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(Source of information from the Regina MLS® System)

Regina's "JANUARY 2012" average sale price for a single family detached home was $304,935 a 10% increase over "January 2011" which was $278,479; and the average sale price for all other single family was, $224,755 compared to $205,615 in 2011 (a 9% change). Single family detached sales for JANUARY 2012 was 189 compared to 160 sales in January 2011 (18% change in sales) and for all categories there was a total of 261 sales compared to 221 sales in 2011 (18% change in sales).

FOR 2011, there were 3,876 residential sales recorded in the MLS(R) System in all geographic areas, up 9% over 2010 with 3,563 sales.  This represents the second highest number of sales in a year, only behind 2007 when 3,935 occurred. Sales inside the city were 3,306, an increase of 7% over 2010's with 3,080 sales.

FOR 2011, the average sales price for all areas set a new annual high of $277,909, an increase of 8% over the previous record set in 2010 of $258,029.  The average sales price in the city also set a new high at $285,759, up 8% over the previous year's $263,519.

For more Regina real estate stats go to www.reginarealtors.com

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If you´re contemplating buying your first place, try to stay within your comfort zone and not get swept away.  As local real estate experts in South Florida, we want our buyers to have access to the right information so as to make better decisions. 

1) Don´t Guess 3;. Determine what you can afford:

Figure out your financial comfort zone,  before  you really start looking for a place to buy.    Start by jotting down the basics:  your  income,  savings,  any portfolio investments 3;  account numbers,  income tax returns 3;  along with a list of contact names and numbers  for any banks/loans/investments . 

Make a list of  expenses 3;  Include groceries, gas, car payments, insurance premiums,  loans you are in the process of paying off (including credit card balances).    Those will help give you a better idea as to what you can afford  3;

You will have additional expenses as a homeowner -  above and beyond what you have now, as a tenant or living rent-free .   Insurance, property taxes and your monthly mortgage  3; along with maintenance,  upkeep, painting,  landscaping, yard work, pool service, household repairs (including appliances, air conditioning, and roof) all  fall on the homeowner.

2) Get pre-approved 3; Make  sure you are properly qualified for a mortgage: 

Talk with a  loan officer and get  pre-qualfied for a loan.  You´ll want what´s known as a pre-approval letter though  (or better still DU  approval  ? "direct underwriting approval")- before you fall love with a house or make an offer.  And by the way, once you have a loan approval, don´t lease or buy a  car, and don´t take out any new credit cards because any expenses or debts may  alter your credit score  and that can cause hiccups  3;  change your rates 3; and/or cause your loan to fall through.

3)  Be realistic about your first home purchase:

Start with each  "want/must have/would like to have" 3; And first and foremost on that list should really be location. There are certain things you can´t  fix or change about a house (ie. ceiling height/neighborhood/ basic layout/  number of beds and baths/square feet inside the house)3;. and location is one of those. 

There are a lot of changes that you can make  later.  You can change paint colors, replace flooring and appliances, window treatments, lighting, add hurricane protection, re-landscape, add a pool  or  re-surface a pool,  remove wall-paper, update baths or kitchens 3; but you really can´t change things like ceiling height, or alter neighboring homes , and you can´t drag your house to a different location, or change the school boundaries. 

As you´re looking at potential properties, try to look past whatever hideous decor or outdated  furnishings might to the seller (All of that will go with the seller!). 

Look past the dirt too.  I know it´s easy to fall in love with a perfect, model home.   But dirty houses can be cleaned, and they often sell for less.  Be happy if no staging or decorating was done by the seller 3;  What it often translates into is a lower  pricetag for you!.  Sometimes the money a seller puts into readying the house ( to make it look like  a model home) somehow gets added to the list price 3;   

Spit and elbow grease (or a commercial cleaning service), a coat of fresh paint, and minor touch-ups are simple  enough 3; and  inexpensive 3;  so keep that in mind if you´re the buyer.  You may be able to live with some  imperfections 3; then make your own changes later on3; Who knows, you may even get used to the awful wallpaper or light fixture you cringed at  -  at least for awhile. 

4) Calculate your potential return on investment 3; Based on neighboring values and current market values:

If you buy a place that has room for  improvement  (that can use some updating), by making those updates you´ll be the one to reap the benefits and gain equity.   Cosmetic changes , re-decorating and/or  adding curb appeal may well build added equity.

5) Hire a Realtor or Broker to represent you as the buyer3;  and3; get a  knowledgeable Inspection Company and make  sure the property you´re contemplating  is well-constructed and without defects:

You can avoid most hiccups and/or  unexpected surprises:  Rely on people you  trust  3; Gather information3;  Hire a buyer´s agent. By having a realtor represent you,  you´re apt to get better terms and have fewer hiccups -   and I´m talking about all phases of the purchase 3; from negotiating your contract terms,  recommending  inspection companies,   overseeing  loan, appraisal, survey, title, open permits, code violations 3;  keeping an eye out for any red flags and nipping them in the bud,  and handling any re-negotiations.  

A listing/seller´s agent can and often does represent both parties in the role of  a transactional agent 3; seeing to it that the both parties  actually get to the closing table and title transferred and keys exchange hands.  

By having your own buyer´s agent : your buyer´s agent will oversee the transaction( for you) from showing you property that fit your criteria,   helping you determine property value and what to offer, pinpointing comparable recent and relevant sales  to serve as comps,  preparing and submitting your offer, negotiating the contract, overseeing it through to closing:  loan process, inspections, closing out any open permits, checking for code violations,  recommending  insurance and title and closing agents, explaining how to file for your homestead exemption 3;  and being there for you  even post-closing..

Buying and moving into a new place is exciting.   It´s can also be overwhelming 3;    Just remember that some of the cosmetic fixes,  you can do yourself 3; after the place is yours. 


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             QUOTE OF THE WEEK


      "The golden rule for every business man is this:
      Put yourself in your customer’s place.
        Orison Swett Marden


Avoiding Basement Flooding

Is Basement Flooding a Common Problem?

Basement flooding is unfortunately a common occurrence in many parts of Canada. Basement flooding related insurance claims in Canada are estimated to be in the order of $140 million per year based on a multi-year average. This represents an average of approximately 30,000 to 40,000 incidents per year, with an average cost of damages per flooding incident between $3,000 and $5,000. Many cases of basement flooding are not reported. But the good news is that many types of basement flooding may be avoided. This publication explains some of the practical steps you can take to avoid basement flooding.

How Serious Is Basement Flooding?

Basement flooding is now being recognized as a potentially serious problem. There are many negative consequences associated with basement flooding, above and beyond the inconvenient mess and disruption of household routine. Recent research cites the following impacts:

  • Chronically wet houses are linked to an increase in respiratory problems.
  • Frequent occurrences of basement flooding can result in long-term damage to the building and equipment that may not be covered by insurance.
  • Insurance rates may rise to compensate for repeated basement flooding claims, and/or the minimum deductible may be increased significantly.
  • Property value may depreciate because the basement is prone to frequent flooding.

Before appropriate measures can be taken, it is important to identify the causes of basement flooding. These range from problems originating in the individual dwelling to problems associated with the municipal sewer systems that serve entire communities.

Why Do Basements Flood?

Water can enter your basement for a number of reasons. Water in your basement is most likely to occur during periods of heavy rainfall, or when snow is melting rapidly during a spring thaw. In these cases, your basement can be wet because of:

  • a leak or crack in your home´s basement walls
  • poor lot drainage
  • failure of the weeping tiles (foundation drains)
  • overflowing eavestroughs or leaking/plugged downspouts

Basement flooding may also occur because of:

  • a blocked connection between your home and the main sewer in the street
  • a back-up of wastewater in the sewer system (or a combination of wastewater and rainwater from the sanitary or combined sewer system)
  • failure of a sump pump (in some areas) used to pump weeping tile water

Basements are also vulnerable to natural river flooding disasters, but these cannot be addressed by individual homeowners.

Flooding Basics

Municipalities attempt to prevent flooding by maintaining the public sewer system. Homeowners with private sewage systems (septic tank and field bed) can appreciate the need for regular maintenance, but unforeseen or accidental problems can occur in any type of system. This is some municipal infrastructure terminology you should know (Figure 1).

Basement flooding
Figure 1

Sanitary Sewer

A sanitary sewer is a pipe buried beneath the street that is designed to transport wastewater from your home. This consists of water from sanitary fixtures and floor drains inside your house, and in some areas includes groundwater from weeping tiles around the foundation of your home.

Storm Sewer

A storm sewer is a pipe buried beneath the street that is designed to carry storm-related water runoff. Storm sewers are normally much larger than sanitary sewers because they are designed to carry much larger amounts of flow.

Sewer Backup

Extra storm-related water (from sources other than wastewater and groundwater) should flow into the storm sewer or soak slowly into the ground without entering the sanitary sewer. If excess storm water does enter the sanitary sewer system, it can overload this kind of system.

When the sewers are overloaded, the water level in the system rises above normal design levels, and this condition is referred to as surcharge. Basement flooding can occur if the home has sanitary fixtures or floor drains below the surcharge level (Figure 2).

Basement flooding combined with sewer backup
Figure 2

Practical Measures to Avoid Basement Flooding

Basement flooding problems are best diagnosed by working your way down from the eavestroughs and downspouts, to the lot and foundation drainage, and then to the plumbing system - both inside your home and beyond its connection to the municipal sewer system.

Eavestroughs and Downspouts

Water pours off your eavestroughs into downspouts. If the downspouts are dumping the water right beside your foundation, it drains directly to the weeping tile and can easily overload your home´s drainage. Make sure downspouts extend at least 1.8 metres (6 feet) from your basement wall. Also, be sure the water does not drain toward your neighbour´s basement walls. It should drain away from your house toward the street, rear yard, or back lane.

If your downspouts are connected to your home´s sewer system, or weeping tile, disconnect them.

Clean debris from eavestroughs regularly. If they overflow even when clean, replace them with larger size eavestroughs and downspouts.

Lot Grading

If the land around your home slopes in toward the foundation, rainwater heads right for the weeping tile around the basement and can overload your foundation drainage system. The land around many homes settles over time, and then slopes in toward the foundation. If your lot slopes inward, you´ll want to fill in and grade the lot so that, for at least 1.8 metres (6 feet) out from around the foundation, the land slopes away from your house.

Build up the ground around your house so that water drains away from your basement walls. Also, examine sidewalks, patios, decks and driveways. These can settle over time and cause water to drain back towards your basement walls (Figure 3).

Extend downspouts so that water flows away from your house and does not collect next to the basement walls and windows.

Proper drainage helps to:

  • Reduce the amount of water flowing to your home´s sewer system and to the main sewer system, and lessen the risk of sewer backup
  • Reduce water seepage into your home through basement windows and cracks in your basement walls.
  • Keep the moisture content of the soil around and under your house stable to reduce the chances of cracking and shifting. If water collects next to your basement, it can make its way to the footings that support the basement walls. The increased moisture may cause the footings to heave or settle
  • Extend the life of your sump pump by reducing the amount of work it has to do.

Be sure that any drainage improvements you make do not cause water to flow onto your neighbour´s property.

Grading and planting
Figure 3

Floodproofing Devices

If your home drainage system or the neighbourhood´s drainage system overloads, you may still be able to prevent rain water and sewage from backing up into your basement by installing one or more floodproofing devices, such as sump pumps or back flow valves. Each installation is unique and some devices (back flow valves) may require a plumbing permit. Check with your municipal office or a qualified plumber before you proceed with any installation.

Sump Pit Drainage System

A sump pit drainage system includes a sump pit, a sump pump and a discharge pipe. The sump pit, set into the basement floor, collects water from the weeping tiles around your basement. The pump pushes the water outside your house through the discharge pipe (Figure 4).

Place your sump pump discharge pipe so that it:

  • drains somewhere onto your property where water can be absorbed, such as your lawn or flower bed
  • does not direct water onto neighbouring properties, lanes, sidewalks, or streets.

Typical sump pump
Figure 4

Sump Pit

  • Clean the pit each year after freeze-up. Weeping tile drainage may carry small amounts of soil, sand and debris into the pit from around your basement foundation.

  • Some water may remain in the pit and cause a musty smell if it sits for a long time. If so, you can flush the pit by adding fresh water until the pump removes the stale water.

Sump Pump

  • Check and test your pump each spring before the rainy season begins, and before you leave your house for a long time. Pour water into the pit to trigger the pump to operate.

  • Remove and thoroughly clean the pump at least once a year. Disconnect the pump from the power source before you handle or clean it.

  • Check the pit every so often to ensure it is free of debris. Most pumps have a screen that covers the water intake. You must keep this screen clean.

Sump Pump Discharge Pipe

  • Check the place where the discharge pipe leaves the house. If the pipe is discharging right against the basement wall, the water will drain down into the weeping tiles and continue to recycle through the system.

  • Check the discharge point regularly to make sure that nothing is blocking the flow.

  • If your pump runs frequently in the winter, and the resulting ice is causing hazardous conditions on the lawn and sidewalks, call your municipal office.

Backwater Valve

A backwater valve is a device that prevents sewage in an overloaded main sewer line from backing up into your basement. The valve automatically closes if sewage backs up from the main sewer (Figure 5). A properly installed backwater valve must be placed so that sewage backup will be stopped and not come out through other outlets in your basement, such as sinks, toilets, showers and laundry tubs.

  • Make sure that you can get at the valve at all times.
  • Check the valve regularly and remove any material that may prevent the valve from operating properly.

You will normally require a permit and inspection to install a backwater valve and sump pit. Since part of the basement floor will be dug up and since proper placement of these items is important, we recommend that you use a qualified plumbing contractor.

Back flow valve diagram
Figure 5

Plumbing Fixture Maintenance

Have a qualified plumber inspect all floodproofing devices and plumbing fixtures (i.e. sump pumps, backwater valves, floor drains, etc.) regularly to ensure proper operation. Check the operating instructions for more detailed information and safety guidelines, or ask your plumber to explain the details of your system to you.

Additional Protection Measures

There are also several additional flood protection measures that may be considered.

Backup Sump Pump

Severe storms are often accompanied by power blackouts. A battery powered backup sump pump may be a prudent investment. Most pumps are made to fit in beside the main sump pump and also have an audible alarm that warns the main pump has failed so that you can attend to its repair or replacement. There are also water powered backup sump pumps available that run by water flowing through the pump impeller.

Basement Finishes and Furnishings

In the event a risk of basement flooding is still possible, it is advisable to install impermeable floor and wall finishes, such as ceramic tile, to lessen damage and make cleanup easier. Make sure basement furniture has legs that keep the furniture fabrics above any accumulated flood water. Area rugs are a good alternative to full broadloom as these can be removed and properly cleaned in the event of flood damage.

Insurance - Just In Case

Insurance that fully covers basement flooding damage is an important means of financial protection to homeowners.

Most policies include or can include coverage for damage caused by sewer back-up. Make sure your policy includes sewer back-up insurance.

Check regularly with your insurance agent or broker to ensure you have appropriate and adequate insurance coverage, including any extensions in coverage that may be available, which were not previously attached.

Keep a detailed inventory of your residence. It will be invaluable in the event of loss.

Make sure your insurance policies and related records are in a safe location and easily available after an emergency or disaster event.

Sources of Information

Additional sources of information related to basement flooding are listed below. Always check with your local municipality or plumbing inspection department for the latest information on basement flood protection.

Associations

Sump and Sewage Pump Manufacturers Association

http://www.sspma.org/

Acknowledgements

CMHC wishes to acknowledge the contributions of numerous Canadian municipalities to this publication. All of their public information bulletins were consulted during the development of this publication. Their assistance and cooperation are greatly appreciated.

 

Related CMHC Information




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CMHC Garbage Bag Airflow Test

There are times when you need to know the airflow from your furnace registers, bathroom exhaust fan or clothes dryer exhaust.

For example, if a house has one cold room in the winter, it is useful to find out if this is because your furnace isn't supplying enough warm air. If you installed a new bathroom exhaust fan, you could use the test to see if it is working properly.

This fact sheet tells you how to do the CMHC Garbage Bag Airflow Test. The Test is a quick way to estimate airflow, by determining how long it takes to fill a common plastic garbage bag.

It is not a precise measurement, but it is a vast improvement over no measurement at all.

How To Do the Test

Here's how to use the test to measure airflow from a register or exhaust:

  1. Tape the mouth of the garbage bag to a bent coat hanger or a homemade ring of cardboard to keep it open (see Figure 1).
  2. Crush the bag flat.
  3. Place it over the register or exhaust hood (see Figure 2).
  4. Count how many seconds it takes for the bag to inflate.
  5. Use Table 1 or 2 below to find the airflow from the register or exhaust.

If you want to measure air going out, you can hold an inflated bag against an exhaust grill, and count how many seconds it takes for the bag to deflate. Deflation testing is not as accurate as inflation testing, but it is still a reasonable test. Low airflow is difficult to measure by deflation testing.

Figure 1 Tape a garbage bag to a ring of cardboard or a bent coat hanger
Figure 1 Tape a garbage bag to a ring of cardboard or a bent coat hanger
 Figure 2 Let the bag inflate over a register
Figure 2 Let the bag inflate over a register

How To Use the Test

Using the previous examples, if the measured airflow from a forced-air register is less than 10 L/s, the furnace is delivering only a small amount of heat to a room.

If you install a 100 cfm exhaust fan, and the fan inflates a standard bag in less than two seconds, you have the rated exhaust flow for the fan.

CMHC's Garbage Bag Airflow Test is also useful if you have changed your heating or cooling systems, or if you have made major renovations to your house.

Table 1 Small garbage bag (66 x 91 cm [26 x 36 in.])

Time to inflate* Flow of air into the bag
2 seconds 35 L/s (75 cfm)
4 seconds 20 L/s (40 cfm)
10 seconds 10 L/s (20 cfm)
L/s = litres per second; cfm = cubic feet per minute
* For deflation, add a second. Therefore, 35 L/s would take about three seconds and 20 L/s about five seconds.

Table 2 Big garbage bag (79 x 119 cm [31 x 47 in.])

Time to inflate* Flow of air into the bag
2 seconds 100 L/s (210 cfm)
4 seconds 50 L/s (105 cfm)
6 seconds 35 L/s (75 cfm)
10 seconds 20 L/s (40 cfm)
L/s = litres per second; cfm = cubic feet per minute
* Deflation times are about the same as inflation times.













Source of Information from the Association of Regina Realtors

SALES BY PRICE CATEGORY for 2010


$29,999 OR UNDER - 42

$30,000 - $39,999 - 25

$40,000 - $49,999 - 23

$50,000 - $59,999 - 39

$60,000 - $69,999 - 51

$70,000 - $79,999 - 59

$80,000 - $89,999 - 33

$90,000 - $99,999 - 42

$100,000 - $124,999 - 152

$125,000 - $149,999 - 153

$150,000 - $174,999 - 232

$175,000 - $199,999 - 231

$200,000 - $224,999 - 325

$225,000 - $249,999 - 355

$250,000 - $274,999 - 383

$275,000 - $299,999 - 321

$300,000 - $349,999 - 398

$350,000 - $399,999 - 285

$400,000 - $449,999 - 181

$450,000 - $499,999 - 104

$500,000 - $749,999 - 110

$750,000 - $999,999 - 14

$1,000,000 or Over - 2

Total Residential (Only) 3,565




January 17, 2010: Changes to Mortgage Rules

As anticipated in CREA´s recent Call to Action, the government today announced three loan financing changes designed to address concerns about increasing levels of household debt. A link to the government announcement is here.

First, the government will reduce the maximum mortgage amortization period from 35 to 30 years. Second, the maximum amount of the value of a home that can be re-financed will drop from 90 per cent to 85 per cent. And finally, government insurance will no longer be available to financial institutions wishing to insure home equity lines of credit.

It is important to note, the government did not increase the minimum downpayment, which was under consideration. And the reduction of five years to the amortization period is understood, given there was a possibility of a larger reduction. Thanks to all those who recognized the urgency of CREA´s Call to Action and wrote their Member of Parliament.

Together, these three measures are designed to ensure homebuyers invest responsibly in home ownership and don´t risk their financial security by buying too much home for their income or the country´s economic circumstance.

 

Canada´s Economic Action Plan Offers Incentives for Homeownership

Buying your first home is one of the largest investments of your life. Canada´s Economic Action Plan introduces the First-Time Home Buyers´ (FTHB) Tax Credit and the expansion of the Home Buyers´ Plan (HBP) to provide you with additional benefits and help you realize your dream of homeownership.

First-Time Home Buyers\' (FTHB) Tax Credit

The costs associated with purchasing a home, such as legal fees, disbursements and land transfer taxes, can be a particular burden for first-time homebuyers who must pay these costs, as well as save money for a down payment. To assist first-time homebuyers with the costs associated with the purchase of a home, the Government of Canada introduced a FTHB Tax Credit in 2009 - a $5,000 non-refundable income tax credit amount on a qualifying home acquired after January 27, 2009. For an eligible individual, the credit will provide up to $750 in federal tax relief starting in 2009.

Expansion of the Home Buyers' Plan (HBP)

To provide first-time homebuyers with greater access to their RRSP savings to purchase or build a home, the Government of Canada has increased the Home Buyers´ Plan withdrawal limit to $25,000 from $20,000 per person for withdrawals made after January 27, 2009.

To obtain more information on the First-Time Home Buyers´ Tax Credit and the Home Buyers´ Plan, call 1-800-O-Canada or visit the Canada Revenue Agency website at www.cra.gc.ca.

Looking for More Homebuying Information?

When it comes to buying your home, nothing is more valuable than peace of mind. That´s why for more than 60 years, CMHC has shared a wealth of knowledge and housing expertise to contribute to a positive homeownership experience for Canadians. Browse through our wealth of homebuying information. You´ll find everything you need, from homebuying videos, to mortgage calculators, to home hunting worksheets.

CMHC also provides mortgage loan insurance that enables you to buy a home with a minimum down payment of 5%" - with interest rates comparable to those with a 20% down payment. Obtain a 10% premium refund and extend the amortization period without a premium surcharge when using CMHC-insured financing to purchase an eligible energy-efficient home. This can add up to savings of $1,688 for a typical $250,000 mortgage with a 5% down payment amortized over 35 years. Ask your mortgage professional about CMHC.


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    Home Maintenance Schedule

    Regular Maintenance is the Key

    Inspecting your home on a regular basis and following good maintenance practices are the best way to protect your investment in your home. Whether you take care of a few tasks at a time or several all at once, it is important to get into the habit of doing them. Establish a routine for yourself, and you will find the work is easy to accomplish and not very time-consuming. A regular schedule of seasonal maintenance can put a stop to the most common - and costly - problems, before they occur. If necessary, use a camera to take pictures of anything you might want to share with an expert for advice or to monitor or remind you of a situation later.

    By following the information noted here, you will learn about protecting your investment and how to help keep your home a safe and healthy place to live.

    If you do not feel comfortable performing some of the home maintenance tasks listed below, or do not have the necessary equipment, for example a ladder, you may want to consider hiring a qualified handyperson to help you.

    Seasonal Home Maintenance

    Most home maintenance activities are seasonal. Fall is the time to get your home ready for the coming winter, which can be the most gruelling season for your home. During winter months, it is important to follow routine maintenance procedures, by checking your home carefully for any problems that may arise and taking corrective action as soon as possible. Spring is the time to assess winter damage, start repairs and prepare for warmer months. Over the summer, there are a number of indoor and outdoor maintenance tasks to look after, such as repairing walkways and steps, painting and checking your chimney and roof.

    While most maintenance is seasonal, there are some things you should do on a frequent basis year-round:

    Make sure air vents indoors and outdoors (intake, exhaust and forced air) are not blocked by snow or debris.
    Check and clean range hood filters on a monthly basis.
    Test ground fault circuit interrupter(s) on electrical outlets monthly by pushing the test button, which should then cause the reset button to pop up.
    If there are young children in the house, make sure electrical outlets are equipped with safety plugs.
    Regularly check the house for safety hazards, such as a loose handrail, lifting or buckling flooring, inoperative smoke detectors, and so on.

    Timing of the seasons varies not only from one area of Canada to another but also from year to year in a given area. For this reason, we have not identified the months for each season. The maintenance schedule presented here is, instead, a general guide for you to follow. The actual timing is left for you to decide, and you may want to further divide the list of items for each season into months.

    Fall

    Have furnace or heating system serviced by a qualified service company every two years for a gas furnace, and every year for an oil furnace, or as recommended by the manufacturer.
    If you have central air conditioning, make sure the drain pan under the cooling coil mounted in the furnace plenum is draining properly and is clean.
    Lubricate circulating pump on hot water heating system.
    Bleed air from hot water radiators.
    Disconnect the power to the furnace and examine the forced-air furnace fan belt, if installed, for wear, looseness or noise; clean fan blades of any dirt buildup.
    Check chimneys for obstructions such as nests.
    Vacuum electric baseboard heaters to remove dust.
    Remove the grilles on forced-air systems and vacuum inside the ducts.
    Turn ON gas furnace pilot light (if your furnace has one), set the thermostat to "heat" and test the furnace for proper operation by raising the thermostat setting until the furnace starts to operate. Once you have confirmed proper operation, return the thermostat to the desired setting.
    Check and clean or replace furnace air filters each month during the heating season. Ventilation system, such as heat recovery ventilator, filters should be checked every two months.
    Check to see that the ductwork leading to and from the heat recovery ventilator is in good shape, the joints are tightly sealed (aluminum tape or mastic) and any duct insulation and plastic duct wrap is free of tears and holes.
    If the heat recovery ventilator has been shut off for the summer, clean the filters and the core, and pour water down the condensate drain to test it.
    Check to see that bathroom exhaust fans and range hoods are operating properly. If possible, confirm that you are getting good airflow by observing the outside vent hood (the exterior damper should be held open by the airflow). See the About Your House fact sheet CMHC Garbage Bag Airflow Test for a simple way to estimate the airflow.
    Check smoke, carbon monoxide and security alarms, and replace batteries.
    Clean portable humidifier, if one is used.
    Check sump pump and line to ensure proper operation, and to ascertain that there are no line obstructions or visible leaks.
    Replace window screens with storm windows.
    Remove interior insect screens from windows to allow air from the heating system to keep condensation off window glass and to allow more free solar energy into your home.
    Ensure windows and skylights close tightly; repair or replace weatherstripping, as needed.
    Ensure all doors to the outside shut tightly, and check other doors for ease of use. Replace door weatherstripping if required.
    If there is a door between your house and the garage, check the adjustment of the self-closing device to ensure it closes the door completely.
    Cover outside of air-conditioning units and shut off power.
    Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation wall, so that water does not drain into your basement.
    Clean leaves from eavestroughs and roof, and test downspouts to ensure proper drainage from the roof.
    Drain and store outdoor hoses. Close interior valve to outdoor hose connection and drain the hose bib (exterior faucet), unless your house has frost-proof hose bibs.
    Have well water tested for quality. It is recommended that you test for bacteria every six months.
    If you have a septic tank, measure the sludge and scum to determine if the tank needs to be emptied before the spring. Tanks should be pumped out at least once every three years.
    Winterize landscaping, for example, store outdoor furniture, prepare gardens and, if necessary, protect young trees or bushes for winter.

    Winter

    Check and clean or replace furnace air filters each month during the heating season. Ventilation system, such as heat recovery ventilator, filters should be checked every two months.
    After consulting your hot water tank owner´s manual, drain off a dishpan full of water from the clean-out valve at the bottom of your hot water tank to control sediment and maintain efficiency.
    Clean humidifier two or three times during the winter season.
    Vacuum bathroom fan grille.
    Vacuum fire and smoke detectors, as dust or spider webs can prevent them from functioning.
    Vacuum radiator grilles on back of refrigerators and freezers, and empty and clean drip trays.
    Check pressure gauge on all fire extinguishers; recharge or replace if necessary.
    Check fire escape routes, door and window locks and hardware, and lighting around outside of house; ensure family has good security habits.
    Check the basement floor drain to ensure the trap contains water; refill with water if necessary.
    Monitor your home for excessive moisture levels - for example, condensation on your windows, which can cause significant damage over time and pose serious health problems - and take corrective action if necessary. Refer to the About Your House fact sheet Measuring Humidity in Your Home.
    Check all faucets for signs of dripping and change washers as needed. Faucets requiring frequent replacement of washers may be in need of repair.
    If you have a plumbing fixture that is not used frequently, such as a laundry tub or spare bathroom sink, tub or shower stall, run some water briefly to keep water in the trap.
    Clean drains in dishwasher, sinks, bathtubs and shower stalls.
    Test plumbing shut-off valves to ensure they are working and to prevent them from seizing.
    Examine windows and doors for ice accumulation or cold air leaks. If found, make a note to repair or replace in the spring.
    Examine attic for frost accumulation. Check roof for ice dams or icicles. If there is excessive frost or staining of the underside of the roof, or ice dams on the roof surface, consult the About Your House fact sheet Attic Venting, Attic Moisture and Ice Dams for advice.
    Keep snow clear of gas meters, gas appliance vents, exhaust vents and basement windows.
    Monitor outdoor vents, gas meters and chimneys for ice and snow buildup. Consult with an appropriate contractor or your gas utility for information on how to safely deal with any ice problems you may discover.
    Check electrical cords, plugs and outlets for all indoor and outdoor seasonal lights to ensure fire safety; if worn, or if plugs or cords feel warm to the touch, replace immediately.

    Spring

    After consulting your hot water tank owner´s manual, carefully test the temperature and pressure relief valve to ensure it is not stuck. Caution: This test may release hot water that can cause burns.
    Check and clean or replace furnace air filters each month during the heating season. Ventilation system, such as heat recovery ventilator, filters should be checked every two months.
    Have fireplace or wood stove and chimney cleaned and serviced as needed.
    Shut down, drain and clean furnace humidifier, and close the furnace humidifier damper on units with central air conditioning.
    Switch on power to air conditioning and check system. Have it serviced every two or three years.
    Clean or replace air-conditioning filter, if applicable.
    Check dehumidifier and drain - clean if necessary.
    Turn OFF gas furnace and fireplace pilot lights where possible.
    Have well water tested for quality. It is recommended that you test for bacteria every six months.
    Check smoke, carbon monoxide and security alarms, and replace batteries.
    Clean windows, screens and hardware, and replace storm windows with screens. Check screens first and repair or replace if needed.
    Open valve to outside hose connection after all danger of frost has passed.
    Examine the foundation walls for cracks, leaks or signs of moisture, and repair as required.
    Ensure sump pump is operating properly before the spring thaw sets in. Ensure discharge pipe is connected and allows water to drain away from the foundation.
    Re-level any exterior steps or decks that moved as a result of frost or settling.
    Check for and seal off any holes in exterior cladding that could be an entry point for small pests, such as bats and squirrels.
    Check eavestroughs and downspouts for loose joints and secure attachment to your home, clear any obstructions, and ensure water flows away from your foundation.
    Clear all drainage ditches and culverts of debris.
    Repair and paint fences as necessary - allow wood fences to dry adequately before tackling this task.
    Undertake spring landscape maintenance and, if necessary, fertilize young trees.

    Summer

    Monitor basement humidity and avoid relative humidity levels above 60?per?cent. Use a dehumidifier to maintain relative humidity below 60?per?cent.
    Clean or replace air-conditioning filter, and clean or replace ventilation system filters if necessary.
    Check basement pipes for condensation or dripping and, if necessary, take corrective action; for example, reduce humidity and/or insulate cold water pipes.
    Check the basement floor drain to ensure the trap contains water; refill with water if necessary.
    If you have a plumbing fixture that is not used frequently, for example, a laundry tub or spare bathroom sink, tub or shower stall, run some water briefly to keep water in the trap.
    Deep clean carpets and rugs.
    Vacuum bathroom fan grille.
    Disconnect the duct connected to your clothes dryer, and vacuum lint from duct, the areas surrounding your dryer and your dryer´s vent hood outside.
    Check security of all guardrails and handrails.
    Check smooth functioning of all windows, and lubricate as required.
    Inspect window putty on outside of glass panes of older houses, and replace if needed.
    Sand and touch up paint on windows and doors.
    Lubricate door hinges, and tighten screws as needed.
    Check for and replace damaged caulking and weatherstripping around mechanical and electrical services, windows and doorways, including the doorway between the garage and the house. See the About Your House fact sheet Attached Garages and Indoor Air Quality for more information on preventing garage-to-house air transfer.
    Lubricate garage door hardware, and ensure it is operating properly.
    Lubricate automatic garage door opener motor, chain and other moving parts, and ensure that the auto-reverse mechanism is properly adjusted.
    Inspect electrical service lines for secure attachment where they enter your house, and make sure there is no water leakage into the house along the electrical conduit. Check for overhanging tree branches that may need to be removed.
    Check exterior wood siding and trim for signs of deterioration; clean, replace or refinish as needed.
    Remove any plants that contact - and roots that penetrate - the siding or brick.
    From the ground, check the general condition of the roof and note any sagging that could indicate structural problems requiring further investigation from inside the attic. Note the condition of shingles for possible repair or replacement, and examine roof flashings, such as at chimney and roof joints, for any signs of cracking or leakage.
    Check the chimney cap and the caulking between the cap and the chimney.
    Repair driveway and walkways as needed.
    Repair any damaged steps.



    The Five Essentials of Healthy Housing™

    The Healthy House is bright, open, energy efficient and welcoming. It can be new or renovated, in downtown or suburbia. Wherever you find it, the Healthy House is characterized by five key elements.

    1. Occupant Health
      Healthy Housing™ promotes superior quality of indoor air, water and lighting.

    2. Energy Efficiency
      Homes account for about 20 per cent of all energy used in Canada. Of this, about 67 per cent is used for space heating and cooling, 18 per cent for lighting and appliances, and 15 per cent for heating water.

      The Healthy House reduces energy use in all these areas, in all seasons. It minimizes heat loss in winter and gain in summer. It relies on efficient heating and ventilation systems, reduces the consumption of electricity and other fuels, and encourages the use of renewable energy. It also reduces the energy used in the manufacture of building materials and in house construction.

    3. Resource Efficiency
      The Healthy House makes efficient use of all our resources. It is also affordable and adaptable to changing needs. Efficient use is made of building materials, and construction waste is well managed. Durability of building components is essential. The Healthy House conserves resources, especially water and energy.

    4. Environmental Responsibility
      The principles that guide the construction and use of the Healthy House are the cornerstone of environmentally responsible housing.

      The Healthy House uses alternative water and wastewater systems, encourages site planning that reduces land requirements, promotes resource-efficient landscaping and considers broader community planning issues such as transportation.

      It involves a new way of thinking about how homes and communities contribute to the health of the planet. Houses are becoming smaller and more space efficient with multi-use floor plans. While building lots are smaller, they are more creatively used.

    5. Affordability
      For the Healthy House to succeed in the marketplace, it must be good for the owner, the builder and future generations. Many features of the Healthy House make it affordable, and its design makes it easily adaptable to its occupants' changing needs.





    Summer Home Maintenance by Carla L. Davis

Summer is a season full of many activities. Pool-side barbecues, family vacations, and children's backyard campouts are just a few. But there's another activity that sometimes gets overlooked, and that is summer home maintenance.

This season presents some prime opportunities to make sure your home is in good working order. Let's examine a few areas you should add to your activity list.

1. Decks: Even the most well-constructed deck will need to be looked over for loose nails and screws, as well as warping or rotting wood. Replace any pieces that pose a safety risk. For easy cleaning, consider using a power washer. This will get rid of the dirt and grime that naturally collects throughout the year on decks.

2. Roof. Roofs require semi-annual inspections. Wind storms, hail, and regular old wear and tear mean you need to visually inspect your roof each year. Clean debris from your roof and look for missing and loose singles. Trim back branches that overhang onto the roof. And be sure your gutter is still free of debris.

3. Water Heaters. Your tank should be drained once a year. This will help with sediment build-up that is inevitable with water heater use. By draining the water heater you can add years to its lifespan.

4. Change air filters. Filters do their job well, and as such, they need changed often. Filters are part of what keeps your home protected from pollutants and allergens. And since they are inexpensive and easy to change, there is not reason not to add this task to your summer activity list.

5. Recreation. Pools are a popular destination during the summer months. Take this time to be sure that tiles and grout are in good repair, or that linings are free from holes in the case of above ground pools. Check your pool's chemistry often. That means twice a week during the summer. And don't forget to clean the pool skimmers often to make sure you get the best circulation, a must for any healthy pool.

Have fun this summer, and remember to give your home a little TLC.

Published: June 14, 2010


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The following popular outside improvement projects will increase the curb appeal or value of a home:

Adirondack chairs-Uniquely-American classic outdoor furniture is made entirely of wood and has a straight back and seat, which are set at a slant to sit comfortably on a hillside or mountain incline, but still be comfortable at any angle.

Gazebo-A gazebo can be freestanding or attached to a garden wall, roofed and open on all sizes to provide shade or shelter.

Planters and window boxes-Planters have become popular because they are both functional and ornamental. Additionally, some can be moved frequently to account for seasonal weather or just to create a change in scenery.

Picnic table-Picnic tables go well on a patio or a deck, but equally as well on the grass or under a tree in the yard. A traditional picnic table is all in one piece so that it wears well without a lot of maintenance.

Trellis-A trellis can function as a unique sun screen or it can be the framework for an outdoor hanging garden. Building it with pressure treated lumber can add life by minimizing rotting and other threats.

Trash can corral or compost bin-While many outdoor projects tend to be cosmetic in nature, here are two ideas that are both practical and pretty. With a trash can corral, you can hide unsightly trash cans and with a compost bin, you can reduce your own carbon footprint in a way that doesn´t take away from the visual appeal of the place.






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Top 10 Home Buying Mistakes

by Broderick Perkins

Buying a home is perhaps the most arduous, expensive and, ultimately, valuable acquisition you'll ever complete

Just one mistake could mean disaster -- perhaps the worst mistake you'll ever make.

In order to avoid titanic trip ups during such a trying transaction, RealEstate.com suggests buyers get to know the most common home buying blunders.

To know them is to avoid them.

Going solo Buying a house is a complex transaction. It should be a team effort. You'll need a real estate agent, lender, inspector, insurer, perhaps a lawyer and other team members to help you through each step of the way. Team build before you start the search.

Love at first sight If you believe in fairy tales you probably shouldn't be buying a home. You won't live happily ever after if you emote your way through the home buying process. Your home should fit your real needs, not your yen for drama. Buy a home that fits your budget and your lifestyle. Be sure the home is in a community and neighborhood you desire. Visit neighborhoods several times before you buy to check out schools, noise and traffic patterns.

'Loanless' shopping Being pre-qualified gives you a general idea of how much you can afford to borrow. It's better to be pre-approved for a given loan. Sellers will take you more seriously. You'll stay on budget.

Overbuying Home buyers buying more than they could truly afford, in part, led to the collapse of the housing market. Buy more than you can afford and your dream home will become the same nightmare. Analyze all your monthly costs including debts, food, transportation, entertainment, and savings. Your total monthly debts, including your mortgage, should not exceed 36 percent of your income before taxes. Don't forget to budget closing costs (often two to five percent of the home\'s purchase price), plus moving, redecorating and maintenance. Look ahead and allow for increases in ongoing expenses such as utilities and taxes.

Misplaced trust You are engaged in what's likely your most valuable acquisition ever. It's a business transaction. Ask family, friends, co-workers, professionals and others you trust for referrals, but don't take their word for it. Vet your team members.

Accepting oral agreements Get it in writing. The rate lock, the home inspection, disclosures, the contract. Always. Should a dispute arise, you've got the details documented.

Skipping the fine print Understand what's really in any document before picking up a pen. Get documents in advance, take time to read them and ask questions. Get copies of your mortgage and closing papers a few days ahead of closing.

Forgetting or betting on resale Avoid buying a home that costs 50 percent more than neighboring homes. Reconsider buying the most expensive home on the block. Neighbors' lower home values will weaken yours. Buy intending to flip your investment only to have the market fail means when it's time to sell your price may not cover your costs.

Making an unconditional offer Protect yourself with these contingencies:

• Mortgage financing. You may be preapproved to purchase a house.  A formal appraisal confirms -- or not -- that there is sufficient value in the home to warrant the loan. If the house appraises lower than the sales price, the loan may be declined.

• Inspection. Never buy an existing or new home without a thorough home inspection. Walk through the home with the inspector to learn more about the house and any concerns he or she may have.

• Insurance. Confirm you can get adequate insurance coverage. In some areas, or following certain disasters, it can be difficult to get types of hazard insurance.

Published: April 8, 2010

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How many of these did YOU know about?

A sealed envelope - Put in the freezer for a few hours, then slide a
Knife under the flap. The envelope can then be resealed.  (hmmm...)
==============================
Use Empty toilet paper roll to store appliance cords. It keeps them
Neat and you can write on the roll what appliance it belongs to.
==============================
For icy door steps in freezing temperatures: get warm water and put
Dawn dish washing liquid in it. Pour it all over the steps. They won't 
Refreeze. (wish I had known this for the last 40 years!)
==============================
To remove old wax from a glass candle holder, put it in the freezer for
A few hours. Then take the candle holder out and turn it upside down. The 
Wax will fall out.
==============================
Crayon marks on walls? This worked wonderfully! A damp rag, dipped
In baking soda. Comes off with little effort (elbow grease that is!).
==============================
Permanent marker on appliances/counter tops (like store receipt
BLUE!) rubbing alcohol on paper towel.
==============================
Whenever I purchase a box of S.O.S Pads, I immediately take a pair of
Scissors and cut each pad into halves. After years of ! Having to throw
Away rusted and unused and smelly pads, I finally decided that this would
Be much more economical. Now a box of S.O.S pads last me indefinitely!
In fact, I have noticed that the scissors get 'sharpened'' this way!
==============================
Blood stains on clothes? Not to worry! Just pour a little hydrogen
Peroxide on a cloth and proceed to wipe off every drop of blood. Works
Every time! (Now, where to put the body?) LOL
==============================
Use vertical strokes when washing windows outside and horizontal
For inside windows. This way you can tell which side has the streaks.
Straight vinegar will get outside windows really clean. Don't wash windows
On a sunny day. They will dry too quickly and will probably streak.
==============================
Spray a bit of perfume on the light bulb in any room to create a lovely
Light scent in each room when the light is turned on.
==============================
Place fabric softener sheets in dresser drawers and your clothes will
Smell freshly washed for weeks to come. You can also do this with towels
AND linen.
==============================
Candles will last a lot longer if placed in the freezer for at least 3
Hours prior to burning.
==============================
To clean artificial flowers, pour some salt into a paper bag and add the
Flowers. Shake vigorously as the salt will absorb all the dust and dirt
And leave your artificial flowers looking like new! Works like a charm!
==============================
To easily remove burnt on food from your skillet,! Simply add a drop or
Two of dish soap and enough water to cover bottom of pan, and bring to
A boil on stove top.
==============================
Spray your TUPPERWARE with nonstick cooking spray before pouring
In tomato based sauces and there won't be any stains.
==============================
Wrap celery in aluminum foil when putting in the refrigerator and it will
Keep for weeks.
==============================
When boiling corn on the cob, add a pinch of sugar to help bring out the
Corn's' natural sweetness.
==============================Cure for headaches: Take a lime, cut it in half, and rub it on your
Forehead. The throbbing will go away.
==============================
To get rid of itch from mosquito bites , try applying soap on the area 
And you will experience instant relief.
==============================Ants, ants, ants everywhere ... Well, they are said to never cross a chalk
Line. So, get your chalk out and draw a line on the floor or wherever ants 
Tend to march See for yourself.
==============================
Use air-freshener to clean mirrors. It does a good job and better still,
Leaves a lovely smell to the shine.
==============================
When you get a splinter, reach for the scotch tape before resorting to
Tweezers or a needle. Simply put the scotch tape over the splinter, and
Then pull it off. Scotch tape removes most splinters painlessly and easily.
==============================
Now look what you can do with Alka Seltzer........ Clean a toilet.
Drop in two Alka Seltzer tablets, wait twenty minutes, brush and flush.
The citric acid and effervescent action clean vitreous China. 
==============================
Clean a vase.
To remove a stain from the bottom of a glass vase or cruet, fill with water
And drop in two Alka Seltzer tablets.
==============================
Polish jewelry.
Drop two Alka Seltzer tablets into a glass of water and immerse the
jewelry for two minutes.
==============================
Clean a thermos bottle.
Fill the bottle with water, drop in four Alka Seltzer tablets, and let soak
for an hour (or longer, if necessary).
==============================
Unclog a drain.
Clear the sink drain by dropping three Alka Seltzer tablets down the
drain followed by a cup of Heinz White Vinegar.. Wait a few minutes,
and then run the hot water.
=============================
Do your friends a favor. Pass this timely information on to a friend!  Makes you wonder about ingesting Alka Seltzer, doesn't it?  

 

 






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ASPARAGUS ROLL-UPS

 

A GREAT APPETIZER TO MAKE AHEAD AND FREEZE.

2 WHITE SANDWICH LOAVES

8 OZ. ROQUEFORT CHEESE (250 G.)

8 OZ. CREAM CHEESE (250 G.)

1 TBSP. MAYONNAISE (15 ML)

1 EGG

36 FRESH ASPARAGUS SPEARS

½ CUP BUTTER, MELTED (125 ML)

 

 

PREHEAT OVEN TO 350 DEGREES F. CUT CRUSTS OFF BREAD AND ROLL EACH SLICE FLAT WITH A ROLLING PIN. COMBINE CHEESES, MAYONNAISE AND EGG IN BLENDER AND SPREAD ON BREAD. TOP WITH ONE ASPARAGUS SPEAR AND ROLL UP. CUT INTO 3 PIECES. ROLL IN MELTED BUTTER AND PLACE ON UNGREASED COOKIE SHEET. (AT THIS POINT YOU MAY LAYER ROLLS BETWEEN WAXED PAPER AND PLACE IN AN AIRTIGHT CONTAINER AND FREEZE.) BAKE FOR ABOUT 15 MINUTES OR UNTIL WELL BROWNED. MAKES APROXIMATELY 9 DOZEN.

 

"THERE´S NO PLEASURE IN HAVING NOTHING TO DO-- THE FUN IS HAVING LOTS TO DO AND NOT DOING ANY OF IT!"


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BRANDY CHEESE SPREAD

 

THE LONGER STORED - THE BETTER TASTING!

½ CUP BUTTER, SOFTENED (125 ML)

3 CUPS GRATED CHEDDAR CHEESE (750 ML)

1 TBSP. SESAME SEEDS (15 ML)

2 TBSP. BRANDY

 

BLEND TOGETHER, COVER AND REFRIGERATE UNTIL ½ HOUR BEFORE SERVING. YUMMY ON CRACKERS! MAKES 2 CUPS.

 

"ONE THING´S FOR SURE  IF YOU HAD YOUR LIFE TO LIVE OVER AGAIN, YOU´D CERTAINLY NEED MORE MONEY!"



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CHEDDAR BEER BREAD

 

"This only takes 10 minutes to put together and you will look like a pro!"

3 CUPS OF FLOUR (150 ML)

1 TBSP BAKING POWDER (15 ML)

¾ TSP. SALT (3 ML)

2 TBSP SUGAR (30 ML)

2 CUPS GRATED SHARP CHEDDAR CHEESE (500 ML)

½ CUP FINELY CHOPPED ONION (125 ML)

3 GARLIC CLOVES, MINCED

12 OZ. CAN BEER (341 ML)

 

PREHEAT OVEN TO 350 DEGREES. ALL YOU NEED IS A FORK AND A BOWL. COMBINE ALL THE INGREDIENTS (EXCEPT THE BEER) UNTIL WELL MIXED. ADD BEER A QUARTER AT A TIME UNTIL ALL THE INGREDIENTS ARE BLENDED. SPOON INTO A GREASED AND FLOURED 4" X 8" LOAF PAN (OR A SERIES OF SMALL LOAF PANS) AND SMOOTH DOWN WITH FORK. BAKE FOR ONE HOUR.? REMOVE FROM PAN AND COOL ON WIRE RACK. SERVE WARM WITH SOUP OR STEW.

 

"BEER MAKES YOU SMARTER -- IT MADE BUDWEISER!"

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CHILI CHEESE BREAD

 

"Make this once and you´re hooked!"

3 CUPS GRATED MONTERE JACK CHEESE (750 ML)

4 OZ. CAN DICED GREEN CHILIES, DRAINED (115 G)

1 CUP MAYONNAISE (250 ML)

1 LOAF FRENCH BREAD

 

COMBINE CHEESE, CHILIES AND MAYONNAISE. CUT BREAD INTO THICK SLICES AND SPREAD WITH CHEESE MIXTURE. PLACE ON COOKIE SHEET AND BROIL UNTIL CHEESE IS BUBBLY AND LIGHTLY BROWNED.

 

"TO EXERCISE IS HUMAN -- NOT TO IS DIVINE!"


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GARLIC HERBED POTATOES

"Smooth and creamy!"

7-10 POTATOES, PEELED & QUARTERED

8 GARLIC CLOVES, PEELED

PINCH OF SALT

¾ CUP SOUR CREAM, ROOM TEMPERATURE (175 ML)

2 TBSP. BUTTER (30 ML)

1/3 CUP CHOPPED FRESH PARSLEY (75 ML)

PEPPER TO TASTE

 

PLACE POTATOES IN A LARGE POT OF WATER WITH GARLIC AND SALT. COOK COVERED 20-30 MINUTES OR UNTIL TENDER. DRAIN WELL. RETURN POTATOES TO POT OVER HEAT FOR AT LEAST ONE MINUTE TO DRY OUT EXCESS MOISTURE. MASH POTATOES, ADD SOUR CREAM AND BUTTER, BEATING UNTIL SMOOTH. STIR IN PARSLEY AND PEPPER. SERVES 8.

 

"PEOPLE WILL BELIEVE ANYTHING IF YOU WHISPER IT!"


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CAESAR BURGERS

 

"A burger above reproach!"

1 ½ LBS LEAN GROUND BEEF (750 G)

¼ CUP FRESHLY GRATED PARMESAN CHEESE (60ML)

2 TBSP. LEMON JUICE (30 ML)

1 TBSP. ANCHOVY PASTE (15 ML)

1 TBSP. WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE (15 ML)

1 EGG, BEATEN

2 TBSP. OLIVE OIL (30 ML)

1 GARLIC CLOVE, MINCED

LETTUCE

BUNS

 

COMBINE BEEF, HALF OF THE PARMESAN CHEESE, LEMON JUICE, ANCHOVY PASTE, WORCESTERSHIRE SAUCE, EGG AND PEPPER. SHAPE INTO 4 PATTIES ABOUT ¾" THICK.BROIL OR GRILL. COMIBINE OIL AND GARLIC, BRUSH OVER CUT SIDE OF BUNS. GRILL UNTIL TOASTED. SPRINKLE BURGERS WITH REMAINING CHEESE. TOP EACH WITH LETTUCE AND SERVCE ON BUNS. SERVES 4.

 

"AGE IS NOT AN IMPROVEMENT UNLESS YOU'RE A CHEESE!"