Tag Archive for: home improvement

Best Home Features That Add the Most Value on Vancouver Island

Best Home Features That Add the Most Value on Vancouver Island

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What Appraisers Actually Look For When Evaluating Your Home in Victoria and Beyond

Understanding the best home features that add value to your home is one of the smartest things you can do before listing, refinancing, or planning a renovation. Whether you own a heritage home in Oak Bay, a newer build in Langford, or a waterfront property on the Gulf Islands, certain features consistently carry more weight with appraisers and buyers alike.

At D. Fritz Appraisals, we complete residential appraisals across Southern and Central Vancouver Island, from Victoria to the Comox Valley. Over the years, we’ve seen exactly which improvements move the needle on appraised value and which ones simply don’t.

Key Takeaways

  • Kitchens and bathrooms – Updated kitchens and bathrooms are consistently among the most valued home features when an appraiser compares your property to recent sales.
  • Energy efficiency – Energy-efficient upgrades, including windows, insulation, and heating systems, are increasingly recognized as value-added features in BC’s real estate market.
  • Condition over cosmetics – Appraisers assess overall condition first. A well-maintained home with no deferred repairs will outperform a flashy reno on a property with underlying issues.
  • Location and lot – Neighbourhood, lot size, and proximity to amenities remain among the most significant value drivers, regardless of what you do inside.
  • Suites and added income – A legal secondary suite can meaningfully affect appraised value, particularly in Victoria and Saanich, where rental demand is high.

Why Certain Features Carry More Weight With Appraisers

When D. Fritz Appraisals completes an appraisal, we don’t assign value based on personal taste. We compare your property against recent sales of similar homes in the same area, adjusting for differences in size, age, condition, and features.

That means the best home features are not always the most expensive ones. They’re the features that buyers in your specific market are consistently willing to pay more for and that show up as positive adjustments in comparable sales data.

On Southern Vancouver Island, that typically includes updated kitchens, renovated bathrooms, energy-efficient systems, finished basements, and legal secondary suites. Features that are highly personal, such as luxury finishes in a mid-range neighbourhood or a pool in a market where few comparable homes have one, may add less value than homeowners expect.

Kitchen and Bathroom Upgrades in Victoria and the Cowichan Valley

Among the best home features for value, updated kitchens and bathrooms rank near the top, and for good reason. These are the rooms buyers scrutinize most, and that show up most clearly in comparable sales data.

That said, not every renovation returns its full cost at appraisal. A mid-range kitchen update, including new cabinetry, countertops, and appliances, tends to perform better in most Victoria and Cowichan Valley markets than a high-end overhaul in a neighbourhood where nearby comparable sales don’t support the premium price tag.

The practical guidance is to renovate to the standard of your neighbourhood, not above it. An appraiser adjusts for quality, but only up to what the local market supports.

Energy-Efficient Features and Their Growing Role in BC Appraisals

Energy efficiency has become a more prominent factor in residential appraisals across BC. High-efficiency heating systems, upgraded insulation, triple-pane windows, and heat pump installations are increasingly reflected in comparable sales, particularly as energy costs rise and buyer demand for lower operating costs grows.

The Appraisal Institute of Canada (AIC) has recognized energy-efficient renovations as having strong payback potential relative to investment, partly because they deliver ongoing cost savings to the owner. For homeowners on the Gulf Islands or in older Victoria neighbourhoods, where heating costs and building efficiency vary widely, these upgrades can have a meaningful effect on appraised value.

If you’ve completed energy upgrades and are considering refinancing or listing, it’s worth discussing with your appraiser how these improvements are reflected in the local comparable sales data.

For a deeper look, see our post on what appraisers look for during a home inspection.

Overall Condition, Suites, and Other Value Drivers Across Vancouver Island

One of the most consistently important and most underestimated value drivers is simply the overall condition of your home. Appraisers note deferred maintenance, water damage, older mechanical systems, and structural issues. A well-maintained home with no outstanding repairs will almost always appraise higher than a comparable home with visible deficiencies, even if the latter has newer cosmetic finishes.

Secondary suites deserve a separate mention. A legal, permitted secondary suite adds measurable value in markets where rental income is a real consideration for buyers. In Victoria, Saanich, and many communities across Southern Vancouver Island, rental demand is strong enough that a compliant suite can positively affect an appraised value. An unpermitted suite, however, typically cannot be fully reflected in the valuation and may create complications during mortgage financing.

If you’re planning renovations with value in mind, our guide to renovations that increase home value covers the most impactful projects for BC homeowners.

Other features that consistently support value in this region include attached garages, updated roofs and mechanical systems, and functional outdoor spaces. For waterfront or Gulf Islands properties, private dock access and lot characteristics carry additional weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do appraisers assign a specific dollar amount to each home feature?
    Appraisers don’t apply a fixed dollar value to individual features. Instead, we analyze recent comparable sales and make adjustments based on the differences between your property and those sales. The value of a feature, such as an updated kitchen, reflects what buyers in your specific market have demonstrably paid for it.
  • Will a renovation always increase my appraised value by the same amount I spent?
    Not necessarily. A renovation’s impact on appraised value depends on what the local market supports. Improvements that bring your home up to the standard of comparable sales in your neighbourhood tend to have the strongest effect. Over-improving relative to your area often results in a return below the renovation cost.
  • Does curb appeal actually affect an appraised value?
    Curb appeal contributes to an appraiser’s assessment of overall condition and maintenance. A home that presents well externally signals to the appraiser that it has been cared for. While landscaping alone won’t dramatically change a valuation, obvious neglect or poor exterior condition can result in a negative condition adjustment.

Get an Accurate Home Appraisal for Your Vancouver Island Property

Knowing the best home features that increase a property’s value is only part of the picture. A professional appraisal gives you a documented, unbiased opinion of your property’s fair market value based on current market data and local comparable sales.

D. Fritz Appraisals has been providing fast, accurate residential appraisals across Southern and Central Vancouver Island since 1998. Our appraisers are members in good standing with the AIC, and we serve homeowners, mortgage brokers, lawyers, and realtors in Victoria, Saanich, Nanaimo, the Cowichan Valley, the Gulf Islands and beyond.

Call us at 250-413-7319 or visit D. Fritz Appraisals on Google to book your appraisal.

How to Improve Curb Appeal

How to Improve Curb Appeal: What Appraisers Notice

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Improving Curb Appeal to Improve Home Value

First impressions matter—especially when it comes to your home’s appraisal—and knowing how to improve curb appeal can make all the difference. During the summer months, your property’s exterior becomes even more noticeable to appraisers. By focusing on specific elements that professionals look for, you can enhance your home’s curb appeal and potentially increase its appraised value.

Key Takeaways

  • Well-maintained landscaping with fresh mulch and seasonal flowers significantly improves curb appeal and appraiser impressions
  • Clean, damage-free exteriors can significantly improve your property’s appraised value
  • A welcoming entryway with updated hardware and appropriate lighting creates a positive first impression
  • Functional outdoor living spaces add value and appeal to potential buyers
  • Regular maintenance of driveways, walkways, and lawns demonstrates care for your property

Improve Your Curb Appeal with Landscaping and Garden Maintenance

Investing time in landscaping and garden maintenance doesn’t just enhance visual appeal—it can add meaningful value to your property. Well-maintained landscaping is consistently recognized as one of the top improvements that can increase your home’s market value, making it a worthwhile consideration when improving curb appeal.

Regular lawn care, including mowing, watering, and weeding, creates a neat appearance that appraisers notice during evaluations. Trimming overgrown shrubs and trees not only enhances visual appeal but also eliminates potential safety concerns.

Adding fresh mulch to garden beds provides a polished finish to your outdoor spaces. Including seasonal flowers and native plants enhances curb appeal while reducing maintenance requirements, making your property more attractive to both appraisers and potential buyers. Understanding which improvements add the most value can help guide your landscaping decisions.

Exterior Home Condition and Its Impact on Curb Appeal

Your home’s exterior condition significantly influences appraiser perceptions. A well-maintained exterior creates curb appeal that resonates with both appraisers and potential buyers.

Neglected maintenance issues, such as peeling paint or roof damage, can significantly decrease your appraised value. Conversely, clean siding and a well-kept yard can lead to a noticeably higher home appraisal. Appraisers particularly notice structural integrity, making roof and siding maintenance essential. Additionally, accurate property valuation becomes especially important during challenging circumstances, particularly with jointly-owned homes during separation or divorce.

Regular maintenance activities like power washing and fresh paint not only enhance curb appeal but also create positive impressions that can lead to higher appraisals.

Entryway Upgrades That Improve Curb Appeal

Your entryway serves as the introduction to your home, making it crucial to make a good impression. A clean, welcoming entrance creates a positive first impression that influences overall curb appeal assessment.

Consider refreshing your front door with a new coat of paint in a complementary colour. This relatively inexpensive improvement can significantly improve curb appeal.

Well-maintained hardware, including doorknobs and handles, demonstrates attention to maintenance details and improves aesthetic appeal. Adding warmth through strategically placed potted plants or seasonal decorations creates an inviting atmosphere for both appraisers and potential buyers.

Proper lighting improves safety while highlighting your home’s features during evening hours, positively affecting appraisal outcomes.

Improve Curb Appeal with Outdoor Living Areas

Thoughtfully designed outdoor living spaces can substantially enhance your property’s curb appeal and value. Appraisers look for well-defined areas such as patios, decks, and porches that add functional space and aesthetic appeal.

Creating comfortable seating areas, outdoor dining options, and incorporating decorative elements transforms your yard into an attractive extension of living space that appeals to potential buyers. Features like fire pits, outdoor kitchens, or pergolas not only elevate your outdoor areas but also reflect contemporary living trends valued by many purchasers.

Maintaining these spaces through regular cleaning and seasonal updates is essential, as appraisers evaluate both condition and appeal during their assessment.

Cleanliness and Tidiness to Improve Curb Appeal in Your Neighbourhood

Though seemingly minor, cleanliness and tidiness significantly impact an appraiser’s first impression of your property. A well-maintained exterior demonstrates property care that can influence valuation.

Maintaining a neat front yard without excessive decorations or items allows appraisers to focus on your home’s actual features. Clean windows and freshly painted doors further enhance curb appeal, potentially contributing to higher appraised values.

Your attention to these details will likely yield benefits during the appraisal process.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Enhance My Driveway’s Curb Appeal Before an Appraisal?

To improve driveway appeal before an appraisal, thoroughly clean the surface and repair any visible cracks or stains. Consider adding decorative borders or edging for visual interest. A well-maintained driveway creates positive first impressions for appraisers and potential buyers.

Do Seasonal Decorations Impact Curb Appeal?

Yes, tasteful seasonal decorations can enhance curb appeal. Select well-coordinated, appropriate decorative elements that draw attention and create a welcoming atmosphere. Maintain balance and avoid overcrowding for optimal effect.

How Much Does Landscaping Affect Home Value?

Landscaping significantly impacts home value. Well-maintained yards with thoughtfully selected plants and features substantially improve curb appeal, increasing property attractiveness to potential buyers. Investment in quality landscaping typically provides an excellent return when selling your home.

Are There Specific Plants That Appraisers Prefer?

Appraisers generally favour low-maintenance native plants suited to your region. Vibrant flowers and strategically placed shrubs enhance curb appeal and property attractiveness. Ensure your landscaping presents as tidy and inviting to create positive impressions during evaluation.

Making the Most of Your Property

Enhancing your home’s summer curb appeal creates a meaningful impact on appraiser impressions. Knowing how to improve your curb appeal—through landscaping maintenance, exterior condition, entryway presentation, and well-designed outdoor living spaces—helps showcase your property’s best features. Attention to cleanliness and overall tidiness demonstrates property care that resonates with appraisers. By addressing these key elements, you’ll not only attract potential buyers but also potentially increase your property’s appraised value. 

We’re proud to offer exceptional services for our clients. We tailor our appraisal reports to meet the requirements of each lender, providing accurate, timely and thorough valuations put together by our highly experienced professional team.

For more information or to schedule an appraisal, contact us today!

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5 Landscaping Tips To Increase Home Value

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Essential Landscaping Tips and Tricks

Details such as landscaping designs and quality craftsmanship in a home can make a dramatic first impression on prospective home buyers. D. Fritz Appraisals Inc. has decades of experience and ideas to help homeowners increase the curb appeal of their homes. 

Industry experts agree home landscaping provides an excellent return on investment. From simply edging your front walkway to creating a luxurious backyard paradise, carefully planning your project will yield the best results. 

Don’t overlook the power that landscaping can have in a competitive real estate market. Join us as we cover 5 standout landscaping tips and backyard landscaping designs to increase your home’s appeal (and value!) and make a lasting impact.

1. Planning Is Paramount

A simple plan keeps you on track and inspires you to dive into your outdoor transformation. Carefully considering your landscaping goals will help you keep your project on time and within budget.

Let’s start with a bit of elbow grease:

  • Cleaning up broken pots and planters, removing dead plants, trimming overgrown trees and pulling weeds will go a long way to help get any landscaping project started. Best of all, they’re free. 
  • From here, move on to repairs, like replacing rotting deck boards and loose railings, fixing anything that could raise red flags with real estate agents & prospective buyers.
  • Finally, when ready, you can tackle the more significant projects on your checklist.

For more complex aspects of your plan, hire a professional landscaping company to ensure your design is accurate and achievable. Their expertise will ensure your outdoor design is well-balanced and elevates your property’s overall style. 

Prefer to keep it simple? Here are a few straightforward backyard landscaping designs that will have a significant effect without being overwhelming.

  • Plant evergreen shrubs and low-maintenance grasses for year-round colour 
  • Create captivating borders with potted plants
  • Position cozy seating to highlight viewpoints
  • Define an eating area with a fun all-weather rug
  • Add trailing vines to a pergola or arbour for shade 

From potted plants to luxurious patios, landscaping design options are limitless. Let your budget, timeline and imagination guide your backyard renovation.

2. Plant Trees Strategically To Create A Private Oasis 

Potential home buyers highly seek trees and privacy. Why not combine them and reap the benefits of both features? Trees, specifically mature trees, are an excellent way to create low-maintenance privacy barriers that offer shade, filter the air, and, when positioned correctly, can reduce your home’s energy consumption.

When planting trees, you’ll want to keep the following in mind: 

  • Avoid planting trees too close to your house, driveway, plumbing or septic systems. This will prevent encroaching root systems from causing damage and stop branches from brushing against rooftops, siding and windows.
  • Contact BC 1 Call before you dig to locate buried power lines and save yourself from costly and dangerous power line strikes. It’s free!
  • Plant as early as possible. Some tree species require several decades to reach maturity.

Check out your local nursery or seek advice from a landscaping expert to ensure that you’re choosing native plants and trees that are low maintenance and are most likely to survive in your specific climate.

3. Brighten Your Outdoor Living Space With Landscape Lighting

Imagine your outdoor oasis backlit with soft lighting while guests gather around your patio’s fire pit. Outdoor lighting is the perfect way to extend your time on your beautiful backyard deck or patio.

Not only does it create an atmospheric entertaining area, but lighting also improves safety along walkways, stairs and steep drop-offs. Targeted lighting enhances home security, highlights architectural features and can help showcase landscaping.

With a wide range of options from solar to LED to hard-wired, there’s sure to be a light that will fit your style.

4. Give Your Front Walkway a Facelift

Potential buyers are judging a home from the moment they set foot on the property, and an attractive front walkway could make or break a future sale.  These simple and affordable landscaping tips will help create a welcoming front pathway to ensure buyer interest.

  • Ensure your pathway is weed-free
  • Replace broken pavers
  • Power-wash the grime away
  • Add fresh mulch to gardens
  • Remove dead plants lining walkways
  • Add a clean edge to walkways and gardens

If you’re looking for design inspiration, Better Homes & Gardens is a great jumping-off point for garden pathway ideas. 

5. Add An Eye-Catching Pop Of Colour

A bold pop of colour in the garden will undoubtedly draw a prospective buyer’s eye. Shrubs that bloom with brightly coloured flowers such as red or pink can be impactful.  Red is often the first colour the human eye notices and stands out nicely against a backdrop of green leaves. 

A carefully planned garden with plants that flower at different times throughout the year will brighten your walkways and garden beds year-round. Adding large plants will anchor your garden design as they are noticeable from a distance. However, don’t let the foliage overflow and crowd around doorways or windows. 

Consider consulting with a landscape designer to select flowers and plants that accentuate your home’s colour palette. For example, with the proper lighting, white, cream and pastel blooms give the illusion that the flowers glow at night.

Don’t forget the greenery, after all, what’s a garden without green? Green shrubs, grasses and tree foliage are the foundation of a memorable garden.

D. Fritz Appraisals Valuations Will Optimize Your Landscaping Dollar

A home valuation with D. Fritz Appraisals will help you determine which landscaping designs will increase your home’s value the most. Our recommended listing prices result in quick home sales and command top-dollar returns.

Serving Victoria to Nanaimo and the Gulf Islands of British Columbia, our professional appraisers prioritize understanding the West Coast marketplace trends.

Let our team of expert property appraisers, certified by the Appraisal Institute of Canada, guide your landscaping design decisions with a comprehensive, accurate valuation.

Contact D. Fritz Appraisals Inc. today for a professional and tailored appraisal report to meet your lending, selling, and appraising needs.

renovations that increase home value

Renovations That Increase Home Value in BC: Our Top 8 Picks

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Major Home Renovations & Home Appraisals:  What You Should Know

Are you planning house renovations and want to know the best home improvement investments? Or maybe you are planning to sell your house and are wondering about renovations that increase home value the most.

Whether you are planning to sell in the near future or not, most people want to be reassured that any major renovations they invest in will be reflected in an increased home valuation.

While any renovations that improve the function or look of your home are a good idea, some have a better return on investment value than others. If you are looking to sell quickly or have a limited budget, it is worth researching the renovations that increase home value the most.

As Vancouver Island’s home evaluation expert, D. Fritz Appraisals Inc. knows which renovations can add market value – and which will make your home more valuable to you but won’t necessarily increase the selling price.

Read on for our top 8 picks for renovations that increase home value in BC.

How is Home Value Measured?

When considering home value and how to increase it, are we simply talking about market sale price? According to the Canadian Appraisal Institute, value can be recognized in three ways:

1 – The Value of an Increased Sales Price – Renovations are done primarily to maximize value and profit from a sale.

2 – The Value of Getting to Enjoy or Benefit From a Renovated Space – Renovations are done primarily to improve your lifestyle in the home for the time you live there, which may also add market value in the future.

3 – The Value of Maintaining Your Property – Renovations that keep your home in a condition where it retains its market value. 

If we focus on increasing the market sale price, the value of renovations is usually measured by the possible Return on Investment (ROI). 

  • For example, if you spend $20,000 on a renovation and the valuation of your home goes up by $20,000, that is a 100% ROI. On a home valued at $500,000, that would be a 4% increase in home value.

Renovation ROI will be influenced by the current value of your home, your local housing market, how soon you sell after renovations and how much you spend.

A good home appraiser can help you decide what home renovations will provide the best value return on investment in your area.

Our 8 Top Picks for Renovations That Increase Home Value

When deciding what renovations to complete, consider the following 8 home renovations which have historically proven to bring the biggest return on investment:

  • Kitchen Remodel: 75% – 100% ROI 

At the heart of the modern home, a kitchen can make or break a sale. A functional and neutral refresh will increase value and saleability. Consider new appliances, backsplash, cabinetry or hardware. 

*Unless you plan to live with it for a while, don’t go too high-end, as the return will not be worth it. 

  • Bathroom Refresh: 75% – 80% ROI

Buyers appreciate a fresh, clean and modern bathroom. Consider adding double sinks, upgrading the shower unit and refreshing the paint for the best return on investment.

  • Interior and Exterior Painting:  60% – 75% ROI

Fresh paint gives a high return and increases buyer appeal. Keep colours neutral inside and in keeping with your neighbourhood outside.

  • Structural Upgrades: 75% ROI

Buyers will be put off homes that are badly maintained. If your roof, windows or heating system needs upgrading, prioritize those over cosmetic changes. 

  • Flooring: 100%+ ROI

Remove wall-to-wall carpeting and replace worn flooring for maximum ROI. No need to install expensive hardwood. Buyers are looking for flooring that is clean and easy to maintain.

  • Energy Efficient Additions: 50% – 75% ROI

Such as upgrading your heating and cooling or adding solar panels. Anything that reduces energy use and costs will attract buyers and increase value. For the best ROI, enjoy living with these upgrades for a few years before you sell to reap the benefit of lower bills. 

  • Create More Living Space: 75% – 100% ROI

Buyers are looking for the most usable square footage for their money. Add extra space with an addition or basement renovation, but keep the finish neutral so buyers can choose how to use it. If you remain in the home, a basement rental suite can help you recoup the costs of the reno.

  • Curb Appeal: 80% – 90% ROI

First impressions count. Add value by painting or replacing your garage and front doors. Clean siding and replace any damaged sections.

TIP: Keep receipts and details of any renovation work done to prove the value and quality of the changes.

If your time and budget don’t allow for larger scale renovations, but you want to do something to increase both market value and saleability, this list of 11 easy renovations to increase the value of your home from HGTV star Mike Holmes is a good starting point.

How Your Appraiser Can Help You Choose the Best Renovations to Increase Value

Property appraisers understand the local housing market. They know what investments are giving good returns, can help you understand what your home may be missing compared to local comparative properties, and can give you an idea of what the value may be once improvements are made.

Appraisers can also provide post-renovation evaluations – so you can see what value you’ve added to your home from the work you’ve completed.

In addition, if you’re looking to get financial support for major renovations through a bank loan or mortgage extension, appraisers can provide the valuation your financial lender may require.

Call D. Fritz for Your Appraisal Needs

At D. Fritz, we pride ourselves on being on top of the local housing market, including understanding what buyers are looking for and what renovations will add value and attract buyers’ interest.

Our team can help with valuations for home renovations, mortgage financing and new construction, as well as for the division of assets and estate requirements.

We offer professional real estate appraisals throughout southern and central Vancouver Island from Nanaimo to Victoria and the Gulf Islands.

Contact us today to order an appraisal or for more information on our services.

 

eco friendly house - tesla solar roof

Top Tips for Eco-Friendly House / Green Homes

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Translating into energy savings, increased property value and a reduced carbon footprint, green homes are more sought-after than ever

Now a mainstream concept, eco-friendly homes provide incredible energy savings and contribute to lowered living costs and a positive impact on the environment.

Home buyers now look for smart features and eco-friendly options meant to reduce their carbon footprint, such as the new Tesla solar roof, smart thermostats, energy smart appliances and tankless hot water heaters. These initial investments in new technology dramatically reduce consumption and increase property value.

The Sustainable Home

Sustainability can be separated into passive sustainability and active sustainability

Passive Sustainability

A passively sustainable home is developed to take advantage of its surrounding environment. For instance, a home built with the most exterior surface facing north and south allows it to take advantage of the most sunlight possible. This simple solution reduces the need to turn on heaters and lights during the majority of the day and keeps the temperature comfortable during the evening.

You can also look to the landscape to create passive sustainability. Strategically planted trees add shade to the home, reducing the need to use air conditioning by approximately ten percent. As long as the trees don’t block out any solar panels, they’re an excellent natural way to cool the air both inside and out.

As a bonus, trees provide an excellent anchor for clotheslines to reduce reliance on clothes dryers. Ask your local garden centre for recommendations about the species of trees that would be best for your landscape and region.

Unsure about the permanence of trees? Homeowners can also plant gardens based around native species and grasses. These require much less water and create a naturally thriving green space.

Active Sustainability

The Tesla roof is a prime example of active sustainability. Made of sleek solar tiles, the Tesla roof completely replaces an existing roof with materials three times more durable than standard roofing tiles, but less than the cost of a new roof and new solar panels. The innovative Tesla tiles absorb natural light while the battery banks store extra power for when it’s needed, such as during a power outage (eliminating the need for a fuel generator.)

With the capability to power a home for decades and monitor/control power consumption in real time, the Tesla roof is an ideal solution for reducing energy consumption and costs.

Advancements in smart home technology also make it possible to monitor and lower energy usage. Controlling a thermostat while you’re away from home, using automated window and deck covers (awnings or permanent covers) to shade or heat the house at will, and setting lights on timers are all great ways to spot-reduce energy consumption using smart home technologies. Most commonly managed via smartphone apps, these technologies easily create customized control over your home’s energy expenditure.

Purpose-Built Sustainability During Renovations or New Construction

Green Options for Your New or Improved Home

Windows

Adding larger double or triple paned windows will allow your home to absorb as much sunlight as possible, while keeping the temperature at a comfortable level. Floor to ceiling windows will not only frame the views, adding more beauty to your home, but they will help fill your home with natural light.

Exterior

Sustainable building materials and reclaimed wood are a few other ways that you can lessen environmental impact. For exterior finishing, reconsider vinyl siding and look to a material like fiber cement instead. Sustainable and cost-effective, fiber cement is made from cement, sand and wood fibers. It’s also non-toxic, durable, holds paint well and is designed to last 50 years, much longer than vinyl. In comparison, vinyl is made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) a toxic material that cannot easily be recycled and has a long afterlife.

Paint

Low VOC and no VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) paints are also becoming increasingly popular. These “green” paints are low in or free of chemicals that off-gas into your home and degrade the air quality. These paints also biodegrade more easily and have a much shorter afterlife than their toxic counterparts.

Flooring

Look to sustainable flooring options like engineered bamboo flooring, rather than traditional hardwoods. Harder than maple and oak, bamboo is a renewable material that grows at a much faster rate than hardwood trees, which can take decades to grow. In comparison, a stalk of bamboo only takes five years to grow large enough to be harvested. If you do opt for bamboo flooring, make sure that the flooring you choose is top-quality and manufactured using chemical-free materials.

Upgraded Water Heater

When adding or replacing a water heater, consider a tankless model. These heat water on demand, rather than continuously heating a large supply of water—a drain on energy and resources.

Simple Ways to Improve the Sustainability of Your Home

Not Quite Ready to Renovate? Shrink Your Home’s Carbon Footprint with These Small Changes

  • Cold water wash and skip the clothes dryer- This will save roughly 90% in energy used during the wash cycle, and 100% on the drying cycle. Your clothing will have a longer lifespan as well.
  • Use a programmable or smart thermostat- Climate control reduces excessive energy use and being able to turn AC off or on at the touch of a button can make a huge difference in consumption.
  • Use natural cleaning products- Since cleaning products are used every day, it makes sense to invest in chemical free cleaners. Many eco-friendly products are refillable as well, reducing packaging waste.
  • Add LED lighting- As your lightbulbs fade out, swap them with LED bulbs. These use approximately 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and they last for about 25,000 hours – that’s 3 years if they’re used 24/7!

When you’ve invested in major home improvements and would like to know what your residential property is worth, we can help. With decades of experience, our team of expert appraisers at D.Fritz serves Southern and Central Vancouver Island as well as the Gulf Islands. Contact us today to get a clear picture of your home’s value in today’s marketplace.

We’re Hiring!
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Job Title: AIC Candidate Appraiser

D. Fritz Appraisals Inc. is an established Real Estate Appraisal company that has been part of the Capital and Cowichan Valley community since 1998. We are excited to announce our company is ready to grow again and are searching for an AIC Candidate Appraiser to join our busy team to expand up-island in Nanaimo and the surrounding area.

The position available will be an independent contract, with a commission-based fee split. The successful Candidate will work under and be mentored by our AACI designated Appraiser. Our small team also consists of a CRA designated Appraiser (owner), three other AIC Candidates, and two Office Administrators. This is a work from home position, with an online virtual office to maintain and encourage communication and teamwork within the company. All computer software will be provided.

Responsibilities Include:

·      Perform on-site inspections, ensuring measurement accuracy, taking photographs and data collection;

·      Pull comparable sales and assign values to complete appraisal reports efficiently;

·      Meet turnaround times to ensure client satisfaction;

·      Develop relationships with lenders, brokers, clients, and other members of the public;

·      Continuously improve their knowledge regarding cost, market, and valuation trends;

·      Abide by all company policies and procedures­­­;

·      Attend staff meetings as required.

Qualifications Needed:

·      Valid Driver’s License and driving record that meets company standards

·      Clean Criminal Record check

·      A keen interest and knowledge of Vancouver Island’s real estate market

·      Registered Candidate Appraiser with the Appraisal Institute of Canada (AIC)

·      Must have proficient writing skills, be thorough and attentive to detail

Please forward a PDF copy of your resume and cover letter to [email protected].