Before the snow begins to fall and the winter winds blow, it’s time to think about keeping your family warm and safe at home and in the car during the long Canadian winter. But the high cost of renovations, repairs and maintenance can leave you out in the cold. These money saving tips will help you weather any winter storm without blowing your budget.

• Spruce up your home for the holidays…for less. If you’re hosting a holiday event, you’ll want your home looking its festive best. Check out Flyerland.ca for seasonal deals from  The Brick on furniture, appliances, electronics and home décor from Michaels and Bouclair that will add sparkle to any room

• Save on home improvements now. Renovating the bathroom, installing hardwood floors or finishing the basement are great gifts to give yourself. Many companies are offering special deals and payment plans so you can save before the HST comes to Ontario next year.  Find home improvement offers from Reliance Home Comfort on Flyerland.ca.  Time is running out to take advantage of the Home Renovation Tax Credit. Check the HRTC site to be sure your project is eligible for the credit—and don’t forget to keep your receipts!

• Maintain your home to avoid expensive emergency repairs. Before old man winter comes knocking, be sure your home is in tip top shape. For heating/air conditioning inspections, chimney and duct cleaning, basement waterproofing and more, visit the coupon section of Flyerland.ca for Clip or Click coupon deals in your city.

• Clean up your lawn and garden. When preparing your home for winter, don’t forget your yard. Be sure to rake up the leaves, otherwise the grass can suffocate which means you’ll spend more money restoring your lawn in the spring. Store patio furniture and other equipment to avoid unnecessary wear from harsh winter weather. Remember to put away the garden hose and turn off the outside water supply—freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, and that’s a costly repair!  Home Depot and Canadian Tire have weekly cost saving offers just in the nick of time.

• Plan car maintenance early. Last year auto service centres ran out of snow tires, so this year they’re offering great deals now to encourage people to plan ahead. If you wait you could miss out on the savings and have to buy more expensive tires. While you’re there, be sure to have a full winter car inspection to help avoid a breakdown or other repairs down the road. You can also check online at Flyerland.ca to see GM’s Winter Savings Flyer.   

By Debbie Frye, General Manager, Flyerland.ca