Whether you are a mom and your are kids off to school for another year or  you are a student at U of S, these are some essentials that will help you get back in the groove!

Janea Dieno of JBD Financial is offering 30% off on your child's saving funds effective until December 31st, 2015. Its never too late to start a savings fund for your child's future education. You can find that promotion here!

We all know spring is the time for beach-body training but after the summer is over, we need to start all over again to shed the summer pounds. Maintain that body for the winter by signing up for a membership at Fitness Focus. If you refer a friend, you will receive a month for free!

For all the back to school fall trends, Era Style Loft and Options by Trish have the clothing and accessories for you! 

 Now that it is September, the colours are changing and by adding a different colour pallet to your home will make the transition from summer to fall much easier! Here are some fall flower ideas to brighten your home.  Head to Michelle's Flowers to get that special fall arrangement for your student dorm or apartment!

Photo Credit: Pinterest

Building an infill home is not as simple as many think. In fact, many builders won’t even consider building an infill home due to the extra factors involved in the process. Here are 5 things you probably never thought of when considering an infill home.

1. City Bylaws – Saskatoon has specific bylaws relating to building infill homes. Before proceeding to designing your home, you must be aware of these requirements in addition to zoning and other bylaws.
2. The Design Process – Infill designs must be done in accordance with lot specifications and permit requirements before going forward to designing your dream home. At Haven Builders, we include a 3D virtual tour of the home (inside and out) and some of the neighborhood around it. This ensures you will be building the house you love and that it will look great in the neighborhood. What you see is what your going to get so there will be no regrets once the build is complete.
3. Demolition and Infrastructure Needs – Some of our older core neighborhoods have an infrastructure system that is often in need of upgrades when you build something new. Sewer, water, etc. are a couple of areas where there has been some additional costs that can be at the very least upsetting if you aren’t made aware ahead of the build. Also, if you plan to demo an old home on the lot – you will need a permit for that.
4. Tree Plans – The beauty of some of our cities historic neighborhoods are the beautiful trees that line the neighborhood. However, if you happen to cut down one that is not on your property and owned by the city, you could be dishing our some big bucks to the city. Saskatoon has a protected tree plan throughout the city and if you happen to cut down the wrong one to make room for your new home, you will pay for it!
5. The Neighbors – Let’s face it, most people are thrilled to see the dilapidated old house next door that is reducing their own property value get knocked down and hauled away. However, there are a few that may not want to see the tree in the middle of your property disappear or have a 2 story home next to them blocking the sun to their small bungalow. It is always good to chat with the neighbors if you can and let them know your plans. You won’t be able to make everyone happy all the time. However, most people are more gracious and tolerant of the construction zone next door if you are in communication with them and let them know what is happening.

Most people are unaware of all the factors involved in an infill build and the details can be overwhelming and pretty stressful. However, if you find a builder that is experienced in infill home development and is willing to look after the many details for you then an infill home is a great option. At Haven Builders, we specialize in infill home builds and yes, we look after every detail so you don’t have to. At Haven, we believe you will love your home even more if you love the experience!! The Haven Team will work with you through the process, eliminate your stress, and provide you with a dream home customized just for you. Then, you can move in, relax, and enjoy your new home!

Deb  Murdoch of TMG the Mortgage Group says that buying a new home can be very stressful if you don't know the correct steps to a successful purchase. Since Fall is one of the busiest seasons for home buyers and sellers, Deb wants you to know the six steps to buying a home stress free and make the process a little easier with her help.

Step 1: Get pre-approved: It allows you to determine the amount you can qualify for your new home.

Step 2: Start Searching: Using a realtor, word of mouth or checking sites is very useful. Take a drive around the neighbourhoods that interest you and look for "for sale" signs because they may not be listed with a realtor.

Step 3: Make an offer to purchase: After finding the home you want to buy, making an offer of purchase to the seller allows the legal document to be outlined with details that you need to ensure a proper agreement. 

Step 4: Finalize your financing: Once your offer to purchase is accepted, your mortgage broker turns your pre-approval into a live deal. 

Step 5: Closing day: This is the day your receive legal possession of your new home.  You take steps with your lawyer for the payment process and to complete the deal.

Step 6: Moving: The most exciting time of the whole process is moving. Either moving yourself or hiring a moving company, the process can be stressful in an exciting time.

With Deb Murdoch having access to great rates in all of these categories, make your experience a happy one! 

These steps are only an overview of what you need to look for when purchasing a new home. For more details on each of these steps, check our Deb Murdoch's Feature Business Article here or visit her website at debmurdoch.com

One year shy of 130 years in production, the Ex is back in Saskatoon again gracing us with it's bright lights and the lingering smell of deep fried mars bars. The festival is on from August 4th-9th bringing you non-stop entertainment for all ages!

The Gates open at 12:00pm and close at 12:00am so there is enough time to enjoy the rides, food, music and talent. The main stage brings you bands like Hedley, Marianas Trench, Magic and Dean Brody. All tickets to these shows are free with general admission to the festival so all you need to worry about is finding a close enough spot to the stage to get the attention of your favourite band member. If you are a foodie then simply come for the variety of carnival treats you will only get once a year like elephant ears, cotton candy and caramel apples! Rumour has it there is a new roller coaster added to the lineup of rides that is sure to make you scream. Feel the fear amongst the children and venture into the Haunted House because sometimes a little adrenaline rush is good for the soul.  

There is so much to see at the Ex this year, you will not want to miss out! Click here www.saskatoonexhibition.ca for information on admission, rides and live entertainment.

So if you find yourself in Saskatoon this weekend without any plans, head out to the Ex, even if its just for a tarot card reading. 

Photo Credit: www.saskatoonupclose.com

 Photo credit: www.saskatoonexhibition.ca