Monica & Chris Hollands' Home Trends

HOLLANDS Monica & Chris SERVICE YOU DESERVE

101-2255 Carling Ave Ottawa, ON K2B 7Z5 Office: 613.596.5353 Hallmark Realty Group Brokerage. Each Office Independently Owned and Operated

Monica: 613.864.7975 monica@remaxottawa.com

Chris: 613.797.3977 chris@remaxottawa.com

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

UNPLUGGING AFTER EACH USE In an effort to save energy, prevent a potential fire and be more eco-friendly, you should get into the habit of unplugging appliances after each use. Many small countertop appliances, even when switched off, still use a small bit of electricity. So remember to unplug the coffee maker, air fryer, toaster, rice cooker, etc. after you're done using them. Moving out of the kitchen into the bathroom and/or bedroom, hair dryers, curling irons, straighteners, etc. all need to be unplugged as well because they have a greater risk of sparking a fire or even melting the countertop if not turned off.Especially because they have a greater risk of sparking a fire or even melting the countertop if not turned off as well. Portable heaters and air conditioners are often left plugged in for convenience, but should be unplugged when unattended. Essentially anything that you can unplug could be unplugged when not in use - even larger elements like your television, gaming console, microwave, lamps, etc. For those items that you can't unplug for whatever reason, but still want to monitor their electrical consumption and have the ability to use them on demand, look into smart plugs. These plugs fit into standard electric outlets and connect to the Wi-Fi so they can be managed remotely from an app. It's not the same as unplugging the item as they too will use phantom energy in stand-by mode, but with certain plugs, you can track the energy being consumed and utilize the remote access to turn things on and off more effectively.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

CHOOSING THE RIGHT MOP FOR THE JOB Dirt, grass, stones, sand... there will be a lot of bits and pieces being tracked into your home over the next few months. Having a good mop on hand will help you tackle these messes efficiently and choosing the right mop for the job will make it even easier. With literally hundreds of different options on the market, you’ll be able to find something that fits your needs. First, consider the size and weight of the mop. If you're lugging a bucket full of water from place to place or the mop itself is rather heavy (and heavier when wet) it's going to make the job more work. Handle length and type are also factors to consider. Telescopic handles help you reach into awkward spaces and under furniture while being able to adjust the length of the handle can help if you want to use the mop to dust walls, ceiling fans and light fixtures. As for what type of mop to purchase, generally speaking, string or spin mops are best for deep cleaning whereas stick mops with a reusable or disposable pad are best for quick messes. If you're choosing a mop with a reusable pad, ensure you're aware of the cleaning instructions and if replacement pads are available should the one you have get ripped or damaged. Disposable cleaning pads are handy and convenient but add a reoccurring cost to your budget so keep that in mind as well. An electronic mop or a mop/vacuum combo is another option if you’re able to splurge. Having one tool that vacuums up part of the mess and then allows you to mop up the rest can be quite handy if you’re short on storage space and want a multi-functional option.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

NEW WINDOWS Having new windows installed in your home is quite the undertaking and if you’re planning on selling your home in the next few years, they could add to the value of your home. Even if you’re planning to stay, having energy efficient windows can help your home be more comfortable, quiet and boost curb appeal. If your windows are currently performing just fine, there might not be a need to upgrade, but if you’re finding they’re drafty, difficult to open and close, constantly filled with condensation and/or fogging up, it might be time to consider replacing them. Also, if the frame or seals are damaged or breaking down, it might be time for a new window. As with any major home renovation, there are many companies that specialize in replacing windows, so shop around to find one that can meet your needs, timeline and budget. It’s not recommended you DIY a window replacement, but it is possible if you have the correct skills. The more windows you replace at once, the less you’ll pay on the labour side of things if you use a professional installer, so be sure to thoroughly inspect all of your windows to see if there could be issues down the road and if it would perhaps be more beneficial to replace them now than in a few years. Dual or triple pane windows are popular as they will help keep the cold air out in the winter and the heat out in the summer. This in turn will help your home be more energy efficient and keep your energy bills lower.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

BECOMING A NOMAD Packing your worldly belongings into a travel trailer or van and hitting the open road can hold a certain appeal to wanderers. With a lot of jobs being remotely accessible, it’s even easier now than ever to pick up and travel while at the same time earning a steady income to fund the lifestyle. Another source of income you could count on is if you rent your home out for long or short-term tenants. Renting a fully furnished home to professionals in town for a short term job, people in-between homes, other nomads or even visitors to the area holds a certain appeal as not only do you not have to sell or store all of your belongings, you can rest assured that you will have a home base should you need to return to the area for one reason or another. Look into the various vacation rental options, consult your local municipality to determine if there are any licenses or permits required, then see if it’s a viable option for you and your needs. Selling your home and using the profit (provided there is some) to fund your adventures is also an option and should be considered if you’re sure about travelling for an extended period of time and not returning to where you were living.

MonicaAndChrisHollands.com

Monica Direct: 613.864.7975

Chris Direct: 613.797.3977

Momentum Builds in Ottawa’s Housing Market Amid Greater Certainty

BENCHMARK PRICE Single Family $703,200

BENCHMARK PRICE Apartment $404,000

SOLD LISTINGS Overall 1,306

NEW LISTINGS Overall 2,589

OTTAWA, May 6, 2025 - The number of homes sold through the MLS® System of the Ottawa Real Estate Board (OREB) totaled 1,306 units in April 2025. “With more certainty following the federal election, buyers are returning with greater confidence—but they're proceeding cautiously, taking their time, including conditions in their offers, and being more selective,” adds Czan. “Sellers, meanwhile, are adjusting to longer days on market, which makes strategic pricing and thoughtful home preparation more important than ever. If the listing is priced well, shows well, it's moving—and in some cases, it’s even getting multiple offers. Looking ahead, we’ll be watching how the federal government’s recent housing commitments translate into action. Policies aimed at increasing supply, improving affordability, and supporting first-time buyers are welcome steps toward meaningful impact here in Ottawa.” The overall MLS® HPI composite benchmark price was $631,200 in April 2025, a 1.1 % rise compared to April 2024. The benchmark price for single-family homes was $703,200, up 1.0 % year-over-year in April. By comparison, the benchmark price for a townhouse/row unit was $440,000, an increase of 4.4% from 2024. There were 2,589 new residential listings in April 2025. Months of inventory numbered 3.7 at the end of April 2025. Source: Ottawa Real Estate Board | Market values stated are of the average of Ottawa and surrounding region. Individual home market values will vary and are affected by factors such as location, size, interior and exterior condition. Please call to get an up-to-date evaluation of your home.

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