Sepehr Safaee YourOttawaRealEstate.com's blog

Ants. These tiny invaders always seem to find their way into our homes, especially when there’s food or a comfy hiding spot around. If you’ve had enough of playing host to an ant colony, don’t worry—you’re not alone. Let’s talk about easy, natural ways to kick them out and make sure they stay gone.

What’s the Deal with Ants?
Ants aren’t just wandering into your house for fun—they’re on a mission. They’re looking for three main things:

Food: Crumbs, spills, and anything sweet or greasy are an ant buffet.
Water: Damp areas like under sinks or around leaky pipes are a favorite hangout.
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As the holiday season approaches, the decision between a real or artificial Christmas tree has significant environmental implications. Here’s a closer look at why choosing a real tree can be the more sustainable option:

Environmental Impact

Real trees naturally absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) as they grow, helping reduce greenhouse gases. After the holiday season, they can be recycled into useful products like mulch, compost, or erosion-preventing barriers. Artificial trees, while reusable, are made from materials that take hundreds of years to break down. Additionally, they often end up in...

Ottawa’s housing market is facing an unprecedented affordability crisis, earning a “severely unaffordable” designation in a global survey. Over the past three years, home prices have skyrocketed by 78%, with the average resale price now exceeding $750,000. This sharp rise has left many residents—especially first-time buyers—struggling to find homes within their budget​

Why Housing is So Expensive

A combination of factors has contributed to Ottawa’s affordability challenge:

1. Demand Outpaces Supply: Ottawa is about 70,000 housing units short of meeting demand, putting upward pressure on...

Every room tells a story, and the focal point is its opening line—a feature that immediately grabs attention and sets the mood for the space. Whether you're designing a cozy living room, a serene bedroom, or a functional office, crafting a focal point brings cohesion and character. Here's how to create one in style:

1. Spotlight the Obvious

Sometimes, the room’s architecture already gives you a focal point. Fireplaces, large windows, or built-in shelving can serve as natural anchors. Accentuate these features with thoughtful enhancements like a statement mantel, dramatic curtains,...

First impressions are everything, and when it comes to your home, curb appeal is the key to making a great one. Whether you’re planning to sell or just want to refresh the look of your property, there are simple changes you can make to increase your home’s visual appeal and create a welcoming atmosphere.

Here are 5 easy ways to boost your curb appeal:

Refresh Your Front Door
Your front door is the focal point of your home’s exterior. A fresh coat of paint in a bold color (think navy, red, or charcoal) can instantly elevate the look. Don’t forget to update the hardware—new handles...

If you’ve ever noticed paint peeling, cracking, or bubbling soon after application, it’s likely due to one key factor: poor surface preparation. A beautiful, long-lasting paint job starts long before the paintbrush even touches the surface. Here’s why surface prep is essential and what it entails.

Why Surface Preparation Matters

Better Adhesion: Properly cleaned and primed surfaces allow paint to stick effectively, preventing it from peeling or flaking later.

Fewer Imperfections: Bumps, bubbles, and rough spots are much more visible after painting. Smoothing and sanding the surface helps...

Gardening is a therapeutic and rewarding hobby that connects you with nature. If you're just starting out, here are some key steps to set you on the path to success.

Planning Your Garden

Before planting, consider the type of garden you want. Will it be a vegetable patch, a flower bed, or a mixed garden? Research which plants thrive in your climate and space. Make a rough sketch of your layout, keeping in mind plant spacing and sunlight requirements. For beginners, raised beds or container gardens are excellent options since they provide better soil control and are easier to manage.

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Moving doesn’t have to create piles of trash. Here are sustainable strategies to help reduce waste during your relocation:

Declutter Before Moving
Take the time to sort and donate or sell items you no longer need. This cuts down on what you pack and helps others.

Opt for Reusable Packing Supplies
Instead of cardboard boxes, use reusable containers like plastic bins or rent moving crates. Old newspapers, towels, or linens can replace bubble wrap to protect fragile items. This reduces single-use plastics and prevents excess waste.

Recycle and Safely Dispose of Electronics
If you have...

As a renter, ensuring your home is secure can be a top priority, especially when you’re in a new environment. While you may not have the same options as homeowners, there are plenty of effective strategies you can implement to enhance your security. Here are some smart home security tips to help you feel safe in your rented space:

Assess Your Property’s Security Features
Before moving in, take note of the security features your rental offers. Check the quality of door locks, window latches, and any alarm systems in place. If you find any vulnerabilities, discuss them with your landlord...

The holiday season is upon us!

However, many of us face the dilemma of wanting a beautifully adorned space without the hefty price tag or the time commitment. This guide is here to help you achieve an enchanting Christmas atmosphere with quick and budget-friendly decorating ideas!

1. Embrace Natural Decor

One of the most charming ways to decorate for Christmas is by using natural elements. Explore into your backyard or a nearby park to gather pine cones, holly branches, and evergreens. Create simple arrangements for tables or mantels, or fashion a lovely garland to drape along your...