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1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.0.2World Environment Day 2025
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2025/05/23/world-environment-day-2025/
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2025/05/23/world-environment-day-2025/#respondFri, 23 May 2025 20:09:00 +0000https://www.realstar.ca/blog/?p=1216Beat Plastic Pollution: Join the Global Movement on World Environment Day 2025! Every year on June 5th, World Environment Day unites millions around the globe to protect our planet. In 2025, the spotlight is on an important issue affecting every ecosystem and community: plastic pollution. Hosted by the Republic of Korea in Jeju and Seoul,…
]]>Beat Plastic Pollution: Join the Global Movement on World Environment Day 2025!
Every year on June 5th, World Environment Day unites millions around the globe to protect our planet. In 2025, the spotlight is on an important issue affecting every ecosystem and community: plastic pollution. Hosted by the Republic of Korea in Jeju and Seoul, this year’s theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” calls for urgent action to reduce plastic waste that contaminates our oceans, lands, and even our bodies.
From single-use plastics to microplastics, this common pollutant disrupts natural habitats and enters the food chain, impacting humans and wildlife. World Environment Day 2025 is a rallying cry to refuse unnecessary plastics, reuse what we can, and recycle responsibly!
How you can help:
Say No to Single-Use Plastics: Avoid disposable plastic items like bags, bottles, straws, and cutlery. Choose reusable alternatives such as cloth bags, metal or glass water bottles, and bamboo or metal straws.
Recycle Properly: Get to know local recycling guidelines to ensure plastics are cleaned and sorted correctly. Use designated drop-off points for plastic bags and films that are not accepted in curbside recycling.
Spread Awareness: Educate friends, family, and your community about the impact of plastic pollution and encourage joint action through social media and local events.
Reduce Plastic in Daily Life: Bring your own reusable containers for takeout, buy products in bulk to minimize packaging, and repair or repurpose plastic items instead of getting rid of them.
Let’s make 2025 the year we turn the tide on plastic pollution – because there is no Planet B!
Together, we can protect our Earth for generations to come.
]]>https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2025/05/23/world-environment-day-2025/feed/01216Join Us for International E-Waste Day on October 14th!
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2023/10/12/join-us-for-international-ewaste-day-on-october-14th/
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2023/10/12/join-us-for-international-ewaste-day-on-october-14th/#respondThu, 12 Oct 2023 19:57:00 +0000https://www.realstar.ca/blog/?p=1180Join Us for International E-Waste Day on October 14th! We are excited to announce that October 14th marks International E-Waste Day, a global initiative dedicated to responsible disposal of electronic waste (e-waste). As part of our ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, we invite you to join us in this important worldwide event. Did you know?…
]]>Join Us for International E-Waste Day on October 14th!
We are excited to announce that October 14th marks International E-Waste Day, a global initiative dedicated to responsible disposal of electronic waste (e-waste). As part of our ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, we invite you to join us in this important worldwide event.
Did you know?
According to the UN, 8 kg of e-waste per person will be produced worldwide in 2023. This means 61.3 million tonnes of electronic waste is discarded within a year – more than the weight of the Great Wall of China!
What we are doing:
In 2022, Realstar launched a formal e-waste collection and recycling program across our properties, to minimize our environmental impact. Together, we diverted 1,267 pounds of e-waste from landfills, minimizing the harmful effects of e-waste on our planet. Going forward, we aim to continue this positive trend and achieve even greater results.
Here's how you can participate in E-Waste Day on October 14th:
Gather Your E-Waste: Start by identifying any old or unused electronic devices and accessories you no longer need. This can include old computers, laptops, cell phones, chargers, cables, and other electronic gadgets. Drop off any items at the designated e-waste bin at your building.
Be Mindful of Your Electronic Consumption: As you declutter your electronic devices, take a moment to reflect on your electronic consumption habits. Consider ways to reduce unnecessary electronic purchases and prolong the lifespan of your devices through proper care and maintenance.
Spread the Word: Encourage your friends, neighbours, and family members to participate in E-Waste Day as well.
We appreciate your continued support for our e-waste program, and together, we can make a significant difference on October 14th. Let's come together as a community to protect our environment and create a cleaner, greener future.
]]>https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2023/10/12/join-us-for-international-ewaste-day-on-october-14th/feed/01180Ensuring the Future of Rental Housing in Canada
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2023/03/22/ensuring-the-future-of-rental-housing-in-canada/
Wed, 22 Mar 2023 19:55:00 +0000https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2023/03/22/ensuring-the-future-of-rental-housing-in-canada/Realstar is committed to providing the highest standard in Canadian rentals with safe, clean and well-maintained homes, coast-to-coast. We treat our properties the way residents would want us to treat their homes: with a focus on long-term quality of living, high standards of maintenance and creating a strong sense of community for a sustainable future.…
]]>Realstar is committed to providing the highest standard in Canadian rentals with safe, clean and well-maintained homes, coast-to-coast. We treat our properties the way residents would want us to treat their homes: with a focus on long-term quality of living, high standards of maintenance and creating a strong sense of community for a sustainable future.
Building a healthy rental housing system is crucial to ensuring Canadians have access to a safe, dignified, and secure place to call home. That’s why we’re proud to be a member of the Real Property Association of Canada (REALPAC) and work together with the industry to support a vision that includes:
Better Housing: Repair, maintain and upgrade the existing purpose-built rental stock across Canada.
More Housing: Accelerate new purpose-built rental supply in all market segments to meet the needs of existing and future residents.
Your Housing: Work together, with everyone, to find solutions that will benefit existing and future Canadians.
Read on to learn more about REALPAC’s Better Housing, More Housing, Your Housing campaign at https://realpac.ca/morehousing/
]]>https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2022/04/22/a-healthy-planet-starts-at-home/feed/01145Earth Day 2021: How to Care, Share and Beware this April 22 and Beyond
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2021/04/22/earth-day-2021-how-to-care-share-and-beware-this-april-22-and-beyond/
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2021/04/22/earth-day-2021-how-to-care-share-and-beware-this-april-22-and-beyond/#respondThu, 22 Apr 2021 21:46:00 +0000https://www.realstar.ca/blog/?p=1020The past year has many of us thinking of ways we can be healthier and be more considerate towards others. There is no better time, than Earth Day on April 22, to explore lifestyle changes to be more environmentally conscious. From the products we use to the companies we support – below are three simple…
The past year has many of us thinking of ways we can be healthier and be more considerate towards others. There is no better time, than Earth Day on April 22, to explore lifestyle changes to be more environmentally conscious. From the products we use to the companies we support – below are three simple tips to help you be more eco-friendly and positively impact your own health. As the world around us changes, so should we change to help the world.
1. Omit Single Use Plastics
While convenient, single use plastics are one of the most common (and avoidable) forms of the 91% of plastics that end up unrecycled in the environment. Follow these simple steps to cut single use plastics from our daily routine:
Use reusable water containers instead of disposable water bottles (These often keep your water colder for longer and you can infuse or even filter the water you put inside!)
Use reusable shopping bags when shopping (keep them in your handbag, computer bag or car)
Consider reusable food wraps over kitchen wrap, 100% compostable waste bags vs standard plastic bags and food safe food storage instead of disposable snack containers. (Good brands are made from eco-friendly, BPA free, lead free materials and are often better for our health then the disposable alternatives)
2. Use Eco-friendly Household Cleaners
Ultimately, the more people who use eco-friendly cleaning products, the less harmful it is on our local environment and the plant. Roughly 80% of the world’s wastewater flows back into the environment without being treated. This includes the water from our showers, sinks, laundry machines and toilets. Choosing eco-friendly cleaning products benefits both the quality of the air we breathe, the water we drink and in turn directly benefits our own health. Try incorporating these easy alternatives into your clean up routine today:
Ditch the bleach and try one of these all-natural flood cleaners – some even boast being carbon neutral!
3. Go Paperless
We can’t speak to the importance of an eco-friendly future without mentioning the impact of paper on the environment. Paper accounts for approximately 26% of all the waste at landfills. The production of paper alone accounts for several additional adverse environmental impacts including deforestation, C02 production, water and air pollution. Did you know that as paper disintegrates it emits methane gas which has more than 80% of the warming power of carbon dioxide? Small steps towards going paperless has the potential of making a large beneficial change towards the environment.
Opt for digital magazine subscriptions, books or audio books. Several vendors offer free trials and it’s often less expensive and includes bonus access to added resources!
Sign up for paperless billing – receive bills and bank online
Reusable, biodegradable and compostable – these reusable sponge cloths are the perfect alternative to paper towel and a zero-waste choice for the environment!
Remember, a good planet is hard to find, so let’s take care of the one we have, and each other!
]]>https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2021/04/22/earth-day-2021-how-to-care-share-and-beware-this-april-22-and-beyond/feed/01020Moving on the Mind?
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/12/22/moving-on-the-mind/
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/12/22/moving-on-the-mind/#respondTue, 22 Dec 2020 21:36:00 +0000https://www.realstar.ca/blog/?p=1002Whether you’re downsizing, itching for more space, or relocating closer to your family, North East Guelph’s new addition – Watson Park Apartments – is a must-see! It’s the perfect location for mature active adults, and to prove it, we have gathered the top 4 reasons to add this promising area and BRAND NEW property to…
Whether you’re downsizing, itching for more space, or relocating closer to your family, North East Guelph’s new addition – Watson Park Apartments – is a must-see! It’s the perfect location for mature active adults, and to prove it, we have gathered the top 4 reasons to add this promising area and BRAND NEW property to your list.
1. A City Within Reach
Guelph is a lot closer than you think. Highway 401 is only a short drive away, and the city is located just 100 km from Toronto’s downtown core. The convenience of Go Transit, VIA Rail, and Greyhound services are available too!
For local trips, downtown Guelph is just a 10-minute commute. Alternatively, the public transit system can safely usher you from one end of town to the other. Watson Park Apartments is easily accessible by transit routes 14, 17, and 18, which services local parks, grocery stores, the University of Guelph, and historic Northfolk Street.
2. Guelph Has It All
Watson Park Apartments boasts surprising amenities. Guelph’s five-star restaurants, including Buon Gusto and The Cornerstone, deliver to your doorstep. Bookworms and grandparents can rejoice knowing that the highly-rated Guelph Public Library is across the street.
Even better, residents are just a nine-minute drive to Guelph General Hospital. This is one of the largest hospitals in the region, and recently, Newsweek voted it among the 75 Best Hospitals in Canada. Shopping more your style? From banking to big-box retail, you can browse the stores at Stone Road Mall without the big city crowds.
3. Outdoor Living
Guelph is every outdoor enthusiast’s haven. This friendly community is renowned for its over 1,000 hectares of well-kept parks, 70 km of tree-lined trails, and seven lush golf courses.
Watson Park Apartments is a short drive to Guelph Lake. Here, residents can wind down in the tranquility of nearby trails, relax along the shores of two sandy beaches, or hit the water with sailboats, canoes, and fishing poles. Similarly, Guelph Lake’s Golf and Country Club is located nearby and maintains a 6500 yard, 18-hole Championship Public Course.
4. Safe & Serene
Guelph is consistently ranked among the safest cities in Canada. Watson Park Apartments reinforces that safe atmosphere with an on-site professional management team available 24/7 to happily assist its residents. Plus, a secured resident entry system protects the property with FOB keys and intercom/phone entry for all visitors.
With these 4 great reasons and so much more, it’s no wonder Watson Park Apartments is now over 90% leased!
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https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/12/22/moving-on-the-mind/feed/01002Moving Forward! | Realstar is Delighted to Announce the Opening of Amenity Spaces
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/06/17/moving-forward-realstar-is-delighted-to-announce-the-opening-of-amenity-spaces/
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/06/17/moving-forward-realstar-is-delighted-to-announce-the-opening-of-amenity-spaces/#respondWed, 17 Jun 2020 19:26:00 +0000https://www.realstar.ca/blog/?p=945The sun is shining, the restrictions put in place to protect our communities from the spread of COVID-19 are slowly lessening; and we are ready for a ‘new’ normal to begin. We are pleased to announce that Realstar is preparing to re-open property amenity spaces in accordance with our local, provincial and Federal government guidelines.…
The sun is shining, the restrictions put in place to protect our communities from the spread of COVID-19 are slowly lessening; and we are ready for a ‘new’ normal to begin.
We are pleased to announce that Realstar is preparing to re-open property amenity spaces in accordance with our local, provincial and Federal government guidelines. Amenity spaces will be opened in phases as permitted. While we are excited and recognize the anticipation by residents, some amenities may open while others will remain closed as we work to safely open them. Your patience is appreciated.
In addition to the safety protocols we have become accustomed to, and in an effort to keep our residents and employees safe, when we open the amenity spaces we ask that you follow the protocols below:
Gyms, pools, patios, social rooms and any other amenity space are to be used at your own risk.
Guests will not be permitted in gyms, pools, patios, social rooms and any other amenity space until further notice.
Residents will not use any amenity spaces if they are sick or required to self-isolate.
Residents will maintain social distancing of at least 6 feet or 2 metres while using amenity spaces.
Residents are encouraged to wear face masks when accessing and using amenity areas.
Realstar will provide disinfectant spray and cleaning cloths in certain amenity spaces and residents are expected to clean gym equipment and barbeques after each use.
Realstar will limit the number of occupants for each amenity space.
The occupancy limits will be posted at the entrance to the area.
Residents are required to wash or sanitize their hands before entering any amenity space.
Amenity spaces are available on a first come, first serve basis and residents are asked to limit their time in the areas to no more than 60 minutes to allow other residents to use the space.
Puzzles, books, pool cues, table tennis paddles and other items have been removed from all social rooms until further notice. Furniture will be removed from the pool area.
Any abuse of the rules may result in the closing of the amenity space
It is through shared consideration for one another that we will continue to be able to enjoy community amenities.
For additional information related to the re-opening of amenity spaces, we encourage residents to check your resident portal and/or email or please connect with your on-site property management team.
We thank you for your continued understanding and cooperation as we phase in the re-opening of our amenity spaces.
]]>https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/06/17/moving-forward-realstar-is-delighted-to-announce-the-opening-of-amenity-spaces/feed/0945Realstar Announces New Features to Ensure a Safe Rental Experience – Touch Free Leasing
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/05/15/realstar-announces-new-features-to-ensure-a-safe-rental-experience-touch-free-leasing/
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/05/15/realstar-announces-new-features-to-ensure-a-safe-rental-experience-touch-free-leasing/#respondFri, 15 May 2020 13:44:00 +0000http://www.realstar.ca/blog/?p=903Realstar 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…
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.
]]>https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/05/15/realstar-announces-new-features-to-ensure-a-safe-rental-experience-touch-free-leasing/feed/0903Realstar Communities: Brighter Days Ahead
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/04/27/realstar-communities-brighter-days-ahead/
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/04/27/realstar-communities-brighter-days-ahead/#respondMon, 27 Apr 2020 14:13:00 +0000http://www.realstar.ca/blog/?p=885The days are getting longer, the sun is starting to shine and the flowers beginning to sprout. As we welcome spring, we are also cautiously optimistic that some guidelines and laws surrounding COVID-19 may be relaxed. We would like to thank you all for all your efforts in maintaining physical distancing and following the recommendations…
The days are getting longer, the sun is starting to shine and the flowers beginning to sprout. As we welcome spring, we are also cautiously optimistic that some guidelines and laws surrounding COVID-19 may be relaxed. We would like to thank you all for all your efforts in maintaining physical distancing and following the recommendations of our local, provincial and Federal governments. These have been challenging times for us all. Realstar appreciates your understanding and cooperation in upholding the protocols currently in place.
Currently there is no change to the status of Realstar common areas within our apartment communities. Closures of all common areas and increased sanitation of high traffic areas remain in place to comply with laws and guidelines and as we work to prioritize the health and safety of our residents, employees and local communities.
We are tremendously grateful to our incredible on-site teams who continue to work diligently to keep our communities clean and safe and provide support to residents. To all of our amazing teams – Thank You!
While we look forward to brighter times where we can once again gather and celebrate together, we thank you for your resilience and ask that you continue to follow your community protocols, maintain physical distancing and ensure you are following all other recommended guidelines, including:
Wash your hands often with warm soapy water for at least 20 seconds
Avoid shaking hands
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
Avoid close contact with people, especially those who are sick
Stay home if you are sick
Cough or sneeze into sleeve and not hands
If you believe you are infected or might have come into contact with COVID-19, you are encouraged to contact your health care provider immediately.
Everyone has been impacted by COVID-19 and efforts are in place to flatten the curve. It is important to remember we are all in this together and together we will get through it. Be kind to one another and be patient with your neighbours. It is equally as important to remember we are doing this to protect not only ourselves but the most vulnerable – particularly the elderly and those with pre-existing medical conditions. We continue to prudently work together with the well-being of the global community at heart.
]]>https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/04/27/realstar-communities-brighter-days-ahead/feed/0885EARTH DAY ISN’T JUST ANOTHER DAY – 50TH ANNIVERSARY
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/04/22/earth-day-isnt-just-another-day-50th-anniversary/
https://www.realstar.ca/blog/2020/04/22/earth-day-isnt-just-another-day-50th-anniversary/#respondWed, 22 Apr 2020 13:43:00 +0000http://www.realstar.ca/blog/?p=870TODAY WE CELEBRATE 50 YEARS OF GLOBAL CARING April 22, 2020 marks the world’s 50th Earth Day and the opportunity to reflect on global environmental issues – and it will be the first time in history it will be 100% digital! Striving towards a better, more sustainable future for all, there has never been a…
April 22, 2020 marks the world’s 50th Earth Day and the opportunity to reflect on global environmental issues – and it will be the first time in history it will be 100% digital! Striving towards a better, more sustainable future for all, there has never been a better time to start making a difference.
This year Earth Day will be celebrated during one of the most prolific global pandemics experienced in generations. Traditionally groups would have gathered to celebrate, discuss and lobby towards movement. This year Earth Day will be commemorated entirely online with countless digital resources available towards awareness and taking action. This Earth Day is the perfect time to start thinking globally and being mindful of actions towards bettering the planet.
There are several habit-forming changes; big and small, that you can start today that will work towards positive and lasting environmental results. Here’s a few:
Use reusable water bottles and eliminate plastic water bottle waste
Eat less meat or consider a Meatless Monday challenge and lessen polluting gasses and water usage through production
Use less hot water showering and doing laundry
Consider taking shorter showers instead of baths
Ensure to recycle recyclable items instead of disposing of them in the trash
Use reusable products rather than disposables
Change your light bulbs to LED – they last 10 times longer and use two-thirds less energy!
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