Restore

Habitat for Humanity Restores are great places.  If you have never been to one you need to drop by.  Here is their website with store locations: 
http://www.habitathuronia.com/restore.php

You should talk to them if you are planning a renovation.  There will be many items that you may think have to go the the landfill (at your expense) that they will take to be re-sold.  You may even be able to get a tax receipts for some items.  Here is some information about them from their website:

"The ReStore is a retail outlet that sells recycled and new building materials, hardware, and appliances to the public at bargain prices. New material has been donated by our business partners. Profits from sales are used to build more homes for low income family partners."

The Home Shows

The Alliston Home Show was very well attended despite the outstanding weather.  We met lots of consumers and there was lots of interest in checkthetrades.  People are always particularly interested in the references and insurance sections of the members listings.  Often times people just aren't comfortable asking these questions or just don't have the time, so we do it for you.

Home Show

The team at http://www.checkthetrades.com/ is off to another Home Show this weekend.  This one is in Alliston and runs from April 9 - 12 at the recreation centre.  Last month we were at the Barrie Home Show and on April 24 the Barrie Restore is having a show in Barrie.  We actually enjoy working at these shows (no we really do!!).  It is a great chance to talk to lots of consumers about check the trades, once they understand what we do they always love it.  Any of our listed members are always welcome to join us at these shows for no charge. Just contact us at info@checkthetrades.com

Know your Numbers

Here's a tip for anyone who has a website of any kind or size, whether for a business, organization or any other reason.  Always have access to a good statistics reporting package.  Google Analytics works very well and is provided free by Google.  You just need to add a bit of code to each page on your website.  You will be amazed by the useful information this provides.  Not just how many visitors your site had, but were they came from, how long they stayed and what they did while they were there.  Just like any other business tool, your website needs to be monitored, assessed and optimized with your business.  Knowing your stats and how they are trending is essential.

If you want more information on Google Analytics http://www.google.com/analytics/ or give me a call:

Peter at 705-321-2029  or panderson@checkthetrades.com