Expert Tips

5 Things To Keep In Mind When Buying A New Home

5 Things To Keep In Mind When Buying A New Home

Purchasing a new home is extremely exciting but can also be a lengthy process. As your home is one of the biggest lifetime investments, it is important to make sure you are checking off crucial factors when searching for a new house. Here are the 5 things to keep in mind when buying a new home.

List Your Priorities

When buying a new home, it is crucial to know what you want but also to be open-minded about possible changes that can be done to the space. Deciding on the type of house you want, whether you want a condo or home is the first step. Jotting down the pros and cons of each space is the next step as this will help you make the process less lengthy. As your living arrangement is a long-term commitment, make the adjustments accordingly to your lifestyle and needs. Make a list of your priorities and make sure there are enough bedrooms for those living in the home.

Location and Renovations Are Crucial 

Home buyers need to factor in that the home can be renovated but the location in which you’ve bought the home cannot. Choosing a good location will help you in the long run for higher property value and return on investment. If you are parents or are planning on raising a family, it is important to be in a good school district. Local amenities also have a direct impact on homebuyer home decision making. Having grocery stores, restaurants, shopping, and entertainment close by will raise the property value.

Make Sure The Renovations Are Up To Date

Before you purchase a home, you will want to make sure that all the renovations to the space were done with a permit, meaning that the renovations performed were reviewed by an inspector and were done properly. Ask the previous owners or the real estate agent for all the proper paperwork and conduct a house inspection. Not getting a permit for renovations could cause future complications and can be costly for the homeowners.
Things To Keep In Mind When Buying A New Home

Buy A House You Can Afford 

Be realistic about how much you can afford based on your current income and debts. It is best to purchase a house that is less than what you can afford, giving you extra wiggle room for renovations and unforeseeable changes. Saving up for a down payment and getting your finances in order will make it easier to get a mortgage at the lowest rates, and you will be able to qualify for more loans. As soon as you are thinking of buying a house, start saving up, pay your bills on time and monitor your credit score.

Take Your Time

Don’t feel pressured in deciding on buying a new house. Since this is a large investment, it is better to take your time to find the house of your dreams than to rush into things. Shop around for houses, mortgages and home insurance to ensure that all your home buying aspects are in order. 


If you’ve recently bought a home or are thinking of buying a home, let the experts at RenosGroup transform your house into a home. We have 25 years of combined experience, and we work closely with the clients to ensure that we satisfy their renovation needs and provide high-quality work for every project. Contact us for a quote on your project, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Winter-Inspired Decor Changes for Your Home

Winter-Inspired Decor Changes for Your Home

As soon as the temperatures drop and the snow falls, it’s time to make your home cozy with classic winter styles. Think big fur blankets, colourful bows, decorative wreaths, and vibrant plants. There are plenty of winter-inspired decor changes for your home that you can do to brighten up your living space. Here are just a few of our favourites to try.

Porch Decorations


The first thing people see when they come to your home or drive by is your porch, so why not give it a festive touch this winter? You can use planters and fill them with evergreens and pinecones, colourful decorations, and ribbons to give a holiday feel, or you can add beautiful garland around your doorway with pinecones and berries to make your porch really festive.

Festive Potted Plants


One look that we love includes using large potted plants filled with tall Birch branches, bright red bows, and white and silver twigs to fill in all those empty corners throughout your living room and kitchen. You could even make some smaller planters packed with berries and cones to fill up any empty counter space or to be perched on a window sill in order to add more depth and colour to a room.

Candle Lanterns


Beautiful lanterns can add warmth, light, and some coziness to your home. If you prefer making these yourself, try adding some cranberry, pinecones, and faux snowflakes for a more winter-inspired look. You can also use these along your front door and stairs to brighten up the exterior of your home.

Colourful Wreaths


A must-have winter decoration is the door wreath. You can easily pick one up at your local department store, but where’s the fun in that? They are so easy to make, and it’s also a fun way for the family to spend some quality time together. Get creative with the classic Christmas style filled with fresh bows, flowers and pine, or experimental with unique materials and decorations like cork and gingerbread.

Decorative Winter Lighting


Not just for Christmas time, roof lights can be used all winter long to add a touch of light and warmth to your home. Our favourite hues include white and blue lights because they glimmer nicely off the snow. If you want to illuminate a certain area or garden decoration, try adding LED spotlights directed at the area or place twinkle lights in and around it to make it stand out at night.

Branches and Berries


Winter is not winter without the branches and berry décor. If you want to add a classic winter look this season, buy or create a centrepiece made from red dogwood branches and berries for your dining room table. You can also add them around the home to create more atmosphere and a cheery festive feel.

Wall Decals


You should also head over to your local department store and pick up a few winter-inspired wall decals. Decals are a great way to add some real winter scenes to your home. Some come with inspirational quotes and others with designs like snowflakes or lifelike winter landscapes. Best of all, they are removable so they can be interchanged as many times as you wish.

Throw Pillows


Having a few winter-themed throw pillows can make a real difference to your home. By adding winter-themed ones around the home, you can give any dull room a festive look. Wherever you need a little warmth just add one with green, red, or yellow accents. If you want a more relaxed look, there are a number of winter-themed pillows you could purchase in browns, greys, and faux fur.

Soft Warm Blankets


Keep warm, cozy, and in style this winter with soft decorating fabrics like fur and wool. These can be used to snuggle up by the fireplace or can be placed over the side of the couch as a decorative accent that adds more comfort to your home.

Seasonal Plants


There are plenty of vibrant plants that you can use to fill your home with colour. If you want to make a room pop just add a few potted poinsettias to any room that needs an accent or splash of colour. Smaller ones filled with orchids or irises are also a great addition to any bedside, coffee, or dining room tables come winter. The scents will fill the rooms and bring some life to your home during the winter time.

Small winter-inspired changes to your decor can make a big difference to the look of your home. By adding some warm tones and creating a cozy atmosphere, you can really spruce up your home this winter.  Too learn more about winter-inspired decor changes for your home don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today

10 Home Renovations that Increase Your Home’s Value Overnight

10 Home Renovations that Increase Your Home’s Value Overnight

Looking for a way to improve the curb appeal of your home and increase its value? Whether you plan on listing your home this year or just adding some value as you go along, here are ten home renovations that can increase your home’s value overnight.

Kitchen Remodels


A kitchen transformation can greatly increase the value of your home. Adding in new kitchen countertops, more functional space, a beautifully-tiled island, overhead racks, and modern cabinets can improve the overall design of your home. Considering the kitchen is where people spend most of the time, it’s one area of your home that is worth investing in.

Bathroom Upgrades


Does your bathroom still have 1990’s style tile and fixtures? If so, then it’s time for an overhaul. By simply changing the vanity, replacing the tiles, and updating the toilet and shower design, you can give your bathroom a fresh new look. In fact, the return on investment in a bathroom reno is decent, and even the simplest upgrades can provide more value.

Home Renovations that Increase Your Home’s Value

New Flooring


The flooring in your home is one element you can’t ignore. It’s also the one thing that people notice as soon as they enter your home. So if your current flooring is outdated, scratched, or stained, then you can bet it’s going to impact the value of your home. New flooring can give you some real bang for your buck. With all the new materials out there today, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to transform the entire look of your home. Faux wood and stone laminate look just like the real thing but at half the cost, which means you get a nice ROI when you go this route.

Energy Efficient Windows and Doors


By switching to energy efficient window and door designs, you can increase your home’s value overnight. Plus, you’ll get enhanced comfort, lower energy bills, and heightened security with the newer models on the market today. Home buyers prefer purchasing a home that already has energy-saving fixtures installed because they can reap the instant benefits without having to spend money upgrading them. Replacing your windows and doors is a sure way to attract more buyers and quickly improve the aesthetics of your home.

Basement Renovation Ottawa - Monaco Place

Finishing the Basement


As soon as you add more space to your home, you get a boost in value. One place that is easy to renovate is the basement. There are plenty of things you can do with a finished basement — use it as a fitness room, dance studio, kids playroom, office, or even another living space that you could rent out.

New Deck


An old, cracked, and faded deck is not only an eyesore, but it can also reduce the value of your home. You might think it doesn’t weigh heavily on your property’s worth because it’s hidden in the back, but a buyer who loves entertaining will consider this an important aspect of the home. By replacing an old deck with a new one, you can transform your entire backyard.

Landscaping


Although landscaping is a personal preference, a well-landscaped home will be worth more than a home with an unkempt and unsightly yard. If your home exterior has been neglected, now’s the time to add some simple features that won’t break the bank. We’re not talking about adding a gazebo, but rather a basic garden space with some flowers, some stone interlock, and a nice seating area on the patio can make a big impact without costing you an arm and a leg.

Energy Efficient Fixtures


The older your appliances and fixtures are, the more money they will end up costing you in the long run. Installing new energy efficient appliances in your kitchen, laundry room, and bathroom can also improve the look of your home and attract more buyers. The main ones that make the most difference are the dishwasher, laundry machines, and a fridge and freezer. When purchasing, look for the ENERGY STAR® logo as these are guaranteed to reduce your bills and save you money.

New Insulation


Insulation isn’t usually on the top of most people’s renovation lists. However, it has one of the greatest returns on investment. Poor insulation in your walls and attic will allow your home to lose heat and force your HVAC system to work harder than it should. Thanks to the low cost of installation, you can get a return of over 100% when you install newer insulation throughout your home.

Siding Replacement


Dingy, cracked, or faded siding can turn your beautiful home into an ugly one. Considering the exterior is the first and last thing people see, it’s worth the money to improve it every few years. With all the latest advancements on the market today, you can get the style and colour you’ve been dreaming of for a fraction of the price it would have cost you a decade ago.

Our team at RenosGroup are experts at home renovations that can increase your home’s value overnight. When you’re looking to give your home a facelift, we can help provide the advice you need to get the most value for your reno.  Don’t hesitate to contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427

Woman Cave, Anyone? Here are Our Thoughts

Woman Cave, Anyone? Here are Our Thoughts

Imagine having a place all your own where you can unwind, kick back, and enjoy some time all to yourself. Well, why not turn that dream into your reality by creating a woman cave? That’s right! As one of the busiest members of the household, it’s time for the man caves to move over because it’s our turn to claim the garage, spare room, basement, or whatever area of the home is ready for the taking. After all, why should men have all the fun? Create your perfect little nook at home with some of our top tips for transforming your space into the ultimate woman cave.

Choose the Right Space


If you’re lucky enough to have a few different options for where to manifest your own little nook of the home, take some time to consider which area will be best suited to your needs. If the garage is a possibility, it can be a great amount of space to utilize, but it may also require a little more work to make it cozy, warm, and inviting. If there’s a spare room as a potential, think about whether you’ll have the quiet space you need away from the kids or if the basement might give you more of the reprieve and creative space you’re looking for. Don’t rush this process as it’s always better to take some extra time now rather than regretting your decision down the road. Remember, you want to create a space that you’ll actually use and enjoy, so choose carefully.

Think About Its Purpose


The best part about creating a woman cave is the fact that you can design the space for whatever you need. When considering where to place your designated space, think about how you want to use it too. Do you envision hosting wine and cheese parties for girl’s night, or having a relaxing reading nook with a plush lounge chair? Maybe you prefer the idea of a colourful room full of arts and crafts where you can get messy and be creative. Or if you’re going for gold with your design, you could install a bar and comfy seating in your basement with all the fixings set for hosting your weekly poker night. Many of these different concepts don’t require much space at all. But whatever you prefer, don’t be afraid to let loose with your concept and create something all for yourself.

Choose a Theme


Does your style of preference reflect more of a cottage, rustic look or something more chic and modern instead? Do you imagine having a bright, airy, and beachy theme where you can escape to during those dull, wintery, Sunday afternoons for a pick me up? Choosing a theme is equally important if you want your space to look cohesive and well laid out once it’s complete. This will also make it much easier to know what design you’re aiming for once you have an idea of what type of look you’re aiming for. Starting any project without this nailed down can make it drag on much longer and even cost more than you had budgeted for. Whether it’s a dark and sultry wine room, a cozy reading parlour, or a bright and colourful room decked out in your favourite seaside palettes, think of your hobbies and how you enjoy spending your spare time to help you pinpoint the kind of theme that’ll express your personal tastes.

Think Outside of the Box


If you have the urge to go a little crazy with your space, go for it! If you want a wall full of wine, add it in there! The whole point of a woman cave is to be a little selfish and make it into whatever you want it to be. So never think of it as a waste of money and don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. As a busy woman in this day and age, you deserve to have a space that’s all yours.

Hire the Right Team


Once you’ve gotten out the graph paper and started to really plan out your space, you, of course, need the right team of contractors to help make your new space just as you envisioned it. At RenosGroup.ca our family-owned and operated business has been serving the Ottawa area for more than 25 years! And we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional quality workmanship and customers service to each and every client.

Stop dreaming and start planning today! Contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 — we’ll be more than happy to assist with any questions and help you create the ultimate woman cave in your home.

Turn Your Heated Garage Into the Man Cave of Your Dreams

Turn Your Heated Garage Into the Man Cave of Your Dreams

If you lack a space to call your own, don’t fret! You can easily create the space you need by turning your heated garage into the man cave of your dreams. All you have to do is think outside of the box a little to imagine what it could look like beyond the piles of boxes and other junk that are currently in the way of your potential dream vision. Transforming the garage into a comfortable and usable room is becoming more popular than ever, whether it’s for hosting the big game with friends or just having the ultimate area to lounge in comfort. Here are our top ideas for creating the perfect man cave in your garage!

 

Clean It Out


Before you get started, the first step on the list is clearing out all of that junk that’s been accumulating in there for years. You need a blank canvas to begin creating the man cave of your dreams, so spend some time beforehand sorting through your items, de-junking and donating what you don’t need, and giving it a good, thorough cleaning.

 

Add Lighting


Since the garage tends to be a dark space without windows and much natural light, you need to brighten it up and make it more cozy with sufficient lighting. Having one dangling light bulb isn’t going to cut it during poker night. Even if you place a few tall lamps throughout the space, you’ll be surprised how much it can improve the look of it.

 

Make Sure It’s Cozy Enough


With the garage door and lack of insulation, drafts can become a problem when you’re trying to lounge in comfort, even for heated garages. So don’t forget to consider adding some extra insulation so you’re not sweating in there during the summer or freezing during the winter. This is especially important since you’ll be spending a lot more time in there! This should include the walls, floors, and garage door.

 

Get Painting!


Since garages aren’t exactly a welcoming space, adding on a fresh coat of paint is always necessary to hide all of those dirt and scuff marks from bikes tires and tools and everything in between. Whatever your colour of choice is, adding a few fresh coats is always well worth it.

 

Enhance Security


When you’re going all in on your garage transformation, you better be prepared to heighten your security once you install your big flat screen in there. Since valuable items like this will be added, ensure that you’re using a good quality, specialized garage door lock. That way, once your neighbours and friends learn about your new project, you can feel confident that your man cave will be safe and secure.

 

Add Furniture


What’s a man cave without some comfy furniture to relax on? Whether it’s a big leather couch, snazzy bar stools for the bar, a sectional, or a few big leather recliners, make sure to include enough seating for all of your friends. That way, you can all kick back and relax while enjoying your man space in utter comfort.

 

Don’t Forget About the Bar and Fridge!


Of course, every man cave needs some extra fixings to make it both comfortable and convenient. So don’t forget to install a bar and fridge in your space. That way, you can keep the fridge and bar stocked so you won’t have to travel far when it’s time for a cold one.

 

Add Some Special Personal Touches


Don’t forget to add in some special, personalized items, like your old trophies or memorabilia to truly make it a space to call your own. If you have some classic jerseys that you’re proud of or have favourite movies or hobbies that you enjoy, don’t be afraid to include those specials items throughout your space to really make it your own. After all, it’s a space where you can let loose and get creative!

 

Give Us a Call!


When you’re ready to turn your heated garage into the man cave of your dreams, you can leave all the hard work up to us! At the Renos Group, we are a family-owned and operated business that’s been serving the Ottawa area for more than 25 years.

Our team of experts can take on just about any home project you need, including interior and exterior projects. Contact us or give us a call at (613)727-9427 today to learn more about our services or to get a quote!

Avoid being “house poor” by taking these 4 steps

Avoid Being “House Poor” by Taking these 4 Steps

We’ve all heard cautionary tales of new homeowners who have ended up “house poor.” Yes, their homes may be gorgeous and enviable, but that asset is all they have. In reality, they’re struggling to afford their homes and live their lives comfortably. And, if there’s one thing you don’t want to do as a buyer, it’s to find yourself in a similar position.  Here are the steps you can take during your home search to ensure you find a home that works with your wallet and avoid being house poor.

 

Shop Below Your Maximum Pre-Approval Amount

 

Once you go through the process of getting pre-approved, you’ll receive a letter that states how much money the lender is willing to loan you. Many buyers, especially those who haven’t bought before, make the mistake of shopping for homes up to that amount.

In reality, this figure is not a suggested price range. It’s the absolute maximum you’re allowed to borrow.

You don’t have to spend that much, and in fact, we suggest that you don’t.

A smarter plan, especially if you’re concerned about taking on a mortgage, is to work backwards.

First, find a monthly payment that makes sense in your budget. Then, see how big of a loan that payment will allow and use that as your maximum. To do this, you can use a mortgage calculator to play around with different loan amounts, down payments, and loan terms until you find a scenario that works best for you.

After you’ve found your sweet spot, don’t forget to see how a payment of that size affects your monthly budget as a whole. Ideally, you’ll land on an amount that allows you to become a homeowner while still being able to fund the other aspects of your life.

 

don't forget closing costs

 

Don’t Forget Closing Costs

 

Remember, your monthly mortgage payment and initial down payment aren’t the only costs that you have to shoulder as a buyer. There are also to consider. These fees account for all of the charges incurred during the course of the transaction and cover anything from the cost of inspections to title insurance or the cost of retaining an attorney.

Traditionally, these fees will amount to around 1%-2% of the home’s purchase price and will be split evenly between the buyer and the seller. However, in some cases, the seller will agree to take care of the upfront costs and allow the buyer to tack his or her portion onto the mortgage, which means repayment can occur over time.

In either case, it’s still an additional cost to consider as you budget for your new home.

1%-2% of the home’s purchase price may not sound like a lot at first, but it typically ends up amounting to a few thousand dollars. It all adds up.

 

Be Realistic About Renovations

 

When you’re shopping for a home, buying a home that needs a lot of work can seem like a great idea.

For one thing, properties in need to TLC often come with a much lower — and more attractive — sale price. For another, undertaking these projects offers you the chance to put your own personal stamp on the home. However, be aware that renovations often come with a much bigger price tag than you might think.

If you’re not particularly handy, you’ll likely need to hire professionals to handle both of the work. That alone will inflate the cost, not to mention that any estimates you get are just that — estimates. Often, extensive renovations will come across an unexpected detail that ends up costing more. When all is said and done, renovations can sometimes end up costing more than just buying a turn-key home in the first place.

To keep yourself from getting in over your head, it’s important to be realistic about the size and scope of renovations that you’re prepared to handle.

Ask yourself — do you have the funds to start these projects immediately, or does it make more sense to find a home that’s livable and renovate over time? Then, search accordingly.

 

Avoid Being “House Poor” by Taking these 4 Steps

 

Factor in Upkeep & Maintenance Costs

 

Realistically, settling into your new home is just the start of the costs. As you live in it, you’ll undoubtedly encounter recurring costs for its upkeep that you’ll have to pay.

If your goal is to avoid becoming “house poor,” your best bet is to think long-term and account for these costs from the start.

In this case, you should focus on both annual fees like property records and monthly ones like utilities. Here, the seller is your best resource. He or she should be able to provide you with estimates of these costs to factor into your budget.

This article originally appeared on OpenListings.com.

Get in touch with us today, or give us a call at (613)727-9427 to learn more and to get a quote.

Functionality vs. Appearance — How to Strike the Perfect Renovation Balance

Functionality vs. Appearance — How to Strike the Perfect Renovation Balance

Whether you’re getting investment advice or purchasing a new car, there are always important questions you need to ask in order to strike the right balance between functionality and appearance. Questions about your lifestyle, family growth plans, work habits, and more can help you determine the best decision for your needs and style. This is especially important to do when you’re planning to remodel and renovate your home. Learn how to strike the perfect renovation balance with these helpful tips below.

The Kitchen

Functionality

Since the kitchen is such a fundamental part of the home, the functionality of this space is essential. This is the most used room in the home where all of the cooking, holiday baking, family get-togethers, and everything in between happens. That’s why it’s important to take the time to think about the best way to utilize the space you have, and how you can enhance it. When remodelling, consider questions about the amount of counter space you need, the ideal location of the sink, the cupboard space, and the general layout and whether it flows.

Appearance

Although it’s important to have a kitchen that you can move around and cook with ease in, it’s also the focal point of the home that everyone notices. So you want it to be aesthetically pleasing to look at, too. Adding new flooring, cabinetry, and swapping out old appliances for energy efficient ones, are well worth considering. We also recommend updating countertops to material like quartz or granite since they dramatically improve and modernize a kitchen while boosting the value of your home.

Bathroom Renovation Ottawa - Bryant S | Renosgroup

The Bathroom

Functionality

We all know that the bathroom is used for a few specific purposes. Therefore, the functionality is pretty straightforward. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t improve the overall space. If your bathroom is smaller in size, there are some great ways to free up more space, like with a floating vanity or shelves.

Appearance

With a few minor remodelling touches, you can transform your dated bathroom into your own personal spa-like retreat. You can combine different elements, like a modern vanity with a raised bowl sink, eye-catching faucets, sleek glass tiling, or a rain-style showerhead. Simple upgrades can spruce up your bathroom dramatically.

The Bedroom

Functionality

The master suite is where you can let loose and create a space for you and your partner to enjoy. Think about what you really need to make those weekday mornings flow easier — maybe it’s a walk-in closet or a more minimalistic design that lets you find what you need without a hassle. Alternatively, maybe you’ve been dreaming of having a personal reading nook in the bedroom where you can catch up on your latest book during those chilly winter evenings. When you’re considering function for the master suite, make sure you’re clear about your needs and wants before getting started.

Appearance

Whether you prefer retro and vintage or modern and chic, there are endless options when it comes to designing the appearance of your bedroom. Whatever you choose, just make sure it flows with the overall design of your home.

The Basement

Functionality

If your basement has been collecting dust over the years, now’s the time to turn it into a functional space that you and your family can use and enjoy. The functionality will depend on the purpose of your basement remodel. If you’re installing a games room, kids room, family room or a woman’s cave, plan it out carefully and think of how it will also serve your family best as an extra room in your home.

Appearance

The basement is one of the best areas of the home to renovate because it’s removed far enough from the main level to give homeowners the freedom to really get creative. Whether you decide to install a personal gym, a den for the kids, or an entertainment room with a bar, think about the amount of storage and space that you’ll need to make it work, and how you can turn it into a cohesive design that’s warm and inviting.

Living Room

Functionality

The living room is also frequently used, but the functionality of it will depend on your lifestyle and family needs. If you have children or if you’re planning to, you may want to consider a comfortable layout that can free up more floor space while also providing extra storage for toys. Also, having any delicate furniture or décor pieces might be best left out of the design. If you’re a single bachelor or a couple who loves to entertain, think about factors like how your living room can best accommodate more seating space when it’s your turn to host board game night.

Appearance

The living room is usually where you get to lay out in comfort, watch movies, or host a good Friday night get-together with friends. So having comfortable and functional furniture is essential. Consider items that can double up as extra seating options while keeping with your design theme.

The reality is, both functionality and appearance are essential when you’re remodelling your home. Spending a little extra time thinking through your remodel and determining your needs and wants can help you strike the perfect renovation balance between both. To learn more about how to strike the perfect renovation balance, contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427. Our team has been helping homeowners for over 25 years, and we can help with any of your dream designs, too!

8 Ideas for Your Future Dream Basement

8 Ideas for Your Future Dream Basement

Do cold concrete floors, old Christmas decorations, and boxes with items for storage come to mind whenever you think of your basement? Although it can be challenging to see past the bare bones and clutter down there, you’d be surprised at how easily you can transform that space into your new favourite room in the house. With a few renovations, you can create your own personal haven or an area for the kids. Get inspired to take charge of your underutilized space with these ideas for your future dream basement.

The Entertainment Den


If you’ve been secretly dreaming about having a personal entertainment lounge in the comfort of your own home, the basement is the perfect spot to make that dream come true. Since it is below the main level, you won’t have to worry as much about noise. And, with so much blank space to play with, you can really let your imagination run wild and design it exactly how you like. Add a giant flat screen, surround sound, lazy boy chairs, and whatever you need for ultimate comfort. You can even install a beer fridge so you can sit back and relax while you watch the game. The options are endless for creating your personal entertainment den at home.

The Games Room & Bar


Speaking of beer fridge, you can go the extra mile and create a games room and bar alongside your entertainment den. There’s no better way to celebrate the Superbowl or kick back after the busy work week than by inviting friends over for some fun. Imagine having a retro-style pinball machine, a billiards table, poker table, dart board, and a cool bar that’s designed just as you like it. Whether your style is modern, vintage, or something in between, you can get as creative as you like!

The Yogi Sanctuary


If you’re a yogi and have been struggling to stretch out or find the peace and quiet that you need to enjoy your practice, this room can become your perfect sanctuary. With plush carpeting, earthy tones, and plenty of room, you can throw down your mat and set up your space as you wish. A few candles and soothing music can finish it off to create the perfect calm and inviting atmosphere to help deepen your meditation and practise.

Multi-Purpose Space


Who says your basement should serve one purpose? Creating a multi-functional space can offer several benefits. If you have plenty of room to utilize, you can consider redesigning it to include a home gym, alongside an entertainment area, or just an extra living room where you and the family can lounge out and enjoy the space together.

An Extra Bedroom


If you have kids, an extra bedroom tucked away in the basement can be ideal for your eldest child once they’re eager for more space from their younger siblings. This can keep them out of your hair while giving them more independence before they officially ‘fly from the nest.’ It can also come in handy whenever there’s a visitor or two visiting from out of town.

Woman Cave


In this day and age, women deserve to have their own personal space to relax and recuperate from the world. Whether it’s a reading room with a cozy setting, your own games room, or just a calm and comfortable oasis where you can listen to your music and chill out in, make it your own and think of how you can create the best space to serve your needs.

Family Room


When you’re entertaining guests, do you dream of having an extra family room where your kids can escape and entertain themselves for a few hours? Creating another family room is ideal. You can let the kids go downstairs and watch movies or keep busy while you enjoy the company of your guests. It’s a win-win scenario!

Playroom for the Kids


Alternatively, if your children are young and you’ve been feeling cooped up together without enough room for them to run around, you don’t have to consider moving. Although it may be difficult to envision your basement looking like something beyond a storage room, there are endless possibilities that can serve the purpose you need it to. A few minor renovations, like fresh, bright colour paint, carpeting, and kid-friendly furnishing and toys can be all you need to spruce it up and turn it into the perfect den and playroom for your children.

When you’re struggling to see beyond the concrete and boxes in your basement, remember these ideas for your future dream basement and how it can serve you and your family’s needs best. And when you’re ready to get started, contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427. Our wide network and handy team of professionals can take care of all of your home renovation needs.

Solve Your Clutter Woes

Minimalistic Thinking May Solve Your Clutter Woes — Here’s Why

Struggling to stay on top of your junk? Minimalistic thinking could be the answer to your clutter woes! Whether it’s boxes of old catalogues piled high in the basement, stuff strewn across your tables, or too many clothes stuffed inside your closet, having all of that excess isn’t doing you any good. Living in an environment with so much clutter becomes chaotic for your mind and weighs heavily on the body — that’s where minimalism can help.

This modern way of living is based on balancing an equilibrium stream — when something is added, something must be removed. And that goes for any items — toys for your pet, clothing, knick-knacks, tools — you name it. Learn more about this way of living and how easy it can be to cut back on the surplus of stuff.

Clear Out Negative Energy


There’s a difference between a messy home and a cluttered home. A mess is something that can more or less be handled — tidying up the kitchen or cleaning up the living room. Clutter, on the other hand, takes up noticeable room in your home and usually has nowhere to go. Having such a surplus of stuff consuming almost every free nook in your home creates stagnant (and sometimes negative) energy, especially if some of that clutter carries unfond memories. Minimalistic thinking helps you clear out both physical and mental clutter by disposing of the chaotic, negative energy and instead, making room for more positive energy.

Learn to Only Buy What You Need


Minimalistic living also teaches you how to buy what you really need and ignore the items that you really don’t need. This helps to keep on top of any accumulating clutter, whether it’s your overstuffed fridge, closet, and any other area of your life. By jumping in on this way of living, you can gradually learn how to stop and think for a moment before adding something to your home. Plus, this can also make a significant impact on your finances by reducing the amount of money that you spend on unnecessary items.

Make it Easier to Find Things


Choosing your outfit for work shouldn’t be such a monumental task. But with so much stuff in the way, it can be hard to find anything you actually need — clothing, shoes, or anything else around the house. By downsizing your collection of items, no matter which area of the house it’s in relation to, you can eliminate this problem and make it much easier to find exactly what you need in no time.

4 Unique Types of Home Additions - Clutter Woes

Generate Less Waste


Whether you’re single, not single, married to your pet, or have a family, we tend to buy a lot of stuff. Excessive consumerism is a result of those impulsive purchases or mindless ones where we keep buying things that we really don’t need. But learning how to cut back on these bad habits also can help reduce waste, which benefits the environment and your bank account.

Learn to Let Go


Getting rid of old items can be tough because there’s a lot of emotional attachment to our physical stuff. That’s why you have to be willing to let go in order for this to work. Focus only on keeping the essentials and think about tossing away or donating things around the home that you haven’t even touched in the last year. Bit by bit, this process will help you get used to letting go of things more easily in your life.

It’s Not About Perfection


Having a minimalistic lifestyle is different for each individual. And it’s certainly not about achieving any standard of perfection. It’s about learning to live with less stuff and working every day to rid yourself of excess clutter that serves no useful purpose.

Enjoy More Space

As clutter accumulates over the years, it can make you desensitized to the state of your home, and the amount of space all of that stuff consumes. Adapting a minimalistic lifestyle will help you free up more of your space at home so you can stretch out, relax, and feel more at peace in your own home.

If your house is all cleared up from clutter and you’re ready to make some home improvements, contact us, or give us a call at (613)727-9427  As a family-owned business, we offer quality workmanship and excellent customer service throughout the Ottawa area. Reach out today to learn how to get started with your next reno project!

creative-room-ideas

Creative Room Ideas

Have a spare room that’s not being used? Why not turn this area into something useful? Let us show you what we mean with these 5 creative room ideas that can transform an otherwise empty room into a fully functional space for everyone to enjoy.

Yoga Studio


If you love to practice yoga, you can take the experience right into your home. By remodelling a spare room into a yoga studio, you can create your own little sanctuary. The best part of all is that it doesn’t cost much to put together and all you need is enough room to move around freely.

Recording Studio


If you’re involved in the music industry, another creative room idea you can add to your place is a recording studio. Thanks to the latest advancements in digital technology, it’s easier than ever to record at home. All you need is enough space for your equipment, an adequate number of power sources, high-quality soundproofing, and a proper air-intake system to prevent the equipment from overheating. Having your own recording studio will allow you to be creative whenever you want without disrupting anyone in the process.

Photography Studio


When you’re a professional photographer, you know how important it is to have a studio for your photography. You’re also probably aware of how expensive renting out studio space can be over time. However, there’s one inexpensive way to get professional shots without leaving your home — create your very own working studio. All you need is some dedicated space where all the equipment and lighting can be moved around and used.

Painting Studio


Those who are hoping to start a career as an artist need somewhere to practice and create. An art studio at home can provide many benefits to your craft. If this sounds like the perfect idea for you or a loved one, just remember that the studio should have enough space, natural light and ventilation.

Fitness Studio


Health is important, but when the cost of a gym membership can cost you anywhere from $50 to $200 a month, it’s easy to skip out on fitness. Thankfully, your unfinished basement, attic, or bedroom can be easily transformed into your own fitness studio. And you don’t even have to fully stock it with expensive equipment either. With a few simple weights and items, you can create just what you need to stay in shape.

When you’re ready to transform one of your empty rooms into a creative space, we’re the team to call! At RenosGroup.ca, whatever design you can think of, we can create. We are the renovation experts in the Ottawa area, with over 25 years of combined experience handling a wide range of renovation projects and home additions. To find out how we can turn your vision into reality, contact us, or give us a call at (613)7279427

Contact us

Office Address:
251 Laurier Ave W, #900
Ottawa, ON K1P 5J6
Phone: (613) 727-9427
Office Hours: 
Mon – Fri: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM

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