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Published with permission from RISMedia.

When calculating the cost of homeownership, it’s important to include not only everyday costs, such as mortgage payments, utilities and property taxes, but also inevitable home-repair expenses. Some of the most common home repairs involve plumbing fixtures, patios, fences and driveways, heating and air conditioning systems, and painting both inside and out. Youll also likely want to make home renovations at some point over the years.

The good news is, keeping up with home maintenance or making renovations will preserve or enhance your home’s value; however, it’s crucial that homeowners plan ahead for the costs involved. Here are five quick tips from BMO Harris Bank:

1. Contribute small amounts of money regularly to an emergency fund for maintenance and repairs. The money will add up over time and be there for when disaster strikes or you decide to make a home improvement.

2.Understand how a repair or renovation will impact the value of your home by researching which renovations create increased value and are popular selling features. Conversely, making unpopular changes could ultimately hurt your homes appeal and value when you decide to sell it.

3.Think long term when making financial decisions. Whether youre using savings or borrowing to renovate, take the time to meet with a financial expert to ensure your renovation meets your long-term financial objectives.

4. Expect the unexpected. Be financially prepared for things to go awry during a project, such as a leaky roof, broken pipe or other course corrections that may occur. This could significantly increase the cost and time it takes to finish a project.

5.Get renovation quotes in writing, and understand what guarantees the contractors provide. For example, if the cost of the plumbing in your renovation is more work than expected, will the quote go up?

Although no one has a crystal ball, financially preparing for repairs and renovations is a smart move for all homeowners!

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Here are a few things to know about wet rooms.

With no curtains, doors or shower trays, the clean aesthetic provides a spa-like bathing experience, and whats not to love about that?

From easier access to efficient cleaning, an open-concept shower and bath area has numerous functional advantages.

If you dont have the space for both a soaking tub and a separate walk-in shower, this style can be a great solution.

Working with a designer will ensure your bathroom is fashionable and functional.

Published with permission from RISMedia.

Some things just get better with age, and thats certainly the case when it comes to reclaimed wood. Brand-new wood floors and ceiling beams have plenty of appeal, but if you want to give your home a distinguished look, you may want to consider salvaging timber from an old barn or factory. Here are just a few reasons why reclaimed wood might be the right choice for you!

Eco-Friendly
There are many popular types of wood that are difficult to find sustainably sourced, like ipe and teak. If you have your heart set on using one of these, the best way to do it just might be by repurposing it from elsewhere. Furthermore, youre helping to preserve natural resources and can feel good about using timber that would otherwise go to waste.

Already Weathered
Each piece of reclaimed wood is unique and has often already developed a patina. This makes it a great choice if you have kids or pets who are prone to scuffing up the floors, because the beauty is in the flaws that come from being used over time.

Versatility
For a long time, reclaimed wood was only used in traditional or rustic design; however, these days, it can be found in almost any setting. In a modern residence, the juxtaposition of old and new creates a stunning aesthetic while also adding warmth.

History
Unlike new materials, theres a story behind reclaimed wood that gives character to your home. Whether its antique French oak floors in the kitchen or hand-hewn beams from an old farmhouse in your living room, these are far from run-of-the-mill details.

Transcend the Trends
While certain styles come and go, salvaged wood has timeless appeal that continues to improve with age. After all, there arent too many other finishes in a home that still look good after being used for decades or sometimes even centuries!

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Experience the relaxation and energy of a “real” vacation without all the hassle of travel with these ideas that will make you wish youd taken a staycation sooner.

Take a Virtual Tour

From Buckingham palace to Disneyland, or even virtual museums, there’s no shortage of interesting places to explore from the comfort of your home.

Take the Road Less Traveled

No need to book a hotel or have anything grand planned at the end of your trip. Simply pick up a bite to eat, hop back in your car and enjoy the road on the way home.

Camp Out in the Urban Jungle

A tent, flashlight, the ingredients for s’mores and a gas or wood-burning fire pit are all you need to make this backyard experience feel like the real thing.

Create Your Own Spa Retreat

Turn your home into an oasis by indulging a little. Don’t be afraid to go all out, just like a real spa!

Published with permission from RISMedia.