Garage Apartment Update...

So here we are, the end of March. I'm glad to say my insurance claim has finally been settled. Cheque received, most of line of credit paid down. To my joy, after emailing my adjuster a month or so ago, I received another cheque for my loss of rental income for the time that the insurance claim and tear out had taken. That headache is now done. 

I had my post retro evaluation a few weeks ago, so I had insulation replaced prior to Amerispec coming by. I just waiting on my report to be mailed so I can apply to CMHC for possibly $5000 back from my mortgage interest. That would be awesome. Not to mention, my rebates from the federal government and the city.

Progress has been made on the Garage Apartment front. After much needed guidance going awry, thanks to my Great Canadian contact, I was connected with Engelman Construction, who has been great to work with and who are working on my official plans to be submitted for permits. Thanks Dan and Alex.

As part of applying for permits, I had dropped off letters and basic plans to all my neighbours within 60m a week and a half ago, for their comments. Yesterday I returned to their mailboxes, hoping they had left comments on  my letter. Some there, some not. Knocked on doors. Some home, some not. Some changes to be made, minimal, but the top floor will need to be flipped i.e. a mirror image from what I have now.

We plan to apply for permits in a week. Then wait for 2 - 3 months for that process and then hopefully off to construction for another 3 months. 

Hopes were that the Cornerstones program would still have funds, but sadly they are out. Darn timing. However, it appears there may be a similar program come spring. I hope timing doesn't mess with that too.

In the meantime, I am so committed to this happening, I have purchased my IKEA kitchen, with my IKEA credit card during the kitchen event so I will not have to pay for a year. Cabinet colour changed to an off-white to keep the small space bright. Also new plans mean that this will be a mirror image of what is shown.

My kitchen (in needs to be assembled boxes) is being delivered on Tuesday. Delivered to my living room for the next 6 months. Including microwave with vent, range, sink and faucet. I will be ordering my countertops through my contractor once cabinets are in. Makes more sense that way. 

 

 

I have also ordered my apartment sized fridge (on sale for $799) and apartment sized washer and dryer, to be delivered in about two weeks, to hang out in my current kitchen for 6 months. 

I already have my bathroom cabinets and most fixtures already purchased, and they are waiting to meet their purpose.

I'm excited for the next 6 months and getting to choose the finishes for inside and outside. And finally being able to rent a space I am proud of and would want to live in myself.

Stay tuned. Much more to come....

Can't wait.