information here, you should maintain authority over the budget yourself and not give anyone – not your spouse, your family as a whole or the contractor – the “keys to your wallet.” Do your homework, and follow the budget.

3. Home renovation is messy – Prior to the start of actual construction, remove all valuables and breakables from the affected areas. Unless the garage is part of the plan, you might consider storing items there. If the whole house is involved, think about renting a storage unit. While this will cause some short-term dislocation and require some sweat from the family’s brows (or more paid help), renovations are inevitably messy and accidents will happen. Take whatever steps are necessary to ensure the safety of your valuables, fine furniture, Persian rugs and other possessions.

4. Stick to the payment plan – One easy way to ruin your relationship with your contractor, and slow down or terminate your renovation project, is to deviate from your payment plan. If you are developing a timetable for the contractor’s work, you should also prepare, and adhere to, a timetable for the payments. You should be proactive in this matter, and never allow communication to deteriorate to the point where the contractor has to ask for money. Plan out every detail and every dollar, and follow the plan.

5. Extras: There’s always something – When developing your renovation budget, leave some room for the unanticipated extras that inevitably come up in the course of a home renovation. In addition, once you start renovating, you may think of other improvements or changes you wish to make. This means building some flexibility into the financing, as well as the project plan and the timetable. Strike a balance between firmness and flexibility so that you don’t go off on a tangent and lose control of the cost or the schedule.

Like most big undertakings, a home renovation can be somewhat scary. Don’t hesitate to speak with friends, relatives, coworkers or neighbors who have been through the same thing. Investigate all concerns - listen carefully, take notes and don’t leave any question unanswered before finalizing your plan and your budget. Don’t be in a hurry, don’t make assumptions and, above all, do not waver in your determination to see the project through to a successful conclusion.

Sigh, what would I do if I could build my dream home?

Unfortunately, although of legal age, I am not a resident of the US - two restrictions on eligibility for HGTV’s Dream Home Contest. The prize in question being a somewhat splendiferous house in Sonoma, California. If you are an American adult however, you can enter everyday until February; check out more details here.

Happy with the home you have, but wishing for some ultimate rooms? Until March 31st, 2009, Americans can also enter to win a Room Makeover using this form.

I can’t help but think even with the money and the means to build a dream home, it wouldn’t be that easy. As with any ultimate dream, you need to be able to visualize what you want and perhaps immersing yourself with the best, the most creative and talented will help get you there.

One of the more fun parts of my job is writing our Renovations of the Month and so far I’ve been most impressed with the work of BDR Artisan out in Vancouver. A major shout out to Brent Repin for sharing his stunning work with us; the award winning Tsawwassen Beach House. Of course the finished house is just breathtaking, however, seeing the “Before” shots of just what he had to work with, completely changes the conception of its true expanse.

Here is a look of the before:

and the magnificent after:

Continue reading for the full story…

If you have a great room makeover or home renovation project you’d like to share, please email your photos and description to editor@homerenovationguide.com. I look forward to your inspiration!

If you haven’t already, check out our sister site: The Home Interior Guide (http://www.homeinteriorguide.com), which has recently gotten it’s own makeover. Not just a pretty new face, it’s the whole package - a fabulous resource for interior design and decor.  The listings directory is the place to go to find professionals services for interior decorating or home staging, and to locate unique art galleries or home furnishings stores for that special touch.

Find articles that guide you through DIY projects and get updated on the latest trends in home decor. Pose a design question in our Ask the Experts section, and get feedback from an unlimited number of professionals. Check out Hidden Gems our spotlight on those “in the know” places that offer the one-of-a-kind finds that will help make your home the envy (or inspiration) of all your friends.

Are you in the design or decor profession? Create an account with the Home Interior Guide for great features that include: creating a photo gallery of your portfolio (just like our glamourous Makeover of the Month Feature), posting responses to the Ask the Experts section, uploading your own articles or videos, and more!

There’s plenty to explore at the Home Interior Guide.  Visit us today and let us help make your dream space a reality.

By Pearse Walsh

Renovating or building your home should be a positive experience free from stress and worry. But did you know that electrical and gas installations and renovations can pose some of the most serious safety risks in the home?

“Do-it-yourself” might make sense when it comes to some home improvements, but when it comes to doing electrical or gas work, it’s best that you rely on the experts. Simply put, hiring licensed contractors provides peace of mind.

So while you’re thinking about renovations that involve gas and electricity, think about the legal requirements and benefits of hiring a licensed contractor to do the work.

Laws and regulations

Every province and municipality has its own set of laws and regulations that must be followed. A licensed contractor works with these every day, and knows what work is regulated, and requires permits and inspections.

Doing regulated electrical and gas work without a permit is illegal, and may jeopardize your insurance or the re-sale value of your home, not to mention your family’s safety.

Quality and qualifications

In order to be licensed, a contractor must have the training, expertise and experience required to do the job well, safely and to code. While a license doesn’t guarantee quality, it provides you with some assurance that the contractor has adequate knowledge and experience in his or her field.

Before issuing a license, the provincial licensing agency or board will verify the contractor’s background and be satisfied that the person is qualified to hold such a license.

In British Columbia, for example, all gas and electrical contractors doing regulated work are required, under the Safety Standards Act, to hold a valid license issued by the BC Safety Authority. The license ensures the contractor and the people employed by the contractor are qualified and can perform the work safely. Licenses must be renewed annually and require certain qualifications are met, including a $10,000 surety bond.

Finding a licensed contractor

Check websites, look for contractors listed in your local phone book, and by asking friends and neighbors for recommendations.

No matter how you find a contractor, it’s important to confirm he or she is a licensed contractor. Ask to see the license, or contact your licensing authority.

When you can’t wait for a licensed contractor

Sometimes it’s difficult to find a licensed contractor who can take on the work when you want it done. You may be tempted to do the work yourself, or go with an unlicensed contractor. Don’t! Work done improperly can impact you and your family’s safety, whereas having the work done by a licensed contractor will give you assurance and peace of mind that it is done safely. Good licensed contractors are busy because they are in demand.

Think about the safety of your family and your home. Delaying a renovation project to make sure it is done correctly and to code is worth the wait.

Many people think it’s okay to hire their neighbors or friends, if they are licensed electricians or gas fitters. This is not so. The person they hire must be a licensed contractor. This is important for the homeowner because contractors are bonded. If subsequent safety issues arise and the contractor refuses to fix them, the BC Safety Authority can call in the bond and have the work made safe.

This article was provided by the British Columbia Safety Authority. Pearse Walsh is the leader of Business Development for the British Columbia Safety Authority, which is an independent, self-funded corporation that provides cost-effective and essential safety services to business, industry and the general public. For more information, or to find gas and electrical companies and contractors, visit www.safetyauthority.ca.

For the lucky ones, summertime means taking a vacation away from home for a week or two for some well-deserved R&R—actually, make mine a G&T. Weeks before a trip, pet owners call up their neighbour for feeding and walking duties; others hire house-sitters to come and water plants. Obvious stuff, really.

But why stop with plants and pets? The fine folks over at Charles & Hudson recently wrote about having your hardwood floors refinished while away on vacation. Instead of living through the messy, five-day refinishing process, why not have it done when you’re not around? Same goes with any type of flooring, whether it’s hardwood or you’re having wall-to-wall carpeting installed, putting down laminate.

Of course, you’d have to trust the contractors working while you’re away, so make sure you hire a reliable company.

Now that I think about it, many home-renovation projects suit this while-we’re-away timetable. Is your driveway looking tired? Have it repaved, resealed or bricked when you’re gone. Same goes with any exterior paths and patios.

What about your deck, does it need refinishing? No use having this done while you’re home barbecuing and entertaining guests. Speaking of backyard parties, who wants up a big whiff of paint fumes? Nobody, so if you’re home’s in need of an exterior paint job, get it done while you’re gone.

Of course, there’s something to be said for DIY projects or even keeping an eye on the contractors at work, but there’s a big difference between being watching and “living through” the job.