The various wants and needs when buying a Grey Bruce house.

The Backyard Pool

The quite essential luxury that announces once and for all that you are a big dog having fun!

The Pros

Some studies have found that having a swimming pool increased property values from 8 to 15%. The dream of kicking back during the long hot summer days in Grey Bruce sipping a margarita with friends or family can be quite appealing. And correctly so!

The Cons

Safety issues are a real concern. Pools can be expensive to maintain and if not properly maintained can be an eyesore. Pools tend to exclude significant usable space for a backyard. Try a garden and relax under the sprinkler for those hot days we get up here in Grey Bruce.

Your Dream Kitchen

Many kitchens are now being designed with the maximum usage in mind, since it is likely you will spend most of your time there. Don't underestimate its importance.

The Pros

Analyze your space to utilize every last nook and cranny to ensure the appliances and fixtures are well positioned. Taking the time to design that space will make a big difference when socializing and selling your home as the kitchen is usually the heart of any home. A functional kitchen exceeds the use of a kitchen and dining room.

The Cons

Trying to keep up with trends can be a daunting task. If you plan on staying in the home for quite some time then choose the colours that suite your needs even if they are funky. But on the resale side of things remember the neutral elegant look will win the sale when it's time to sell your home on the Grey Bruce Real Estate Market.

Warm and Toasty In-Floor Heating

Also referred to a radiant heat the in-floor heating has been a great invention - especially for those infamous cold winters in Grey Bruce.

The Pros

Two primary forms are hot water heat and electric heat. It's even and consistent. It's silent and invisible with no bulky radiators or register vents ruining the Feng of your Shui. Radiant heat also won't dry the air and no more chasing of those slippers you always seem to misplace.

The Cons

In floor heating systems can be costly and may require a second hot water heater for hot water radiant. But I dare you to find someone who doesn't love it. As I continue to renovate my home I have been removing the baseboards and replacing it with electric in floor heating, which has actually reduced my hydro costs.

The Fitness Rooms

Like any other room in your house each have their common appeals and common drawbacks.

The Pros

Having the right set up for a particular activity can be inspiring and rewarding. With obesity on the rise, this is a great way to utilize that extra room. Perhaps you will have the abs you have always wanted to show off when you get your back yard pool.

The Cons

If you haven't lifted anything heavier then soup cans for the last five years and your extent of exercise is walking to the fridge, then this room will soon become a dust collector with neat gadgets. Unreasonable expectations usually result in reasonable disappointment.

Always remember your home should be inspiring and welcoming. Taking the time to make the right decision for your rooms will fulfill your needs but allow for versatility, rather than making the room useless in the future - and most importantly read to put on the real estate market when the time is right to sell your Grey Bruce Home.