International Women's Day (IWD) is a globally recognized occasion that celebrates the achievements and contributions of women throughout history. It's a day to acknowledge the progress made towards gender equality while also highlighting the challenges that still exist. Each year, on March 8th, people around the world come together to honour women's rights, advocate for gender parity, and promote women's empowerment.

Did you know?

The roots of International Women's Day can be traced back to the early 20th century when women started demanding better working conditions, suffrage, and equal rights. The first National Woman's Day was observed in the United States in 1909, following a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. The idea quickly gained traction, and in 1911, International Women's Day was established, with the first gathering held in several European countries.

How can you support International Women's Day?

1. Raise Awareness: Share information about International Women's Day on social media platforms, blogs, or in conversations with friends, family, and colleagues.
2. Support Women-Owned Businesses: Choose to patronize women-owned businesses or support organizations that promote economic opportunities for women.
3. Promote Inclusivity: Foster inclusivity and diversity in your personal and professional life by advocating for equal opportunities and representation for women from diverse backgrounds, including women of color, LGBTQ+ women, women with disabilities, and marginalized communities.
4. Educate Yourself and Others: Take the time to educate yourself about issues affecting women and girls, including gender-based violence, workplace discrimination, reproductive rights, and intersectional feminism.

International Women's Day serves as a poignant reminder of the progress made in advancing gender equality and the work that remains to be done. It's a day to celebrate the achievements of women, acknowledge their resilience, and renew our commitment to building a more just and inclusive world for all. As we commemorate International Women's Day, let us stand together in solidarity, amplify women's voices, and strive towards a future where every woman and girl can thrive, free from discrimination and oppression.

#InspireInclusion #IWD2024 #InternationalWomensDay

The post International Women’s Day 2024: #InspireInclusion appeared first on Realstar Blog.

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.

The post Join Us for International E-Waste Day on October 14th! appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Get ready to make a big splash on June 8th as we celebrate World Oceans Day. World Oceans Day raises awareness about the crucial role oceans play in our lives. They give us oxygen, food, and regulate our climate. Sadly, they're facing threats like pollution and overfishing. Let's stand up for sustainable ocean management and preserve these amazing resources.

Did you know:

World Oceans Day was born in Canada! It started as an idea during the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 and was recognized by the United Nations in 2008. As Canadians, let's embrace this holiday's spirit and lead the way in ocean conservation.

What we are doing:

At Realstar, water conservation is important to us, and we are actively investing in water conservation initiatives across our properties such as installing low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads. As a result of our water conservation efforts, we saved 63,500 m3 of water in 2022 – the equivalent of 25 Olympic-sized swimming pools.

How you can help:

• Reduce Plastic: Say no to single-use plastics like bags and bottles. Opt for reusable alternatives and recycle properly.
• Save Water: Conserve water at home by reporting leaks to your building management, taking shorter showers, and turning the tap off when not in use.
• Choose Sustainable Seafood: Support responsible fishing by choosing sustainably sourced seafood with eco-certifications.
• Spread the Word: Educate others about ocean importance and inspire them to take action. Use social media and community events to make waves.

Together we can create a wave of change for our oceans. Remember, even small steps can have a big impact. Dive in and let's protect our oceans for generations to come!

The post Dive into World Oceans Day: Make a Splash for Change! appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Why Port Moody?

If the outdoors and tranquility of suburb living pique your interest but also long for the convenience of city living, Port Moody should definitely be on your list of potential places to call home! At only 35-minutes from downtown Vancouver, this picturesque and lively city boasts a variety of trendy shops, cafes, restaurants and breweries and is steps to the waterfront. Perfect for young families, working professionals and mature active adults, Port Moody has something for everyone!

The city’s newest premium rental communities, Realstar’s Inlet Glen Apartments, is nestled half way between downtown Port Moody and Coquitlam, only a 6 minute drive or 15 minute bicycle ride to either. Weather you are looking to inch closer to Vancouver or looking to relocate somewhere quieter within the Metro Vancouver Area, this brand-new rental community is sure to impress.
 

Details You’ll Love!

Comfort and convenience are of the utmost importance at Inlet Glen Apartments. This newly built, 100% smoke-free rental community offers elevated one, two and three-bedroom suites featuring soft close, contemporary cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless steel appliances – including enviable full-sized dishwasher and in-suite laundry!

If green living is a top priority, Inlet Glen Apartments delivers several environmentally beneficial features – including: LED lighting, low flush toilets, Energy Star appliances, electrical vehicle charging stations and on-site Modo carshare program. As an added benefit, all suites offer a private outdoor space in the form of usable decks, patios and/or balconies.
 

A Neighbourhood to Call Home

The city of the arts, Port Moody offers an urban appeal with a friendly small-town charm. The area offers a variety of attractions, most notably a lively art scene coupled with trendy cafes and restaurants. With a steady stream of free concerts, gallery openings and festivals, you can be sure there is always something fun and exciting to do! Art infused and intertwined with nature, Port Moody boasts a plethora of art features scattered throughout. Start your own adventure by grabbing the city’s heritage and public art map and discover the city’s diverse neighbourhoods, heritage properties and public art displays.

Take in a performance or film screening at Inlet Theatre, enjoy an event at Port Moody Public Library, Port Moody Art Centre, or revel in history at Port Moody Station Museum. A must see and spanning an impressive three blocks; Brewers Row, offers an exceptional array of local craft brewers.

Whatever the adventure, Inlet Glen Apartments is only steps to Inlet Centre SkyTrain Station, connecting East Vancouver through Burnaby, Port Moody and Coquitlam.

Be sure to check out Port Moody’s events calendar and stay current on neighbourhood events.

The Fresh Air You Crave

Integrated with nature, Port Moody is home to numerous parks and trails, most notably Rocky Point Park where visitors can take a stroll across the recreational pier, enjoy a meal at one of the areas many cafes and restaurants or rent a kayak or paddleboard. A popular destination for locals and visitors alike, Rocky Point Park is also home to Shoreline Trail, a paved bike and walking path along the coast of the Burrard Inlet. If you’re up for a scenic ride or stroll along this local fjord, this two hour, 6 kilometer round trip adventure starts at Rock Point Park pier and ends at Old Orchard Park.

Conveniently located, Inlet Glen Apartments is only a 10-minute bike ride from Port Moody’s Rocky Point Park and 8-minutes ride to Inlet Park. As an added benefit, this brand-new rental community is only a 10-minutes ride to Coquitlam’s impressive Mundy Park, offering over 178 hectares of park, trails and recreation within a rare urban forest.
 

Apply Today!

In the mood to move to Port Moody?
Visit Inlet Glen Apartments online or contact us at (604) 649-3370 and see what this exciting and welcoming rental community has to offer!

The post In the Mood to Move? Port Moody Is The Place For You! appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Incorporate Items of Special Interest and Nostalgia
Being able to design a space that is uniquely you includes incorporating items and keepsakes that evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort. For instance, that “well-loved” – but equally tattered blanked your grandmother knitted for you, those cheesy souvenirs you purchased on a recent trip to Peru or the comic book collection you have poured countless hours curating over many years. While these types of items may not fit within the parameters of traditional décor, they may be the difference between the feeling of home versus staying the night in a trendy hotel. There are several innovative ways to showcase your memories within your space.

Create Warmth With Removable Wallcovering And Carpeting
There may be certain restrictions that come with your new place. For instance, the walls and floors may be what they are – but you don’t have to be limited by them. If your lease agreement does not allow for painting, you can consider peel and stick wallpaper. Most are both removable and repositionable, come in a variety of colours and prints and guaranteed to spice up any living space! Choosing to add a great area rug can add a splash of colour and warmth. The addition of an area rug can both make a space more inviting and warmer on your feet!

Go Vertical
Empty spaces can feel cold and uninviting – the same holds true for empty walls, especially plain light-coloured walls. The selection of wall décor is seemingly limitless and can include anything from creative art pieces – purchased or home made, personalized photo galleries and space-enhancing decorative mirrors. Going vertical and adorn your walls with art, photos and mirrors.  

Brighten Your Day
Lighting can drastically alter the vibe of any space. Not many people enjoy the feel of a cold, sterile florescent lighting. There are countless ways to incorporate lighting to create an inviting place to call home. If a major overhaul of fixtures just isn’t in the budget – simply choose bulbs that emit a softer more yellow less white light. Adding a few lamps with dimmers allows you to both inject personality into your apartment while maintaining control over the lighting as you please.

The post Four Simple Ways to Make a Rental Apartment Feel Like Home appeared first on Realstar Blog.

Community Experience 
Driving can cause you to miss out on experiencing all your community has to offer.  Strolling through the streets of your neighbourhood offers a more complete perspective as you discover shops and people you might not have had the opportunity to encounter from behind the wheel.  

The Walk to Wellness
According to Time Magazine article “10 Things Your Commute Does to Your Body”, a daily drive commute to and from work “impacts your mental and physical health” and is associated with increased cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure which over time can increase your risk for diabetes, heart disease and stroke.  Not to mention the toll it takes on your mental health, according to report from the U.K.’s Office of National statistics fighting traffic on a regular basis increases anxiety, puts you a risk for depression and actually declines “happiness and life satisfaction”.   In case you needed any more incentive to re-think a car commute, according to a 2014 study from McGill University, commuters who walk to work tend to be happier overall compared with those who have a lengthy commute. 

Cost vs. Car Share
A major bonus in forgoing a vehicle is saving on all the costs associated with regular maintenance, fuel, insurance, license, registration and parking.  According to the CAA car ownership is the second largest expense after housing for Canadians. On average, including depreciation, owning a vehicle in Canada costs approximately $9,500 annually.   Many would argue that the convenience of having a car is well worth the price tag, yet car sharing services like Modo are a more cost-effective option for those times when you just really need a vehicle.  Unlike traditional car rental companies, Modo bills by the hour or with a full day rate of $50 which is inclusive of gas, insurance and maintenance.  With the flexibility to book on the fly, residents in our Novare, Glenmore Central and Lynncreek Apartments have added incentive with Modo car share services located right on site.   

Central living maybe more costly rent wise but in a vibrant community close to major amenities, you have the luxury of living “car free” without the added stress and expense of owning a vehicle.  “Car free” may become the new “carefree”, healthier approach to urban life.  

The post “Car Free” – The Carefree Approach to Urban Living appeared first on Realstar Blog.

To balance out any indulgence, you don’t need to venture far. This developing area boasts several parks and opportunities for recreational activities. You can take nature walk at nearby Parc Joachim-Du Bellay or a play a round of golf at Club de Golfe Le Cardinal.  Whatever your preference, Axial Towers is tailored to the contemporary active adult lifestyle with a wealth of nearby amenities, outdoor offerings and restaurants for the socially minded. 

However, with a stunning rooftop terrace you don’t necessarily need to leave the comforts of home to host a sunset soiree, complete with gorgeous views of city.  Whether you’re currently looking for a new apartment to lease or planning a move to Laval in the near future, Axial Towers is a must see.  This Chomedey property offers all the comfort and convenience of urban living, in a stylish condo rental community designed for the active adult lifestyle.