Merry Christmas!!!

Our wish for our family, friends, clients & colleagues
Joy to your heart...and warmth to your home!
And as the New year unfolds, may it bring good health, happiness
& much success!

Richard & Colleen Thyssen
Direct: 519-495-1541
Email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Did you Know....Vinegar can save your carpet

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct 519-495-1541
Office 519-438-8000
Email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Do you have your carbon monoxide detector?

Carbon monoxide detectors will soon been mandatory in all Ontario homes.

Carbon monoxide (CO) gas is odorless and tasteless.  It is produced as a by product of combustion when fuel-burning appliances and equipment that use natural gas, oil, wood or propane do not get enough air to completely burn up.  Named the "silent killer" it can cause brain damage and/or death.

Some common sources of Carbon Monoxide include:
Furnace, gas water heater, gas fireplace, gas stove, gas dryer, gas barbeque, portable generators and fuel burning space heaters.

To prevent exposure, ensure that gas appliances, furnaces and fireplaces are properly vented and maintained.  They should be checked every ear by a certified heating technician to ensure their safety.

CO poisoning has symptoms similar to the flu: nausea, headaches, confusion, weakness & drowsiness.  The key difference is that there is no fever present.

The best way to protect yourself and your family is to have an annual inspection of your home heating equipment including vents and chimneys and install a CO detector in your home.

For more info: http://www.lfpress.com/2013/11/28/bang-on-get-a-carbon-monoxide-detector

Carbon monoxide detectors will soon been mandatory in all Ontario homes.  Have you got yours?

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-1541
Office: 519-438-8000
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Keep it local with these Christmas gift giving ideas!

As the holidays approach, here are some great ideas that we have picked up along the way.  
Keep it local with these gift giving ideas and support local businesses!

Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in paper?

EVERYONE gets their hair cut.  How about gift certificates from your local hair
salon or barber?

Gym membership?  Appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health
improvement.

Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed?  Small, detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate.

Perhaps you know someone that would be grateful to have his driveway sealed,  lawn mowed or driveway ploughed.

How about a game of golf at a local golf course?

Our great city has loads of restaurants -- all offering gift certificates -- or what about a
breakfast at a local breakfast nook.

How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle done at a London shop?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for Mom?  Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning
lady for a day.

For the computer geek on your list, how about a computer tune up.

Looking for something more personal?  Local crafts people make jewelry, pottery, sweaters and scarves.

Plan your holiday outings at a local, owner operated restaurant.  And how about going out to see
a play at our local theatre.

Christmas is about caring.  Supporting local businesses show we care and when we care about
our community, the benefits come back to us.

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct 519-495-1541
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Making Your Kitchen More Attractive to Buyers

Making Your Kitchen More Attractive to Buyers

What is one of the most important rooms in your home? When it comes to selling your property quickly, and for the best price, the answer is clearly the kitchen. In fact, one of the most common explanations a particular buyer gives for not making an offer is, "I liked the house, but I wasn't too keen on the kitchen."

That doesn't mean you must do a major renovation. However, you should do what you can to make the kitchen as attractive as possible to buyers.

Here are some ideas:

First, clear the counter tops. Put away the toaster and other items. You want to make the entire counter top area seem as spacious as possible.

A fast, inexpensive kitchen update includes painting and new cabinet hardware.

If the cabinetry is old, you can spruce it up by installing new knobs, handles and other hardware.

A fresh coat of paint on the walls and ceiling will give the kitchen a lift
and it will only cost you a few hundred dollars.

Replacing the counter tops is a more expensive renovation, but it may be
worth it if the current counters are old and worn.

Finally, when preparing your kitchen for a viewing, make sure it's clean and
tidy. The garbage and recycling bins should be empty. Buyers will open
cabinets so make sure items on shelves are neatly organized.

Call us today for more ideas on how to make your kitchen more attractive to buyers.

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
direct 519-495-1541
email rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Opportunity knocks!!! Old South diamond in the rough. Currently set up as a duplex with a great location. Walking distance to downtown, Wortley Village and Thames Park. Quiet dead end street. Property be sold `as is, where is` condition - no representations or warranties.
Click for more details.

Remodeling Your Bathroom on a Budget

 

Remodeling a bathroom on a budget requires careful thought and some elbow grease.  Simple and clean go a long way in a bathroom.
Here are some tips to keep in mind as you plan your bathroom renovation.

Have a Clear Idea

Know exactly what you want before you start. Indecision can actually cost you more money. Forming a vision of what you want and sticking to the project plan prevents you from overspending on "just one more thing," purchasing things hastily without considering what you realistically have to spend. Pay attention to other home's bathrooms, or search online for pictures to get ideas.

Work Up a Budget

People with written goals are more likely to achieve them. Budgets are much the same. When it's on paper, it's more real, and you're more likely to compare what you're spending against what your limit is.  Be realistic.  Look at your disposable income and determine what you can spend to get the job done. Next, add up your costs for each item you will need. Estimate on the high side of costs to ensure you don't go over budget. Finally, keep a journal documenting your budget and actual purchases.

Do it Yourself

Labor typically costs half – or more – of the total cost for a remodel. Beware of cheap labor as well: Generally, you get what you pay for. Of course, for certain jobs, such as rewiring or complicated structural work, you may need to hire a professional. Check references and investigate the company or individual, and get a written estimate and guarantee before the work is done. Whenever possible, DIY instead.

Comparison Shop

Impulse buying often results in getting something you don't need and paying more than necessary. Consider your various options before purchasing items, especially high-dollar items. Look at various stores and possibly even online. What you spend in gas or shipping might just be less than what it costs at the local retailer. Also, don't forget about reclaimed and recycled items or modifying what you already have. Refinishing a bathtub, for instance, costs less than a new one. Re-grouting old tile may give it a new lease on life and allow you to put your money toward other items. Even using reclaimed wood or tiles, for example, or moving an old dresser into the bathroom and setting it up as a vanity, will save a lot of money and provide your bathroom a distinctive touch. Don't be afraid to try the unusual if it works.

Prioritize

Be realistic about your abilities and prioritize the important things first. Rotten or soft woodwork, flooring, plumbing problems and various safety issues must come first. After that, look at important cosmetic considerations. Is the lighting poor? Are the windows far from energy efficient? Does the room or ceiling honestly need a new coat of paint? These things will detract from the most clever room remodels and make your bathroom look and feel shabby.

The budgeting and hard work will pay off when you see the final result!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct 519-495-1541
Email rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

How Long Does it Take to Find a New Home?

How Long Does it Take to Find a New Home?

If you're planning to look for a new home sometime in the future, you may be wondering how long the process will take. How much time should you set aside for viewings? How many of the listed homes should you see?

Of course, the process varies from person to person. Home buyers generally view an
average of 10-15 properties before finally choosing to make an offer on one of them.
On a Saturday afternoon, you can comfortably look at three or four potential properties.
You can see more if you want to make a full day of it however keeping in mind the more homes you see in a day the more overwhelming it can become.

One factor that impacts the home shopping process is how clearly you know what you're
looking for. For example, if you're certain you want a three bedroom backsplit, backing onto a wooded area or ravine, in an upscale neighbourhood, then the process is going to be fairly simple. You're just going to view properties that closely meet that criteria. But if you're the kind of person who simply says, "I'll know it when I see it", then you'll need to look at several homes on the market. That means carving out plenty of room in your schedule for viewings.

We can help you understand what's available on the market and which homes are worth seeing.  We can also help you determine how long the process will likely take, and show you ways to make the process go more quickly and smoothly.

Looking to make a move to a new home?  Call us and let us find the home that is right for you!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
cell 519-495-1541
office 519-438-8000
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Prepare to be impressed!!

 

Prepare to be impressed! Awesome location across from park & Thames river, this 3 bedroom home has charm galore! Well maintained with large bright updated windows, laminate & hardwood floors, large living room with gas fireplace, trendy kitchen with huge island, plenty of counter space, newer flooring, pantry & bright eating area. Lower level offers additional living space including den & office. Easy clean thermal pane windows, high efficient furnace, newer C/air in 2010. Roof shingles new in 2011. Tranquil rear yard with large concrete patio & flagstone patio. One & 1/2 car insulated garage/workshop with own gas furnace, ideal for the hobbyist! All measurements approximate.

Investors take note!!

Looking for a solid investment? Then check out this purpose built Triplex zoned as Duplex. Featuring 2 large, 3 bedroom units (main & upper) with eat in kitchens and newer tub surrounds. One bedroom lower unit that could be turned into a 2 bedroom. Lower has outside access and is in need of renovation. ***BONUS*** oversized 2 car garage with hydro & gas furnace, ideal for the hobbyist!!! Private yard with sun deck & hot tub. Close to school, arena & park. 3 separate hydro meters. Furnace is a dual zone forced air gas unit with central air (main & lower are on one zone, upper on separate zone). Fire & hydro certificates available. All measurements approximate.

Happy Halloween!

Halloween is closing in along with the scramble to find costumes for our kids or maybe ourselves, the right pumpkin and the all important candy!  Celebrated on October 31st, it is a day to mark the single night in the year when, according to old Celtic beliefs, spirits and the dead can cross over into the world of the living.  See more interesting Halloween facts.

There is still time to take in a few scary events.  See Tourism London for a list of the events happening in the next couple of days.

Watch out for the ghost and goblins and have a safe night!

Happy Haunting!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
direct 519-495-1541
office 519-438-8000
email rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Don't get left out in the cold

How to Tell if a Neighbourhood is Improving

How to tell if a neighbourhood is improving

When you’re looking for a new home, you want to find one in a great
neighbourhood – or, at least, in a neighbourhood that is on the upswing.

How can you tell if a particular area is improving? Here are some common
indicators:

- Pride of ownership. Take a walk around the neighbourhood. Do you get a
sense that people take good care of their homes? Are the lawns mowed?
Is the landscaping trimmed? Are flowers planted? Homeowners are more
likely to look after their properties when they like where they are living.

- Home improvements. Are people investing in their homes? Are they
getting their driveways re-done? Their windows replaced? Are there signs
of home improvement projects? If so, this is a clear indication that
homeowners like the area enough to invest in their properties.

- Real estate sales activity. Do homes tend to sell quickly in the area? Do
they sell for a good price? If so, the neighbourhood is probably in demand.
If people want to live there, it's a desirable area.

- Community involvement. Are there signs that the community plays an
active role in the look and lifestyle of the neighbourhood?  Check
Facebook.com to see if the neighbourhood has a community page.

- City plans. Find out what plans the city has for the area. Will there be road
improvements done in the near future? Are there any major construction
projects on the schedule, such as a new school or community centre.
Although such projects can be disruptive in the short term, they may
improve the neighbourhood – and, as a result, boost the value of any home
you buy – in the long-term.

Of course, the best way to find out the desirability of a neighbourhood is to
talk to a good Realtor who knows the area. Call us today!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-1541
Office: 519-438-8000
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Preventing Basement Leaks

Preventing Basement Leaks

If you have a basement, or even just a crawlspace, the last thing you want is
water infiltrating the area. Even a minor leak can cause damage to walls
and flooring, and may even lead to mold issues. Here are some
precautions worth taking:

• Every spring and fall, check the grading around your home. The ground should gently slope away from the foundation. Pay particular attention to areas where shrubs and other foliage make the grading difficult to see.

• Look for cracks in the foundation. Get them fixed right away. Even a minor crack that doesn't appear to penetrate all the way through can cause problems eventually.  See information on waterproofing.

• Check the caulking on basement windows. If it's worn and cracked,
it's time for re caulking. The lifespan of most exterior caulking is less
than five years.

• Watch the eaves troughs when it rains. (You'll get wet, but it's worth
it.) Make sure the water drains well away from the foundation.

Doing these simple inspections takes just a few minutes. Yet, if they prevent
a basement leak, it's time well spent!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct: 519-495-151
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Recognizing potential major expenses in a new home

Recognizing potential major expenses in a new home

When you see a new home you like on the market, it's easy to get distracted
by all the features you love – the wrap-around backyard deck or the
spacious rec room with plenty of space for entertaining. You just need to
make sure that in all that excitement you don’t overlook any expensive
maintenance issues that could be just around the corner.

Nothing lasts forever. The major components of every home – from the
furnace to the roof shingles – need to be replaced eventually. Knowing
when such maintenance issues are likely to arise can help you make a
smarter decision about the home you are considering.

How do you do that?

When viewing a property, ask for the age of the major components of the home, such as the roof shingles, furnace, air conditioner and water heater. Roof shingles may look merely weathered in spots – and you might think they have years of service left – when, in fact, they're due to be replaced in a year.

Also pay close attention to the backyard deck, fencing, flooring, and
windows. Do any of those components look aged, worn, and in need of
repair or replacement sometime soon?

Finally, don't forget to check the kitchen and bathrooms. Sinks, faucets,
bathtubs, showers, and cabinetry have a life-span of about 10-15 years.

Of course, there are things you can't see, such as wiring, plumbing, venting,
and other components of a property that may require maintenance soon.
That's why it's so important to make any offer to purchase a home
conditional on passing an inspection by a qualified home inspector.

Want more ideas on buying the right home for you and recognizing potential major expenses in a new home? We can help.


Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Direct 519-495-1541
Office 519-438-8000
email: richard@thyssengroup.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Tips For The Best Home Showings

Tips For The Best Home Showings

Home routines tend to come to a standstill while your home is on the market. The need to keep the house clean  - and not scare potential home buyers away - means that kids can't throw their school books on the dining room table, Dad has to pick up his stinky socks, and even the pets need to toe the line.
Keeping the house clean is a good first step toward presenting the home in the best light. But it isn't the only step.

1. Odors

Have you ever walked into a home and been immediately assaulted by nasty odors? Cigarettes, grease, cooking odors, diapers and pets all leave their mark on the way a home smells. While it's almost impossible to rid the home of cigarette smoke without painting, there are ways to get rid of other odors.
Have the carpets professionally cleaned and deodorized.
Launder or dry-clean all curtains and drapes.
Consider having your upholstered furniture professionally cleaned.
Clean the grease from the range hood.
Keep the dog bathed and groomed to keep doggy smells at bay.
Place dishes of potpourri or scented candles in random areas throughout the home.

2. Sights

Light and bright are the operative words when considering the ideal way to present your home to buyers.
Change light bulbs in the home to higher wattage bulbs. Leave the lights on for showings, including closet lights.
Paint the walls. If you can't paint, clean the walls.
Remove heavy drapes and replace them with lightweight fabric that allows natural light into the home.
Don't neglect the outside of the house. Before a showing, make sure that the planting beds look clean and attractive and that the lawn is mowed.

3. Set the Scene

If you've ever toured model homes, you are familiar with the concept of staging – the art of carefully crafting interiors that appeal to home buyers. If you're on a tight budget and can't afford a professional designer, make some simple changes that appeal to buyers.
Set the dining room table with attractive dinnerware or create a cozy nook in the bedroom with a small table and chairs. Group items in threes, use different heights, and keep it simple.
Fresh flowers add so much to a home, from masking odors to adding pops of color and texture. Add a gorgeous bouquet on the dining room table. Night stands are ideal places to set small vases of flowers.
Bathrooms are important, so pay close attention to how you stage yours. Get rid of the counter top clutter and add fluffy towels and a new shower curtain.

4. Security

Since sellers should make themselves scarce when the home is being shown, it's important to take security measures. Lock up or remove valuables, prescription drugs and money.
Don't leave personal items - especially paperwork with your financial information - lying around in plain sight.

Whatever you can do to make your home appear move-in ready will appeal to buyers. Tour some new home communities for more ideas and inspiration so that your home shows like a model.

Visit our web site www.thyssengroup.com for more insight into understanding buyers and what attracts.

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Office 519-438-8000
Cell  519-495-1541
email rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

3 Bedroom Condo London, ON

Conveniently located 3 bedroom, 2 bath condo close to shopping, Victoria Hospital, public transit and minutes to Hwy 401. This great condo at 731 Deveron Cres, Unit 312 is located on the top floor with a great view from the balcony. Newer kitchen cabinets & laminate flooring in living room, kitchen and foyer. Gas fireplace in the living room. Master bedroom includes walk in closet and 2 piece ensuite bath. Building offers elevators, outdoor pool and sauna.
To see more London Ontario homes http://thyssengroup.kwrealty.com/search/ or for your private viewing contact Richard Thyssen 519-495-1541 or email rthyssen@rogers.com

Preventing Burglaries

Preventing burglaries requires more than locks and alarms.

There's no doubt about it. If you want to keep your home safe from break ins,
you should have good locks an all doors and windows. An alarm system
is also a good idea.

Home security doesn't end with locks and alarms. There are other less
obvious ways to keep your home safe. For example:

• Install exterior lights with a motion detection feature. A light suddenly
  going on will almost always send a potential intruder away.

• Look for – and if possible eliminate – spots around your property
  where someone can hide.

• Always have some lights on in your home when you're away for an
  evening.

• Never announce that you're on vacation or otherwise away from your home on social media sites.   (Also ask your kids not to do this!)

• Don't leave tempting valuables where they can be easily seen through a window.

In addition to good locking systems on doors and windows, simple precautions like these for preventing burglaries will significantly lower the risk of a break in.

Check out http://www.neighbourhoodwatchlondon.ca/crimePreventionTips.html for helpful resources in crime prevention.

Protect yourself and be safe!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
cell: 519-495-1541
office: 519-438-8000
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Labour Day is closing in...

Traditionally Labour Day, the first Monday in September, originally gave workers the chance to campaign for better working conditions and/or pay.  It was a day to celebrate workers' rights with parades and picnics organized by trade unions.

Today, for many parents, it marks the end of summer vacation and a breather from the kids with the beginning of a new school year.  For others the weekend marks the end of summer and the start of the fall season.

Check out some events happening in London  www.londontourism.ca/Events.

This weekend would be a great time to take a late summer trip, enjoy the company of family and friends, visit a fair or festival or perhaps host a BBQ.

Whatever your plans, have a safe Labour Day weekend and kids... sharpen your pencils!!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
cell 519-495-1541
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Furnish Your Home for Less

Furnish Your Home For Less

Starting out with a "blank slate" can be both a blessing and a curse. The blessing comes if you have enough money to furnish your home with whatever you want from wherever you choose. Furnishing a home on a shoestring, though, takes creativity, an eye for a good value, and possibly some elbow grease.
While some discount stores, such as Ikea, sell inexpensive new furnishings, careful shoppers can find better quality for less money with used furnishings. Here are a few ideas for getting what you need at discounted prices.

Inspiration

Whether you are furnishing one room or a whole house, it's important to have an idea of how you want the room to look before you go shopping. Once you have the design in mind, it's easier to shop for the components.
Model homes in new home communities are great places to get decorating ideas. These homes are carefully decorated to appeal to a broad range of home buyers. Colour schemes, accessories, furniture choice and placement all play to the shopper's emotions.
Interior design and decorating websites may also be good sources of inspiration. Check out Better Homes and Gardens, HGTV or Houzz, for project ideas to get your household furnished for less.

Used is Good

One of the hardest things to learn is how to look beyond the obvious wear and tear to the actual "bones" of used furniture.  Look beyond the fact that the upholstery is ratty or the legs are scuffed – look at style.
If you like the lines of the coffee table, buy it. Scratches and dings are easy to fix. Hate the ugly green upholstery on the otherwise perfect Chesterfield-style sofa? Buy it. Have it recovered in a yummy fabric of your choice.
Once you've mastered the technique of not judging furniture by its cover, it's time to go shopping.

Garage and Estate Sales

Yes, there are differences between garage sales and estate sales. The latter is the disposition of goods of a person's estate. The garage sale, on the other hand, is the sale of a person's extra belongings or things they no longer need. Both sales offer used items, but estate sales typically have a better variety, and the items are usually in better condition.
Expect to pay more for estate sale items than garage sale items, and prices are typically not negotiable. In both cases you'll need to supply your own moving labor and transportation, so factor that cost into the cost of the items you want to purchase.
You can find garage and estate sales advertised in newspaper classified ads, and by following directional signs in neighbourhoods.

Consignment Stores

Furniture prices tend to be a bit higher in consignment stores than if you were to purchase the items directly from the owner's home, but you can occasionally find some bargains.

Thrift Stores

Salvation Army and Goodwill thrift stores are sources of deeply discounted used household items. Finding something decent is a bit challenging, but once in a while you'll find just the piece you've been searching for, so don't disregard these sources.

Online Shopping

Kijiji is the best online site for inexpensive home furnishings – mainly because it's local. The first place to navigate once you arrive on your local Kijiji page is the Browse Categories section, where you'll find a link named "Free." Everybody loves free, right? Within this category you'll see ads that contain free items available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Join the freecycling group in your area at Freecycle.org. Membership is free, and so are all the items posted.

Shopping frugally allows you to make big, dramatic changes to your home decor without breaking the bank.


Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Cell: 519-495-1541
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

How To Design A Kid-Friendly Backyard

How To Design A Kid-Friendly Backyard

One of the pleasures of having a home is the space that a backyard provides for activities with family and friends. A backyard can be a great place for kids to burn off energy, explore the outdoors, and simply relax.
When children are small, care should also be taken to ensure their safety. The following are things you can do to design a kid-friendly backyard that is both fun and safe.

Maximize Exercise Space

It's tough these days for children to get enough exercise, but an area dedicated to lawn makes a more kid-friendly backyard. Provide enough space to run around, play tag, or throw a ball. The shrubs around this activity area should be tough, thorn-free, and able to withstand occasional abuse from balls or kids running into the beds.

Plant Fruits and Vegetables

Getting kids to eat their fruits and vegetables can also be a challenge. Why not make eating colorful, nutritious food more interesting by letting children grow their own fruits and vegetables? Tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, raspberries, and blueberries are all easy to grow. When children see fruits and vegetables go from seed to plate, they are more likely to eat them.

Create Interesting Garden Spaces

Is there anyone who hasn't played hide-and-seek? Providing a lawn isn't the only way to ignite a child's sense of play and creativity. Gardens can be divided into "garden rooms." Think of the lawn as the living room of the backyard, but you can also create a cozy nook with a bench surrounded by shrubs. This kind of space might provide a great kid-friendly place to read a book or the perfect hiding place for that next game of hide-and-seek.

Provide Protective Fencing

Designing a kid-friendly backyard is also about safety. When young children are present, it's important to provide protective fencing that not only keeps them from wandering off, but also keeps strangers and stray pets from coming into the backyard.

Don't Plant Poisonous Plants

Babies and toddlers are always putting things in their mouths. Leaves, bark, colorful flowers, and berries can all look very enticing to curious, young children. Before planting any plant in your backyard, do a little research. Look the plant up in a plant encyclopedia or online and see if it is poisonous. Some very common plants are poisonous: daffodils, daphne, foxgloves, and rhododendrons, just to name a few.

Don't Allow Unrestricted Access to Pools and Water Features

Babies and small children can drown in a surprisingly small amount of water. Therefore, it's important to supervise children around swimming pools, hot tubs, fountains, and water features. These water-based amenities can provide hours of enjoyment, but their location and access to them should be carefully planned to prevent accidental drowning. Provide locked doors or gates where appropriate to prevent small children from playing in water unsupervised.


Designing a kid-friendly backyard involves finding ways to inspire creativity and play within a safe environment. It's as easy as that. Now go outside and play!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
Cell: 519-495-1541
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
web: www.thyssengroup.com

Designing a Great Water Feature

Designing A Great Water Feature

Water features come in all shapes and sizes, from tabletop fountains to powerful, towering jets. Obviously, the construction of large water features is best left to the professionals, but for smaller projects, it's possible to design a great water feature in a single afternoon.

Style and Materials

The materials you use for your water feature should complement the materials and style of your home and garden. For example, if your home is formal, symmetry, formal shapes, then classic materials such as concrete basins will look best in your garden.
If your home is more rustic or located in a more natural setting, a water feature made to look like a natural creek bed may be more fitting.

Scale and Proportion

How much space do you have for your water feature? How will the water feature be viewed, and what kind of statement do you want to make? For example, if you live in an apartment or condo and you want to build a water feature for your balcony, the space may be tight, and you could probably create a great water feature using a couple of small, ceramic or concrete pots. However, in the same space, you may want to make a grand statement and construct a taller wall fountain instead. The scale and proportions should be in keeping with the feeling and aesthetic you are trying to create.
When thinking about scale and proportion, also think about how the water feature will be viewed in relationship to your home. You don't want the water feature or your house to look too big or too small when seen together.
Also consider how the water feature will be viewed. Will it be seen from a few feet away or 50 feet away? Obviously, a water feature that is farther away will need to be larger or it may not have the visual impact it needs. It would be a shame to spend time building a water feature and then realize that it's too small to get any attention.

Basins and Pools

Water features can be constructed using a variety of materials. A simple water feature can be constructed using a ceramic pot and a bamboo spigot. Concrete or ceramic pots are one option. Formed concrete basins can be built for larger projects. These can be left unfinished, finished with ceramic tiles, or colored using stains. For natural-looking, pond and creek bed designs, you will need a flexible pond liner. Whatever material you choose, your pond needs to be as watertight as possible.

Water Volume and Pumps

Just like the pumps in a fish tank, the pump you use in your water feature will be submerged in water. Typically, the pump is located in the lowest basin of water. For example, if you create a basin with a tiered fountain, the pump will sit in the basin at the bottom and pump water up to the top tier. The water then falls down over the tiers simply through the force of gravity.
The pump for your water feature needs to be the appropriate size. Fountain pumps come in different sizes and usually have a small knob on the top or side that allows you to adjust the flow of water.

Planting Around Your Water Feature

Finally, depending on the style and location of your water feature, you may want to plant around the edges. This is especially important if you have constructed a natural, creek bed water feature. A water feature of this type should be planted with native plants from your area. In general, it is best to use plants that like moisture. Although you have done your best to make your water feature watertight, it will lose a bit of water every day from splashing and evaporation. Plant a combination of shrubs, trees, and perennials that will not be adversely affected by this additional water.

The sound of water in the garden can soothe the nerves and block unwanted neighbouring noises.

Whatever your reasons for constructing a great water feature, this should give you some ideas to get started.

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
web: www.thyssengroup.com

Designing with Your Teen: Bedroom Decor

It's time to put away the beloved character comforters and sheets - your little girl or boy is no longer a child. The switch from cartoon characters to a more mature bedroom decor can be a smooth experience for both parent and child.
When tweens enter the full-fledged teen years they yearn for independence. They want control and decision-making privileges. It might be scary to imagine teenagers choosing their own paint colors, furniture, and decorations, but with a strong design plan this process doesn't have to be intimidating.

Get Inspired With a Design Board

Teen bedrooms can be mature but still have an element of fun. Their decor can reflect their interests in sports and hobbies in a stylish, organized way. Creating a design or inspiration board is the perfect way to find a happy medium between what parents want and what teenagers want. Choosing the perfect design elements will create a space that fosters confidence and self-expression while avoiding clutter.
The design board should include everything that will go into the bedroom. Not only should it have pictures of furniture and paint and fabric swatches, it should also include details like lighting fixtures and accessories. One way to create the board is to cut out pictures from magazines and glue them to a paper poster board. Your teens can also search online for pictures that can be printed out and affixed to the board. Another option is to copy and paste pictures from websites like Pinterest to a blank document on your computer. Once the design board is made, parents and teens can go over it together to be sure both parties agree on the design plan.

Choosing Colors

Don't be caught off guard if your teen chooses an outrageous color like bright pink or black. Bold, funky colors can be a fantastic outlet for their personalities. If you can't deal with all the walls being drenched in an over-the-top color, use the wild color as an accent on a single wall, a border, or as a pattern throughout the room. Another option is to use a more subtle color for the walls and brighter or bolder fabrics and accessories throughout the room.

Bedroom Furniture

Beds, dressers, entertainment centers, desks, nightstands and bookcases are often part of a teen's bedroom decor. If all of these pieces are too much for the size of the space, then consider picking dual-purpose furniture, like a work space that includes shelving or an entertainment center that houses a television and has shelves for books and accessories. You may want to forego the dressers for under-bed drawers to keep clothing neatly stored. Installing a closet organization system is another way to store everything from clothes to shoes, bags, coats, and accessories.
One thing you don't want to skimp on is shelf space. Shelves are great places to display books, but they are also perfect for displaying trophies, photo frames, and more. When purchasing basic furniture like the bed and nightstand, consider the future use of each piece. Will the furniture be staying long after your teen graduates from college, or will your child be using the furniture to fill a college dorm or first apartment? This will help you decide how much money to invest in the furniture as well as what style options are most appropriate.

Lighting and Accessories

Overhead lights and lamps come in every style imaginable. A simple overhead ceiling fan with lights can provide circulation and bright light when needed. Matching or coordinating small lamps are good for desk areas and nightstands.

Framed wall art can give teen rooms a grown up appeal without going overboard. Buying art from a local artist or encouraging your teen to create their own art can make these accessories affordable. Words and geometric designs that adhere to the walls are fun ways to allow teens to express themselves without ruining wall paint.



Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Colleen Thyssen, Sales Representative
office: 519-438-8000
cell: 519-495-1541
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

4 Level Backsplit in Westminster Park Area, London, ON

Looking for a 4 level backsplit home in the Westminster Park Area?  19 Adswood Place is your stop! This home is all dressed up & ready to GO!!!  A spacious home offering 3+1 bedrooms in a convenient location.  Designed for the family and in a convenient location that offers schools and playgrounds.  Inside this 4 level backsplit home are many appealing features including a family room with gas fireplace, hardwood floors and oak trim. The furnace & central air has been replaced in 2008.  There are some newer windows and ceramic tile floor in the updated eat in kitchen offering a sundeck. The backyard is a gardener’s delight and offers a private patio to enjoy the natural surroundings!
See more homes for sale in London Ontario or for your private viewing contact Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record 519-495-1541

How to be a Savvy Home Viewer

How to Be a Savvy Home Viewer

If you're planning on finding your next dream home, then you're probably
going to view several homes on the market that meet your criteria.
You will want to make the right purchasing decision for you and your family.
So, it's wise to be savvy when viewing properties for sale. Here are some
ideas on how to be a savvy home viewer.

~ Bring a notepad. Take notes, not only of the home's characteristics,
but also of how you feel. For example, can you imagine yourself
happily cooking up a storm in the kitchen? Do you see yourself
entertaining family on the back deck?

~ Bring a measuring tape. Will the furniture you plan to bring fit? Your
dining room suite? Your home fitness equipment?

~ Ask about maintenance. Is the property in a good state of repair?
Will anything need to be replaced soon, such as the windows?

~ Bring a camera. Take lots of pictures of the home's exterior
features. Don't make the mistake of thinking you'll remember how
everything looked.

~ Check out the area. Do other homeowners take good care of their
properties? This shows pride of ownership. How is the noise level? Is
there a playground, or another area feature nearby?

~ Make a list of compromises. For example, are there only two
bathrooms instead of three and, if so, can you live with that?

~ Make a list of bonuses. What features does the home have that, are
not a necessity, but would be nice to have? For example, an
entertainment bar in the basement recreation room.

~ Remember your budget. Is the price within your range? Can you
afford to buy this home?

The savvier you are when viewing properties on the market, the more likely
you will be to find your next dream home.

Let us help you find yours!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Direct - 519-495-1541
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
www.thyssengroup.com

Creating an Eco-Friendly Landscape Design

Is Your Garden Really Green? Creating an Eco-Friendly Landscape Design

You may have the greenest lawn on the block, but is your garden really "green," meaning ecologically friendly? Often the answer is a resounding "NO."

Just the fact that you have a lawn at all can be an indicator that your landscape is not as green as it could be. Lawns generally need more water and fertilizers than other plantings. Plus, they need to be mowed approximately once per week in the summertime, and if you don't have an electric or push mower, you're burning fossil fuels every time you mow.

What are some ways you can create a garden that is really green? How can you create an eco-friendly landscape design?

 Be Water-Wise

When it comes to an eco-friendly landscape, being water-wise means not only reducing the amount of water you use, but also managing stormwater - water that falls during a rainstorm.  It is possible to capture it, store it, and redistribute it to be used again. For example, direct the downspout from your rain gutters to a rain barrel and then use the captured water to irrigate your landscape.

Use Drought-Tolerant Plants

This tip is related to being water-wise. If you want to create an eco-friendly landscape design, use drought tolerant plants.

Go Native

Native plants are well-adapted to live in the area in which you live. Plus, they typically will provide a food source or some sort of ecological input that supports local insect and animal species.

Build and Protect the Soil

In most suburban and urban areas, the soil is terribly depleted of minerals and nutrients. By amending the soil with organic fertilizers and compost, you can support an eco-friendly landscape design and help protect the soil structure. This creates a more nutrient-rich soil in which your plants can grow.

Grow Your Own Food

From farming methods to transporting food, we rely on fossil fuels to feed everyone in Canada. You can do your part to reduce the use of fossil fuels, reduce food miles, and provide nutrient-rich vegetables to your family by growing your own food. You can grow a surprising amount of food in a small space, and wouldn't it be nice if you could simply walk out your back door and harvest some lettuce for dinner?

Get to Know Beneficial Insects

Many gardeners mistakenly think all insects are bad. If they don't recognize a particular insect, they go get the sprayer and shoot the insect with a chemical pesticide until it dies. This is one of the worst things you can do. Why? There are many insects in the garden that help keep the "bad bugs" in check.

Have you ever noticed a rose bush covered in ladybugs? They're probably there because they're eating the aphids. If you look closely you'll see them. However, if you see the ladybugs, mistakenly think they are hurting your roses, and decide to kill them with pesticides, you're actually creating more work for yourself. The next time the aphids come, and they will, there will not be ladybugs there to defend your roses. You have just inherited the ladybugs' job. To create an eco-friendly landscape design, you must understand your ecosystem. That means getting to know the beneficial insects in your garden and learning how to support them in their work of defending your garden.

These are just a few of the many ways in which you can create an eco-friendly landscape design. The bottom line is that you must work with nature, not against it.

Happy gardening!

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record

Cell: 519-495-1541

email: rthyssen@rogers.com

www.thyssengroup.com 

How to Hold the Perfect Garage Sale

When you need to either store or get rid of a lot of "stuff" to make your house look its best while
on the market, holding a garage sale may be the ideal solution. Not only will your current house stage easier, but you will lighten the load of what needs to be moved to the new home - and make money in the process.
To be successful, a garage sale requires some planning and preparation. In fact, planning the sale may be the key to its success.

Planning the Garage Sale

When you settle on a date for the sale, dig out the local TV listings to ensure that there isn't a major sporting event that will be televised on that day. Also make sure there isn't a local event, such as a popular festival or parade. Although there are a lot of die-hard garage sale fans, even they will skip a sale if there's something else competing for their attention.

Here are a few other things to consider during the planning stage:

• Have everything ready the night before the sale so that you're not running around in the morning.

• Sketch out a plan for the sales floor, allowing room to move between aisles and ensuring that you can see all items from your perch.

• Make a list of each item you're selling and the price you'll be asking. During the sale, cross out each item sold and make note of the price received.

• Price items clearly.

• Ensure that you'll have sufficient help the day of the sale and that everyone is in agreement over pricing and bargaining policies.

• Have an extension cord on hand so that customers can test electrical items.

• Save grocery bags in the weeks leading up to the sale so that you can bag the items your customers purchase.

• Go through all the pockets of clothing you plan to sell, check compartments in handbags,  to make sure there's nothing of value, or even old credit card receipts that may contain private information.

The Day Before the Sale

Now that you're prepared for the sale, it's time to make sure folks know about it. There are several ways to get the word out about your garage or yard sale.  Here are a few other things to do the day before the garage or yard sale:

• Make signs to be placed around the neighborhood and to direct customers from a main thoroughfare. They should be large enough to be seen from the road and directions should be clear. Arrow-shaped signs are ideal.

• Go to the bank and get some cash, such as rolls of quarters, and small bills.

• Consider how you will hold the cash during the sale. A cash box isn't a good idea as it's too easy for someone to walk away with it. Wearing a "fanny sack" around your waist or keeping a wallet in your pocket are much safer ways to hold your cash.

Sale Day

• Move sale items out onto the driveway if that's where you've decided to set up the sales floor. Remember to put the most desirable items out front to entice customers to stop their cars.  Place some "manly" items out front, such as lawnmowers or power tools, to make it easier for wives to get their husbands to stop and shop.

• Set up the neighborhood and directional signs.

• Ensure that all items are clearly marked with the price.

• Greet people as they arrive to make them feel comfortable. Ask if they're looking for anything in particular.

Here's to a successful garage sale!  

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record

Direct cell: 519-495-1541

email: rthyssen@rogers.com

www.thyssengroup.com

Creating Curb Appeal: 6 Ways to Improve Your Home's First Impression

You've probably heard the old saying, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression." That's true in life, and it's true in real estate. If you're in the process of selling your home, take a moment to walk across the street and look at your home with a critical eye. What are potential home buyers seeing as they pull up? Is your home giving off a good first impression? Does it have good curb appeal?
Real estate agents and home staging services know how important curb appeal is to the home selling process. It only takes a couple of seconds for potential home buyers to form an opinion of your home based on its curb appeal. Below are six ways to improve your home's first impression.

First Step: A Critical Review  

Remember that trip across the street I mentioned above? Well, after living in your home for years, you may not be the best judge. Invite a friend or family member over to give your home a critique. What would they do to improve your home's curb appeal? If they can't make it over, take some photos and email them to some friends for their review. We tend to see things in photographs that we miss when we're casually looking at things. Print your pictures out on 8 ½-by-11-inch paper, draw on them, and make notes about what changes you want to make.

Give it a Fresh Coat of Paint

A fresh coat of paint can go a long way toward improving your home's curb appeal. If a potential home buyer drives up and sees cracked and peeling paint, what impression will that leave? Not only will the home buyer think you haven't maintained the exterior of your home, but he is going to wonder what other maintenance items have been neglected.
Make sure the colors you choose fit with the neighborhood and the character of the house. You want your home to have great curb appeal, but that doesn't mean it should stick out markedly from the rest of the houses on the block. If you're selling your home, neutral colors are the best because they will have broader appeal. However, a neutral paint color doesn't have to be boring. Add some pizzazz by painting your front door a more vibrant, complementary color.

Make it Welcoming

Whether it's a decorative wreath on the front door, some decorative pots with brightly colored flowers, or simply great porch lighting, make your front door visible and inviting. Don't overdo it. Keep things simple, but make it easy to spot your front door. If you have overgrown shrubs blocking the view to your home, it will feel less safe. Trim shrubs back to eliminate any areas where predators could lurk, and make sure your house number is clearly visible.

Get Rid of the Junk

"One man's trash is another man's treasure" applies to garage sales and antiquing. Improve your home's curb appeal by putting things away and storing items that don't enhance your home's first impression. The less clutter you have around your front door and in your front yard the better.

Maintain Your Lawn

Mow your lawn to a height of about 2 inches. Many people believe that mowing a lawn shorter is better, but with a blade height of about 2 inches, the grass is long enough to provide some shade for the roots, which helps the roots retain moisture and promotes stronger root growth.
Manually remove weeds as soon as you see them to prevent them from going to seed and becoming a bigger problem. Weeds generally show up in areas where the lawn is weak or lacking in nutrients. Over-seed any areas where the grass is thin and use an organic fertilizer to provide nutrients and maintain healthy soil.
Near sidewalks, driveways, and planting beds, edge your lawn with a line trimmer or straight spade to maintain a nicely manicured edge. There is no need to buy plastic lawn edging. It rarely holds up over time. A spade and a little muscle can do the trick. However, if you find you really want a built edge to your lawn, use aluminum edging. It is far more durable than plastic and will cut down on some of the maintenance needed to maintain the shape and size of your planting beds.

Oh, the Pressure!

Maintaining concrete driveways, sidewalks, and patios is always important for providing safe walking surfaces. However, if you are selling your home, what is the one thing a potential home buyer is going to do? They will walk up your sidewalk or driveway to your front door. If you want your home to make a great first impression, fix any major cracks and make sure your entry sidewalk is free of debris, moss, and uneven edges. Pressure-wash concrete surfaces to remove any built up dirt and moss.

As you can see, most of these tasks are things you are probably already doing, but when neglected, they can take away from your home's curb appeal. Creating great curb appeal really just comes down to maintaining your home. Performing these tasks on a regular basis means you'll never have to worry about your home making a great first impression.

Richard Thyssen
email: rthyssen@rogers.com
Cell: 519-495-1541

Eco-friendly Kitchen Floors

Get you the groove of sustainable living through eco-friendly kitchen floors. With the growing numbers of sustainable products, going green is definitely here to stay! And there's no better way to start your eco-friendly lifestyle than at the heart of your home, the kitchen.
Making green choices can seem overwhelming, especially with the growing options for eco-friendly products. To help you determine which products are right for you and your home, here are some popular flooring options.

1. Wood Flooring

When it comes to eco-friendly flooring materials, wood is undeniably still the leading choice. It is a timeless, warm and versatile material that adds value to your home. One option is to use laminated wood with recycled wood fibers. This usually comes with 90 percent recycled wood fibers and 100 percent recycled polyethylene for its underlayment, which will reduce heat transfer between kitchen and basements. Another eco-friendly option is to use reclaimed wood.

Why is wood flooring sustainable?
Wood comes from a renewable source, assuming there is sustainable management of forests and plantations.
Almost no waste is produced since dust, bark and trims are gathered to fuel wood production facilities.
Compared to concrete and steel, wood requires less energy to produce.

2. Bamboo Flooring

Certified as a sustainable material, bamboo is a highly recommended material for your eco-friendly kitchen floors. Bamboo is denser than oak, and laminated bamboo floors won't warp or expand easily. This eliminates the creaking sound that occurs when wood floor planks compress. Bamboo's distinctive appeal, tightness of grain and uniformity of color create a desirable and flexible material for any kitchen style. Being moisture resistant and durable makes it an even more workable material for kitchens.
If you love warm shades of brown, then bamboo flooring is a great choice as it comes either in its natural light color or in a darker honey-brown color. Honey-colored bamboo flooring has undergone carbonization, during which the material is subjected to steam and pressure, causing the fibers to darken. The darker the shade of bamboo, the longer it has been subjected to carbonization.

Why is bamboo flooring sustainable?
Bamboo comes from a renewable source and can be grown and harvested faster compared to hardwood.
It does not need fertilizers or pesticides to grow as it is naturally resistant to mildew and insects. This attribute is also seen even after bamboo is made into planks.

3. Cork Flooring

Cork is one of the most comfortable and beautiful materials for floorings. Although it may not be a glamorous option, it can be manufactured to simulate hardwood floors. If you're looking for a low maintenance type of eco-friendly kitchen flooring, cork is a perfect fit.
The material can also be made into a variety of colors to mix and match. Plus it's a healthy option for your kitchens for its anti-microbial, anti-fungal and hypoallergenic properties.

Why is cork flooring sustainable?
As a softwood material from the cork oak tree, it is harvested without cutting the tree down.
You do not need regular adhesives or nails when installing cork flooring.
Cork flooring is usually from recycled cork, and the flooring itself can be reused or recycled.

Other Eco-Friendly Flooring Options

Other options to consider are natural stone, linoleum and tiles. Recycled, reclaimed or salvaged stone or wood are also good picks. Innovative and high-tech floors are also great options to look at.  Switching to eco-friendly kitchen floors can be an easy and cost-effective choice - all you have to lose are the pollutants.

Richard Thyssen, Broker of Record
Keller Williams Lifestyles Realty Brokerage
519-495-1541
richard@thyssengroup.com
www.thyssengroup.com