What’s the next best thing to buying a home? Why, renovating it, of course! The renovation sector in Canada is expected to reach $53.3 billion in 2008, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation—what with our hot domestic economy, low mortgage and interest rates, solid housing sector and love affair with renovating these days. Indeed, we polled you guys at 2magazine.com recently, and nearly 60 percent of you told us that you’re either planning a home reno or considering one this year. In this guide, you’ll find the goods on what’s hot in renos and what you can expect to recoup by updating various rooms, as well as green reno solutions and expert advice from the king of renos himself, Mike Holmes.
Q&A: MIKE HOLMES
For the past six years, building guru Mike Holmes has been trying to “Make It Right” on his award-winning HGTV Canada show, Holmes on Homes. The son of a jack of all trades, Holmes has been working with his hands since he was a little boy. Today he lives with his family in Halton Hills, Ont., in a house that, he says, will eventually be the “ultimate home.” 2 talked to Holmes to get his expert advice on everything reno.
By Hailey Eisen
LIKE, TOTALLY HOT RENO TRENDS!
This year’s home reno and design trends focus on a healthy home, environmentalism, simplicity and a crossover between indoor and outdoor spaces. Here’s the lowdown on each trend.
By Waheeda Harris
MAN CAVE MAKEOVER
If you’re thinking of a reno, why not consider converting your garage into a multi-functional space for everyone to enjoy? Here’s how.
By Waheeda Harris
TWO ROOMS TO DO IT IN
Renovate, that is. Kitchen and bathroom renos always add value (see “Reno Recoup” below). Here are some trends to consider incorporating in your plans for these spaces.
By Waheeda Harris
RENO RECOUP
Before you embark on your own home makeover, you may want to consider a reno where you can expect to recoup a good chunk of your costs upon resale. Here are your best bets.
By Parul Bharadia
THE BIG (GREEN) CLEANUP
While renovating your home can be an exciting endeavour, the mess and clutter that comes along with it can leave you feeling like ripping out your hair! When mapping out your cleanup strategy, be sure to keep the earth in mind. Here are some ideas to consider.
By Hailey Eisen
