Showing posts with label windows. Show all posts
Showing posts with label windows. Show all posts

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Contemporary Tree-Top Residence - Green Reno





During the past week, I've listed a new property which has gone through a substantial renovation in one of my favorite condos in Oakville, Oakridge Heights on Old Mill Road. There are three buildings which range in age from 8 to 4 years, but as buildings their are a number of special features which I like about these buildings that make them green.

The location  is literally just steps from the GO Train; you can walk to Wholefoods, Starbucks or No Frills and Tim Hortons. It is a 15 minute walk to downtown Oakville, which has all the shopping and restaurants most people would need, and about the same distance to the local Encore Theatre (new movie releases at budget prices). 

The build itself is rather eco-smart as well. It has incredible windows, which shut out most noise and temperature, and open properly to allow fresh air to flow. The hallways are pumped with fresh air which is neither cooled nor heated saving energy. The positive flow of air into the hallways also ensures that smells from each suite do not travel into the halls. There is also a recycling program.

The suite I've just listed has an unobstructed view on the 4th floor, and has been renovated from ceiling to floors. The owner took out the wall to wall carpet (a terrible dust and dirt collector) and replaced it with wide plank floors. All the appliances are energy star rated where applicable including: the the front loading  Maytag washer and dryer. The kitchen has been replaced with granite surfaces, something that will not be replaced. The ceilings have been scraped clean of the popcorn plaster creating not only a more contemporary look but also a healthier environment. All the toilets have been replaced with low flow technology.

If you want to know more about this renovation please feel free to call me at: (905) 845-4267. 

Sunday, July 20, 2008

EcoBroker Conference Denver 2008

Denver was the location of the latest EcoBroker conference. Over 300 real estate professionals attended two days of sessions where we discussed the latest innovations in green technology available to home buyers. Many of the sessions were led by industry experts from Finance to Green Manufacturers and Innovators. It was a thrill to be with a group of like minded individuals from the US and Canada. 

One of easiest changes we learned to improve indoor air quality, which is usually about 4 times more polluted then outdoor air, is the simple addition of easily found plants which filter the air effectively. The best plants to include in your home include: Palm Bamboo, English Ivy, Gebber Daisies, and Peace Lili. However, should you have pets or children always check out the toxicity of any plant you add to your garden or home.

One of the most interesting things I found among the suppliers was a restorer of wooden windows. This was of particular interest to me because my home has all of its original wooden single pane windows from the 1920's and I'm in the process of restoring them. Her simple solution is install small therma-panes by routering out a little of the wood. It is a simple and perfect restoration.  I'm going to try and convince one of local window people to do this work. 

There were countless other interesting developments, and as I go over my notes, I'll keep you informed. If you every have question please just email me, and I'll get back to you as soon as possible.