Daily Informative Updates on
New Residential Real Estate & Construction News
for Vancouver Island Communities

Oct 12, 2024

Automated Window Coverings Bring Security, Energy Efficiency and Enhanced Priavcy to Your Home

Could your home or business benefit from automated window coverings? Consider the energy efficiency, privacy, and security needs that automation can offer. Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island offers a variety of automation options with Lutron smart shades, blinds and more. 

Smart shades, lights, and thermostats from Lutron all integrate easily with your choice of smart home devices that that include Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Nest, Sonos and more.

You’ll be able to monitor and control your smart blinds, lights, and home temperature from any mobile device by using the Lutron app. Use the app to create lighting schedules that change with the seasons, and provide added security when you're away.

With Lutron, your home or business shades and blinds can be programmed to automatically open and close for both peace of mind and energy savings. You can set your blinds to automatically tilt throughout the day to diffuse sunlight or maximize the privacy in your space.  And best of all, they install quickly and easily, with no new wiring required.

Start your home automation with just a single window or room - Lutron automated shading systems are modular and can be easily expanded. 

And Budget Blinds will measure, install and do it all for you. It’s smart and easy. Ask about Lutron smart home automation today! 

Contact your local store today to learn more: 

Cowichan Valley

Call: 250.924.0249

Nanaimo-Oceanside

Call 250.751.8564

North Island - Courtenay

250.338.8564

 

Sep 07, 2024

Cut Out The Cold This Winter By Planning Your Window Coverings Now

Cooler weather will be here before we know it. Now is the time to prep your home to reduce those winter heating bills.

As much as 50% of a home's heating (and cooling) energy can be lost through windows. Energy efficient window treatments can make a significant difference to help conserve energy, and cut down on the chill and those bills!

Look to Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island for a number of great solutions that will look great, and save you money year-round. 

Modern, energy saving window covering options include:

  • Cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades, combine the soft look and energy efficiency of window shades with the functionality of horizontal blinds.
  • Layering your curtains or drapery with light filtering or room darkening liners to control light gaps and improve insulation retention.
  • Floor-to-ceiling drapes that fold back against the wall. This allows the drapes to seal off the window, preventing drafts and loss of heat through convection. 
  • Traditional wood shutters use an insulating design that helps make indoor spaces cooler in summer and warmer in winter, keeping your room at an ideal temperature.
  • Window film deflects up to 99% of damaging UV rays, reducing heat gain and protecting your furniture against harmful UV damage.

Learn more about all of the options at your local Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island:

Cowichan Valley
Call: 250.924.0249

Nanaimo-Oceanside
Call 250.751.8564

North Island - Courtenay
250.338.8564

 

Aug 04, 2024

Why the Direction of Your Windows Matters

We all know the weather on Vancouver Island varies dramatically from season to season, and depending on the direction your home and individual rooms face, that variability can signifcantly impact the light and temeprature in your home.

South-facing windows

If your home faces south, direct sunlight from the south causes heat to build up, forcing your AC to work harder. However, it may also be warmer in the winter for the same reason. 

Southern exposure helps makes a room cozier in the winter. The addition of shades to the window allows the option to raise the shades and enjoy the sun's warmth during those chilly winter months. However, it can also make summer too hot or bright without the right window treatments. That’s why it’s essential to work with a professional window treatment designer to determine which product will work best for a southern-facing window.

North-facing windows

Windows that face north receive natural light all day but don’t receive direct sunlight. Interior shutters are a great way to take advantage of the indirect sunlight from north-facing windows. Their louvers can let in as much or as little light as you like while the cordless design looks clean and uncluttered in kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices. 

Alternatively, sheer curtains add gentle textures and patterns to your interior decor without restricting sunlight. In daylight, pulling sheer drapes across the window allows the indirect sunlight to shine through and highlight the design. 

East-facing windows

An east-facing window will catch the early sun, which can appear bright and glaring in the morning, and diffused and delicate later in the day. Dark colors will seem gloomy, but light colors and sheer materials bring out the softness of the sunlight.

Morning sun can be pleasant in a kitchen or living room, but it can be an annoyance in a bedroom. The best way to deal with morning light is to customize your window treatments to get exactly the amount of light you want.

West-facing windows

On summer afternoons, west-facing windows can cause heat to build up in your home. To keep the room comfortable, make sure to keep them covered. Like with south-facing windows, you don't want to lose all the natural light you get from west-facing windows, but you also need to deal with glare and heat. Blinds are a great choice because you can change their angle as the sun moves, diffusing light without blocking it out.

Energy efficiency

Most energy-efficient window treatments use layers of fabric to improve insulation and control light in the room, keeping it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Whether you like shades, drapes, blinds, or shutters, there are many energy-efficient window treatment choices.

To prevent UV rays from damaging your furniture and decor, consider solar shades or try UV-resistant window film if you prefer a clear view but don’t want to risk damage to your decor.

Motorization

Motorized window treatments will help you avoid continually moving the position of your blinds. With various sensors and timers available, they can be programmed to change on their own based on the sun’s position to give you the perfect lighting without lifting a finger.

Regardless of your home's direction, Budget Blinds can help you find window treatments that make sense for your home. 

Request a free in-home or virtual consultation from your local Budget Blinds design experts to get started.

Cowichan Valley
Call: 250.924.0249

Nanaimo-Oceanside
Call 250.751.8564

North Island - Courtenay
250.338.8564

 

Jun 30, 2024

Rancher/Bungalow For Sale in Courtenay

Discover the laid back West Coast style of living with this meticulously designed upscale rancher by Brando Construction, located in the sought-after community of The Ridge in Courtenay, BC. Offering 2,774 sq/ft of living space, this home welcomes you with a spacious layout that blends comfort and style from the moment you enter through the foyer.

The heart of the home is the great room, featuring 11-foot ceilings, custom built-ins, and a cozy gas fireplace—perfect for relaxing. The contemporary kitchen is a chef’s dream, equipped with stainless steel appliances, a large island with an eating bar, an oversized walk-in butler’s pantry with built-in shelving and cupboards, quartz countertops, custom shaker cabinetry, a custom-tiled backsplash, and hardwood floors. Adjacent to the kitchen, the formal dining area provides ample space for family gatherings and entertaining guests.

The primary bedroom is a serene retreat with a large walk-through closet and a spa-like 5-piece ensuite that includes double sinks, a custom tile shower, and a soaker tub. Sliding doors lead to a private covered patio, with provisions for a hot tub, offering a tranquil outdoor sanctuary.

The floor plan also includes two additional bedrooms, each with access to the main bath, providing comfort and privacy for family members or guests. Solid French doors open to a versatile living space, ideal for a media room or home office. Thoughtfully designed window coverings enhance both functionality and style in every room.

The fenced rear yard is perfect for outdoor relaxation, featuring a plumbed gas fire pit for quiet retreats or social gatherings. Professional landscaping, an underground sprinkler system, and a garage wired for an EV hookup complete this exceptional home. Scheduled for occupancy by the end of July, this home embraces the Vancouver Island lifestyle for the entire family.

Address: 3997 Buckstone Road Courtenay, BC
Price: $1,187,000
Listed by Courtney & Anglin 
Email: info@courtneyanglin.com
Bill Anglin: 250-703-6119

 

Jun 18, 2024

How to Choose: Blackout Blinds vs Light Filtering

This time of year, as the sun peaks up so early, you may be considering blackout blinds or curtains for your bedroom. When decideing on window coverings for your home, start with the question “Do you want any light in your room?” If you want the light, but need the glare and harmful UV rays filtered out, and a little privacy, Budget Blinds can offer options that may be more suitable than a blackout shade. 

On the other hand, if you need to sleep during the day or have a toddler that needs to take a daily nap, then a blackout shade or blackout curtain would likely be your best choice.

Options That Filter Light and Provide Privacy

If you like light but need privacy consider translucent roller shade fabrics that let a glow of light in but provide a level of privacy. Or woven shades with a light weight liner that allow light to filter through, but no one to see in your windows. This option also allows for the wonderful texture of the woven shade to be enhanced and not completely washed out by the harsh sunlight streaming through an unlined shade. Or consider the ever-versatile cellular shade with a range of fabric opacities and options like top-down/bottom up.

This is another reason to call your local Budget Blinds of Vancouver Island design consultant who will bring the samples to your home and show you how each fabric works with the light coming through your windows.

Do Blackout Shades Have to Be a Dark Colour?

Your blackout shades do not have to be black! In fact, they do not even have to be a dark colour. The “blackout” effect of the shade is not determined by the colour of the shade but the backing layer in the material.

You can have a light-coloured woven shade, or fabric Roman Shade, lined with a blackout liner. The blackout liners come in shades of white, beige and greys, great for condos. You can also choose a lighter colour for a roller shade - as long as it has the blackout backing, it will do the job of darkening your room. 

What about Blackout Curtains?

Like shades, custom blackout curtains are offer light blocking thanks to the lining and not the face fabric. So you can use a lighter weight fabric combined with a blackout lining to get all the light control and privacy you need.

As you can see there are a lot of things to consider when selecting the right window treatments! Budget Blinds is here to help. Your locally-owned stores bring years of experience, and a variety of samples directly to you. Budget Blinds will assist you in finding the right product that fits your style, your needs, and your budget. 

To get started contact your local store and schedule your complimentary in-home consultation today:

Cowichan Valley
Call: 250.924.0249

Nanaimo-Oceanside
Call 250.751.8564

North Island - Courtenay
250.338.8564

 

Mar 01, 2024

Brando Construction Continues with Legacy at The Ridge

More homes have been built by Brando Construction than by any other builder at The Ridge. Brando brings a sense of west coast style into every home they build. Currently, they have a home that has been completed and is ready for occupancy. 

Step into this 2,069 sq/ft Brando Construction rancher, and you'll find a spacious 3bedroom, 2 bath home ready for immediate occupancy. Expansive windows allow for natural light to stream into the welcoming living room customized with a tiled gas fireplace and built-in shelving.

Stainless steel appliances, a gas stove, and an island featuring a quartz counter eating bar, complete with a wine fridge make this kitchen the heart of the home. A thoughtfully designed butler's pantry, balancing functionality and aesthetics, seamlessly extends the kitchen with quartz countertops and built-in cupboards. 

The primary bedroom is a luxurious retreat, which includes a lavish 5-piece ensuite with a relaxing soaker tub and a generously sized tiled shower. You'll also find a large walk-in closet, providing ample storage space with built-in shelving and drawers. Two additional bedrooms share a guest-friendly 4 piece main bath configuration.

Enjoy the covered back patio, ideal for hosting barbecues and entertaining both family and guests. There is also a sunny front patio to soak up the sun. This home offers everything you need to move in – including appliances, an efficient heat pump, underground sprinklers, and meticulously landscaped surroundings. Nestled on a tranquil no-through street, this residence provides a peaceful environment and stunning views of the ocean, mountains, and forest. Immerse yourself in the quintessential Vancouver Island lifestyle at The Ridge – your forever home! 

Location: 4001 Buckstone Road, Courtenay, BC                                                                                                                                                   
Price: $1,068,000

Realtor, Bill Anglin at T: 250-703-6119 E: bill@courtneyanglin.com
Re/Max Ocean Pacific Realty

 

Feb 06, 2024

Save 50% This Month Only at Budget Blinds

Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island is having their biggest sale of the year all month long. Save 50% off MSRP pricing all of February!

Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island offers free in home consultations, so you can work with their experts in your own home to find the perfect match for your design and lifestyle needs. And with 50% savings during their biggest sale of the year now is the time to book that consultation!

Locally owned and operated, with locations across Vancouver Island, Budget Blinds offers the largest selection of window coverings in Canada, back by the best industry in the business! They are offer eth firneldy local service of a small business, backed by an amazing selection and pricing.

Call your local Budget Blinds of Vancouver Isalnd today to take advantage of their biggest sale of the year!

Cowichan Valley

Call: 250.924.0249

Nanaimo-Oceanside

Call 250.751.8564

North Island - Courtenay

250.338.8564

 

Jan 06, 2024

New Year, New Look for Your Home!

There are lots of ways to refresh your home, but an easy way to improve so many areas is new window coverings. Blinds, shades or curtains will update the look of your home, and also aid in temperature control, lighting, privacy and security.

Budget Blinds on Vancouver island offers a multitude of options to suit your style and budget. For unusually shaped windows, or for specific needs, they are your window covering specialists. Even if you don’t need to update the coverings themselves, maybe it's time to add automation, to let light in when you want it, and keep it out when you don’t. Enhance your home security by automatically opening and closing your blinds or curtains, even when you’re not home.

Locally owned and operated, Budget Blinds has several Vancouver Island locations to serve you, from the Cowichan Valley to Campbell River, and all places in between. Call your local store today to schedule a complimentary in home consultation. Trust the experts to measure and install it right the first time!

Cowichan Valley

Call: 250.924.0249

Nanaimo-Oceanside

Call 250.751.8564

North Island - Courtenay

250.338.8564

 

Dec 14, 2023

Holiday Wishes From Your Local Budget Blinds

The team at Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island would like to wish their clients and the communities they serve a safe and healthy holiday season.

Over many years, Budget Blinds has built a strong reputation of providing Vancouver Island residents with great service, selection and pricing.

Budget Blinds is well known for their in-person complimentary consultations with their in-house designers. These designer consultations are available in-person, or if you prefer, arrange a virtual consultation.

And as always, Budget Blinds’ selection covers all price points and styles. From partnerships with famous brands like Hunter Douglas to their own in-house brands, you’ll find a style that meets your budget and style. From curtain to shutters, and from automation to unique window shapes, they’ve got you covered!

Contact Budget Blinds today:

Call Budget Blinds today at any one of their three Vancouver Island locations:

Cowichan Valley

Call: 250.924.0249

Nanaimo-Oceanside

Call 250.751.8564

North Island - Courtenay

250.338.8564

 

Nov 17, 2023

Courtenay, BC | New Large Family Home + Carriage House that has a Legal Suite!

Lawmar Contracting, a distinguished builder with a four-decade legacy in the Comox Valley, proudly presents a new property at The Ridge in Courtenay, BC. This exquisite 1,719 sq. ft. rancher home is accompanied by a detached carriage house featuring an 806 sq. ft. legal one-bedroom suite on the upper floor.

Catering to the needs of large or extended families, this unique offering provides ample space with a total of 2,525 sq. ft., distributed in two separate structures on the same property, offering 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. You can use the carriage house for family or rent it out for additional income.

The main home boasts an open-concept design, seamlessly integrating the living room, kitchen, and dining areas, leading to a spacious covered patio—an ideal setting for outdoor gatherings. The primary bedroom is complemented by a luxurious 5-piece spa like ensuite and a walk-in closet.

This home includes a heat pump, a heat recovery system, and a pre-wired charging station for electric vehicles. The property features indoor parking for three vehicles and outdoor parking for up to three additional cars.

Situated in The Ridge, a desirable community in south Courtenay with no through traffic, this beautiful  home offers views of surrounding mountains and easy access to local forests, the ocean, and the Royston Seaside Trail. This home is ready for occupancy now,  marking the end of your quest for a beautiful new home on Vancouver Island!

Come to The Ridge in Courtenay, BC and enjoy the west coast lifestyle right from your doorstep.

Location: 4005 Buckstone Road, Courtenay, BC

MLS®# 939120 | Price: $1,350,000 + GST

For more information, contact the listing realtor: 
Tracy Fogtmann  RE/MAX Ocean Pacific Realty
Cell: 250.331.1544 Email: tracy@tracyfogtmann.ca

November,  2023 Pricing and availability is subject to change without notice.

 

Jun 06, 2023

Meet the Custom Home Builders at The Ridge in Courtenay.

The ocean and mountain view development of the Ridge on the south side of Courtenay on Vancouver Island has a long history of working with their preferred builders through 3 phases of construction in this community.

These builders know the community and have been building quality homes since the inception of The Ridge. With reserved lots, customizable floor plans and the expertise to make your Vancouver Island dream home a reality, these builders are all waiting to work for you!

Lawmar Contracting

Lawmar Contracting is a family-owned company that has been building custom homes for the past four decades in the Comox Valley. Their custom-designed homes are built knowing that families will live at The Ridge for many years. Lots at The Ridge allow for options including secondary suites and carriage homes, and Lawmar has some great options for these floor plans.

Coastal Custom Homes

Coastal Custom Homes builds with an eye to the future, with a focus on green construction. Owner Dean Verchuur has been building homes for over a decade. They are also well known for their enhanced design services to ensure stunning custom finishes to suit your style.

Candor Developments

Candor Developments lives up to their names, with a focus on honesty and integrity in their work - building great relationships with their homeowners along the way. They focus on making the home-building process easy for their clients!

Brando Construction

A long-time builder with a strong reputation in the Comox Valley, Brando builds quality homes featuring excellent craftsmanship. They aim to always exceed their clients’ expectations with a well-organized and smooth construction experience - even for those living out of town through the construction process.

Grand Legacy Homes

The owner of Grand Legacy Homes has been building homes in BC and Alberta for more than 30 years. They offer clients peace of mind with an easy and approachable communication style. Grand Legacy builds homes with high-quality finishings, to leave a lasting legacy.

Smits Construction

Smits Construction has been a registered residential home builder in the Comox Valley since 2007. Owner, Nathan Smits, is a Red Seal carpenter and an engineering technologist, allowing him and his team to create the customer’s desires from an initial architectural design to a building structure and ultimately to a comfortable finished home. Let them create quality with you!

The Ridge is the Friendliest Neighbourhood!

Located only minutes from downtown Courtenay, The Ridge is a quiet, friendly and safe community featuring spectacular mountain and ocean views. If you are thinking of moving to Vancouver Island, The Ridge may be the perfect location for you. Newcomers are given a warm welcome when relocating here. People of all ages live in this Courtenay community. It is family-friendly, retiree-friendly, dog-friendly - everyone-friendly!
For more information go to:www.theridgebc.ca Contact Bruce Clapham, Developer at 250.650.8588.

 

Apr 10, 2023

Why The Direction Your Windows Face Matters

Our Vancouver Island weather varies dramatically from season to season, and depending on the direction your rooms face, that variability can be even more impactful. Your home’s direction impacts how and when the sun hits each room and this can mean big changes in heat and light, depending on the season and direction each room faces.

South-facing windows

If your home faces South, it may have higher energy bills in the summer. Direct sunlight from the south causes heat to build up, forcing the AC to work harder. However, it may also be warmer in the winter for the same reason. 

Southern exposure makes a room cozy in the winter. The addition of shades to the window allows the option to raise the shades and enjoy the sun's warmth during those chilly winter months. However, it can also make summer too hot or bright without the right window treatments. That’s why it’s essential to work with a professional window treatment designer to determine which product will work best for a southern-facing window.

North-facing windows

Windows that face north receive natural light all day but don’t receive direct sunlight. Interior shutters are a great way to take advantage of the indirect sunlight from north-facing windows. Their louvers can let in as much or as little light as you like while the cordless design looks clean and uncluttered in kitchens, bathrooms, and home offices. 

Alternatively, sheer curtains add gentle textures and patterns to your interior decor without restricting sunlight. In daylight, pulling sheer drapes across the window allows the indirect sunlight to shine through and highlight the design. Adjust the blinds or shade behind the drapes to add privacy or control the light. 

East-facing windows

An east-facing window will catch the early sun, which can appear bright and glaring in the morning, and diffused and delicate later in the day. Dark colors will seem gloomy, but light colors and sheer materials bring out the softness of the sunlight.

Morning sunlight is welcome in a kitchen or living room, but it can be an annoyance in a bedroom. The best way to deal with morning light is to customize your window treatments to get exactly the amount of light you want.

West-facing windows

On summer afternoons, west-facing windows can cause heat to build up. To keep the room comfortable, make sure to keep them covered. Like with south-facing windows, you don't want to lose all the natural light you get from west-facing windows, but you also need to deal with glare and heat. Blinds are a great choice because you can change their angle as the sun moves, diffusing light without blocking it out.

Energy efficiency

Most energy-efficient window treatments use layers of fabric to improve insulation and control light in the room, keeping it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Whether you like shades, drapes, blinds, or shutters, there are many energy-efficient window treatment choices.

To prevent UV rays from damaging your furniture and decor, consider solar shades or try UV-resistant window film if you prefer a clear view but don’t want to risk damage to your decor.

Motorization

Motorized window treatments will help you avoid continually moving the position of your blinds. With various sensors and timers available, they can be programmed to change on their own based on the sun’s position to give you the perfect lighting without lifting a finger.

Regardless of your home's direction, Budget Blinds can help you find window treatments that make sense for your home. 

Request a free in-home or virtual consultation from your local Budget Blinds design experts to get started.

Cowichan Valley
Call: 250.924.0249

Nanaimo-Oceanside
Call 250.751.8564

North Island - Courtenay
250.338.8564

 

Mar 26, 2023

Tour This New Home by Coastal Custom Homes at The Ridge in Courtenay

One of the premier builders at The Ridge in Courtenay - Coastal Custom Homes - has recently finished constrcution on a 2,862 sq. ft home. Set on on a large lot, the home features a freestanding, heated garage at the back of the home. This 336 sq. ft. building offers a variety of options, to use as a workshop, studio or space for recreational equipment. The lot also backs onto a community trail system and farmalnd, providing a wide-open feel and offering plenty of privacy.

The kitchen layout is contemporary, incorporating ceiling-height cabinets, an island with granite countertops, a custom backsplash and a walk-in pantry with built-in shelving. The open living room and dining room area lead to the covered outdoor patio. Engineered hardwood flooring is featured on the main floor.

The primary bedroom features a luxury four-piece ensuite, complete with a stand-alone soaker tub and a walk-in tiled shower. A large closet with built-in shelving is located adjacent to the ensuite. 

The upper floor features three additional bedrooms, a five-piece bath, and a bonus room over the garage. There is a peek-a-boo ocean view from this floor offering views of Comox Bay and the Comox Glacier.

This home includes energy-saving technology, offers an EV plugin in the garage and is wired to include solar panels at any point in the future. It has been built to Step Code 4 standards and includes a heat pump and a full HRV system, providing heat in the cooler months and air conditioning in the warmer months.

This home is fully landscaped and fenced and has a double garage and additional parking on the right-hand side of the home.

As an added bonus, this home has a large crawl space that is five feet high! Use it for additional storage space for recreational and seasonal items.

The Ridge, one of the Friendliest Communities in Courtenay, BC

This custom home is lcoated in The Ridge, one of the most sought-after and friendliest neighbourhoods in Courtenay offering a quiet, scenic and welcoming community where residents of all ages connect and make new friends. A large two-acre park is only a three-minute walk from this home and is available for family enjoyment every day of the year. Forest trails and a walkway to the ocean are just minutes away!

Location: 3386 Eagleview Crescent, Courtenay, BC – Price $1,275,000
Contact: Dean Thompson RE/MAX Ocean Pacific Realty
Phone: 250.898.4777

March, 2023 – Pricing and availability subject to change without notice.

Feb 10, 2023

Are Your Window Coverings on Trend for 2023?

Design professionals and homeowners are seeing the following trends for 2023, accoridng to the design and building site Houzz. They include:

  1. The Return of Colour
  2. Playful Traditional Style
  3. Layers of Texture
  4. Connection to the Outdoors
  5. Natural Materials

We Want Colour!

Bringing back more colour is one of the most common trends in the Houzz survey. After years of gray and white, it appears our extended time at home made us realize we miss colour! As we have become comfortable in our homes, we've gained confidence to surround ourslevs with our favorite colours, regardless of current trends whether on-trend or not! Go all in with colour, by adding saturated walls in a study or office, or just bring in a pop of colour with accessories like pillows, rugs, and artwork.

Colour can also be added through custom window coverings! Budget Blinds onV ancouver Island can match a paint colour for your blinds or shutters or create a bold custom fabric for drapery, pillows, and Roman shades. 

Traditional Becomes Playful

What exactly is Playful Traditional?

The phrase popped up in the recent Houzz survey and in design magazines. Homeowners, especially younger first-time homeowners, are embracing traditional styling with a twist. They are adding their personality to the style with new colours, vibrant wallpaper, and by mixing vintage and modern furniture in rooms with traditional architecture. 

Layering shades and draperies is the perfect complement to the playful traditional look. Classic drapes in a fun print or bold updated colour over a textured woven shade is the ideal combination of classic elements in an updated style. 

Natural Materials and Organic Style

Natural materials are trending everywhere - from stone countertops and white oak cabinetry to wood floors, handmade tiles, and stone fireplaces, a natural organic feel is on-trend for 2023 and beyond.

Connecting to the Outdoors 

Windows are getting more prominent, and large glass doors are often featured elements of home remodels or new builds. On Vancouver Island, our love of the outdoors, combined with the natural benefits of sunlight, has homeowners seeking a natrual connection and ways to bring the outdoors in.

While big panes of glass us the best views and abundant natural light, also create a window covering challenge. Seek advice from a trusted window covering designer at Budget Blinds. Budget Blinds has the perfect options to filter light and give you a layer of privacy when needed no matter what size your windows are.

2023 is About Personalization

Regardless of trends, homeowners will reflect their personalities and preferred colour choices in their homes.

Budget Blinds understands personalization; it is what they offer daily to homeowners across Vancouver Island. Visit their website to schedule a complimentary consultation with your local Budget Blinds design consultant and find the perfect window treatment to fit your home's personality.

Jan 12, 2023

New Year, New Look - Time to Dress Those Windows with Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island

The New Year is a great time to create a new look for your home! Freshen up your space with new window coverings this season and take advantage of the great prices and selection from Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island.

Not sure where to start? Arrange a complimentary in-home consultation with one of Budget Blinds’ designers. You’ll learn about the newest styles and features, as well as get some guidance on colour choices and design. Work with the designer colours of the year to stay on trend, or choose something classic like wooden shades. Find the right products to suit your family’s lifestyle and budget, all in the comfort of your own home.

New window coverings will update the look of your home as well as enhance privacy, energy efficiency, and safety. Improving your home’s energy efficiency with updated window coverings will provide savings for years to come.

On Vancouver Island, Budget Blinds serves the Comox Valley, Campbell River, Nanaimo, the Cowichan Valley and beyond.

Schedule a complimentary in-home consultation with your local Budget Blinds today to learn more.

Cowichan Valley

Nanaimo-Oceanside

North Island - Courtenay

Jan 11, 2023

The Ridge on Vancouver Island has New Move-In Ready Homes

One of The Ridge's preferred builders, Candor Developments is featuring a new home for sale  - it has just been completed and is ready for occupancy. This new Vancouver Island home is located just minutes from downtown Courtenay, in Phase 3B of The Ridge community. You'll enjoy stunning mountain views from inside the home, from the large backyard, or the covered deck at the rear of the home. 

This large 2,691 sq. ft. home features five bedrooms and three bathrooms over two levels. With so much room for the family, you can also gather in the great room, family room and kitchen on the main floor. Or retreat to to any of the three bedrooms on the main floor. Two bathrooms are also located on the main floor. A gas fireplace with built-in shelving on both sides is a focal point in the great room.

The primary bedroom is located at the back of the home, creating a quiet place to relax. There are double glass doors from this bedroom leading to the outdoor covered deck. The ensuite features a tiled rain shower with glass doors, a large stand alone tub, two sinks, under cabinet lighting and heated tiles for the cooler mornings.. 

Upstairs offers two more bedrooms, a full bathroom and a bonus room, perfect to create a chidrens’ play area or a home office. With plenty of natural light, the options for this space are endless. 

This home offers a double, attached garage and fully landscaped yard. If you are looking for a piece of Vancouver Island to be your forever home, this could be the perfect place!

Location: 3274 Eagleview Crescent in the Ridge, Courtenay, BC.
Price: $1,185,000

Please contact Realtor Richelle Newson for inquiries and showings.
Phone | 778-977-2029
Email | hello@realestatebyrichelle.com

 

Dec 12, 2022

Happy Holidays From the Team at Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island

The team at Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island would like to wish their clients and the communities they serve a happy and healthy holiday season. Throughout 2022, Budget Blinds has continued to provide Vancouver Island residents with the great service they are known for.

Budget Blinds is well known for their in-person complimentary consultations with their in-house designers. These are now available in-person, or if you prefer, arrange a virtual consultation. And as always, Budget Blinds’ selection covers all price points and styles. From partnerships with famous brands like Hunter Douglas to their own in-house brands, you’ll find a style that meets your budget and your window coverings needs. From curtain to shutters, and from automation to unique window shapes, they’ve got you covered!

Contact Budget Blinds today:

Call Budget Blinds today at any one of their three Vancouver Island locations:

Cowichan Valley

Call: 250.924.0249

Nanaimo-Oceanside

Call 250.751.8564

North Island - Courtenay

250.338.8564

 

Nov 27, 2022

New Homes with Carriage Homes For Sale at The Ridge in Courtenay

Three of the preferred builders at The Ridge have homes with carriage houses under construction in Courtenay, BC. Thanks to the innovative design and zoning at The Ridge, there are lots available to accommodate two dwellings on one lot.

What is a Carriage House?

A carriage house, also known as a coach house, is a separate building, typically at the rear of the primary home, that usually offers a garage or workshop on the main floor and a suite, or guest accommodation, home office or hobby/gym area on the 2ne floor. All of the upper floors in these three coach houses are designed as residences that can be legally rented out to generate a monthly income.

4033 Buckstone Road, Courtenay, BC 

Built by Coastal Custom Homes, this home includes a 2,538 sq ft two-storey home plus a carriage house that includes a 652 sq ft separate two-bedroom suite. In total, this property features 3,190 sq ft of living space which includes six bedrooms and four bathrooms in the two dwellings. 

Fantastic views of the Comox Glacier from both dwellings are stunning. This home will be completed in December 2022. 

MLS® 903686  | Price: $1,399,000 + GST
Contact: Dean Thompson RE/MAX Ocean Pacific Realty
Phone: 250.898.4777  Email: dean@deanthompson.ca

4009 Buckstone Road, Courtenay, BC

Built by Lawmar Contracting, the primary home features a 2,533 sq ft two-storey home with a detached three-bay garage and a carriage house which includes an 806 sq ft legal suite. This property has two dwellings totalling 3,339 sq ft and has 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. 

This home features open views of the surrounding mountains. Occupancy is scheduled for late December or January 2023.

MLS® 906422 | Price: $1,450,000 + GST
Contact: Tracy Fogtmann  RE/MAX Ocean Pacific Realty
Cell: 250.331.1544 Email: tracy@tracyfogtmann.ca

4021 Buckstone Road, Courtenay, BC

Built by Smits Construction, this primary home plus the carriage home has a total of 3,200 sq ft in two dwellings. The carriage house contains a one-bedroom, one-bathroom suite and a two-car garage. In total, there are 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. 

This home features open views of the surrounding mountains. This home has been completed and is ready for occupancy.

MLS® 908011 | Price: $1,399,000 + GST
Nathan and Kim King at Engel & Volkers Vancouver Island
Cell | Nathan: 250650.5654  Email: kinggroup@evrealestate.com

These homes are located in one of the friendliest and prettiest neighbourhoods in Courtenay and on Vancouver Island. It is truly the best community to call home.

Contact your own realtor or one of the listing realtors to have a look at these beautiful properties. 

Nov 18, 2022

Calm or Colourful? 2023 Colours of The Year Offer Options

Bold or Subtle? The choice is yours, with this year’s leading paint producers announcing their colours of the year. And as always, once you’ve made your choice, your local Vancouver Island Budget Blinds stores are ready to help you incorporate your colours into your home!

The colours and messaging behind the selections this year from Sherwin Willams and Benjamin Moore offer striking differences. Sherwin Williams selected Redend Point, a subtle neutral that will appeal to a minimalist design aesthetic. On the other hand, Benjamin More chose the bold, bright, “look at me” colour of Raspberry Blush, sure to appeal to those not afraid to use colour.

"Redend Point is a heartening hue that invites compassion and connection into any space," said Sue Wadden, Director of Color Marketing at Sherwin-Williams when annoucing the colour selection. "The colour is a natural choice for those looking for a warm and joyful neutral in both interiors and exteriors. Build on its earthiness by utilizing the hue alongside natural-looking textiles and wood accents—or create a desert oasis by layering shades of terra-cotta and clay materials.”

Budget Blinds Inspired Shades Collection features woven shades with refined textures and natural fibers that perfectly complement Resend Point. Add white or natural linen sheer drapery panels to complete the look.

Unlike the subtle choice by Sherwin Williams, Benjamin Moore's pick for the 2023’s Colour of the Year is the vibrant Raspberry Blush. The saturated shade energizes a room for a bright, charismatic look that's anything but subtle!

After years of neutrals and grays, “People are ready to bring colour back into the home, taking a step outside their colour comfort zones,” said Andrea Magno, Color Marketing and Development Director at Benjamin Moore. “Raspberry Blush empowers the use of statement colors that deliver delight and personality while transforming rooms for incredible results."

Are you ready for raspberry walls and ceilings? For the maximalist, envelope a room in Raspberry Blush from the walls to the trim and the ceiling to wrap a room in an optimistic boldness. If that’s too bold of an option for you, make a smaller impact statement on a kitchen island or add a pop of Raspberry Blush in pillows or accent decor. Soft shades of gray, white, and beige balance the bright hue.

Or mix it with colours from the rest of Benjamin Moore’s 2023 palette, which includes a range of saturated tones varying from a deep blue to a sultry green to more rich chocolate and cinnamon hues. For Magno, all of these share one unifying commonality: “They’re all happy. And we all need a bit of that right now.”

Your home is a place to express your personality and feature the colours and décor you love. It should be your happy place! That is why Budget Blinds offers a range of products. From soothing neutrals and minimalist modern roller shades to rich fabrics in bold colours for drapes. 

Plus, did you know they can create a one-of-a-kind custom fabric to match any colour? Budget Blinds’ exclusive DesignINK program allows your local Budget Blinds to create a fabric to match any paint colour you like. Schedule a complimentary in-home consultation with your local Budget Blinds today to learn more.

Cowichan Valley

Nanaimo-Oceanside

North Island - Courtenay

 

Oct 03, 2022

Budget Blinds Celebrates Anniversary with a Massive Giveaway

Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island is celebrating 30 years of serving Island communities with a  $30,000 giveaway!

Open to Vancouver Island homeowners, this 30th anniversary contest will award 3 prizes worth 15K, 10K and 5K in credit toward products and services from Budget Blinds.

Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island is a locally owned and operated business, with several locations to serve you! Known for their fabulous customer service and extensive products lines, Budget Blinds has been helping Vancouver Island families with beautiful and functional window coverings for 30 years.

They offer complimentary in-home consultations to ensure you get the right product for your needs, with expert guidance. Installation options are also available to guarantee the correct fit every time.

Enter their anniversary contest today, and you could be on your way to a whole new look for your home!

Be sure to read the full contest rules. Entry deadline is Nov. 13, 2022.

For more inspiration, visit your local store today:

Cowichan Valley

Nanaimo-Oceanside

North Island - Courtenay

 

Vancouver Island real estate is just one click away, find your perfect property at 1stView.ca

Contact 1stView.ca

Office Phone: 250-338-5466
Email:clarice@1stview.ca

Courtenay, British Columbia
Canada