Clean T.O: 5 Public Restrooms Tips You Need to Know

Posted on September 15, 2017September 14, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: 5 Public Restrooms Tips You Need to Know

The Shock-clean Truth About Public Toilets

We hate to break the news, but you’ve been using public restrooms all wrong. For instance, you know that trick where you use toilet paper to shield yourself against the ominous toilet seat? Yea, that doesn’t work. In fact, it does the exact opposite! Confused? Don’t worry, we’ll let you in on all the dirty details. Just thank us next time you’re in a public restroom!

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Out House

Is Anything Clean?

Fortunately, there are some aspects of public restrooms that are relatively clean! They’re just not what you think. Like, did you know that the toilet seat is actually the cleanest place in a public restroom? When you think about it, it makes sense. People and maintenance workers alike are wiping and disinfecting those seats all day long! However, even if the seat didn’t get wiped all day, it would still be the least hazardous bathroom component.

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Red Restroom

Professionals go so far to say that unless you go so far as licking the toilet seat – there’s very low potential for transmitting an infection. They say, it’s because the bacteria that does get onto the seat actually dies off quickly. In fact, your body produces the same bacteria found on seats – meaning it can’t hurt you in small doses.

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of kitchen

Shockingly, some researchers go as far to say that the top of the toilet seat is cleaner than a kitchen sink! They say this could be due to the actual materials used to make the seats- their smooth, curved nature isn’t the most hospitable environment for bacteria.

By now, we’ve learned that toilet seats themselves are clean…so what happens when we cover them with toilet paper? In a shocking twist of fate, that innocent act of insurance you take could actually be putting your health in greater jeopardy.

1. The Horrors of Toilet Paper

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Frog Toilet Paper

So what is dirty? Though this news will shock you to your core- we have to tell you. Toilet paper is said to be one of the dirtiest in public restrooms. Yes, we use it to blow our nose and wipe our faces – yet toilet paper is actually the dirtiest thing in the restroom. Why? Because it’s the perfect environment for bacteria to collect in! Yep, the germs get right up into the paper and we put it right to our face and bodies. You might want to think twice before blowing your nose!

2. The Horrors of the Floor

Did you know that the second dirtiest place in a restroom is the floor? Even though it’s not so shocking, it remains just as true. The floors of public restrooms are cesspools of germs.

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Tile

So what does that mean for you? Firstly, never leave anything there. Next time you make a trip, make sure your bag, purse or briefcase doesn’t touch the floor. Because, each time it makes contact the bacteria from the floor transfers onto it. Consequently, that bacteria will remain there until it lands someplace else, spreading there too. Before you know it, you’ve become a carrier and a spreader! So, to avoid all the gross simply hang your belongings on a hook or keep them on your lap- it will be worth it!

3. The Dreaded Flush

As we have learned, everything in a public restroom from the floor to toilet paper is covered in bacteria. The culprit? The flush. In fact, every time the toilet flushes, a process called aerosolization occurs. You’ve probably experienced it- when droplets of toilet water disseminate at least six feet through the air. These droplets come from the toilet bowl and could contain anything from E. coli to salmonella. And so, each time a toilet gets flushed germs get spread, latching onto walls, door handles, toilet seat and- the actual toilet paper. This is unsurprising, as a typical toilet bowl has over three million germs per square inch.

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Toilet Lid

There are a few ways to combat the dreaded flush, but not all are applicable in every restroom. For instance, the ideal is to just put down the toilet lid. But alas, lids have been mostly phased out of public restrooms. Just our luck. However, there is still a way around it. For instance, only flush the toilet when you are ready to leave your stall. That way, you’re not trapped with the airborne bacteria.

4. Getting Out Safely

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Sinks

So, you finished going the bathroom, now it’s time to leave. There should be no more germ concerns right? Wrong! Beware of door knobs and faucet handles – they are pretty serious danger zones. This is because they’re the first things you touch after using the bathroom. Ironically, by turning the tap off after washing your hands you just re-contaminate yourself all over again! So laugh no more when you see people using paper towel to turn the faucet or open the door, you need to start doing the same.

5. The Horrors of The Hand Dryer

Once you’ve turned the tap on with a paper towel, washed your hands and then turned the tap off with your paper towel. Of course, this is assuming there is paper towel handy. If there isn’t, you might be tempted to use the electronic hand dryer…Please don’t!

Clean T.O 5 Tips Public Restrooms Picture of Dispenser

Similar to the flush, electronic hand dryers blow bacteria particles into the air, and circulate them through the room, contaminating everything. So, if you have the choice always stick to the paper towel. However, if you’re seriously grossed out, consider carrying hand sanitizer or baby wipes. You could even go a step farther and bring your own toilet paper, but that would be crazy…wouldn’t it?

Hungry for more?

This post was brought to you by Maid4Condos, a top-rated residential cleaning service dedicated to the people of Toronto. Maid4Condos has been a committed partner to the Toronto cleaning and construction scene for years, and continues to provide exceptional cleaning services to clients. Get a FREE quote & book your cleaning today or follow this link to learn more of what we’re all about!

Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

Clean T.O: Guide to Renting Your First Condo

Posted on September 13, 2017September 14, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: Guide to Renting Your First Condo

We all know the difference between condos and apartments. Condos are owned and apartments are leased- but as the industry grows, the lines start to become blurred.

Clean T.O Renting Your-First Condo Picture of Condo Building

As more and more condos are being built and bought, more owners have started leasing them out. Now, as many as 80% of units in Toronto are being leased, making investors the new landlords!

Everything seems great, right? Wrong. In fact, the grey area of condo rentals has led to a lot of conflict.

The Condo Rental Phenomenon

The Condominium Act was created in the 1990’s for the sake of condo homeowners. However, because it was geared for home owners it has no guideline for tenants and landlords. As a result, Ontario has given condominium tenants protection under landlord/tenant legislation while landlords are bound both by rental legislation and the Condominium Act.

Clean T.O Renting Your First Condo Picture of Cartoon

In other words, tenants and landlords are playing the same game but by different rules. So you can see the potential for confusion. For example, your landlord may be fine with pets- but the condo prohibits them. Reversely, the condo might be fine with pets but your landlord prohibits them. Believe it or not, people experience issues like this all the time! Now, you can see why it’s important to be aware and speak up about any discrepancies you find between rules of your landlord and those of your condo.

Condo-Rule-Diligence

The most important thing about renting a condo is to make sure you and your landlord are on the same page. Ideally, your landlord should give you a detailed explanation of the condo rules so you can act accordingly. However, this isn’t always the case. So, you must take it upon yourself to be diligent about following condo rules.

Clean T.O Renting Your First Condo Picture of Rules

In addition, it’s important to make sure that you are registered by the condo manager. The condo manager knows your landlord but they don’t know you, yet. Make sure the manager has a copy of your lease and ask them all the questions you want, to save yourself trouble in the future!

Condo Care

Next, if you’re renting a condo it’s best to treat as if you own it. Not only will taking care of your condo impress your landlord, it will also help you get your deposit back when it’s time to move on!

Clean T.O Renting Your First Condo Picture of Cleaning

Plus, when you treat your condo as if you own it, you start to put more effort and care into its maintenance, and wind up becoming a better neighbour! That’s not a bad thing! In fact, being a good neighbour is a great way to impress your landlord and enjoy a sense of community.

Condo Community

A sense of community in a condo will make all the difference. This is because we thrive and feel more comfortable in places where we know there is support. Furthermore, participating in your condo community will benefit your psychological health and social life! Check out this list of ideas to start building a community within your condo!

Clean TO Renting Your First Condo Picture of community

However, just because it’s beneficial to be friendly to your neighbours doesn’t mean you don’t have to be best friends. You’re allowed your privacy, but don’t underestimate the power of friendship. For instance, if an issue comes up, your neighbour may feel more inclined to knock on your door instead of making a formal complaint. Know now, nothing frustrates a landlord more than getting complaints about a unit. So all in all, being friendly with your neighbours can enhance the community and save you a complaint or two!

If you’re interested in smooth sailing, take the time to familiarize yourself with the rules of your condo, your landlord, and with your neighbours. If you’re new to the condo game, you should check out our article explaining the truth about condo fees!

Hungry for more?

Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

Clean T.O: 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos

Posted on September 11, 2017September 11, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos

Dogs & Condos

Are you a proud or hopeful condo and dog owner? Well, you aren’t alone! The numbers from a survey in Toronto found that there’s about seven dogs per floor in most residential buildings! If you’re part of the trend, or just thinking of joining- there’s some things you ought to consider.

Clean T.O 4 Essential-CleaningTips for DogOwners in Condos Picture Owner and Dog

Clean T.O Essential Cleaning Tips Dog Owners Condos Picture Bulldog Pillow

First, is your dog meant for a small space? Some dogs are more comfortable in small spaces than others, so it’s definitely worth doing a little research to find the perfect condo companion. While checking out breeds, you should also keep shedding in mind. Different dog breeds shed differently. A little research could save you from cleaning a lot of stray hairs! However, if you’re already shacked up in a condo with your dog- we need to get down to the dirty dog details.

1. Oh, poo! Time to Clean

By now, you’re probably the master of the stoop and scoop. However, you might not realize how toxic your dog’s bowel movements actually are. There’s a reason the fine is so high for not picking up after your dog in Toronto! Actually, the Canadian Public Health Association reported that there are harmful toxins, viruses, bacteria and parasites found in dog waste that can lead to disease when not properly cleaned. Well, there’s some motivation!

Clean TO Cleaning Tips Dog Condos Picture animal pet

Consequently, the longer you leave your dog’s mess untouched, the higher the chances that the waste will spread- all around your condo. Not only that, your floors could become stained. Or worse, your dog might think they’ve found their new toilet. So, when it’s time to clean up an indoor mess, you should use products that are actually meant to clean dog waste! It’s not a rip off, these products are actually created to breakdown organic waste and neutralize smell. Learn about some of the different pet stain removers! A heads up, if you plan on using a cleaner with ammonia, don’t. The smell is just like dog urine, and so won’t help your situation.

Homemade Stain Solution

It seems silly to buy special stain remover when you probably have a wealth of cleaners stashed in your cupboard! Thankfully, we found a simple homemade solution for cleaning your dog’s doo-doo! Ingredients: 1 quart of hot tap water, 1 tsp of dish soap, 1 tsp white vinegar. Steps: Shake or mix ingredients, blot the area with a towel until it’s gone.

2. The Paws

Your dog’s paws are very cute, but they also have the tendency to get very dirty! Whether it’s snow, rain, dirt or slush- those paws will pick it all up like a sponge! The best way to keep your pup’s paws clean is by investing in some dog boots- PAWZ makes a great product that’s waterproof. Check out the product review ! Alternatively, you could create your own dog boots. All you need are scissors and balloons! Watch a video to learn all about DIY booties.

Clean TO Essential Cleaning Tips DogOwners in Condos Picture of Paws

Whether you’re into the booties or not, it’s essential that you keep a towel and bowl of water- or pet wipes- near your front door. Wiping down your dog’s paws and fur only takes a few seconds and could save you from cleaning up a trail of dirty paw prints! Don’t worry, your dog won’t mind the wipe down. In fact, dogs actually seem to enjoy it! If you’re good at training, your dog will eventually know wait for you to clean its paws before going back into your home. If you’re a really good trainer, you could even teach your dog to wipe their own paws!

3. The Shedding

Clean T.O 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos Picture of Brush

If you do have a dog that sheds, you’ve got a few options! Brushing your dog daily- or a few times a week- will concentrate any stray hairs, and subsequent shedding. Plus, some dogs love being brushed! In fact, brushing can also help help alleviate flaky skin, as it distributes the dog’s natural oils throughout their coat. An article from Vet Street shows you all the benefits of brushing!

Clean T.O 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos Picture of Rug

Additionally, area rugs can also help concentrate hairs during shedding seasons. You’ll have less places to clean, plus- rugs make it easier to vacuum efficiently. If you’re working with hardwood, the Swiffer is ultimately the best tool to use. The cloths on a Swiffer attract and trap dust, dirt and hair much more efficiently than a typical vacuum!

Ok, so the condo is clean- now what about you? Lint rollers are great for getting those pesky hairs off when you need to get somewhere in a dash! However, did you know how many other uses there are for lint rollers? Check out an article describing 21 things you can do with a lint roller, besides rolling lint!

Clean T.O 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos Picture of Lint Roller

4. That Smell

It’s no secret that dogs smell, but we can’t hold that against them! Instead, we have to find ways to combat it. Unsurprisingly, the key to getting rid of smells is vinegar! Just pour some vinegar in a spray bottle and spritz in the air! Don’t worry, the vinegar smell will go away along with your dog’s odor.

Clean T.O 4 Essential Cleaning Tips for Dog Owners in Condos Picture of Water Dog

Looking to clean area rugs and carpets? Baking soda is a miracle worker! Just sprinkle a little magic powder on your carpet and let it sit for a few hours. Next, just vacuum, and voila! Your home will smell a lot better in no time. If you really want to go all out, put a sheet of fabric softener inside an envelope and slip it under your dog’s favorite couch cushion. Actually, you can take advantage of dryer sheets in many other ways!
Ultimately, the goal is to keep your condo fresh and your dog happy. And now that you’re armed with the tools, you’re definitely up for the challenge!

Hungry for more?

Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

Clean T.O: Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF

Posted on September 8, 2017September 11, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF

We can bet there’s a few facts you didn’t know about TIFF. The Toronto International Film Festival is recognized as one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. However, it wasn’t always that way! In 1976, Founders Bill Marshall, Henk Van der Klk and Dusty Cohl started “Toronto Festival of Festivals” by collecting the best films from other film festivals around the world, and showcasing them in Toronto.

Actually, the festival was originally located in the Windsor Arms Hotel in the Yorkville area. But much has changed since then. In 1994, the name switched to the Toronto International Film Festival. Then, in 2007 construction began on the iconic TIFF Bell Lightbox. Consequently, the King and St. location we know and love officially opened in 2010. Interestingly, the property used for building was donated by the parents of Ghostbuster creator Ivan Reitman! Fact got your tongue? Read on, we have plenty of TIFF facts up our sleeve!

1. Hollywood Didn’t Think We Could Handle It.

Clean T.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Canadian Flags

When TIFF began in 1976, Hollywood was not convinced that the Canadian public could handle the content of their films, calling us too ‘parochial’ to appreciate them! In fact, they went as far as withdrawing their submissions from the festival. However, it didn’t take long for Hollywood to come to its senses.

2. TIFF is the laid-back sibling of the Film Festival Family

Clean T.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Toy Crowd

What sets TIFF apart from all the other film festivals? There are no judges, and no major prizes and at the same time, the public votes on the films! The ceremony is called the People’s Choice Awards, and is very exciting! Actually, Hollywood and it’s stars find TIFF’s structure refreshing compared to the European festivals. It’s true, TIFF is non-competitive, easy going, relatively inexpensive that draws in tons of film enthusiasts.

3. Resources are at your fingertips

Clean T.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Library

If you’re a film buff, you should know that the largest Film Reference Library is located on the fourth floor of the TIFF Bell Lightbox. In fact, filmmakers, students, journalists, scholars and enthusiast are all encouraged to take advantage of this free resource! Check out this article that exposes 10 unique items waiting for you in the reference library!

4. TIFF Tickets & Special Promotion

Clean T.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Pennies

In the early days of 1976, admission for a three-feature package would cost you only $2. Now, a ticket costs 10x that, with exclusive packages that can range into the thousands! Do you want to win a membership for next years TIFF? If so, you should definitely check out our special TIFF promotion happening through our Facebook page this September. Find out more here!

5. So Many Films, So Little Time

Clean T.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Family

Each year, 4,000 films are submitted to TIFF by hopeful filmmakers. However, only 400 get chosen to participate! At the end of the day, you know that what you’re seeing on the screen is the best of the best.

6. Record Breaking Numbers

Clean T.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Audience

1978, two years after the festival’s inception held the record for least amount of films screened with just 85 showing that year! Don’t worry, they built got the momentum back. Meanwhile, just six years later in 1984 the festival would screen 460 films! To this day, that is the highest number of films TIFF has ever screened. Nowadays, they typically stick to showing 400 movies per year.

7. Michael Moore Would Be Nowhere Without TIFF

Clean T.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Michael Moore Picture

Did you know that Michael Moore credits his successful career to TIFF after winning the People’s Choice Award in 1989 for Roger and Me? Cool! As a result of winning the People’s Choice Award, his film went on to be one of the highest-grossing documentaries of all times!

8. September 11th, 2001

CleanT.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Empty Theatre

On September 11th, 2001, the TIFF machine was working as usual- until it happened. As soon as the news of 9/11 hit, all TIFF screenings and events were put on hold, only to resume the following morning. But it wasn’t the same. Consequently, out of respect for the tragedy, all further festivities and celebrations were cancelled.

9. The Time Everyone Tried Stay Awake

CleanT.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Sleeping Angel

The longest film to ever show at TIFF was 15 hours long! It sounds crazy, but it makes sense that The Story of Film: An Odyssey, would do well at a film festival! That doesn’t mean everyone was awake the entire time!

10. TIFF’s Ties to Jiminy Glick

Clean T.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Interview

Have you heard the name Jiminy Glick? The character comes from a 2004 film called Jiminy Glick in Lalawood. Written by and starring Canadian Comedian Martin Short. Strangely enough, the 2004 film used TIFF as a backdrop for a murder mystery. Even though the movie premiered over ten years ago, Jiminy Glick is still going strong! Presently, he can be seen on Global TV conducting hilarious interviews with people like Drake, Kevin Hart Ricky Gervais. Watch Jiminy and Ricky’s hilarious interview here!

The TIFF We Know & Love

Because TIFF has always concentrated on screening the best films from around the world, it has grown to be a vital cog in the Hollywood machine. As a result, not only does it make an impression on Hollywood, it makes an impression on Toronto! As a matter of fact, the festival ends up contributing $170 million dollars to the city on average, each year!

Clean T.O Facts You Didn’t Know About TIFF Toronto

Unfortunately, TIFF hasn’t been exempt from price creeps. Consequently, VIP ticket prices have become so high that the public is criticizing that it is no longer a “people’s festival”. With single tickets ranging from $24 – $205 it’s understandable why people are upset.

For this reason, we at Maid4Condos have come up with a special promotion that will allow you to enjoy TIFF the way it was meant to be! When you book a cleaning using our special TIFF promotion this September, not only will you get $17 off your next cleaning, but you and your partner will get the chance to win TIFF memberships that will last until the end of the next TIFF cycle! Learn more about our cleaning services and our TIFF promotion here!

Like This Article & Want More?

This post was brought to you by Maid4Condos, a top-rated residential cleaning service dedicated to the people of Toronto. Maid4Condos has been a committed partner to the Toronto cleaning and construction scene for years, and continues to provide exceptional cleaning services to clients. Get a FREE quote & book your cleaning here or visit our website to learn more about what we’re all about! Hungry for more? Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

TIFF got your tongue? – Maid4Condos Promotion

Posted on September 4, 2017September 4, 2017 by Patrick Martel

TIFF got your tongue? Maid4Condos Promotion

We love our city, and we want our clients to enjoy it! That’s why we’ve come up with an idea that you’re going to love.

It’s simple. By sharing this post and booking with Maid4Condos during September 2017- using coupon code TIFF2017 – not only will we discount your booking $17, but we’ll give you and a friend the chance to become TIFF Members! That means year-round benefits and early bird access and prices until the end of TIFF, 2018! That’s a whole lot of cool.

Ready to enter? It’s easy!

First, share this post. Then, go to our website to plug in your details and choose your clean. Next, add the promotional coupon code to your profile to enter, book your cleaning – and voila! There’s no catch. In fact, we encourage you to combine this with any of our other promotions! Unfortunately, those who cancel bookings using this promo code will no longer qualify to win the membership. Maid4Condos is all about keeping it simple every step of the way and making your home feel sparkling and new by the end of the day!

Two couples or four people will walk away with TIFF 365 Memberships. However, we will only be announcing the winners in October over our Maid4Condos Facebook page– so it’s very important that you like us ON FB and keep those eyes peeled! We don’t want you to miss out on your membership because you didn’t see the announcement.

Have friends or family who go gaga over TIFF?

Like and share this post so everyone can get excited! Plus, you won’t miss any more Maid4Condos news or promotions when you follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or Google+!

Clean T.O: Truth About Condo Fees

Posted on September 4, 2017September 4, 2017 by Patrick Martel

Clean T.O: Truth About Condo Fees

So you want to buy a condo in Toronto, but have you thought about the condo fees? If you’re looking to live a condo lifestyle, you’re on the right track. However, if you’re thinking about buying a condo because it would be cheaper than a house, you might want to factor in condo fees. Don’t worry, it’s very common for first-time condo buyers to be unaware of just how daunting their fees can be. We’re going to give you the information you need to help yourself make an informed decision when buying a condo in Toronto!

What are Condo Fees?

Let’s take a closer look. The condo fees you will pay is your direct share of the cost it takes to run the building. As a result, there are a variety of factors that contribute to your fees. For instance, utilities, building amenities, location and the age of the building all come into play. Additionally, if your building comes with extra security, concierge service or underground parking, a pool, gym, or a rooftop patio- chances are they will be reflected in your monthly fee. However, extra features like underground parking and concierge service are typically optional. There is also something called a “contingency fee” mandatory for every condo. That contingency money goes straight into a reserve fund, to safeguard against unexpected costs that arise, like flooding or roof damage.

Condo vs. House

Remember that time when you were looking at that condo in Toronto, and the maintenance fees seemed reasonable? Don’t be fooled. By and large, condo fees always have the potential to increase to rates much higher than you signed up for. Meanwhile, most condo-owners don’t realize that their condo fees are controlled by the condo board, and can be increased at their discretion. But rest assured, the fees are not a source profit for management. This is ensured by the fact condo buildings are registered as nonprofit corporations.

Clean T.O Truth About Condo Fees Credit Card

When you combined condo fees with property taxes and mortgage payments…you’re looking at costs similar to owning a home. In fact, when you do the math, a condo purchase in Toronto plus maintenance fees works out to approximately the same as owning house! At the end of the day, it comes down to lifestyle. Would you rather tend to your own garden, or never have to worry about yard work again?

Old Condo vs. New Condo

Presumably, the older buildings of Toronto require much more maintenance and renovation than brand new ones. For instance, modernizing the front entrance of an old building is something that belongs in the maintenance budget, paid for by the condo owners through their fees. Even so, if you’re considering buying an older condo in Toronto you should check out this article.

Clean T.O Truth About Condo Fees Renovation

However, newer buildings aren’t perfect either. As with any booming industry, there becomes more potential to cut corners. More and more, we have seen that new buildings in Toronto are using sub-par building materials for construction. In fact, issues brought on by shoddy construction can increase condo fees just as much as renovating an entrance from the 90’s!

Being Smart About Condo Fees

Ultimately, if the condo you are considering has fees that are already out of your price range- you might want to look elsewhere. This will give you more breathing room when the fees inevitably go up. If you are seriously eyeing a condo in Toronto, it is highly recommended that you get a realtor or real estate lawyer to review the condominium status certificate. Every building is required one, because it gives residents essential information about the financial health and stability of the building.

Clean T.O Truth About Condo Fees Document

In the document, you will find things like the management contract, legal issues the condo may have encountered, the budget and status of the reserve fund. After reading status certificate, a lawyer will easily be able to tell you if this condo is worth your investment. Therefore, it’s worth it to invest a little time and research into purchasing your condo in the city, your future self will thank you.

Like This Article & Want More?

This post was brought to you by Maid4Condos, a top-rated residential cleaning service dedicated to the people of Toronto. Maid4Condos has been a committed partner to the Toronto cleaning and construction scene for years, and continues to provide exceptional cleaning services to clients. Get a FREE quote & book your cleaning here or visit our website to learn more about what we’re all about! Hungry for more? Visit the Maid4Condos blog and follow us on FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram for more industry news, Toronto lifestyle guides and cleaning tips!

T.O. Guide: August’s End – Take Advantage Of Last Days Of Summer

Posted on August 24, 2017August 29, 2017 by Patrick Martel

T.O. Guide: August’s End

Save the Best for Last!

If you thought summer was over, think again! There’s plenty of festivities to keep summer fun going in T.O ‘till labour day! Take advantage of all the things that are happening this August and keep the good vibes going. Let us guide to towards some of the best events T.O. has to offer this August’s end. Don’t forget to mark them in your calendar. You wouldn’t want to miss the CNE, Toronto Cider Festival or the Coconut Festival would you? Check out the bottom of the page for some links that will help you on your mission of appreciating August!

T.O. Guide – Aug 26th: For the Love of Beer, or Coconuts?

August 26, 2017 poses a tough decision for the people of Toronto. Believe it or not, the Toronto Cider Festival and Canada’s 4^th Annual Coconut Festival fall on the exact same day. But that’s okay! if you’re determined to attend both both you could hit up one in the morning and one in the afternoon. They’re only ten-minutes apart and open all day long.

1. The Toronto Cider Festival

T.O. Guide: August’s End - Beers from Pexels — T.O. Guide: August’s End – Beers from Pexels

The Toronto Cider Festival is back! Head over to the Sherbourne Common near Sugar Beach to try deliciously brewed Canadian cider in honour of Canada’s 150^th birthday! You will feel that summer vibe one last time when you’re sipping one of the 60 varieties of cider at this outdoor festival! You can find a full list of participating ciders here. Hungry? Food vendors like Mustache Burger, Pappas Greek, Smoke’s Poutinerie, Buster’s Sea Cove, Los Vietnamita and Holy Cannoli will be there to sort you out. Hint: try pairing a cider with a yummy creation! Enjoy food and drink while watching a live concert or while participating in a contest or competition. Alternatively, you can opt to chill in some of the quieter areas. Find tickets for the cider festival here. Date: Aug. 26th, 2017

2. The Coconut Festival

T.O. Guide: August’s End - Coconut Butter from Pexels — T.O. Guide: August’s End – Coconut Butter from Pexels

Coconut oil has been all the craze lately, making the market demand for coconuts skyrocket. See what the buzz is about and head over to David Pecaut Square to check out the 4th Annual Coconut Festival in T.O.! Connect with all different kinds of communities and learn about the different recipes and home uses and health benefits of coconut. Indulge in coconut inspired meals from a variety of different cuisines including the Philippines, Caribbean, Thailand and Hawaii! But it’s not all coconuts. There will also be sixty vendors showcasing cleaning, cosmetic, wellness and fashion products from Asia and Pan America. Did I mention that attendance is free? Oh, and the first 500 people through the door get complimentary ‘swag bags’. Date: Aug 26th, 2017

3.CNE “The Canadian National Exhibition”

T.O. Guide: August’s End - Ferris Wheel from Pexels — T.O. Guide: August’s End – Ferris Wheel from Pexels

Like clockwork, the iconic Canadian National Exhibition (a.k.a ‘the Ex’) opened on August 18th at the Exhibition Place and will keep the fun going until September 4th. Scour the pavilions and make your way through all of the eclectic market places and show cases. Craving something deliciously strange? Head over to the famous Food Building, or check out the long anticipated Food Truck Frenzy! Hint: new food trucks include, Beavertails, Delight Bit and Mustache Burger. Want to see a terrific air show or go on a roller coaster? No problem! It’s all there. If you’re prepared to spend a little money and enjoy the energy from large crowds, then you’re bound to have a great time. Read on to out which crazy food items will be back on the menu this year! Date: Aug. 19th – Sept 5th 2017

Back By Popular Demand: Ex Food ‘17!

It’s well known that the Ex is the place to go to try something outrageous. Take a look and see which food items are coming back by popular demand the the Ex 2017. Get your tastebuds ready, it’s going to be a wild ride! For photos of these items, and more check out this link. Do you remember any of these?

T.O. Guide: August’s End - Crazy Burger from Pexels — T.O. Guide: August’s End – Crazy Burger from Pexels

1. The Bug Dog

Yep, you read that right. Haven’t you heard the craze? Insects have protein in them! The Bug Bistro and a handful of other Toronto establishments have taken charge of introducing insects into the Toronto food culture. What’s a Bug Dog you ask? This speciality hot-dog is topped with coleslaw- and crispy mustard crickets! Can you get on board? Check out one brave person’s experience here. Test your stomach and will power in the Food Building!

2. The Big Pickle Dog

Imagine a hotdog encased in the centre of a hollowed out pickle. Imagine that pickle deep fried in corn-dog batter. In case you were wondering, it tastes like a symphony of flavours and textures. Pickle Pete’s can be held responsible for this insanity, and again when you start salivating like a dog. If you’re into salt and crunch, you’ll be into this. Hint: they also have deep-fried cheesecake. Try the amazingness for yourself in the Midway!

3. Fried Pig Ear Sandwich

Vegans, beware! A crispy pig ear is the main item inside a sandwich by the popular CNE eatery Farm to Fryer. This sandwich also includes maple bacon, coleslaw, cheddar cheese- and is topped irresistibly with chipotle. Enjoy a contradiction of crunchy textures and complimentary tastes, brought back by popular demand by the Farm to Fryer. Note: if you don’t enjoy chewing on… ears- this may not be for you.

4. Philly Steaklair

The impossible has been done, folks! Philthy Philly’s put the question of combining dinner and dessert to rest when they created the Philthy Steaklair! The daring creation puts steak inside of an éclair bun- and not just any steak, a steak topped with bacon, cheese, whip cream and chocolate. Open your mind and confuse your taste buds. Find this masterpiece inside of the Food Building.

5. Rose Apple Dumpling

Looking for something a little more, normal? One Sweet Mama has got you covered, bringing back their specially baked, dough-wrapped apples just for your sweet tooth! Imagine, vanilla ice cream and butterscotch drizzled over apples wrapped in dough and baked to a golden crisp. Don’t miss out on these tasty delights this year! Indulge in this apple absurdity in the Food Building.

Can You Handle More?

Curious to see what these wacky creations look like? Check out this list that Toronto.com put together of foods that will be at the CNE 2017. Find photos of these mouth-watering foods and more here, before you go. Not what you’re looking for? Check out Blog TO’s August Calendar to see what else is going on! However, if you are looking to have a more relaxing and low-key August, check out our other article “All About August” where we’ll share some ideas!