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cleaning kitchen Service Providers spring

Spring Cleaning Your Toronto Kitchen: A Pro Guide to Deep Clean and Organize for a Fresh Start

Spring is a great time to give your kitchen a thorough cleaning. Over time, dirt, grime, and clutter can accumulate in your kitchen, making it unhygienic and disorganized. Spring cleaning your kitchen can help you eliminate unwanted items, deep clean surfaces, and create a more functional and enjoyable space for cooking and entertaining.

A clean and organized kitchen has many benefits. It can reduce stress, save time, and make cooking and entertaining more enjoyable. A clutter-free kitchen can also inspire healthy eating habits and make it easier to prepare nutritious meals.

Spring cleaning your kitchen involves decluttering, deep cleaning, organizing, and maintaining the space. We will walk you through these steps in detail to help you achieve a sparkling clean, and organized kitchen.

Why Decluttering is Important

Decluttering your kitchen can make navigating, reducing stress, and increasing productivity easier. It can also help you identify no longer useful or needed items, making room for more functional and necessary items.

Tips for Decluttering

Start by setting a goal and creating a plan. Inventory everything in your kitchen and categorize items into keep, donate/sell, or toss piles. Be ruthless in your decision-making process, and consider donating or selling items in good condition that no longer serve a purpose in your kitchen.

Items to Declutter

Common items needing decluttering in your kitchen include expired or unused food, duplicate kitchen tools and appliances, old dishware and utensils, and unused or broken gadgets. Get rid of anything taking up space without adding value to your kitchen.

Deep Cleaning Your Toronto Kitchen

Deep cleaning your kitchen involves cleaning every surface, nook, and cranny. Start by removing everything from your kitchen, including appliances and furniture, and clean from top to bottom. Dust the ceiling, walls, and light fixtures, and then clean the countertops, cabinets, and drawers. Clean the appliances, sink, and fixtures, then mop or vacuum the floors.

Essential Cleaning Products to Use

The right cleaning products can make cleaning your kitchen easier and more effective. Stock up on all-purpose cleaners, glass cleaners, stainless steel cleaners, oven cleaners, and floor cleaners. Microfiber cloths, sponges, and a scrub brush are also helpful tools.

Tips for Tackling Tough Cleaning Challenges

Tough cleaning challenges in the kitchen may include removing burnt-on food from pots and pans, removing stubborn stains on countertops, or removing grease from the stove. Try using baking soda and vinegar to clean these tough spots, or consider hiring a professional cleaning service to help you get your kitchen sparkling clean.

Organizing Your Toronto Kitchen

An organized kitchen can help you save time, reduce stress, and make cooking and entertaining more enjoyable. It can also improve the functionality of your kitchen by making it easier to access and use the items you need.

Tips for Organizing the Kitchen

Start by categorizing items and designating a specific storage space for each category. Store frequently used items in easy-to-reach places and less frequently used items in more out-of-the-way spaces. Use drawer dividers, cabinet organizers, and shelf risers to maximize storage space and keep items easily accessible.

How to Create Storage Solutions for Small Spaces

Small kitchens can present unique challenges when it comes to organization. Consider using vertical storage solutions, such as hanging pots and pans from a ceiling rack or installing shelves above cabinets. Use under-the-counter storage, such as pull-out drawers or baskets, to maximize space. Consider using multi-functional items, such as a cutting board that doubles as a storage container or a kitchen island with built-in storage.

Maintaining Your Toronto Kitchen

Maintaining a clean and organized kitchen requires a few strategies, such as creating a cleaning schedule, doing dishes immediately after use, and staying on top of clutter. It’s also important to regularly review your kitchen’s organization to ensure it continues to meet your needs.

Daily, Weekly, and Monthly Maintenance Tasks

Daily maintenance tasks include wiping down counters, doing dishes, and sweeping or vacuuming the floor. Weekly tasks may include cleaning appliances, wiping cabinets, and deep cleaning the sink. Monthly tasks may include cleaning the oven, wiping light fixtures, and cleaning the refrigerator.

Tips for Getting the Whole Family Involved in Kitchen Maintenance

Involving the whole family in kitchen maintenance can make it easier and more fun. Assign tasks to each family member, create a cleaning chart with checklists and due dates, and reward yourselves for completing tasks on time. Encourage everyone to take pride in the cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and make it a fun family activity.

Find Professionals to Help You Achieve Your Spring Dream Kitchen

If you need professional help with deep cleaning, organizing, or renovating your kitchen, consider checking out Souqh’s marketplace. Souqh is an online marketplace that connects homeowners with trusted and reliable service providers.

Whether you need a professional cleaning service to help with your deep cleaning needs, an organizer to help you get your kitchen in order, or a home renovation expert to help you transform your kitchen, Souqh can help you find the right service provider for your needs.

Souqh provides homeowners with an easy and streamlined process to find the right professional for their real estate and home improvement needs. This includes browsing quotes and vendor profiles, selecting the most suitable match, scheduling the service, signing documents, and making payments upon job completion. Homeowners can also leave ratings and reviews to help others in their community make informed decisions.

Visit Souqh’s website today to browse service providers in your area and read reviews from past customers. With Souqh, achieving your dream kitchen has never been easier.

Join Souqh.ca to book a service and get started.

Categories
bathroom cleaning home renovations Service Providers spring

Top 7 Tips for Spring Cleaning Your Bathroom in Toronto: A Fresher and Cleaner Space Awaits!

Spring cleaning is a time-honored tradition that can breathe new life into your home, particularly in high-moisture areas like the bathroom. A deep clean makes your bathroom look and feel fresher and can also eliminate harmful bacteria and mold, impacting your health. By following these tips, you can create a cleaner, more hygienic, and more inviting space to use and enjoy.

This blog will overview the top tips for spring cleaning your bathroom in Toronto. From decluttering and organizing to refreshing the floors and adding natural scents, we’ll cover everything you need to know to create a cleaner, fresher space you’ll love spending time in. So let’s get started!

Decluttering and Organizing

The first step in spring cleaning your bathroom is decluttering and organizing. This involves removing unnecessary items that are taking up space and organizing the storage areas to maximize efficiency. Here are some tips to get you started:

  • Remove anything that you haven’t used in the past year. This includes expired medications, old toiletries, and empty containers.
  • Use drawer dividers and organizers to maximize storage space. This can help keep items organized and easily accessible.
  • Install shelving above the toilet or sink to provide extra storage space for towels, toiletries, and other essentials.
  • Utilize the space under the sink by installing stackable storage bins or hanging organizers to keep cleaning supplies and other items out of sight.
  • Consider investing in a vanity with built-in storage to maximize your space and keep everything within reach.

By decluttering and organizing your bathroom, you can create a more efficient and functional space that is easier to keep clean and tidy.

Cleaning the Shower and Tub

The shower and tub are often the most used bathroom areas and can accumulate soap scum, grime, and mildew over time. Here are some tips for effectively cleaning and maintaining a clean shower and tub:

  • Remove soap scum and grime using a bathroom cleaner for shower and tub surfaces. Apply the cleaner and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing with a non-abrasive brush or sponge.
  • Mix white vinegar and water in a spray bottle for tough stains and apply to the affected area. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes before scrubbing it with a brush or sponge.
  • Clean showerheads and faucets by filling a plastic bag with equal parts white vinegar and water and securing it around the showerhead or faucet with a rubber band. Let it sit for a few hours before removing the bag and wiping down the area with a clean cloth.
  • To prevent soap scum and grime buildup, wipe down shower and tub surfaces with a squeegee or towel after each use.
  • Consider using a daily shower cleaner to maintain a clean shower and tub in between deep cleaning sessions.

With these tips, you can effectively clean your shower and tub and maintain a fresh and hygienic space for years.

Scrubbing the Toilet

Cleaning the toilet is an important part of any bathroom cleaning routine. Not only can a dirty toilet be unpleasant to use, but it can also harbor harmful bacteria and germs. Here are some tips for effectively cleaning and maintaining a clean toilet:

  • Start by pouring toilet cleaner into the bowl and letting it sit for at least 5-10 minutes before scrubbing with a toilet brush.
  • For tough stains, use a pumice stone to scrub away mineral buildup and stains without damaging the toilet bowl.
  • Clean the tank and seat with a disinfectant cleaner and a clean cloth or sponge.
  • To prevent odors, use a toilet bowl cleaner with a fresh scent, and consider placing a deodorizing tablet or drop-in toilet cleaner in the tank.
  • For a more natural solution, sprinkle baking soda into the bowl and let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing it with a toilet brush.

These tips effectively clean your toilet and maintain a clean, hygienic space. Regular cleaning and maintenance will prevent odors and keep your toilet looking and smelling its best.

Polishing the Sink and Countertops

Polishing the sink and countertops can help your bathroom look fresh and clean. Here are some tips for effectively cleaning and polishing your sink and countertops:

  • Clean and disinfect the sink with a bathroom cleaner or a mixture of white vinegar and water. Use a soft cloth or sponge to scrub away any dirt or grime.
  • Use a baking soda and water paste to gently scrub the affected area with a soft-bristled brush or sponge for tough stains.
  • Clean and disinfect countertops with a multi-surface cleaner or a mixture of white vinegar and water. Wipe down the surfaces with a clean cloth or sponge.
  • To keep the sink and countertops shiny, use a glass cleaner or a water and white vinegar solution to wipe down the surfaces. Buff the surfaces with a soft, dry cloth to remove any streaks.
  • Consider using a sealant on countertops to prevent stains and make cleaning easier.

With these, you can effectively clean and polish your sink and countertops and maintain a fresh and hygienic bathroom. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help prevent stains and keep your bathroom looking its best.

Refreshing the Floors

Refreshing the floors is an important part of any bathroom cleaning routine. Here are some tips for effectively cleaning and maintaining your bathroom floors:

  • Start by sweeping or vacuuming the floor to remove loose debris or dirt.
  • Mop the floor with a mild cleaner, such as a mixture of water and vinegar or a floor cleaner designed for your specific flooring type.
  • Clean grout and tile using a grout cleaner, baking soda paste, and water paste to scrub away any dirt or stains. Use a toothbrush or grout brush to get into hard-to-reach areas.
  • Consider using a steam cleaner to deep clean tile and grout for stubborn stains or buildup.
  • To maintain a clean and slip-free floor, consider using a bath mat or rug outside the shower or tub, and immediately wipe up any spills or splashes.

Following these tips, you can effectively clean and refresh your bathroom floors and maintain a clean and hygienic space. Regular cleaning and maintenance will prevent buildup and keep your floors looking their best.

Tips for a Fresher Bathroom

A fresher bathroom not only looks and smells better, but it can also contribute to a healthier and more enjoyable experience. Here are some tips for keeping your bathroom fresh:

Add plants and natural scents

Plants such as spider plants and bamboo palms can help improve air quality and reduce humidity levels in the bathroom. Additionally, using natural scents such as essential oils o fresh flowers can help keep the bathroom smelling fresh and clean.

Use air fresheners and dehumidifiers

Air fresheners such as sprays or plug-ins can help mask unpleasant odors and keep the bathroom smelling fresh. A dehumidifier can help reduce humidity levels and prevent mold and mildew growth.

Tips for preventing mold and mildew

To prevent mold and mildew growth, wipe down surfaces after showering or bathing, and consider using a squeegee to remove excess moisture from shower walls and floors. Keep the bathroom well-ventilated by opening a window or running a fan during and after showers.

Keep the bathroom well-organized

Clutter and disorganization can contribute to a stuffy and unpleasant bathroom experience. Consider using organizers and storage solutions to keep items neatly stored and out of sight.

Create a fresher, more enjoyable bathroom experience for yourself and your guests. Regular cleaning and maintenance, as well as good habits like wiping down surfaces and reducing humidity levels, will help keep your bathroom looking and smelling its best.

How Souqh Can Simplify Your Bathroom Cleaning and Maintenance Needs

A Souqh marketplace for home services can help by providing a convenient platform for homeowners to find and book professional cleaning and maintenance services for their bathrooms and other areas of their homes. Here are some ways a Souqh marketplace can benefit homeowners:

Easy access to a range of service providers: Souqh can offer various options for homeowners looking to book bathroom cleaning and maintenance services. They can easily compare different service providers and choose the best suits their needs and budget.

Convenience and time-saving: Booking services through Souqh can save homeowners time and effort, as they don’t have to search for service providers or make phone calls to book appointments. Instead, they can easily book services online through the marketplace.

Quality assurance: Souqh can ensure that all service providers listed on the platform are vetted and qualified to provide professional and reliable services. This can give homeowners peace of mind knowing they hire trusted professionals to clean and maintain their bathrooms.

Souqh’s marketplace for home services can provide a convenient and reliable platform for homeowners to find and book professional cleaning and maintenance services for their bathrooms, helping them keep their homes clean, fresh, and well-maintained.

Join Souqh!

Ready to simplify your bathroom cleaning and maintenance needs? Visit Souqh.ca for home services and book professional cleaners and maintenance providers today! Our platform offers a convenient and reliable way to find and book trusted service providers to enjoy a cleaner, fresher bathroom without the hassle. Try it now and see the difference!

 

Categories
Home Buyers

Top Pre-Construction Opportunities For Young Professionals In Canada

Top Pre-Construction Opportunities For Young Professionals In Canada






Are you a construction industry professional looking for new opportunities? While there are plenty of jobs to go around on the construction phase of the many housing projects sprouting all over Canada, you have probably not considered the rich opportunities in the pre-construction stages of these projects.






This article will discuss the exciting work opportunities in the pre-construction phase of housing development projects in case you are looking to expand your horizons.





Canada’s Booming Housing Market A Boon For Construction Trades






Canada is facing a big housing crisis in major cities like Toronto. Burgeoning demand for housing, soaring home prices, and a very low stock of new houses all make for a red hot real estate market. 






Lowering interest rates has been suggested among a raft of measures to cool the housing market and save cities like Toronto from the unwanted tag of being one of the most unaffordable cities in the world. 






Fixing the supply side is, however, the only sustainable fix for Canada’s housing shortage and unaffordability crisis. This entails constructing new homes. And a critical stage of any construction project that determines whether it succeeds and finishes on budget is what’s known as the pre-construction phase.





What is Pre-construction?






Pre-construction encompasses all the activities that happen on a construction project before the actual construction work starts. This includes the necessary planning work, design, materials estimation and ordering, and the work involved in preparing the construction site, including excavating access roads and erecting a fence that secures the site.






Some of the pre-construction work will continue into the construction phase, principally to coordinate contractors and monitor progress, which ensures that the project proceeds according to design guidelines and overall project timeline. 






The pre-construction phase isn’t just important for the success of the building project, but also for the health and safety of the workers on the project and the general public. For this reason, there are important roles that project owners must hire for even before there is an actual construction site to show. These are the opportunities we will discuss below:





Work Opportunities in The Pre-Construction Phase Of Building Projects





1. Structural Engineer For Existing Condition Analysis






Structural engineers analyze building designs against available construction materials and techniques to ensure the structural integrity of the completed structure. For this reason, they are important hires on large building projects.






That said, they also have an important role to play on remodeling projects, even if the building being renovated is a small family-sized home. The engineer must determine the safest ways to proceed with the remodel before any demolition work starts.






By carrying out existing condition analysis, the structural engineer will determine what scope the remodel will take or if it’s even safe to attempt it in the proposed scope. Sometimes a complete replacement of the structure is needed.






Material strength analysis and load calculations will need to be carried out and important considerations made to plumbing, roofing, HVAC, and other building systems to ensure they integrate seamlessly. So where a property investor is renovating or adding onto an existing structure there should be an existing condition analysis engineer among the very first hires.





2. 3D modeling specialist






While architects are responsible for the actual technical design of the building, a 3D model developer converts the drawings into a 3D picture that brings the structure to a form non-architects can visualize. There is now advanced Building Information Modeling software that building designers can use to create vivid 3D pictures of how a building will look like it’s completed.






A 3D model of the building will also help in the planning and building phases as well as in the landscape design. It also informs key decisions on structural design and construction scheduling. This helps to forestall issues that may derail the project.





3. Cost Estimator






This role is at the intersection of the quantity surveyor and cost accountant jobs. So on some projects the roles could be split into their more traditional forms. That said, the goal of the roles are the same – to have a solid idea of what materials are needed for the entire project and how much it will all cost.





In simple terms, an estimator determines the budget for the entire project. When coming up with a reliable cost estimate, they have to itemize such costs as materials, labor, permits, and equipment. As underbudgeting can have severe implications on the success of the project, a cost estimator needs to be a highly knowledgeable construction sector veteran.





4. Procurement Manager






Failure to source materials on time can stall the entire building project. Most construction material manufacturers have lead times that procurement managers have to factor in when placing orders. 






For example, your project may require triple glazed windows for which there are only a few manufacturers. Place your order late and you may be forced to put the build on hold while the supplier processes your order.






Materials that you are shipping in from outside the country can often be delayed at ports so it’s critical to allow enough time between placing the order and receiving it. This is work that has to be done before you break ground on a project.






To succeed in this job, you will need to leverage a specialized supply chain. So you may be at an advantage if you already have contacts at major building construction material suppliers. As well as understanding the dynamics of the market you will also have to demonstrate an understanding of current prices to ensure the project achieves its cost budgets.





5. Phasing and Logistics Manager






A procurement officer will have to work hand in hand with another important pre-construction hire – the phasing and logistics manager. It is the job of the phasing and logistics manager to work out timelines for specific phases of the build. In this regard, they must work in consultation with the procurement manager to ensure materials arrive on time.






Importantly, there may not be enough suitable storage for the materials and equipment required for the entire project. So it’s critical that the timetable and logistics of bringing the materials to the site are worked out in advance.






Logistics management is an especially essential part of a construction project. Permit applications, inspections, deliveries, subcontractors, and different site services have to be well-coordinated for an orderly flow of work on the site.





6. Risk Control Officer






Major construction projects are a fertile ground for lawsuits and all manner of risks. From jobsite accidents and associated project delays to fines, poor workmanship disputes, and costly mistakes, construction projects are pre-exposed to many risks that will need to be mitigated against by hiring a properly skilled risk control officer as early as the pre-construction phase.






Contracts are another major sinkhole for construction projects. It is the job of the risk control officer to study all contracts entered into with subcontractors to ensure the language used isn’t vague that it may expose the project owner to lawsuits in the event of conflicts.






Beyond contracts, the risk officer will make sure that all construction site and general building regulations are adhered to and that all materials and construction methods meet expectations. If it is the project owners’ idea to protect their investment by buying insurance cover, it is the job of the risk control officer to shop for and decide on the best insurance policy.





7. Pre-construction Manager






Some project owners may find it best to bundle most of the above roles by hiring a pre-construction manager. You will have a good chance of landing and succeeding in this role if you have experience and skills in the roles we have discussed above. Here’s a similar job advertised on Indeed for a construction project in Mississauga, Ontario. 





 

Where To Look For Pre-Construction Work Opportunities In Canada






Jobseeker sites like Indeed are good places to look for pre-construction work opportunities. But you will need to actively search these job boards for openings. With Souqh, a Canadian real estate and home services marketplace, homebuilders and property investors come looking for you. 






How Souqh works is contractors and service providers in the real estate market get a storefront where they will advertise their services. Homebuyers, homeowners, and property investors who are renovating, remodeling, or repairing their properties come to Souqh to look for people with the right skills and local experience. They are drawn by the many tools and features that make it easy to compare and connect with contractors and service providers.






Sign up on Souqh and get your own storefront and online property where prospects can find you by your service area and specialization. We have people searching for local talent right from the pre-construction, through actual construction to post-construction, home including maintenance and repair.






 

Categories
Home Buyers Real Estate

Here’s How to Handle Home Buying Stress

How to Handle Home Buying Stress

Have you noticed recent discussions about home buying seem to focus on how tough it is to become a first-time home buyer? Or how competitive the market is? Or how stressful the real estate process is in general? It’s no wonder home buying stress is at an all-time high! 

The process is often even more stressful for first-time home buyers learning to navigate the world of real estate.

Becoming a Home Buyer with Less Stress

If you’re looking for ways to handle home buying stress, this is one post you can’t miss! Although these tips are geared toward a first-time home buyer, they also serve as great reminders for those who have gone through the process before. 

Get clear about your budget

When you’re very clear about your budget before you begin your journey, it can save a lot of headaches along the way. It’s also important to remember that your budget will need to include more than just the listing price of a house. 

For example? There are several closing costs and legal fees to account for, and be sure you’re ready to pay them.

That’s why it’s essential to consider what you can truly afford, rather than just what you’re approved for. 

So, even if you’re approved for a $600,000 mortgage, for example, it doesn’t mean you should buy a house for that much. You’ll need to consider the monthly payments that come with it and ensure you’ll still be able to furnish your home and cover other costs. 

Take a look at this post next to learn more about the hidden costs every home buyer needs to know about. 

Create a detailed plan

Isn’t “buy a house” enough of a plan? Not exactly! The budgeting portion of the home buying process, including getting a mortgage pre-approval, can take a few weeks, to begin with. Then, you need to plan to view several homes, find a realtor you trust, pack up your current house, and more.

(Can you list six of the biggest mistakes new homebuyers make in Canada? Visit this post next to see them!)

Here’s a list of some of the things to plan for when you’re buying a house

This includes things like:

  • Mortgage pre-approval
  • Storage for your belongings
  • Hiring movers
  • Affording your down payment
  • Planning for home inspections
  • Relocating out of province or to a new city
  • Listing your current home and preparing it for sale

Working with a real estate agent you trust is a great way to ensure your plan includes all necessary details. And that brings us to our next point!

Work with a real estate agent

Working with a real estate agent is one of the most effective tools at your disposal for managing home buyer stress. Experienced realtors have seen and done it all, and they can help guide you through the process with ease. This is only one reason it’s best to work with a real estate agent rather than buying a home without any professional help. 

(Visit this post next to find out if you really need to hire a real estate agent if you’re buying a house from a friend)

As for finding a real estate agent, you can trust? We’ve made that easy for you! With Souqh, the complete home buying journey is right at your fingertips, anywhere, anytime. Our online storefronts help you find trusted service providers that match your unique needs, along with verified ratings and testimonials from home buyers just like you. 

Click here to sign up for free.

 

Did you learn a lot about handling home buying stress in this post? Here are three more posts to read next: 

Categories
Home Buyers

Biggest Mistakes Homebuyers Make and How to Avoid Them

Biggest Mistakes Homebuyers Make and How to Avoid Them

No one said the home buying process is an easy one. That being said, there are ways to make it easier (or harder) on yourself. For starters, knowing what the biggest mistakes homebuyers make and how to avoid them can make your path to owning a home you love that much smoother.

So, with all that in mind, let’s move on to those big mistakes homebuyers make, along with tips for avoiding them.

What are the Biggest Mistakes Homebuyers Make?

  1. Not finding a realtor they trust
  2. Neglecting to consider closing costs
  3. Making an uninformed offer 

Let’s elaborate on each of these mistakes to help you avoid making them yourself.

How to Avoid the Biggest Mistakes Homebuyers Make

Not finding a realtor they trust

Remember what we said about the home buying process not being an easy one? Well, it’s especially difficult if you try to do it on your own or with an inexperienced or ineffective realtor.

So, rather than hiring the first realtor you think of, do your due diligence and learn more about several options before deciding on the one that’s right for you. An experienced and trustworthy realtor can make a world of difference in the home buying process. 

As for how to go about finding this realtor?

There are a few ways to go about doing your research. 

For starters, ask to speak to a realtor’s recent clients so you can hear first-hand about their experience. Of course, a good old-fashioned Google search can also bring up a lot of red flags you wouldn’t otherwise find about your potential realtor too. 

And to save the best for last: use Souqh.ca to find trusted service providers, including realtors!

Souqh helps you find trusted service providers across a pool of storefronts that match your unique needs, along with verified ratings and testimonials from home buyers just like you.

We designed Souqh to help eliminate the stress in the home journey and helping you find the perfect realtor for your needs is just one way we do that. (And did we mention Souqh is free to use?)

(Avoiding the common mistakes homebuyers make also helps you avoid homebuyer’s remorse. Learn more about that in this post)

Neglecting to consider closing costs

The next biggest mistake homebuyers make, let’s talk about closing costs and the home buying process. 

All too often, home buyers get their hearts set on a home before that sinking feeling sets in when they realize the closing costs mean they’ll be moving in “house poor.” 

These costs aren’t always a dealbreaker. But knowing what to expect, and accounting for these costs ahead of time, helps you avoid a nasty surprise down the road.

Get a jump start on your research by visiting this post next: Hidden Costs Every Home Buyer Needs to Know About.

Making an uninformed offer 

Finally, let’s talk about making an uninformed offer. 

Often, prospective homeowners get their hearts set on a property. They might overlook plumbing or foundation issues, for example, just because it’s in the neighbourhood where they always dreamed of owning. 

This doesn’t mean they shouldn’t make an offer at all, necessarily. However, it does mean you could have more room for negotiation and getting a better deal on the property. 

Again, working with an experienced and trusted realtor will make all the difference in the home buying process. They’ll help you, AND the homeowner feels like they’re winning during negotiations. 

Not to mention, homebuyers often make the mistake of letting emotion dictate their offer. But your realtor can help ground you and ensure you’re making the most informed offer to get the best deal. 

To start browsing the best realtors in your area, click here to sign up for Souqh for free!

 

Did you learn a lot in this post? Here are three more to read next: 

Categories
Company Home Buyers Mortgage Broker Property Inspector Realtor

Does an Open House Still Matter in the Digital Age?

Does an Open House Still Matter in the Digital Age?

Have you decided to forgo the traditional open house in exchange for virtual open houses or other strategies for selling properties? Or perhaps you’re considering taking this step but not sure if it’s the right move. 

Either way, you’re about to find out! In today’s post, we’re going to talk all about whether an open house still matters in the digital age or if your efforts are better spent elsewhere.

Does an Open House Still Matter in the Digital Age?

We’re going to explain our answer in more detail throughout this post. But we know you’re itching to hear…so we’ll start by saying: yes! Open houses still matter in the digital age.

However, unlike when this was the way to sell a home, there are now several different strategies and approaches to help you sell homes quickly.

Essentially, rather than being your only option, an open house is now one critical tool in your toolbox for selling homes.

Rather than relying solely on open houses to sell properties, successful realtors utilize a number of different strategies for selling homes. 

So, beyond an open house, what are these other tools in a realtor’s toolbox worth exploring? Let’s get into them! 

Online listings

In this day and age, most realtors are already utilizing online listings to sell properties. Beyond the MLS, however, there might be some other online listing locations worth exploring to expand your reach. 

Realtors are utilizing many listing locations, including Zillow, Facebook, and even Craigslist. Of course, it’s also important to include all of your listings on your own website. 

(Realtors aren’t the only service providers who need to go digital! Read this post to learn why it’s also important for general contractors)

Digital marketing

If you want to keep up with the competition, there’s really no way around using digital marketing to grow your business. This includes a multi-faceted approach involving your own website, social media, branding, and other marketing efforts. (Learn all about branding for realtors in this post)

As overwhelming as this all can be, know there are options out there that make it much more straightforward!

For example, Souqh.ca takes the guesswork out of digital marketing for realtors (and other service providers) as your one-stop connection to leads, referrals, technology, and digital marketing.

With Souqh, you can drive more traffic to your storefronts and grow your business fast. We make it easy to launch data-driven marketing campaigns to help you feature your storefront, enabling higher ROI on your marketing dollars. 

Ready to learn more? Visit this link next. 

Virtual tours

Last but not least, we also need to discuss virtual tours, which offer an effective alternative to the traditional open house in many cases. By offering virtual open houses and tours, you’re allowing your client base to explore properties they might not consider otherwise because they couldn’t visit them in person.

But virtual tours are the next best thing! 

If you offer these, it’s important to focus on audio and video quality to make sure the viewer gets the best first impression of a property several possible. If possible, it’s a great idea to work with professional videographers with experience in virtual tours.

Alternatively, make sure you film earlier in the day when the lighting is good and ensure the property is neat, organized, and styled the same way you would for an in-person open house.

So, there you have it! Don’t give up on the traditional open house… but don’t forget to create a multi-faceted approach to selling homes, including digital marketing, virtual tours, and other strategies. 

 

Did you learn a lot in this post? Here are three more to read next: 

Categories
Home Buyers Service Providers

Hidden Costs Every Home Buyer Needs to Know About

Hidden Costs Every Home Buyer Needs to Know About

You’re all set to make an offer on a home you love…only to discover there are all kinds of hidden costs that weren’t included in the listing price. Understandably, these costs can be a dealbreaker for a home buyer. That’s why it’s important to prepare yourself for potential hidden costs when buying a home ahead of time.

Hidden Costs Every Home Buyer Needs to Know About

So, if you’re hoping to save yourself some nasty financial surprises down the road, don’t miss the rest of this post, where we break down some of the common (yet hidden) costs associated with home buying.

Home inspection fee

This isn’t necessarily a “hidden” fee, but it is one many new home buyers forget to factor in. 

Although a home inspection isn’t necessarily required, it’s almost always a good idea. During these inspections, a potential home buyer can find out about any potential issues that could cause them a major headache down the road. These inspections tend to cost between $300 and $1000. However, that’s a small investment compared to what it could cost you to unknowingly buy a home with, for example, faulty plumbing. 

(Home inspections are an important part of avoiding home buyer’s remorse. Read more about avoiding this feeling in this post)

Appraisal fees

Are you planning on getting a mortgage for your home? Most home buyers are. However, if you plan on going this route, there’s a particular fee worth noting that many people aren’t aware of. It’s known as the appraisal fee. 

Because the amount your lender is willing to give depends on the home’s appraised value, the home first needs to be appraised. So, this fee (typically between $275 and $500) covers that appraisal. 

Keep in mind, this fee isn’t a sure thing. Depending on arrangements between lenders, it’s often waived. Just be sure to find out ahead of time!

Land transfer tax

Are you a home buyer in Canada who doesn’t live in Alberta, Nunavut, Saskatchewan, or the Yukon? Then the land transfer tax is important to consider if you’re buying a home! The LTT (between 0.5% to 2.5% of the property value depending on your province) goes toward the province when you buy property. 

As this article from Rates.ca explains: 

“Many provinces use a multi-tiered system to calculate the amount of tax owed. On a $500,000 home in Ontario (but not Toronto), for example, 0.5% is paid on the first $55,000, 1% on the next $195,000, 1.5% on the next $150,000, and 2% on the amount above $400,000. That works out to $6,475.”

Insurance

You’re probably planning on buying home insurance (even if it isn’t necessarily required). Still, there are a few different types of insurance each home buyer needs to make a note of when they’re preparing themselves for hidden costs that could come up.

Here are some of the types of insurance worth looking into:

  • Title insurance
  • Mortgage default insurance
  • Mortgage life insurance

(Before you go, don’t miss this post with more tips for simplifying the home buying process)

What Else Should Every Home Buyer Know?

These are just some of the hidden costs every home buyer needs to be aware of. It’s incredibly important to do your research and work with a team you trust during the home buying process to keep surprises to a minimum.

But in addition to these hidden costs, what else should every buyer know? That Souqh.ca can help them ditch a lot of the stress that comes with home buying! From finding trusted service providers to streamlining documentation and simplifying communication, we’ve thought of it all. Click here to learn more about our unique platform and what it can do for you. 

Did you learn a lot about this post breaking down the hidden costs every home buyer needs to know? Here are three more posts to read next:

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Home Buyers Product Updates

How Home Buyers & Service Providers Can Simplify Their Home Buying Journey

How Home Buyers & Service Providers Can Simplify Their Home Buying Journey

Home buying is a notoriously difficult process. Or at least, it has been until now. Whether it’s dealing with paperwork, negotiations, scheduling showings, home staging, closing, or anything else that goes into the process, it simply isn’t always a walk in the park.

The same way home buyers rely on service providers to help them out. Homebuyers rely on skilled service providers to help make the experience as simple, straightforward, and stress-free as possible. But those same service providers rely on several tools to help them do their job. 

Working together, home buyers and service providers can create a simple process that results in a successful transaction and the client finding their dream home. While they work together, there are many tools and resources at their disposal to make the process as straightforward as possible. And today we’re going to tell you about them!

Not only will we discuss how Souqh is helping home buyers and service providers alike, but we will also share other important considerations to keep in mind throughout the home buying process.

How Home Buyers and Service Providers can Simplify their Home Buying Journey

Ready to get started? Let’s go!

How Souqh improves the home buying process for buyers

Let’s start by focusing on home buyers. How can Souqh make a notoriously tricky path much easier to navigate?

Well, we do this in a few ways: 

  • Connecting you with trusted service providers: There’s no need to worry about the right fit! Souqh helps you find trusted service providers from a pool of storefronts to match your unique needs. Further, you can read verified ratings and testimonials from home buyers just like you.
  • Streamlining home buying documents: These can be a major source of frustration for home buyers. But Souqh streamlines all your documents in a simple and secure portal, allowing you to create, share, e-sign and upload documents directly to service providers.
  • Simple communication: Tired of calling, texting and overflown inboxes with missed attachments? We get it! That’s why we simplify all communications with service providers, with easy access and interaction history right on our platform.
  • Impressive security: There’s no need to stress about the security of important documents if you plan to take the home buying process online. Our enterprise-grade cloud security, which runs on industry-leading Amazon cloud, protects your data using 256-bit SSL/TLS encryption.

And did we mention you can earn credits from taking the home buying process online with Souqh? It’s true! Every time you interact on Souqh or refer a service provider, you earn credits that can be used for future services. 

How Souqh improves the home buying process for service providers

Now you know what Souqh can do for home buyers, but what about service providers? Let’s cover that next. From realtors to mortgage brokers to property inspectors to contractors, lawyers, movers, and other industry professionals, Souqh simply makes the entire home buying process better by:

  • Generating leads: This is one of the most challenging parts of the job for many service providers. But now, Souqh makes lead generation a breeze. Service providers can find new clients by launching an online storefront within a few minutes. Then, customers can find their storefront, browse services, review ratings and connect within seconds.
  • Digital marketing: Today’s modern world means digital marketing is a must for successful service providers in the home buying or selling industry. With our platform, you can launch data-driven marketing campaigns that help you feature your storefront, enabling higher ROI on your marketing dollars. (Visit this post next to get some can’t-miss digital marketing and branding tips for realtors)
  • Customer management: We know you want to deliver incredible customer experiences. We help you do that by managing your customer-facing touchpoints – in one place. You can quickly invite customers, review complete customer profiles, manage documents, and engage with associated service providers.
  • eCommerce: We’ve got your payment processing concerns taken care of. Receive payments directly into your bank accounts using leading Stripe payments technology, right on our platform.

Important Considerations During the Home Buying Process

We’ve talked a lot about how our platform makes the home buying process better, but we’re not done yet. Now, let’s talk about some important considerations to keep in mind as you navigate this process for yourself. 

Managing expectations

Are you buying your first home? Or are you a service provider working with clients searching for their first home? Either way now is the time for managing expectations. 

As a home buyer, be sure to research what homes within your budget in your area look like and include. As for service providers, it’s helpful to manage your clients’ expectations from the get-go while also helping them narrow down their search right off the bat.

Know what you can afford

This point relates to managing considerations: get very clear about what you can afford before getting your heart set on a certain property. How do you do this? It starts with getting crystal clear about things like your debt to income ratio, job security, how much of a down payment you can afford, and mortgage pre-qualification or pre-approval.

Get the help you can trust

Last but not least: don’t rely on just anyone during the home buying process. The first realtor you find or the first mortgage rate you’re given isn’t necessarily the best. Do your research into your options! This is where reviews and ratings come in handy, like the ones you can find using Souqh. 

(Speaking of mortgages, here’s how brokers can stand out in a competitive field)

Don’t wait! Sign up for Souqh today for free. We designed this platform to make home buying a breeze, and we look forward to doing just that for you. 

Did you learn a lot from this post? Here are three more to read next: 

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Home Buyers

Homebuyer’s Remorse, How to Avoid It?

homebuyer remorse

Hindsight is 20/20. Always. Especially after signing that life-changing dotted line in homebuying.

Choosing the right property is a daunting task. It’s nothing like buying something you can return willy nilly. But just like any purchase, buyers’ remorse is also common in homebuying.

So you ask, “How to dodge it?” or lessen the chances of getting caught in the tangle of homebuyer’s remorse.

What is Homebuying Anxiety

Nothing like financial limitations to shower you with overwhelm and stress.

That’s how homebuyers’ remorse and anxiety usually starts. The complex nature of the process and the overwhelming expenditure is never a feeling to behold. But finding your best home is a dream, and having that balance between pursuing it and your wallet can whack your confidence.

Yes, you’ve done your due diligence with researching and all, but sometimes it’s not enough. If you’re feeling apprehensive, don’t worry, you’re not alone, and there are ways to avoid it. 

It might be your greatest challenge but unravelling the source of your anxieties is your best chance to avoid homebuyers remorse. 

Of course, sprinkle it with thorough research and these 6 tips that will fortify your confidence.

5 Essential Tips to Avoid Homebuyers Remorse

1. Stick to a realistic budget

The sight of your budget can make your heart lurch and twist.

Finding a home you unabashedly love but can’t afford will tempt you to assess your cash flow and see if adjustments are possible. There are taxes to be had, furniture, insurance, and renovations to foresee. Get all information you can get about the house you’re prospecting to purchase. From features to possible pitfalls, gather those data but stop at nitpicking

Don’t give in to temptation. If the budget is tight, perhaps make a list of possible expenses to keep your finances on the straight and narrow.

2. Create that vital wants/needs list

Your wants/needs list is your manifesto. 

Curate your list based on the features you direly need and those that you immensely like. Let your realtor know that you have this list that will help them filter your choices. Creating this list alongside your expenditure list will clarify and help you settle on the best option.

A great house may not have everything you want but should majorly have what you need.

3. Listen but filter other people’s opinion

Don’t let someone else rain on your parade.

It’s essential that you get feedback from friends and family but put a hold on how they affect your homebuying decisions. Make sure that you’re listening to reasonable voices and break away from what’s in your heart of hearts.

It’s you who will be residing there after all.

4. Work with knowledgeable and trustworthy service providers

Go for the best homebuying cavalry -the service providers who know what you need and are trustworthy.

Homebuying is stressful, but you don’t need to take on the world while navigating the process. Get a feel of how a realtor, mortgage broker, lawyer approach every step in your homebuying journey. One of the best ways to find them is by recommendation of someone you really know and aside from word-of-mouth, utilizing digital options can simplify the process of vetting the service providers you will be working with. 

This is exactly what Souqh.ca wants to address -how to make your home buying journey as easy as possible by providing a platform where you can look for every service provider you need.

6. Utilize the end-to-end digital services of Souqh.ca

Yes, Souqh.ca is a platform that could launch a thousand of your homebuying dreams.

Souqh.ca offers a one-stop-outlet for everything homebuying. Ditch the stress of looking everywhere and getting nowhere by tuning in to this digital guidance and access to the most trusted service providers and streamlined processes. From finding and connecting with the best service providers, Souqh.ca makes it easy for you to do your transactions and getting paperworks and compliance processes automated.

It’s still homebuying, only simplified by Souqh.ca.

Learn more by clicking here and JOIN Souqh.ca!