John Gordon’s Top Tips for a Successful Contractor-Customer Relationship

It is easy to become overwhelmed when trying to choose a remodelling expert or contractor for your next home renovations project. Many homeowners have the same worries and reservations. First, it is hard to find an expert you trust and know can do a great job on your particular project. Second, many homeowners don’t know their rights in terms of what they should be asking for as they move along in the process.

John Gordon, Owner of Your Reno Guys, takes the guesswork out of starting your next renovations project, providing you with his top tips for a successful renovations relationship.

• Research potential renovation companies by using websites that rate and review contractors in your area such as the Home Stars Website and ask for recommendations from family and friends
• Meet with two to three contractors in person before choosing one for your type of renovation
• Ask about permit requirements in your area
• Inquire about qualifications and insurance of the people who will be doing your work
• Make sure the contractor has liability insurance in case of accidents or damage in your home
• Ask for a written estimate and accurate breakdown of what is included
• Obtain and call references and ask as many detailed questions as possible
• Once the written estimate is agreed upon, request a written contract
• Be sure to communicate about the progress of your renovation frequently
• Keep a record of the payments along the way
• Provide any final feedback you may have upon completion of the project
• Always be in control of the money; never release more money than the services or materials received

John Gordon will be sharing his tips and advice at the Ottawa Home & Remodelling Show, taking place January 21-24, 2016 at the EY Centre. Don’t miss his presentation “Building Permits: When Do You Need One?,” Friday, January 22 6-7 PM, and Sunday, January 24, 3-4 PM. John Gordon will also be available at the Your Reno Guys booth at the show to answer all of your questions. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and treat a friend or family member to the show! 

EY CENTRE
JANUARY 21-24, 2016.

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Quick Fixes for Your Home

The holidays are officially over, and with the promise of a new year comes the ever-dreaded holiday credit card bill. Spending remorse aside, your 2016 home improvement plans don’t have to go on the back burner. Think easy, more affordable home updates that come with a huge impact, thanks to four of more than 125 Winnipeg Renovation Show exhibitors, appearing at the RBC Convention Centre from January 15-17, 2016. New year, new home? It will look that way, but the secret stays between us.

Change of Blinds - With the capabilities to block out light, noise, heat and cold, window coverings are like a stylish climate control for your interior. Beyond their functional appeal, they also dramatically change the look of any room by introducing colour and texture to an otherwise dull space. Long drapes can elongate a room while layering drapes creates depth and a focal point for your window. Whether you’re looking for drapes, shades, or shutters, Change of Blinds (booth #711) will outfit your home with the perfect window coverings for your budget.

Image via Change of Blinds

Bath Fitter - This year, metallic fixtures and tile walls reign supreme, adding effortless style and creating a contemporary look to any bathroom. Bath Fitter (booth #831) carries a wide selection of on-trend bathroom accessories and also offers custom-made bathtub liners and walls that are installed right over your existing bathtub (read: you don’t have to rip out your existing tub or shower for a brand-new look). Top pick: Bath Fitter’s Genova wall pattern for added texture and depth

Image via Bath Fitter

Handyman Connection - Create a functional space with custom-designed storage solutions and shelving. A stylish way to display your decor and prized possessions, shelving also doubles as a smart alternative to organizing everything from your favourite shoes to your sentimental vintage pieces. With so many options to choose from, adding shelving is one of the easiest ways to style a room. Handyman Connection (booth #507) can install custom carpentry or prefabricated shelving for all areas of your home, including entertainment units, office areas and bathrooms, to give you a jump on that resolution to declutter.

Image via Handyman Connection

Heritage Painters - There isn’t much a new coat of paint can’t fix. Heritage Painters (booth #335) can assist with exterior or interior painting to instantly refresh any space. Depending on colour choice, a quick paint job can drastically change a room from bright and airy to dark and moody. Trend tip: give your white walls a makeover with a darker colour like charcoal or navy. Dark colours can provide the room with more character and class.

Image via Lush Home

For more home improvement tips, visit the Winnipeg Renovation Show from Friday January 15 to Sunday January 17, and meet these exhibitors along with over 125 more! Haven't got your tickets yet? Save big when you connect with us on Facebook! Right now you can get 2-for-1 tickets. Click here to take advantage of this exclusive offer.

RBC CONVENTION CENTRE
JANUARY 15-17, 2016.

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Ottawa Home + Remodelling Show Exhibitor Spotlight: Synergy 3 Construction

We're excited to have Synergy 3 Construction joining us at the all new Ottawa Home & Remodelling Show. With over 35 years of experience in residential and commercial construction projects, including kitchen renovations, basement renovation, bathroom renovation, new additions, custom decks, and more, their skilled team is ready to help with your next home improvement project.

Synergy 3 Construction is committed to personalized and quality customer service, and they see the end product as a statement of their worth as a creative, dynamic, and trusted local business. Nothing is more important to them than their customers' complete satisfaction.

Learn more about this company when you visit them in Booth #1307 at the Ottawa Home & Remodelling Show. But first, get to know them a little better in our brief interview below.

Please describe your services.

"Design - Build renovation services in the Ottawa area. Kitchens, Bathrooms, Basements and Home Additions. Our qualified and licensed team of Carpenters and tradesmen will take your renovation dreams and turn them into reality!"

What are your best home or garden tips for the season?

"Use LED lights everywhere - save your hard earned money!"

Will you have any show specials? What are your featured services?

"Show Special - Buy one, get one free - LED potlights in a renovation. Spring Special - Free upgrade to Triple Glazed windows for your home renovation/addition."

What are your home or garden pet peeves?

"Disorganization is the worst!"

What is the strangest client request you've ever received?

"The strangest request we have ever received was when we were asked to install 'Hello Kitty' backsplash tiles in the kitchen."

What is your favourite part about the Ottawa Home + Remodelling Show?

"We love interacting with potential clients, hearing their stories and offering our advise and expertise even if they aren't ready to pull the trigger on that renovation just yet."

Is there anything else you think folks should know about your company?

"We provide free in-home consultations with free quotes."

The Ottawa Home & Remodelling Show takes over the EY Centre January 21-24, 2016. With hundreds of home improvement experts, design professionals, and gardening gurus ready to help you refresh your space, it's a must-attend event for Ottawa homeowners.

Don't have tickets yet? Save $3 when you buy online! Get your tickets today.

EY CENTRE
JANUARY 21-24, 2016.

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It's Hammer Time for this Mother-Daughter Duo!

Mother-daughter duo, Karen E Laine and Mina Starsiak are the faces of HGTV’s new show Two Chicks and a Hammer. The show is based in their hometown of Indianapolis, where they transform rundown properties into impressive urban homes, improving neighborhood all across their city.

The pair got their start in renovation after Mina purchased her first home – a shabby-chic cottage with more shab than chic and not in the best part of town. The girls decided to do most of the restoration on their own! They had so much fun that it soon became a small business. With Karen’s legal background and Mina’s mind for real estate, these brainy-babes get the job done from start to finish, and they aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty.

It takes a special relationship to work so close with family, but these chicks understand that the benefits far outweigh the challenges. This powerful relationship and their unique style and willingness to work is an unstoppable combination. The chicks have stayed true to their style. Karen said, “It’s important for us to stick to timeless design choices with a fun twist that fits the vibe of the house!”

Catch Two Chicks and a Hammer on HGTV and see them live at the Deseret News Home Show! Everyone's favorite home and garden event will take over the South Towne Expo Center October 9-11, 2015. The chicks will be on the Design Stage on Friday, October 9th at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. and on Saturday, October 10th at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 when you visit the Home + Garden Events' Facebook ticket deals! Treat a friend or family member to the show - we can't wait to see you there!

SOUTH TOWNE EXPO CENTER
OCTOBER 9-11, 2015.

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Get Remodeling Help From Mina Fies at the Capital Home Show

Passionate about home renovations, Mina Fies creates spaces that nurture and empower clients through a methodical and holistic approach to remodeling. Having worked in the real estate, sales, and design fields since 1994, Mina has experienced first-hand the frustration and dissatisfaction homeowners can suffer during the remodeling process. She and her husband developed a unique system, (the Renovation Roadmap™), which alleviates frustration by choreographing all aspects of the remodeling process - from concept to completion.

Also a Certified Practitioner of Interior Alignment® (Instinctive Feng Shui) and Certified Green Professional (CGP), Mina believes understanding and embracing the spaces around us is key to living healthier, happier, and more environmentally friendly lives.

The Renovation Roadmap

She will be debuting the new Renovation Roadmap system on the Capital Home Show Main Stage September 25, 26, and 27. But before you see her presentations at the show, get to know Mina a little better through our interview below.

Are you on social media?

"Aren't we all? I'm on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Houzz, Pinterest, and now I'm getting familiar with Periscope. Not ready for primetime, but I'm working on it!"

What three items do you always keep in your tool belt?

"My 'tool belt' is a group of trusted advisers. Women business owners that keep me sane, and my best friend Danielle who I've known since the 4th grade. She tells me like it is."

What was your first job?

"Hostess at an all-you-can-eat seafood restaurant. I always smelled like fish and friend hushpuppies...yummmm!"

How were you discovered?

"Less than two years into our business, we had a project of ours featured on HGTV's Bang for your Buck. That show really gave us the credibility needed to take our business to the next level."

What famous figure inspires your career?

"Oprah Winfrey. I admire her for learning how to embrace her uniqueness instead of trying to be like everyone else. When you follow your passion, you live a blessed life."

Describe your design style in five words or less.

"Clean and contemporary with unexpected flare (alright, that's six)."

What was your first ever DIY project?

"Truth be told, I'm not really very handy. Don't have the patience for it, so I have a never-ending 'honey-do' list instead."

What design/gardening trend or item are you coveting this season?

"String lights. They come in so many fun shapes and sizes and create just the right amount of ambiance whether you're inside or out!"

What is your favorite room in your home and why?

"My meditation room. No matter where I've lived, it's a must-have. There's nothing like having a space that is your own sanctuary - a place to unwind, read, meditate, pray, or just take a nap!"

What's the last item you bought or crafted for your home?

"Artwork with beautiful blues and greens that remind me of the ocean."

What's your personal mantra?

"Anything at anytime is possible."

What is the most challenging part of your job?

"Maintaining a balance between day-to-day tasks with finding time for writing. I love the creative release, but never feel there's enough time in a day."

What is your favorite design or garden-related app?

"Houzz.com - I love seeing all of those beautiful finished spaces."

What is your favorite organizational tip?

"Put EVERYTHING in your calendar and get away from "to do" lists. I find when I schedule my life, I am free from the worry and anxiety of getting it all done. I'm clear it will be done because it's in my calendar and I don't have to think about it."

What is your design or gardening pet peeve?

"Bad Feng Shui in the bedroom. It drives me crazy when the headboard is placed on the entry wall (you always want it facing the door)!"

What's your favorite quote?

"'Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much' - Helen Keller. I love collaborating with my clients instead of just telling them what to do. It's fun watching them be amazed by their own creativity."

What's your best style advice?

"Only surround yourself with things you LOVE. Just because your Aunt Suzy gave you something 10 years ago doesn't mean ti has to hang on your dining room wall. Get rid of it and move on."

The Capital Home Show takes over the Dulles Expo Center September 25-27, 2015. Mina will be presenting Friday, September 25 at 1pm, Saturday, September 26 at 11am, and Sunday, September 27 at 2pm. Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and treat a friend or family member to the show. We can't wait to see you there!

DULLES EXPO CENTER
SEPTEMBER 25-27, 2015.

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Tackle Your Next Home Reno With Ease

Whether you're bringing a room into this decade, or simply spicing things up, home renovations are exciting, but can be daunting if you don't start with a clear plan and focus.

Here are some suggestions to keep in mind before starting your next home reno:

Find out if you need a permit. Depending on the project, you may need a building permit before beginning work. When dealt with ahead of time, this is rarely an issue. However, it can drain time and funds mid-project if overlooked. Based on the municipality, projects requiring a permit can include: structural alterations (for example, taking down walls to open up a space, adding windows where there were none before, etc.), outdoor decks, garages, sheds, and upgrades to the plumbing system, among others. Always check before you start your project!

Focus on one room/area at a time. Trying to accomplish too much at once can overwhelm you and become discouraging. Consider starting with one of the smaller, more straightforward projects first. This will give you a sense of accomplishment upon completion and help you gain momentum for your next projects.

Do your research before hiring a contractor. If you're looking to tackle a big job, hiring a contractor may be a wise decision. To pick the best team for the job, be sure to interview a few contractors before making your decision. After the interviews, don't forget to check their references. Asking questions like: Did they arrive to the job site on time everyday? Were they professional? did they arrive to all scheduled meetings? How did they handle problems? This will give you a good sense of the type of individuals with whom you'll be working.

Consider sourcing your own materials. Sourcing your own materials can cut down immensely on the overall cost of a reno project. Rupurpose materials you already have, or consider reclaimed pieces.

The Ottawa General Contractors will be at the Ottawa Home & Garden Show, ready to answer all of your questions about your next home project. For a one-on-one consultation with the team, be sure to stop by the Ask the Expert Zone on Saturday, March 28th from 1-4pm. Consultations are first-come, first-served, so don't be late! Don't have tickets yet? Get 2-for-1 on Facebook and get ready to start on your next home improvement project!

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Kitchen Miracles: Amazing Transformations With DIY Network's James Young

Renovation guru James Young loves tearing up kitchens as the host of I Hate My Kitchen on the DIY Network. James is a DIY expert and a licensed contractor and electrician, and the combination is powerful. On his show I Hate My Kitchen, James is always coming up with new ways to remodel kitchens without breaking the bank, while using latest designs and products. Just look at some of the amazing kitchen transformations he's helped with!

He will be sharing his tips and tricks this year at the Salt Lake Home Show – including a breakdown of his “5 W’s” of planning your projects. But before you see him at the show, check out his top 3 kitchen tips, perfect for planning a remodel on a post-holiday budget. 

3 Kitchen Tips to Take to the Bank

1. Start with a solid design plan - Making changes later in the game can get expensive. The first thing to consider is the electrical and plumbing. Save money by keeping everything in its original place. Select appliances early on, so that cabinets fit well.

2. Painting kitchen cabinets is an excellent way to update - Prep them properly by sanding and de-glossing. If you would like to change out the hardware, you may need to fill and sand holes. Use high-quality enamel paint, products such as Benjamin Moore Satin Impervo are durable, washable, and look great.

3. Function is the key to a good kitchen - Older homes tend to be tight on space. When working with a small kitchen consider opening up the floor plan. A kitchen island or adding a few shelves is a great way to increase storage.

The Salt Lake Home Show takes over the South Towne Expo Center January 9 - 11, 2015. It's the event for all things home and garden, including celebrity appearances, local experts, presentations and demonstrations, Q&A sessions, and more. Buy tickets early to get the best prices - right now you can get two tickets for the price of one with our Facebook promotion. Visit our Facebook page to learn more. 

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Home Renovations On A Post-Holiday Budget: 3 Tips From Bryan Baeumler

The Edmonton Renovation Show and BC Home + Garden Show are just around the corner, and we are so thrilled to have Bryan Baeumler attending this year! You may recognize him from HGTV’s hit show Leave it to Bryan.

Taking on a renovation project can be stressful enough, let alone in the New Year after all the holiday hustle and bustle. A key issue to think about in 2015 is how to tackle a big project on a tight post-holiday budget. Where do you begin? An expert himself, Bryan let us in on a few tips on how to start your reno right without breaking the bank.

1. Know Your Budget - “You need to have everything budgeted and planned first. That’s definitely the first step.”

You may be eager to break ground on your home improvement project, but Bryan cautions homeowners to put down the sledgehammer and come up with a solid budget and a list of priorities before getting down to business.

2. Know When to Bring in Professional Help - “I normally say if you’re standing in one spot, staring at one thing, scratching your head with no idea what to do, it’s probably a good idea to explore the possibility of hiring someone to help you out.”

Bryan says that hiring a builder might actually help your budget, as a professional will know where to start and how to do things properly. Bringing in help could mean avoiding costly D.I.Y. renovation mistakes.

3. Know Where to Focus - “Generally what I recommend is spending your budget on the most permanent thing. You want to prioritize the bigger jobs that are going to last longer.”

One of the most important factors to consider, according to Bryan, is which job is going to benefit your space the most. Things like flooring and cabinets should take priority over more decorative assets like backsplashes and appliances.

Bryan will be sharing more helpful tips and tricks on the Main Stage at the Edmonton Renovation Show and the BC Home +Garden Show! Be sure to check out his presentation and have all of your renovation questions answered. Remember to buy your show tickets early to get the best prices - right now you can get two tickets for the price of one with our Facebook promotion. Visit our Facebook page to learn more!

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Celebrity Spotlight: See Chip & Joanna Gaines At The Orlando Home Show

Do you love the space you’re in? If not, Chip and Joanna Gaines, of HGTV’s Fixer Upper, are the perfect couple to come to your rescue! This dynamic duo helps others take ownership of their spaces and create value within them. With Joanna’s flair for design and Chip’s construction background these two know how to make a beautiful home!

Don’t miss your chance to see Chip and Joanna at the Orlando Home Show on Friday, Oct. 24 and Saturday, Oct. 25. Learn home improvement tips and tricks to help make your house into a home you love. Before you see them, get to know them a little better in our interview with the couple below.

MEET CHIP & JOANNA GAINES

Marketplace Events (MPE): What three items are a must when traveling?

• Joanna Gaines (JG): “The kids always make me a special piece of handmade jewelry that I take with me, my journal, and a fun magazine.”
• Chip Gaines (CG): “My flashlight, my boots, and my Magnolia Farms hat.” 

MPE: What were your first jobs?

• JG: “Hot dog stand.”
• CG: “Mowing grass.”

 MPE: How were you discovered?

• JG & CG: “A well-known blogger featured one of our flip houses on her blog, and a production company found us through her.” 

MPE: What is your most memorable career moment to date?

• JG: “Flying to Knoxville, TN to meet HGTV talent and execs. I felt like I was in their fan club, and won the trip of a lifetime.”
• CG: “Being featured on The Today Show.” 

MPE: What would surprise our home show audience to know about you?

• JG& CG: “We don’t own a television.” 

MPE: What’s your personal motto?

• JG: “Love well, serve others, work hard.”
• CG: “Go get ‘em!” 

MPE: What is the most challenging part of your job?

• JG & CG: “Finding the balance between 4 kids, 3 businesses, a farm, a television show, and knowing how to take on each challenge with excellence.” 

MPE: What do you like to cook when you are at home?

• JG: “Comfort food.”
• CG: “Breakfast.”

Make sure to see Chip and Joanna Gaines at the Orlando Home Show on the Fresh Ideas Home Stage Friday and Saturday. Buy your tickets online – right now you can get two for the price of one when you like our Facebook page. See you there!

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Dream On: 7 Amazingly Ridiculous Features For Your Home

For most, home improvement projects are rooted somewhere in between dreams, budgets, and practicality. Homeowners responsibly create rooms they love. But what if money, space, and time weren't a factor? The renovations you decide to undertake might become very lavish. You may find yourself putting extravagant, luxurious, over-the-top items and features in your home and garden. Need some inspiration for this fantasy? Check out these seven amazing but ridiculous things for your property.

1. Hammock Floor - Great for sitting, napping, and hanging out, the hammock floor is a must-have when you could have it all.

Image via Apartment Therapy

2. Swimming Pool Movie Theater - The swimming pool movie theater is two luxury features in one - what could be better?

Image via Ebaumsworld

3. Secret Room - Inspired by Batman and Harry Potter, every child has dreamed of having a secret room in their home. Make the fantasy come true!

Image via The Huffington Post

Ok, we'd probably try and do this even if we did have some pretty severe budget and space limitations!

4. Staircase Slide - Why walk down the stairs when you can slide down the stairs? Think of all the time you'll save!

Image via Yahoo News

5. Swimming Pool Balcony - The awesomeness of the swimming pool balcony is pretty self-explanatory.

Image via My Modern Met

6. Clear Bathtub - For some reason, when things that aren't normally see-through are see-through (especially when they contain water) they are 50 times cooler.

Image via Imgur

7. Green Roof - Imagine all the activities you could do up there! Golf, picnics, star gazing, the list is endless.

Image via Ecofriend

These are some pretty outrageous home improvement projects, so we have to ask: if you didn't have any constraints, would you actually try any of the upgrades we listed? Or is there a different project you'd undertake?

Planning a more practical renovation? Make sure to head to the Marketplace Events home show nearest you for design inspiration and advice. Check out the shows that are happening in your area - US Shows & Canadian Shows.

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Orlando Exhibitor Spotlight: S&W Kitchens

EXHIBITOR SPOTLIGHT

You won't want to miss S&W Kitchens at our 
2013 Orlando Home Show (Oct. 4-6)! 

Get to know this fabulous exhibitor!

• Location
• Locations throughout Central Florida
• Describe your product(s) or service(s):
• Full turn key solutions for kitchen and bath remodeling. Licensed general contracting and plumbing services. Specialize in design services with a broad range of product selection.
• What are your best home or garden tips for this season?
• Specializing in providing customers that want quality products, quality service, timely installation and especially free design services.
• What are your featured items this season? (sales, popular services, etc.)
• We work with one of the most broad range of cabinetry, countertop and tiling anyone can find on the market. Our promotions can vary depending on the products one chooses as that changes monthly and sometimes weekly.
• What are your home or garden pet peeves?
• Customers shopping only based on price. 
• What is the strangest client request you've ever received?
• Either building a pergola or a massive fish tank built into the wall facing the ocean.
• What is your favorite part about the home show?
• The customers we meet.

You can catch S&W Kitchens at our 
2013 Orlando Home Show (Oct. 4-6) at the Orange County Convention Center! 

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