Bev MacLean's blog

Multiple generations living under one roof is becoming increasingly common.

Over the past 20 years, housing prices in Canada have increased at double the rate of income growth. As a result, a growing number of Canadian households are grappling with housing affordability.

Today, 10 per cent of Canadian households are spending at least 30 per cent of their pretax income on housing.

At the same time, the share of multigenerational households has also increased by 45 per cent — more than any other family living arrangement. Most of these multigenerational households include...

Winter escapees are seeking more meaningful stays in new destinations that won’t break the bank. Vivian Vassos reports on five destinations that snowbirds should consider this season.

Those fortunate enough to be able to take off during the colder months prefer the term “Winter Vacationer” over “Snowbird.” But whatever you call them, they are escape artists, seeking a break from the relentless grey skies and snow in most parts of Canada.

There’s a movement among snowbirds to seek out destinations that include culturally immersive experiences. The new generation of Canadian...

If you’re a snowbird who drives to and from your winter destination in the U.S. every year - or if you drive around exploring the U.S. while spending your winter, there - then you might want to consider purchasing a toll road pass for your region.

Toll road passes allow you to breeze through toll booths without having to come up with cash and change each time.

There are several toll road passes in the U.S. that provide access to many local toll roads and bridges, and it is well worth considering whether a toll road pass might be appropriate for you.

This is especially true now that many...

I love food. From salad and sushi to sirloin steak and everything in between, the potential to express oneself and one’s culture through food is immense. Food has the power to transport us to different moments in our lives and remind us of the people we love and places we’ve been. This is especially true for older adults.

Recently, Health Canada relaunched Canada’s Food Guide. The guide promotes a more Mediterranean diet featuring lots of fruits and veggies and a protein diet that minimizes the consumption of meat and other animal products.

“This guide is a big step forward towards...

What Fees Are Involved in Selling a House in Canada?

Are you listing your home for sale? Then you’re likely wondering what fees are involved in selling a house in Canada.

Listing your home in the Canadian real estate market involves much more than the transaction itself. Many fees, rules and participants are involved, some of which you may not be aware of. Here’s a rundown of what you need to know when selling a house in Canada.

What You Need to Know About Selling a House in Canada

First, it is crucial to know that when fees are involved in selling a home, the funds are...

Selling your home in the winter means paying careful attention to staging techniques. Why not take advantage of the drop in temperature (and perhaps a sheet of fresh snow) to help make your home feel warm and inviting? Be sure to notch up your furnace a few degrees and get the fireplace roaring to woo potential buyers.

1. Put your best foot forward

Fill urns and planters with natural materials like punchy red dogwood branches, lengths of birch and cedar boughs. Hang an oversized wreath from your local nursery on your front door or create your own with found objects like...