Realstar Announces New Features to Ensure a Safe Rental Experience – Touch Free Leasing

The health and safety of our residents, employees and future residents has always been our priority; especially as we all navigate through COVID-19. For over 45 years, Realstar has been helping Canadians coast-to-coast find and enjoy their perfect apartment home. While many aspects of daily living have changed in recent months; Realstar’s commitment to providing safe and well-maintained homes for residents to enjoy remains in place. We have adjusted our rental process to offer a safe and convenient experience without the need to meet in-person.  We call it touch free leasing.  

1. Discover your new home on Realstar.ca

Realstar.ca is the perfect place to begin your new apartment home search, with over 160 properties across Canada and all the essential information needed to help narrow your search. Each community has a website that includes photo galleries and floor plans pages with pricing and availability so you can select your ideal layout!

Many properties also offer a 3D tour where you can virtually experience a model suite. Not sure the community is a fit for you? Each property site also features a Nearby Property section where you can explore additional Realstar communities close by.

2. Virtually Tour with Us

See something you like? Our professional on-site management teams are here to help! We would be delighted to offer a more personal one-on-one virtual tour where you can see your new home and ask any questions. You can book your private virtual tour using the online ‘Book a Tour’* scheduler or via phone or email.  We will send you a link to connect directly via video conferencing tools such as Zoom, Tour.Rentals or FaceTime/Skype.   

3. We’ll Send the Details

We want you to feel comfortable while virtually touring with us and recognize the details could be a lot to take in. After your tour, we can send you a customized email outlining the property, the toured apartment, rental fees, amenity spaces and the next steps towards completing an application.

4. Complete an application and pay your Last Month Rent (LMR)/Security Deposit(SD)* online

If you liked what you see and are interested in joining the community, our team will ensure you have everything you need to submit an application online from the comfort of your home. Once your application is approved you will be able to provide digital payment towards your LMR or SD*.
* depending on property and your province of residence.

5. Digitally Sign and Return Your Lease

You’re almost there! We will send you a link inviting you to digitally sign your lease via RentCafe or Docu-Sign*. From the convenience and security of your own home, you can read, sign and return your new apartment home lease.
* depending on property and your province of residence.

6. Touch Free Move-Ins

Welcome home! Prior to picking up your keys via a contactless delivery system, our on-site team will reach out via video conference to welcome and walk you through the move-in details (ex. booking the elevator for private use and arranging any moving room(s). We are pleased to offer a video conference suite inspection or provide you with a form to sign and submit digitally. Your welcome package and our contact information will be waiting for you when you arrive.

7. Your Best Move Starts Here!

At Realstar, you can expect unparalleled customer service that exceeds sure to exceed expectations of what a perfect home can be. Guaranteed.

The post Realstar Announces New Features to Ensure a Safe Rental Experience – Touch Free Leasing appeared first on Realstar Blog.

The beauty about living through this mandated time of self-isolation is the countless online resources that are available to us.  Alleviate boredom and improve your well-being with a variety of resources that will keep you busy, challenge your brain, stay healthy and connected through COVID-19.

Entertainment

Does the COVID-19 pandemic have you feeling bored? Do you miss enjoying a bag of your favourite movie theatre popcorn or dressing up and taking in the latest musical? There are countless options available right now to keep you entertained all in the comfort of your own home:

• The Show Must Go On: Andrew Lloyd Webber offers free musicals to stream on YouTube 
• l'Orchestre classique de Montréal: 45-minute session streamed on Facebook 
• Netflix Party: new feature that are designed to connect long-distance friends, family, and neighbors 

Health/Fitness

While lounging across the couch in front of the tv has it’s time and place, there has never been a better time to become a fitness junkie. Here are some resources to keep you moving and staying healthy while waiting for the pandemic to pass:

• Core Power Yoga: Offering hour long classes and meditation 
• Barre 3: 15 Day at Home Challenge 
• Planet Fitness: Work-ins via YouTube 
• Pilates Anytime: 15 day trial – online, anytime 
• Pelaton: Extended 90 day trial! 

Education

Staying at home through COVID-19 may have confined us into our homes, but it has also provided us with an invaluable commodity – time. There’s never been a better time to learn a new skill, embrace a hobby or simply try something new with your family. Whether you are looking to read the newest best seller, develop your inner chef or simply looking to keep your mind sharp, below are some of the resources available:

• Learn to cook with industry leaders:
  • Chef Massimo Bottura hosts “Kitchen Quarantine” everyday at 3pm on his Instagram 
  • Milk Street Cooking School: Offering more than a dozen free online courses 
  • America’s Test Kitchen: 3 week trial 
• Read (or listen) to free books:
  • Audiable is offering a 30 day free trial and 30% off any books after 

The post Staying Healthy, Entertained and Learning through COVID-19 – Digitally appeared first on Realstar Blog.

1. Changes to Resident Services/Rental Office
   • Our commitment to unparalleled customer service and 24/7 on-site management remains in place. In light of the evolving COVID-19 situation you may experience modified set-ups. This varies across our communities and may include:
     • Office remain open with the doors locked and on-site staff ready to help via phone and email.
     • In some cases, temporary office closure or reduced office hours.
   • As always, your on-site management teams remain accessible via telephone or email and will do their best to accommodate all inquiries and requests within a reasonable timeframe. 

2. Maintenance Requests: Emergency In-Suite Maintenance Only
   • To further protect the safety of residents and employees, at this time Realstar will complete emergency in-suite maintenance only. This will help minimize the spread of the virus by reducing staff (and external contractors) entering residents’ homes.
   • Before conducting maintenance within your home, Realstar staff will ask if you have recently traveled anywhere, including by vehicle within Canada, been in close contact with someone who has a probable or confirmed case or if anyone in your household feels unwell. This will help the on-site team determine the best course of action for your safety and employees.
   • Emergency maintenance include items such as:
     • Lack of heat
     • Essential appliance failure (e.g. fridge not working)
     • Flooding
   • Did you know: You can submit maintenance requests online through the Realstar Resident Portal or App. 

3. Online: Realstar Resident Portal & App
   • The Realstar Resident Portal is an apartment rental living service offering one stop convenience for your needs 24/7.
   • Payments: From the comfort of your own home you can make quick, safe and secure payments directly from a bank account or credit card.
     • Note: Realstar acknowledges this unprecedented and evolving time may have strained residents’ resources. As such, we will be covering all 1.75% credit card processing fees charged by our service provider until further notice.
   • Maintenance: Submit maintenance requests online.
     • To help the team assess your Maintenance request, be sure to upload a photo.  
   • Accessing your account?
     • Download the Realstar Resident Portal App or login online via Realstar.ca
   • Need an account?
     • Email or phone your property and request your personal invite

4. Increased Cleaning & Sanitation
   • As we focus our effort to minimize the spread, we have increased cleaning and sanitation efforts throughout all high traffic areas including lobbies, laundry facilities and elevators.
   • Similarly, we encourage all residents to wash their hands often, especially before leaving and upon returning to their homes; this includes use of the elevators and laundry facilities.

5. Amenity Spaces Closure
   • To minimize the spread of COVID-19 and to comply with physical distancing recommendations, Realstar has made the decision to temporarily close all non-essential amenity spaces, including gyms, pools, social lounges and alike until further notice.
   • Realstar recognizes the inconvenience, but know this decision was made with the safety of you and the community in mind. Doing so enables on-site teams to focus on additional cleaning and sanitation of high traffic areas.

6. Three’s A Crowd: Elevator Etiquette, Laundry Rooms & Mail Boxes
   • Elevators:
     • When using elevator, respect the 2-3-person limitation as these are close quarters and otherwise difficult to maintain the recommended 2m distance for physical isolation. Other suggestions include:
       • Face the elevator walls
       • Wait for the next elevator  
       • Where possible, take the stairs. 
   • Laundry Facilities
     • When using the common laundry facilities, keep the recommended 6-foot physical distance from other residents.
     • Don’t wait for your wash/dry cycles to complete. Set a timer and come back to the laundry room to collect your belongings to allow other residents to use the machine(s).
     • Don’t touch another resident’s belongings.
     • Avoid using the laundry facilities if you feel unwell or are sick.
   • Mail Boxes:
     • When collecting your mail, keep the recommended 6-foot physical distance from other residents.
     • Canada Post requests all residents give their employees space and avoid opening the door or greeting them when they are filling the mailbox.
   • As always, avoid touching your face while using common areas such as lobbies, laundry facilities, elevators and mailboxes and immediately wash your hands upon return to your apartment.

7. Avoid Inviting People Over & Deliveries
   • We request all residents to comply with the recommendation to self-isolate and only leave your homes when absolutely necessary. This extends to inviting others into your home and community for the time being. Limit any visitors to essential care only.
   • This request also extends to food delivery and courier services. To comply with safety protocols and to protect you and the community, we ask residents making use of these services to meet them downstairs and outside the lobby entrances.

8. Neighbours
   • You may wish to help your neighbours such as assisting with grocery pick-up or other essential shopping. This is a great way to help each other and minimize the number of people going out in the public. If doing so, we suggest making arrangements via phone or email.
   • If you are checking up your neighbour(s) or delivering anything to them, keep the recommended 6-foot physical distance.  

9. Pets 
   • Health Canada advises there is no evidence to suggest that household pet(s) can spread COVID-19.
   • We request anyone who is self-isolating after returning home from travel or having come in contact with someone with COVID-19 not take their pets for walks and make arrangements for another family member to look after them.
   • We encourage all residents to avoid touching any pets that do not belong to them.

10. Garbage / Recycling
    • Garbage and waste management will continue as normal. We have increased cleaning and sanitation efforts throughout all high traffic areas including taking extra steps to wipe down waste chute handles where applicable.
    • We request anyone who is self-isolating after returning home from travel or having come in contact with someone with COVID-19 contact the rental office via phone or email to discuss a household waste management solution for your apartment.
    • We encourage all residents to wash their hands often, especially before leaving and upon returning to their homes; this includes using garbage and recycling chutes and bins.

11. Open Communication
    • It is our objective to keep residents informed with up-to-date information as the situation continues to unfold. We appreciate these are challenging times, and as always, we want residents to know we are here for them. We will continue to share updates as they are available.
    • Please reach out to your on-site management team if you are experiencing any issues adhering to these guidelines.

12. Government Health Resources
    • We encourage residents to follow Health Canada guidelines for COVID-19, including planning activities, assistance, travel and stocking up on essentials. Additional information is provided via the following links:
      • Updates: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection.html
      • Being Prepared: https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/diseases/2019-novel-coronavirus-infection/being-prepared.html
      • Benefits & Services: https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/notices/coronavirus.html

13. Government Financial Assistance Programs
14. • Canada wide: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/covid-19-update.html#cerb
    • Ontario: https://budget.ontario.ca/2020/marchupdate/
    • BC: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support
    • Quebec: https://www.quebec.ca/sante/problemes-de-sante/a-z/coronavirus-2019/situation-coronavirus-quebec/  (or in English: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/health-issues/a-z/2019-coronavirus/situation-coronavirus-in-quebec/#c47907)
    • Alberta: https://www.alberta.ca/covid-19-supports-for-albertans.aspx
    • Saskatchewan: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-information-for-businesses-and-workers/support-for-workers
    • Nova Scotia: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/#support

Realstar has established a pandemic committee dedicated to actively monitoring the COVID-19 situation, related impacts and developments while delivering direction towards next steps. With over 45 years of experience in helping Canadians coast-to-coast find and enjoy their homes, Realstar remains dedicated to our ability to operate effectively while maintaining customer service. It is with the resolve of our team and communities alike that we will navigate through these changing times. Together we can reduce the spread of the COVID-19 and flatten the curve.

The post COVID-19: Resources and Conveniences for Residents appeared first on Realstar Blog.

As we all work together to reduce the spread and flatten the curve, the Covid-19 pandemic has left many Canadians facing uncertain times and even economic hardship. There are various government programs that may be able to assist residents financially. Below are links to various federal and provincial programs.

• Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/campaigns/covid-19-update.html#cerb
• Canada Economic Response: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/economic-response-plan.html 
• Canada Economic Response Plan and Support for Canadian Businesses: https://www.canada.ca/en/department-finance/news/2020/03/canadas-covid-19-economic-response-plan-support-for-canadians-and-businesses.html
• Canada COVID-19 Income Sources (EI, CPP, and OAS, Child Benefits & Student Loans): https://www.canada.ca/en/employment-social-development/corporate/notices/coronavirus.html
• Ontario: https://budget.ontario.ca/2020/marchupdate/
• BC: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-preparedness-response-recovery/covid-19-provincial-support
• Quebec: https://www.quebec.ca/sante/problemes-de-sante/a-z/coronavirus-2019/situation-coronavirus-quebec/  (or in English: https://www.quebec.ca/en/health/health-issues/a-z/2019-coronavirus/situation-coronavirus-in-quebec/#c47907)
• Alberta: https://www.alberta.ca/covid-19-supports-for-albertans.aspx
• Saskatchewan: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/government/health-care-administration-and-provider-resources/treatment-procedures-and-guidelines/emerging-public-health-issues/2019-novel-coronavirus/covid-19-information-for-businesses-and-workers/support-for-workers
• Nova Scotia: https://novascotia.ca/coronavirus/#support

These and other programs will help to offset the financial strain that some residents may be facing. If these measures are not sufficient and you are struggling financially due to the economic impact of COVID-19, please contact your Resident Manager. 

Lets all do our part. If you haven’t experienced significant financial hardship directly related to the COVID-19 pandemic, you should pay your rent. This will help ensure assistance is available to those residents who really need it. 

The post COVID-19: Government Programs offering Financial Assistance appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Front Entrance
Store all your essentials to get you out the door quickly and easily by creating an entry way. Find a small, empty wall near your front door and install a floating shelf, some hooks and a mirror. This easy set up organizes your keys, coat, shoes and accessories all in one neat and functional area.

Bedroom
August is a great time to take advantage of summer sales. While this may be great news for your wallet it can mean bad news for your closet. Adding an extender rod is a simple way to double your closet's hanging capacity without using a single tool. Simply hang it onto your existing closet rod and adjust the additional bar to the proper height. If you really want to maximize your closet space, add an over-the-door hook rack (hanging door organizers) to hang your outer wear and even shoes.

If you still need additional closet or drawer space to house seasonal items, an under the bed storage bin is great use of a tiny space. It fits perfectly underneath your bed and keeps your clothes protected until the next seasonal change.

The post Space Saving Tips appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Colourful throw pillows: Nothing says summer like bright colours and prints. Try accenting your couch or favourite lounge chair with shades of blue, yellow or green. If bright colours aren’t your thing, try fun prints such as the ever so popular pineapple or banana leaf prints.

Flowers and Fruits: Summer produces a lush variety of fragrant flowers and fresh fruits. Bring nature inside your home by displaying seasonal flowers such as hydrangeas, peonies, or dried lavender. To help keep costs low, try placing faux flowers in a simple decorative vase. Green plants are also a nice alternative and tend to last longer. Displaying your favourite summer fresh fruits, such as peaches or mangos, is an easy and healthy way to add a pop of colour to your kitchen table.

Fresh linens: Start and end your day off right with fresh bed linens. Make your bedroom or guest room an inviting space to relax by covering your bed with clean white sheets. Accent your bed by adding a splash of colour with printed throw pillows and blankets. 

Stock your bar: If you’re of legal drinking age, keep your bar fully stocked and ready to mix up some fun summer cocktails dressed with paper umbrellas and maraschino cherries. It’ll come in handy for all the impromptu gatherings on the balcony – after all, that’s what summer is all about!

The post Easy Tips To Make Your Apartment Feel Like Summer appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Among those recognized, Alto Rentals was awarded Rental Development of the Year. This sleek and modern property stands out in an older part of Toronto, known as Little Portugal. Alto made its mark in this trendy, up and coming neighbourhood by being Toronto’s first 100% smoke-free building. Its LEED Silver certified design means residents are living in a clean, energy-efficient and environmentally conscious property. It gets better once you step inside any one of the condo-style suites with unique layouts. Each suite is equipped with stone countertops, a dishwasher, in-suite laundry and central heating and air conditioning. The amenities are a modern Torontonian’s dream with access to a roof-top lounge, barbeque area, fitness gym, bike and car share program, not to mention the countless mom-and-pop restaurants and cafes along the hip Dundas strip.

Our mission at Realstar is to set and maintain the highest standards in Canadian rental housing. Alto Rentals’ state-of-the-art amenities, green design and creative suite layouts make it a winning submission. Congratulations to all involved in making Alto an award-winning rental development!

The post Alto Rentals Awarded Rental Development of the Year! appeared first on Realstar Blog.

1. Unplug fridge, slide a coil brush under the units kick plate (the rectangular panel at the bottom of the unit just above the floor) to remove any gathered dust.

2. Remove all the food from the fridge ensuring it’s completely empty. Place all the food on a table or counter top.

3. Sort through the food and dispose of any gone off or out of date items. Don’t take any chances if it’s questionable better of binning it. Place food into sealed bags before disposing, decreasing the chance of leakage and mould spread. Recycle any packaging and jars.

4. Remove all shelves and drawers from the fridge. Don’t wash them right away, give them time to reach room temperature so as the warm water wont crack the cold glass. Wash one by one in the sink (use a sponge or cloth with a little dish washer liquid on it). For hard stubborn stains such as spilt milk or food residue you may want to leave the drawer or shelf soaking in warm Foamy water for a few minutes. When clean, rinse of and leave to dry at side of sink or dish rack.

5. Spray inside of fridge with a multi-purpose spray and use a sponge or cloth to clean it. Pay special attention to any shelves inside the door and seal around the door for any dirt or traces of food. White toothpaste can be a safe and effective way of removing stubborn stains plus it has a pleasant smell.

6. Ensure inside of unit and all shelves are dry and place all back in the fridge. Plug the unit back in.

7. Place all the food back in the fridge. Wipe off all jars and packaging before re-placing them. Segregate food for safety, i.e. veg on one shelf raw meet on another.

8. Wipe around the outside of the unit with multi-purpose spray.

9. Continue on with the rest of your day safe in the knowledge you’ve ticked one more thing off that dreaded to do list and that the mysterious jar will no longer haunt your dreams.

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