15 June 2023

Making Storage Space in a Small Home

by Denise Benoit

Whether you’re an apartment dweller in a busy city or you gave into the tiny home trend, you need to make the most of your space to store your belongings. Keeping your stuff out of sight will give the impression of more space, so use the tips below to get the clutter out of the way and make your small home feel huge.

Your door can be a space that’s being overlooked as a storage solution, possibly because you only see it as a way to get between rooms. But search for over-the-door hanging solutions to get everything from shoes to toys off the floor and keep your floors clean.

Windows can take up space and most people are reluctant to cover up natural light. But a well-placed shelf over a window won’t cause too much darkness, and if you take the opportunity to get your smaller items on them, the shelf can be as sleek as you want. This is a great idea for a kitchen, where you can keep spices and seasonings at an easy arm’s reach.

Opt for as many surfaces with as much storage underneath as possible, from coffee tables to end tables. Even dining tables aren’t exempt, a piece with some shallow shelves on the ends will let you get your chairs tucked away in the center while also giving you a spot for plates and glasses.

When you open a cabinet, it’s not just the shelves that are prime storage real estate, you have the back of the cabinet door to work with. Small hooks will hold everything from utensils in the kitchen to hair styling products in the bathroom. Just be sure the doors close flush and you’re good to go.

You likely have vertical space over your counters that you’re not using, and a tabletop shelf unit will let you take advantage of that. They’re not so big to be bulky but will help you get some use out of those spaces where the counter meets the wall and expand the surface area to arrange kitchen necessities.

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY Project

Bedside Organizer Caddy

Is your bed in an odd space and you don’t have a nightstand? This easy to make bedside caddy will help you get around that and give you all the convenience of keeping your necessities right next to you every night.

Recipe

5-ingredient Mac & Cheese

There’s nothing like comfort food, except maybe comfort food that takes minimal ingredients, so you’ll be able to make as much as you want, as often as you want. Here’s an easy recipe for an old favourite.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5

Denise Benoit | Sales Representative

Century 21 Heritage House Ltd.
519-771-9011
denisebenoit2@gmail.com
denisebenoit.com

“I love what I do!”

The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos identify professional services rendered by REALTOR® members of CREA to effect the purchase, sale and lease of real estate as part of a cooperative selling system.
The trademarks REALTOR® , REALTORS® and the REALTOR® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license. This listing content provided by REALTOR.ca has been licensed by REALTOR® members of The Canadian Real Estate Association.

Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or buyers under contract. Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership currently has franchise opportunities available in select markets across Canada. The intent of this communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a solicitation to anyone under contract with another real estate brokerage operation.

This e-mail message contains confidential information intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. Any unauthorized use or disclosure is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error please immediately delete the e-mail and either notify the sender at the above e-mail address or by telephone at 519-771-9011.

Uncategorized • Uncategorized • 15 May 2023

Finding Your Aesthetic

by Denise Benoit

What is an aesthetic and how do you design to it? Strictly speaking, aesthetic design refers to beauty and taste, but in recent years has come to describe broad design themes centered around specific concepts. By thinking about what’s important to you, you might stumble across an aesthetic style that not only creates a beautiful space in your home but also shows off your unique personality. Here are a few popular aesthetic styles to get you started:

As we get more overstimulated and reliant on technology, it’s no surprise that this aesthetic, which centers around escaping into nature, recently experienced a boom in popularity. But you don’t need to find an actual cottage in the woods to hide out in. The main feature of Cottagecore design is plant life and filling your home with as much greenery as possible.

Also consider choosing rustic-looking pieces of furniture in light wood tones, as well as muted colours for your walls. Handcrafted wall-décor adds to the look, so if you’re trying to stay off your phone, consider some embroidery to pass the time.

Love libraries? Dark Academia is based on scholarly spaces, perfect for anyone who has stacks of books and needs a comfortable spot to read them. Indulge in dark fabrics with rich textures to give an air of elegance and look for vintage furniture pieces to add a sense of timelessness to your space. Try to find older-looking prints for your walls such as antique maps and opt for soft lighting to make the space look extra-cozy. Lastly, don’t be afraid to scour yard sales and thrift stores for eclectic knick-knacks to give the effect of an old professor who has led a very interesting life.

You’re a free-spirit, a world-traveler, and you want a space that’s as bright and interesting as you. Try a Bohemian style if you secretly think you belong in the Sixties and use bright coloured accents such as throw pillows and curtains against furniture pieces in more earthy tones. Combine all kinds of patterns, textures and wood tones, and try to bring in influences from different parts of the world. Area rugs would be an easy way to add a BoHo influence to a room, or try out oversized floor cushions. It’ll make a great hangout space that’s as relaxed as you are.

If you prefer clean spaces and minimalist design, modernism embraces these principles and creates a home that is fresh and contemporary. Before you start decorating, try and find a space that has an open floor plan, this will help natural light spread throughout. Pick a monochromatic colour palette and choose furniture pieces that are low to the ground, giving the effect of more space in your home. Look for glass accent tables, preferably with metal finishes for a sleek, futuristic look.

You don’t hold back, and your home is no exception. While minimalism has been in vogue for a while, its polar opposite is slowly gaining steam, giving people the freedom to mix colours, patterns, and pieces from different eras. Think ‘more is more’, so find the busiest wallpapers you can and layer them together, and then cover those walls with mirrors and any prints that draw your eye. Floral patterns make a comeback here, so a patterned sofa could be a great centerpiece, with a thrift-store tasseled lamp right next to it. Maximalist style tends to be overwhelming, but a bold decorator who wants to have fun will find this aesthetic just right for their home.

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY Project

Quotation Mark bookends

Add a fun, graphic element to your book collection.

Recipe

Chicken Parmesan

A classic favourite, it may sound fancy but it’s incredibly easy to make at home.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5

Denise Benoit | Sales Representative

Century 21 Heritage House Ltd.
519-771-9011
denisebenoit2@gmail.com
denisebenoit.com

“I love what I do!”

15 April 2023

How the ZWILLING Food Vacuum Sealer Helps Reduce Household Food Waste

by Denise Benoit

Save money, reduce food waste, take fewer trips to the grocery store and eat healthier with this vacuum sealer set that will help your food last five times longer.

In 2022 the National Zero Waste Council conducted research on household food waste in Canada, and the results were astonishing.

63% of the food Canadians throw away could have been easten
For the average Canadian household that amounts to 140 kilograms of wasted food per year – at a cost of more than $1,300 per year!

ZWILLING has set out to help reduce food waste with their unique vacuum food storage system, Fresh & Save – designed to keep food fresher for up to 5 times longer!

Whether you’re a meal prepper like me or prefer planning only one or two meals at a time, minimizing food waste, taking fewer trips to the grocery store and actually eating those leftovers are more important now than ever. Plus, keeping produce fresh for longer motivates me to eat healthier. I love a good salad, but after just a few days when the salad mix starts to go bad — you know — when it starts to get that smell and sliminess, I can’t stomach it.

The solution: A food vacuum sealer. Air carries gas compounds and bacteria, which can alter food’s quality and taste (and eventually causes the food to go bad). Vacuum sealing keeps air out, so food lasts longer. Plus, it prevents freezer burn. You have many vacuum sealers to choose from online. I’ve tested the ZWILLING Fresh & Save Vacuum Sealer, and below I share how it works, plus my takeaways. Spoiler alert: It comes with an app!

ZWILLING Fresh & Save Starter Set

You can buy the food saver bags and glass containers separately to fit your needs, but this seven-piece set is a great way to get started. It comes with a compact, rechargeable vacuum pump, a large glass container, a medium glass container, two medium reusable bags and two small reusable bags.

How It Works

Unlike many other food vacuum sealers, the ZWILLING vacuum pump is compact, so you can neatly tuck it away in a drawer or cabinet, and it comes with its own charger (it lasts a long time between each charge). To use, wash and dry your produce as you normally would, and place inside the glass container or bag. Place the pump over the round opening, press the button, then watch the pump do its magic. The pump automatically turns off when all the air is pumped out.

Use these containers and bags to store meats, marinades and cooked leftovers, and you can even use the bags for sous-vide cooking. I personally love the glass containers because they’re microwave- and oven-safe, so I can directly warm up food in them.

Using the ZWILLING Culinary App

What makes the ZWILLING sealer great is its user-friendly app. Download the ZWILLING Culinary app here or on your smartphone, click Appliances and add Fresh & Save. Once you’ve added it, click Manage to add a food item. Fill in the item name (i.e. Salad Mix), scan the QR code on the bag or glass container, pick a food group and whether you’re putting it in the fridge or freezer. (You can even upload your own photo.)

The app organizes each added item in a list, along with the date entered and the date it will expire. The app includes a color-coded system; green means it’s fresh, yellow means it’s about to expire and red means it has already expired. You can turn on the notifications so it will alert you when an item is about to expire or has expired, so you don’t have to think twice about it. One caveat is that you can’t manually fill in the date added, so if you forget to add it the day of, you can’t track the expiration day accurately.

Does It Actually Work?

The ZWILLING Fresh & Save claims to help your food last five times longer. To truly test if it lives up to this, I decided to test one food that spoils the quickest — avocado. I placed an avocado half in one of the bags, sealed it and placed it in the fridge. Normally, it would turn brown within hours. I was so shocked to find it started to turn a little brown after five whole days. Not only did it still look fresh, but it also tasted fresh. The Fresh & Save also kept salad mix, cooked sweet potatoes and cilantro fresh for 10 days. Because of this product, I now only have to go to the grocery store twice a month.

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY Project

DIY Tiled Side Table

This designer looking title table makes an easy weekend project that is the perfect addition to any room.

Recipe

Gluten-Free Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread Muffins

A flavor-packed delicious addition to any meal or with your favourite chili.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

By: Farima Alavi, HGTV

Denise Benoit | Sales Representative

Century 21 Heritage House Ltd.
519-771-9011
denisebenoit2@gmail.com
denisebenoit.com

“I love what I do!”

Cleaning • Cleaning • Cleaning • 15 March 2023

Most Forgotten Spots for Spring Cleaning

by Denise Benoit

It’s spring, and you’re probably planning on getting some spring cleaning done. But even after you’ve finished polishing the fixtures, there are probably some spots that are often out of sight and out of mind. Here are some places you might’ve missed this year (and last):

You likely clean out old food and wipe down the shelves and door, but how often do you get up to look at the top of your fridge? You might find a layer of dust gathering there, and it’s good to give it a quick wipe down every now and then to prevent dirt building up. And if you do store anything on top of your fridge, be sure you’re not blocking the ventilation.

An easily overlooked bathroom spot, you might not have recently looked inside your toothbrush holder. Because you’re storing your wet toothbrushes in them, they’re a prime spot for bacteria and mold to build up, especially if you have a covered one. Give it a good wash with warm water and dish soap, and you’ll be good to go.

An often overlooked spot in your kitchen drawer, utensil trays can easily trap dirt, dust and crumbs over time. Even though you’re putting in clean utensils, consider giving it a thorough wipe-down, and fish out any other junk that tends to find its way in over the year.

Because this spot can be hard to get to, it often goes overlooked, even as the rest of the bathroom floor gets cleaned. Make a note to get behind there regularly to make sure the dust and hair that has settled gets cleared away.

Just because they’re clean on the inside doesn’t mean they don’t catch dirt on the outside! Often forgotten in kitchens and bathrooms, soap dispensers can build up grime just like anything else, so give yours a wipe down with a warm cloth to make sure it’s not an unintentional source of bacteria.

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY Project

Carpet Cleaners for Stubborn Stains

Spill some wine? Don’t panic! These carpet cleaners are made from easy ingredients in your home and will get out even the toughest stains

Recipe

Asparagus Risotto

A spin on the classic risotto, add some asparagus for added flavour and the leeks, basil and lemon give it a great kick.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits:Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5

Denise Benoit | Sales Representative

Century 21 Heritage House Ltd.
519-771-9011
denisebenoit2@gmail.com
denisebenoit.com

“I love what I do!”

Lifestyle • Organization • 15 February 2023

Make a Great First Impression with Your Entryway

by Denise Benoit

You only get one chance at a first impression, so make sure all visitors to your home are blown away when they step in! Consider your guests’ needs and find stand out décor items that are beautiful and useful—you’ll love coming through your front door, every time!

Before they even get through the door, consider a good entrance mat in front of your door. It’ll have the obvious benefit of letting people wipe their shoes so that your floors don’t suffer, but it’s also a great chance to have some fun. You can play with different greetings, let people know you love your pets, and it’s an easy switchable item for holidays. As an added bonus for apartment dwellers, it’ll make it a little easier for guests to know which door is yours.

Entryways can be crammed, so open up the space a bit with a statement mirror. It can double as a piece of wall art, and if there are no windows nearby, it’ll spread light around to avoid the space looking too dark.

Shoes lying around makes a space look messy even when organized neatly on the floor. A shoe shelf makes it easy to keep your shoes off the ground, and you can find options for any space no matter how small. If you have guests coming over, try keeping the top shelf free – it’ll make it easier for them to find their shoes when it’s time to leave.

If you don’t have a hall closet nearby, coat trees are easy to fit in a corner and can match any decorating style, from traditional to modern. They’re simple and useful, but the right design can be the most interesting part of your entryway, providing decoration when it’s not holding any coats.

If you’ve got the space, try a small bench to make it easy for you and your guests to get shoes on and off. Besides adding a bit of comfort to your routine, it’s also easy to add a small cushion or two to brighten up the space and add colour accents.

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY Project

Easy Shoe Storage Project

Grab an old box and some paint to create colourful boxes to decorate your space while keeping shoes organized!

Recipe

Heart Shaped Lasagna Bundt

Staying in this Valentine’s Day? This warm meal will fill two people up while adding in a little fun for the day.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5

Denise Benoit | Sales Representative

Century 21 Heritage House Ltd.
519-771-9011
denisebenoit2@gmail.com
denisebenoit.com

“I love what I do!”

Lifestyle • Lifestyle • Lifestyle • Lifestyle • Organization • Organization • 15 January 2023

How To Decorate When You Want To Make Constant Changes

by Denise Benoit

A new year means new changes! Maybe you’ll be making a move this year, maybe you’ll want to redo your space – but what happens if you want to make another change down the road? Whether you’re a renter with changing roommates or have a kid with changing tastes, with these tips, you’ll be able to refresh your home with a mind to making easy changes whenever you need to.

Wallpaper used to be a slog, but several brands now offer the convenience of peel and stick wallpapers that you can remove with ease. Take the opportunity to add funky patterns on an accent wall, and why not mix and match if you really want something different. But if the zebra stripes clash with the polka-dots, peel away for easy removal with no permanent damage to your walls.

The best part about a movable bar cart is how easy it is to slot this useful storage item into any corner of your home when you need it. You could go from having a convenient bookshelf in your bedroom, to a craft caddy for kids, to an actual moving bar when guests are over. A reliable bar cart is there wherever and whenever you need it.

Your bed is the centerpiece of your bedroom, so switch up its look with a reversible duvet cover! Whether you feel like a pattern one week or a solid neutral the next, flipping the duvet is an easy way to change the focal point on your room to match your style at a moment’s notice.

If you love displaying your pictures and are constantly taking new ones, skip the hassle of frames, and consider putting up a couple of photo ledges. These shallow shelves allow you to put up as many pictures as the space allows, switch them out whenever you’d like, and accent your ledge with small succulents and other décor. Plus, the shelf could be a nice pop of colour on an otherwise neutral wall.

The best way to keep kids from doing permanent damage to the walls, consider chalk wall decal stickers that can be as large or as small as you like. Whether you want to cover an accent wall in a kids room and let them go wild or just have a panel in your kitchen to keep a grocery list, these pieces can be utilitarian or creative, depending on what you need for your space. The best part is that they’re removable if you’re ever tired of getting chalk dust everywhere.

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY Project

Create a Gallery Wall with Canvas Art

Turn a blank wall into an art gallery with some canvas art! Here are some fun ideas to make your own artwork that will stand out in any room.

Recipe

Apple Cider Chicken

Perfect for a cold winter’s day, this chicken skillet is a healthy, simple meal that is ready in 30 minutes and takes only one pan for easy clean up.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5

Denise Benoit | Sales Representative

Century 21 Heritage House Ltd.
519-771-9011
denisebenoit2@gmail.com
denisebenoit.com

“I love what I do!”

Independently Owned and Operated. ®/™ trademarks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC used under license or authorized sub-license. © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership

The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos identify professional services rendered by REALTOR® members of CREA to effect the purchase, sale and lease of real estate as part of a cooperative selling system. The trademarks REALTOR ® , REALTORS ® and the REALTOR ® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license. This listing content provided by REALTOR.ca has been licensed by REALTOR® members of The Canadian Real Estate Association. Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or buyers under contract.

Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership currently has franchise opportunities available in select markets across Canada. The intent of this communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a solicitation to anyone under contract with another real estate brokerage operation. This e-mail message contains confidential information intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. Any unauthorized use or disclosure is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error please immediately delete the e-mail and notify the sender at the above e-mail address.

15 November 2022

Big Style Kitchens

by Denise Benoit

No matter how many people live under one roof, or what all the occupants in a home do, the one thing that’s certain is that a kitchen is the most important part of any household. The kitchen is like that precious stone on any piece of expensive jewellery, it is the most admired location in your home and the centre of attention for all types of gatherings. Consequently, it is also the room that adds the most value to a property. For all these reasons and more, a kitchen renovation is always the most important renovation for any homeowner. When designing a functional, yet aesthetically pleasing kitchen, special attention needs to be given to all the details, both large and small.

How you design your kitchen must be in accordance with your needs and priorities, as well as align with your future plans for your home. Here are some great design tips for creating an amazingly functional, yet beautiful kitchen that you will actually want to cook in!

Invest in great appliances. It is always important to select and purchase your appliances before beginning the design process in the kitchen. As the space is designed around the appliances, you must know the dimensions of your fridge, stove, and dishwasher before you can begin. Be sensible with selecting the sizes and buy practical appliances that fit your lifestyle. Appliances complete the look of your kitchen and quality is a must to ensure that they last several years for you and your family to enjoy.

Cover your appliances with the same finishes as your cabinets. This will create flow and unity in your kitchen.

Install a minimum of two glass doors for the upper cabinets; these can be placed in the corners or next to the range hood. By installing glass doors, you can use your best dishes or crystal glassware to accessorize your kitchen.

If the space allows, install a centralized island. An island will help create better functionality by giving you extra preparation area and extra storage space. It also adds bonus gathering and eating space for your guests.

Functionality is key, and there is nothing worse than a beautiful kitchen that is not functional. Account for all the preparation, cooking, and storage areas properly and design the kitchen around your specific wants and needs.

Lighting is also extremely important when designing a kitchen. Try to make use of both natural and artificial lighting in this space. Combine general lighting with task lighting in well-used areas. Consider accenting the island with decorative fixtures or installing under cabinet lighting above the counter space. Dimmers can also be installed to set the mood for entertaining.

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY Project

Glass Inserts

If you’re looking to show off your best dishes with glass cabinet doors check out this quick and inexpensive DIY project.

Recipe

Chicken Pot Pie

Warm up on a cold night with this delicious chicken pot pie recipe.

Get DIY Project Here

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5, Image 6

Denise Benoit

Sales Representative

Century 21 Heritage House Ltd.
519-771-9011
denisebenoit2@gmail.com
denisebenoit.com
“I love what I do!”

Independently Owned and Operated. ®/™ trademarks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC used under license or authorized sub-license. © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership

The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos identify professional services rendered by REALTOR® members of CREA to effect the purchase, sale and lease of real estate as part of a cooperative selling system. The trademarks REALTOR ® , REALTORS ® and the REALTOR ® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license. This listing content provided by REALTOR.ca has been licensed by REALTOR® members of The Canadian Real Estate Association. Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or buyers under contract.

Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership currently has franchise opportunities available in select markets across Canada. The intent of this communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a solicitation to anyone under contract with another real estate brokerage operation. This e-mail message contains confidential information intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. Any unauthorized use or disclosure is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error please immediately delete the e-mail and notify the sender at the above e-mail address.

Uncategorized • 15 October 2022

How to Really Live in Your Living Room

by Denise Benoit

Ironically the living room is the space that is lived in the least! Many people prefer to spend time in the family room or kitchen; however, it can be a huge waste of good real estate to ignore the living room. Saving the living room for a special family occasion or the holidays is a shame; it’s a room that should be used and enjoyed every day.

Treat the design and décor of your living room as beautiful, useable, and easy – not ‘special’. Think about how you live and what you want the living room to do for your lifestyle. Try using the living room as a multi-functional space for working, playing, and entertaining. Design your living room to be versatile, stylish, and easy to live in so that they can fulfil many roles. Use sturdy but lush fabrics like velvet and linen blends with fun patterns. Look for strong durable surfaces like stone and hardwoods, a variety of floor covering like sisal mixed with hides, persians or dhurries and accents that are amusing, personal and lend humour to the atmosphere.

Lighting is an important factor as well. To create a functional and well-lit space, use a mixture of overhead lighting, table lamps, floor lamps, up lights, reading lights, picture lights and candles.

Try to have enough seating for at least 10 people. Use a mix of sofas, easily moveable side chairs and stools for perching, plus lots of empty floor space for pillows. Tables showcase trays filled with objects that have special meaning but there’s always room for a cocktail or bowl of sweet or savoury treats. You can also incorporate a desk into your living room, which doubles as another server if a party breaks out.

Live in your living room – and don’t just save it for a special occasion or holiday. Use it to its full potential and create a beautiful and comfortable space where you can eat, drink and be merry – everyday!

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY PROJECT

Accent Wall

Add a texture accent wall to your living room for a subtle visual impact.

Get DIY Project Here

RECIPE

Pumpkin Spice Coconut Bliss Balls

These Pumpkin spice coconut bliss balls are the perfect seasonal snack to put out while entertaining. Plus, they are vegan so perfect for any guest!

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4

Denise Benoit | Sales Representative

Century 21 Heritage House Ltd.
519-771-9011
denisebenoit2@gmail.com
denisebenoit.com

“I love what I do!”

Independently Owned and Operated. ®/™ trademarks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC used under license or authorized sub-license. © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership

The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos identify professional services rendered by REALTOR® members of CREA to effect the purchase, sale and lease of real estate as part of a cooperative selling system. The trademarks REALTOR ® , REALTORS ® and the REALTOR ® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license. This listing content provided by REALTOR.ca has been licensed by REALTOR® members of The Canadian Real Estate Association. Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or buyers under contract.

Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership currently has franchise opportunities available in select markets across Canada. The intent of this communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a solicitation to anyone under contract with another real estate brokerage operation. This e-mail message contains confidential information intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. Any unauthorized use or disclosure is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error please immediately delete the e-mail and notify the sender at the above e-mail address.

Summer • 15 August 2022

The Ultimate Summer Part

by Denise Benoit

Summer is here! Days are longer and warmer. What better way to welcome this lovely time of year than with a summer party. Whether you plan to have a casual summer brunch or go all out with a formal summer dinner party, we have plenty of ideas to get you started!

While not mandatory, you may want to pick a theme for your summer party. Here are a few fun ideas:

Celebrate summer with a garden party. Place flower seed packets under forks at place settings. Have guests decorate clay pots with vibrant paint colours and plant flowers to take home with them.
A summer recipe party allows you to show off your cooking skills and learn some as well. Prepare your favourite summer appetizer, main dish, or dessert and share your culinary secrets. Ask guests to bring their favourite summer dish along with the recipe to share with others.
Bring your fancy chairs outdoors for a traditional tea party complete with vintage China, floral napkins, and silver teaspoons. Have guests wear proper attire that includes gloves and fancy hats. Hang a chandelier from a tree branch for a touch of sophisticated charm.
If children will be present, plan an outdoors event with plenty of snacks and drinks. Celebrate afterwards with a bonfire (if permitted) complete with smores and warm blankets.
For a relaxed summer get-together with the girls, plan an outdoors spa day. Bring out all your nail polishes, creams and face masks and ask your guests to wear a robe and slippers for comfort. Create a grazing table filled with cheeses, fruits, and veggies and top off the spa experience with refreshing lemonade or cucumber water.

Think cheerful, bright, and vibrant. Flashy colours, such as bright yellow, rose pink, marigold orange or sky blue, are always popular choices. You can also think outside the box. For example, try combining bright berry tones with mismatched glasses completed with blueberry lemonade and berry desserts placed on stands of varying heights.

Stick to two or three colours and make one a neutral or barely-there metallic. For example, sky blue tablecloth with classic white scalloped dishes. Once you choose your colour scheme, you can incorporate them into your invitations, table decorations, and floral arrangements.

Your summer table should look bright, cheerful, and fresh. Crisp linens, floral napkins, and colourful tableware will help create a cheerful atmosphere. Add daffodils, tulips, hydrangeas, snowdrops, or gerberas in amazing colours for the perfect centrepiece.

Decorations don’t need to be expensive. For example, a simple tulip placed on each plate or under each napkin ring is a small touch that goes a long way. Or for an outdoor casual brunch, place simple groupings of flowers into coffee and soup cans painted in summer colours.

Celebrate with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables along with some light refreshments. Colourful salads, finger sandwiches with deli meats, pasta dishes with fresh vegetables and fruit kabobs all make delicious summer dishes. For dessert, consider mixed berry parfaits or raspberry-blueberry cake.

Quench your guest’s thirst with delicious summertime drinks at a self-serve bar where they can meet and mingle with others. Include non-alcoholic drinks such as mixed berry iced tea, strawberry lemonade, or refreshing fruit smoothies. Serve in clear, glass pitchers with lemon and lime wheels or garnish with fresh mint. If serving cocktails, keep them fun and fruity. Bright punches and sangria are always a big hit. Champagne punch with apricot nectar or sparkling wine combined with fresh juice are also great choices.

Don’t forget to say thanks! Send each guest home with a favour that celebrates the season. For example, repurpose jars into charming vases and personalize them with a note of thanks. Allow guests to choose a few flowers from your arrangements to take home with them as favours. Classic floral teacups also make perfect pots for small succulents that can be used as party favours.

Summer parties are a great way to spend quality time with your family and friends and celebrate the season.

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY PROJECT

Patio Cooler Ice Chest

Elevate your cooler with this DIY ice chest project. It will be a hit at all your outdoor events.

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RECIPE

Grilled Shrimp Foil Packets

If you’re looking for the perfect summer recipe, try out these grilled shrimp foil packets. They supply the same great taste as a shrimp boil but without the mess and save you time.

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Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5, Image 6

Summer • 15 July 2022

The Essential Summer Cleaning Checklist

by Denise Benoit

There’s nothing better than starting off summer, or any season for that matter, with a decluttered and clean home!

Whether you’re in need of a big purge or want to elevate your regular decluttering routine, it is a good idea to kick off your summer with a clean slate.

Before you start checking off cleaning tasks from your list, try to clear out the clutter. Any items that are broken, no longer in use, or you have duplicates of, should be removed from your home, as it’s much easier to clean a space when there is less junk in it. Think how much faster it is to vacuum when there are no items on the floor—the same applies to cleaning a clutter free home. If you need help getting rid of your unwanted items, just call 1-800-GOT-JUNK? and they can make cleaning for the summer a breeze!

Don’t miss the special offer at the bottom of this email!

Room by room summer cleaning checklist

Once you’ve removed the clutter in your home it’s time to start cleaning! To help you tackle your summer cleaning project, follow our room by room checklist to help you stay on track and avoid missing any important areas.

Your kitchen gets a lot of use so it’s important to really deep clean. First, empty and wipe-down your drawers, cabinets, and pantry. Make sure to put things back in an orderly way, categorizing items is a great way to do this! Wash backsplash, cabinet doors, and drawer fronts, including handles/knobs. Scrub the kitchen sink and shine faucets and any silverware you have.

Next, move on to your appliances. Clean the microwave and dishwasher, and descale the coffee maker and kettle. Wipe under and behind the fridge and stove, cleaning the oven and stove top, including drip bowls under the elements if you have them. Empty out your fridge and wipe the shelves, drawers, and sides, and throw out any food that is expired. Lastly, don’t forget to give your small appliances some love, wipe them all down and empty the toaster crumb tray. If you find you need a little extra help in your kitchen, checkout our kitchen organization checklist.

Your laundry room is where you bring all your clothes to be cleaned, but do you ever clean that space? Not only does cleaning your washer and dryer help them run more efficiently, but it’s also safer as dryer fires are unlikely to occur in clean machines. As you clean out the inside of the washing machine and dryer, don’t forget to empty the dryer vent and clean the soap and fabric softener dispensers too!

After the appliances are clean, wipe behind and underneath them. Don’t forget to organize all laundry soap, cleaning products, and any other items in the space. Keeping items organized can help you keep clutter from creeping back in!

Due to all the products stored in bathrooms, the space tends to accumulate a lot of clutter. Start cleaning your bathroom by emptying and cleaning cabinets and drawers, discarding any products you no longer use. Get rid of expired medications, but make sure you check how to responsibly dispose of them in your area. As you put back the products you still use, try to do so in an orderly fashion.

After you’ve purged your unused products, move on to cleaning the sink, toilet, and bathtub or shower. As you’re cleaning the shower, don’t forget to clean the showerhead, wash the bathmat, and replace the shower curtain liner if necessary. Lastly, wipe down the faucets and mirrors with a streak free cleaner to make the bathroom shine. If bathroom clutter keeps coming back even after cleaning, check out these four bathroom organization ideas to keep the space tidy.

The living room is a place for relaxation, but it’s harder to unwind when the space is cluttered. Cleaning your living room not only gives the space a facelift but it can create a more welcoming and stress-free environment. The largest item in most living rooms is the furniture, so that should be a focus area. Not only should you vacuum behind and under your furniture, but you should also remove the cushions and vacuum the furniture itself, getting in all the nooks and crannies. If your furniture is leather, make sure to condition it so it lasts longer.

If you have rugs or carpet in your living space, give them a deep clean yourself or call a professional carpet cleaning company to help you out. As you’re cleaning, don’t forget about the tech! Wipe down all TV and computer screens and disinfect all remote controls. Next, make sure all of your items are organized and have a designated storage area. Organize magazines and books in a basket or on a shelf, recycling or donating the ones you no longer need. An easy way to instantly make the space look cleaner is by organizing children’s toys and video games in opaque storage baskets. Lastly, if you have pets make sure to clean their bed and toys.

Your bedroom is your sanctuary, so you want to make it an inviting place. First, get rid of the clutter that tends to accumulate in the form of extra clothes. Empty and wipe down dresser drawers and closet shelves. Before you put any clothing back, purge any damaged, unused, or outgrown items and if they’re in good condition, donate them. Store any out of season coats and shoes to clear up additional space.

After you’ve organized your closet, move on to your bedding and wash all blankets, sheets, and pillow cases. Make your sleep even better and freshen up your mattress by vacuuming and rotating it. Remember that mattresses have a recommended life-cycle of 7-10 years, so if you find that any mattresses are quite worn down while cleaning, it may be time to look for a replacement. 1-800-GOT-JUNK? is happy to help with your mattress removal when it’s time to say goodbye!

While each room in your house has different cleaning needs, there are some cleaning tasks that should be completed throughout your entire home. To freshen up your home’s appearance and eliminate allergens, wash and vacuum floors and dust all furniture, decor, light fixtures, fans, and vents. Wash windows and window frames to let the sunshine through and improve your home’s curb appeal. Wash baseboards and doors to remove all scuffing and if there is any damage, make drywall repairs and touch up paint. Lastly, remove anything that doesn’t have a dedicated place. If it’s just taking up space, call 1-800-GOT-JUNK? to remove the clutter and save your sunny days for enjoying your newly cleaned home.

To help you declutter your home, print out 1-800-GOT-JUNK?’s cleaning checklist to take with you as you go from room to room, ensuring that no areas have been missed!

After you’ve cleaned your home, you may find that you’ve uncovered even more unwanted items! If that’s the case, 1-800-GOT-JUNK?’s friendly, uniformed Truck Team Members are happy to bring summertime into your home. At 1-800-GOT-JUNK? they make junk removal easy, all you have to do is point!

Receive $50 off your junk removal with promo code C2150.

BOOK NOW

MONTHLY FEATURES

DIY PROJECT

Reusable Produce Bags

Keep your home tidy and culture-free by eliminating the need for plastic bags. Check out this eco-friendly reusable produce bags project that’s simple, quick and will save you money.

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RECIPE

Baked Chicken Fajitas

This baked chicken fajitas recipe is sure to be a family favourite. It’s loaded with flavour, is freezer-friendly, and can be ready in 30 minutes – what’s not to love?

Get Recipe Here

Image Credits: Image 1, Image 2, Image 3, Image 4, Image 5, Image 6

Denise Benoit | Sales Representative

Century 21 Heritage House Ltd.
519-771-9011
denisebenoit2@gmail.com
denisebenoit.com

“I love what I do!”

Independently Owned and Operated. ®/™ trademarks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC used under license or authorized sub-license. © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership

The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos identify professional services rendered by REALTOR® members of CREA to effect the purchase, sale and lease of real estate as part of a cooperative selling system. The trademarks REALTOR ® , REALTORS ® and the REALTOR ® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license. This listing content provided by REALTOR.ca has been licensed by REALTOR® members of The Canadian Real Estate Association. Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or buyers under contract.

Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership currently has franchise opportunities available in select markets across Canada. The intent of this communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a solicitation to anyone under contract with another real estate brokerage operation. This e-mail message contains confidential information intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. Any unauthorized use or disclosure is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error please immediately delete the e-mail and notify the sender at the above e-mail address.

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505 Park Road North, Suite 216, Brantford, ON N3R7K8

(519) 758-2121

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Independently Owned and Operated. ®/™ trademarks owned by Century 21 Real Estate LLC used under license or authorized sub-license. © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership © 2020 Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership

The trademarks MLS®, Multiple Listing Service® and the associated logos identify professional services rendered by REALTOR® members of CREA to effect the purchase, sale and lease of real estate as part of a cooperative selling system. The trademarks REALTOR ® , REALTORS ® and the REALTOR ® logo are controlled by The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) and identify real estate professionals who are members of CREA. Used under license. This listing content provided by REALTOR.ca has been licensed by REALTOR® members of The Canadian Real Estate Association. Not intended to solicit properties currently listed for sale or buyers under contract.

Century 21 Canada Limited Partnership currently has franchise opportunities available in select markets across Canada. The intent of this communication is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a solicitation to anyone under contract with another real estate brokerage operation. This e-mail message contains confidential information intended only for the use of the individual or entity named above. Any unauthorized use or disclosure is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error please immediately delete the e-mail and either notify the sender at the above e-mail address or by telephone.