Approximately one in three of my clients purchases a property with a heat recovery unit (HRV). You can just imagine how my ears perked up when it was announced on the CBC radio news that owners of particular models of heat recovery units (HRV) manufactured by the company Venmar are being warned that “It has come to Venmar’s attention that an unlikely series of circumstances could lead to a motor overheating in certain HRV models, that may result in a potential fire hazard.”

To find out if your model is affected and if so what to do, please go to the following site http://www.venmar.ca/suppresentation.aspx

Another good reason why buyers should use a real estate agent. I have gotten to know now how to recognize a potential grow house just from the mls listing itself. Certain factors just jump off of the page at me. There have been times though that it has not been until I went through the house that I realized that it was a grow house operation. (it is an experience sometimes and makes for great conversation!!).

Then there is the history of the house, which is also invaluable!

So….if you hear of any friends looking directly at houses not on mls (a house on mls means that you have an agent with obligations of disclosure)  warn them that they need to be aware of the presence of many grow houses.

Words of wisdom!

I felt like a Sherpa on the weekend as I deftly maneuvered country and city roads,  my vehicle embracing the flat surfaces of a road and shunning the mysterious black holes and what lie beneath. The knowledge gained from many hours spent on the roads the previous week was obvious as I anticipated the next pothole with ease.

BUT…….in this ever-changing world, nothing changes with such frequency as the road conditions in the winter-haven of Ottawa!  Like spam in my morning email inbox, they just keep appearing and reappearing.

Should you experience damage to your vehicle because of the ubiquitous spring potholes, there is hope! The City of Ottawa has a process of reimbursement. For details on filing for damages go to their website at www.Ottawa.ca  .

For tips on dealing with potholes here are some words of wisdom: Read the rest of this entry »

Take note that the City of Ottawa may be forced to relocate your car in order to remove snow.  If your car is missing, call 311 and you will be directed to its location. No towing fees will be applied. (unless you have done a big no-no such as the fire hydrant thing).

For updated info on what parts of the city are out of bounds for parking, check the city’s site at : http://www.ottawa.ca/seasonal_items/snow_en.html