Winter might not seem like the ideal season to put your home on the market. Many sellers are under the impression that the cold weather, shorter days, and holiday distractions can be deterrents for potential Edmonton homebuyers. However, with the right strategies, selling your home in the winter can not only be feasible but also advantageous. Here are some tried-and-tested tactics to make your winter home sale a success:

1. Highlight Winter Positives:
   • If your home has features that are particularly advantageous in winter, such as a fireplace, good insulation, or a hot tub, be sure to highlight these in your listing.
   • A cozy ambiance can be a major selling point. Be sure to emphasize areas where families can gather and enjoy winter nights together.
2. Staging for the Season:
   • Incorporate warm blankets, throw pillows, and some tasteful seasonal decor to create a cozy atmosphere.
   • Use soft lighting to create a warm glow throughout the house. Consider using fairy lights, candles, and table lamps.
3. Clear the Path & Light It Up:
   • Ensure that driveways, walkways, and entrances are always cleared of snow and ice.
   • Ensure the entranceway is well-lit for easier visibility and to provide a welcoming feel.
   • By providing a safe path, you’re not only preventing potential accidents but also demonstrating that the house is well-maintained.
4. Use Quality Photos from All Seasons:
   • Including pictures of your home in other seasons can help potential buyers visualize the property’s year-round appeal.
   • High-quality photos are especially essential in winter when natural light may be limited.
5. Be Flexible with Showings:
   • With shorter days, it might be challenging for potential buyers to visit during daylight hours. Offer more flexible showing times, including weekends.
6. Set the Right Price:
   • Winter may not be the time to test the market with a high price. If you’re serious about selling, set a competitive price from the start. Seek the guidance of a trusted REALTOR®.
7. Market Online:
   • Winter weather can deter some from physically visiting homes. Enhance your online presence with virtual tours and detailed descriptions. Make it easy for buyers to explore your home without braving the cold.
8. Highlight Energy Efficiency:
   • If your home has energy-efficient features, highlight them. Potential buyers will be attracted to the prospect of saving on heating bills during the colder months.
9. Capitalize on Lower Inventory:
   • Fewer homes are listed during the winter, meaning less competition. Use this to your advantage by emphasizing the uniqueness and desirability of your property.

Emphasize the Holiday Selling Point:

• For many, the idea of celebrating the holidays in a new home is appealing. Play up this sentiment by subtly decorating for the season.

Stay Negotiable:

• Buyers in the winter are often very serious and might be facing their own time constraints. Be open to some flexibility in order to get the outcome you are aiming for in the end.

While winter might come with its set of challenges, it also presents unique opportunities for Edmonton home sellers. By being proactive and employing the right strategies, selling your home in the colder months can be a win-win situation for both parties.

If you are considering selling your Edmonton & area home – let’s chat. Our team of Edmonton Realtors would love to help you navigate this journey.

Selling your Edmonton home is an exciting endeavour but it can also be overwhelming due to the complexities involved. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned home seller, it’s easy to make errors that could potentially derail the selling process, cost you money, or extend the time your home spends on the Edmonton market. By understanding common pitfalls, you can navigate the sale of your home more efficiently and confidently.

   Overpricing Your Home: It is normal, homeowners often cherish their homes and can overestimate their market value due to their emotional ties to the home. Pricing a property correctly from the start is crucial. An inflated price can result in your home sitting on the market longer, creating an impression among potential buyers that something is amiss. Instead, aim for a competitive and fair price, which aligns with local market trends and the value of comparable properties. Sometimes, there may even be an advantage to list below value based on your risk tolerance.

Neglecting Repairs/Updates: Every homeowner knows that wear and tear are a part of life, but failing to address necessary repairs before listing can send red flags to potential buyers. Small issues like leaky faucets or chipped tiles can signal neglect, while larger structural issues like outdated electrical, an older roof, or HVAC can significantly decrease the value of your home. We recommend conducting a pre-listing walk-through with your agent to identify items that can improve your home’s appeal and potentially increase the final selling price.

Forgetting to Stage: Staging is more than just cleaning and organizing. It involves creating an environment that helps potential buyers visualize themselves living in your home. This could mean decluttering, rearranging furniture, painting walls in neutral tones, or making aesthetic improvements. A well-staged home can create a powerful first impression and help your property stand out in a competitive market. This is something that you can discuss when you’re talking about pre-listing repairs with your agent – you’d be surprised what changes really matter and which ones may not matter as much to potential buyers. Talk with your agent about how to maximize your time and budget.

Not Accommodating Showings: Often a buyer and their agent will be seeing many homes in one appointment and scheduling can be a little like a game of Tetris where everything has to fit together just right to maximize your time. If a seller can’t accommodate the requested time (even shifting one viewing by 10-20 min can throw off the entire appointment) there’s a high likelihood that viewers will just move on to the next property.While constant showings can be inconvenient, they’re crucial to selling your home.

Not Choosing An Agent You Trust: While your agent is definitely there to provide a deep level of customer service and ensure you feel taken care of, their primary job is to apply their expertise to the sale of your home. Sometimes this means giving you unpleasant news about the current market and where your home fits in (think reducing listing price or negative feedback from showings). This kind of honest relationship takes an immense amount of trust that the person you’re working with really does have the professional market knowledge and expertise to justify whatever they’re suggesting. So when choosing an agent – ask yourself if they’ve demonstrated enough market knowledge that you’re going to trust them even if the news is not what you want to hear.

Selling a home is a complex process that requires careful planning and execution. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can increase your chances of a successful and profitable sale. Always remember that every real estate transaction is unique, and it’s always wise to enlist the help of a real estate professional who can provide valuable guidance based on their knowledge and experience. Be proactive, do your homework, and you’re sure to navigate the home-selling process with fewer hurdles. Happy selling!

Edmonton and surrounding areas are home to a thriving greenhouse community, offering a wealth of options for avid gardeners and plant enthusiasts. From family-owned establishments with decades of experience to unique destinations combining greenhouses with additional amenities, there’s a greenhouse to suit every gardening need. Let’s explore some of the best greenhouses in Edmonton and area, and get a glimpse into the wonderful world of plants and gardening that awaits you.

1. Greenland Garden Centre: A Horticultural Haven in Sherwood Park Tucked away in Sherwood Park, just outside of Edmonton, Greenland Garden Centre is a horticultural paradise that draws visitors from far and wide. With an extensive selection of plants ranging from vibrant flowers and lush trees to bountiful vegetables, Greenland Garden Centre is a go-to destination for all your gardening needs. Inside their greenhouse, you’ll find an array of seasonal plants, expertly tended by knowledgeable staff ready to offer advice and guidance.

2. Erdmann’s Gardens & Greenhouses: Erdmann’s Gardens & Greenhouses is a family-owned and operated farm located in Westlock County, Alberta. They grow a wide variety of vegetables, potatoes, and bedding plants, hanging baskets, and planters. Their products are available at four Farmers’ Markets in Edmonton and the surrounding area, as well as at the farm itself.

3. Salisbury Greenhouse: A Family Legacy of Gardening Excellence For over half a century, Salisbury Greenhouse has delighted Edmontonians with its commitment to providing quality plants and outstanding customer service. Situated in Sherwood Park, this family-owned greenhouse is a beloved destination for both experienced gardeners and those embarking on their green-thumb journey. With a diverse selection of indoor and outdoor plants, Salisbury Greenhouse is a haven for discovering new varieties and seeking expert advice.

4. The Enjoy Centre: A Multifaceted Greenhouse Experience The Enjoy Centre, located in St. Albert, offers a unique fusion of a greenhouse and an array of additional amenities. Step into their expansive greenhouse to discover an assortment of beautiful plants, from vibrant flowers to aromatic herbs. Beyond the greenery, The Enjoy Centre also houses a charming café, a rejuvenating spa, boutique shops, and even a farmer’s market. It’s a delightful destination where you can immerse yourself in the world of gardening while enjoying other indulgences.

5. Ellerslie Gift & Garden: A Hidden Gem in South Edmonton Conveniently situated in south Edmonton, Ellerslie Gift & Garden is a local favorite for its extensive plant selection, gardening supplies, and delightful gift items. Wander through their greenhouse, and you’ll encounter an impressive assortment of annuals, perennials, and hanging baskets. The friendly and knowledgeable staff at Ellerslie Gift & Garden are always eager to lend a helping hand and share their gardening wisdom.

Edmonton’s greenhouses provide a haven for plant enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of plant varieties, knowledgeable staff, and a captivating atmosphere. Whether you’re seeking specific plants, gardening advice, or simply a delightful browsing experience, these greenhouses are well worth a visit. From the blossoming beauty of Greenland Garden Centre to the multifaceted charm of The Enjoy Centre, Edmonton’s greenhouse scene promises a world of inspiration and possibilities for your gardening endeavours. So, grab your gardening gloves and embark on a journey of botanical discovery!

Having a small space doesn’t mean you have to give up on the joy and beauty of gardening. In fact, gardening in small spaces can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. This blog will guide you through the enchanting world of gardening in compact areas, helping you transform limited spaces into vibrant, green havens. Get ready to nurture your own miniature garden oasis right here in Edmonton.

Embrace Container Gardening:

Containers are your best friends when it comes to small space gardening. Opt for various sizes and shapes of pots, hanging baskets, and window boxes. This allows you to utilize vertical space and create stunning arrangements of flowers, herbs, and even vegetables.

Choose the Right Plants:

Select plants that are well-suited for small space gardening. Look for compact or dwarf varieties that don’t require excessive space to thrive. Herbs, lettuces, cherry tomatoes, and ornamental flowers like pansies and marigolds are excellent choices for small gardens.

Vertical Gardening:

Make the most of your vertical space by incorporating trellises, hanging planters, or wall-mounted systems. Train vining plants like cucumbers, beans, and peas to grow upwards, freeing up valuable ground space. You can create your own by attaching pockets or shelves to walls. This allows you to grow a variety of plants without taking up precious floor space. 

Window Sills and Balconies:

Take advantage of sunny windowsills and balconies by creating mini-gardens in containers or vertical planters. Herbs, microgreens, and small flowering plants can thrive in these spaces, bringing beauty and fresh flavours to your home.

Creative Planters:

Think outside the box and repurpose unconventional containers for your garden. Use old pallets, shoe organizers, or even recycled materials like tin cans or wine crates. Let your creativity flourish as you transform these items into unique and charming planters.

Hanging Gardens:

Hang baskets filled with cascading flowers or trailing plants to add visual interest and create a lush, suspended garden. Utilize sturdy hooks or overhead structures to bring life and greenery to eye-level spaces. If you’re looking to grow edible plants there are a multitude that are grown well in hanging baskets, our favourite being cherry tomatoes  

Companion Planting and Succession Planting:

Maximize your small space by practicing companion planting, where compatible plants are grown together to enhance growth, maximize space and repel pests. Additionally, utilize succession planting by staggering plantings to ensure a continuous harvest throughout the growing season.

Gardening in small spaces is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of garden enthusiasts. By embracing container gardening, vertical solutions, and strategic plant selections, you can transform even the tiniest nooks into flourishing green retreats. Remember, it’s not about the size of the space but the love and care you put into it. So, grab your gardening tools and start cultivating your own slice of paradise, right in your small space. Happy gardening

Whether you plan to live in your Edmonton condo for a shorter or longer period doesn’t mean you can’t bring in designer style! There are lots of ways to make the most of your home and maximize the form and function of your space without compromising on your needs. Here are some tips to make your apartment feel even more like home!

Tip #1: Invest in Versatile Pieces

If you are purchasing new furniture pieces, think long-term. What pieces of furniture can you bring in now that will also serve you in your future home(s) as well? Think of smaller pieces that have flexibility in their utility such as small storage cabinets or console tables. These are pieces that can be used in many different rooms and areas so no matter where you go, you can take them with you. 

We love this console table as seen as an ‘entry drop spot’ with a dish for keys, a light for ambiance, and a mirror to give yourself one last check-over before heading out the door! The small scale and neutral finishes of the piece mean that it’s easy to incorporate into future areas, and it’s easy to change up the accessories to suit your evolving needs and style preferences.

This storage cabinet is used as a media unit but could also function in an office for overflow supplies or filing storage, in a bedroom for clothing or bins, or even in a dining room as a small cabinet as well.

Tip #2: Keep Things ‘Light’

Oftentimes, Edmonton condos can be on the slightly smaller side so, it’s best to trick your eye whenever you can by selecting items that are visually lighter. So with that in mind, think of lighter colors, brighter finishes, and using elements such as glass and mirrors throughout your space. 

In this space, you’ll see that our sofa, although the largest piece of furniture in the room, is a light grey color to contrast the darker floors.

We also specifically chose a glass coffee table to keep the space from being ‘bottom heavy’ which can easily happen when you have dark floors, dark furniture and pieces that are too large or visually weighted.

Even in the bedroom, we chose a light grey headboard to draw your eye up and add contrast to the light walls, but the lighter fabric stops the headboard from feeling too intrusive in the space. 

Light warm-grey fabrics are very complimentary to most spaces and universally flattering, so try to purchase your largest investment pieces in those tones for pieces that you’ll be able to take with you no matter where you go! Then you can contrast with smaller accents and accessories that bring in bold colour and pattern!

Tip #3: Take Advantage of Your Walls

Storage can sometimes be a pain point in rentals and so as such, we suggest taking advantage of your wall space wherever you can, to add increased functionality and storage. 

Wall hooks in entryways or bedrooms are great for overflow hanging and storage of everyday items.

If you are in need of a workspace, consider using tall shelving surrounding the desk to increase storage and to use it as an opportunity to showcase some of your favourite pieces. Even in a living room, a tall bookcase is a great way to take advantage of your wall space without encroaching more than you need to into your floor space to add more storage.

Even something as seemingly small as hanging wall sconces instead of using floor or table lamps is a great way to utilize your wall space, freeing up more floor space and space on the top of your furniture pieces for your everyday items. Just remember, you’ll need to patch/fill those holes when you leave but if storage and space is at a premium, it’s worth doing!

Tip #4: Add Your Personality

Our final design tip when decorating your condo is to add your personality! Even if your space may not be your “forever home”, it’s important to add elements that bring you joy so that you love your home, no matter how long you plan on staying. 

Don’t be afraid to add artwork, bring in accessories, and use color to liven your space! Keep your walls neutral, so they act as the perfect backdrop for your favourite colors, textures, and artwork. 

And remember, have fun making your condo your home! 

Featured Guest Blogger: Diana Tidswell, CID. Partner and Interior Designer at Kresswell Interiors.Diana has dedicated over 12 years to the design industry. With a passion for creating uniquely personalized spaces, she approaches each project with a perfect blend of creativity and focus. Diana’s goal is to enhance homeowners’ lives through thoughtful and innovative design solutions. If you’d like to learn more about Diana or the services of Kresswell Interiors please visit KresswellInteriors.com or the Kresswell Interiors Instagram page.

The playoff season is here, and the excitement among hockey fans across the globe is growing as we are in the midst of round 2 of the playoffs. For fans of the Edmonton Oilers (which we are), this time of year is particularly special, as the team gears up for the chance to compete for the coveted Stanley Cup.

This year, the Oilers are poised to make a deep playoff run and we are all excited to see how it plays out. In the spirit of this, we wanted to share some fun tidbits of Oiler’s trivia about some of our players:

1. Connor McDavid, the captain of the Oilers, is the youngest player in NHL history to win the Art Ross Trophy as the league’s leading scorer. He achieved this feat in the 2016-17 season at the age of 20.
2. Leon Draisaitl, who plays center for the Oilers, was born in Germany and is the highest-scoring German player in NHL history.
3. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, who plays center for the Oilers, is left-handed, but he shoots right-handed.
4. Darnell Nurse, a defenseman for the Oilers, is the nephew of former NFL quarterback Donovan McNabb.
5. Stuart Skinner, during his junior hockey career, Skinner played for the Lethbridge Hurricanes. He is thee youngest in his family. He is one of nine siblings. All of them have first names that begin with the letter “S”.
6. Zach Hyman is also an author. He has written a book titled “The Bambino and Me” in 2014, among others. The book tells the story of a young boy who forms a special bond with baseball legend Babe Ruth.
7. Evander Kane, a left winger for the Oilers, has played in over 700 NHL games in his career and has also represented Canada in international play. He was acquired by the Oilers in 2022 and has previously played for several other NHL teams.
8. Kailer Yamamoto, a right winger for the Oilers, is of Japanese and Hawaiian descent and grew up in Spokane, Washington.
9. Cody Ceci is an avid golfer and has participated in various charity golf tournaments. He is also known to be a big fan of the sport and has said that he enjoys golfing in his free time during the off-season.
10. Evan Bouchard became the youngest Oiler defenceman in history to record a goal on October 25, 2018, when he scored in a 4–1 win over the Washington Capitals.

It is always fascinating to gain some more insight into these talented players beyond the ice. We are eagerly watching each game in anticipation and hope that this will be “our year” here in YEG.

Edmonton, Alberta is a vibrant city that offers exceptional post-secondary education options for life after high school. Whether you’re looking to start your post-secondary journey or continue it, Edmonton has a variety of options to suit your needs. Here are some of the top post-secondary schools you could consider attending in Edmonton:

University of Alberta: The University of Alberta is a leading research university located in the south-central region of Edmonton, situated along the river bank. With over 40,000 students from around the world, it offers over 400 undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, including highly-regarded programs in engineering, business, law, medicine, and more. The University of Alberta also has a French campus located in the trendy Bonnie Doon neighbourhood, offering additional programs and services in French.

MacEwan University: MacEwan University is a comprehensive undergraduate university that offers a variety of programs including business, arts, sciences, nursing, and more. With small class sizes and a focus on practical experience, MacEwan is focused on preparing students for real-world learning. Situated near downtown Edmonton and the Brewery District, it is a convenient location to call home.

NAIT: NAIT (Northern Alberta Institute of Technology) is a leading polytechnic institution that offers hands-on training in a variety of fields, including technology, trades, engineering, and health sciences. With over 140 programs, NAIT provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their chosen careers. NAIT is located just north of downtown and near Kingsway Garden Mall.

NorQuest College: NorQuest College is a public community college that offers a range of certificate, diploma, and degree programs in fields such as business, health care, community studies, and more. With a focus on career preparation and practical skills, NorQuest prepares students for success in the workforce. Norquest has been expanding its footprint in the heart of the warehouse district of downtown Edmonton. If you have young children, you will appreciate the daycare located onsite: 1000 Women Child Care Centre.

Concordia University: Concordia University of Edmonton is a small, faith-based university that offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as business, education, science, and more. With a focus on personalized learning and community involvement, Concordia provides a unique learning experience for students.

Edmonton’s post-secondary institutions offer a wealth of opportunities for students, but that’s not all that makes Edmonton a great place to live. Here are a few more reasons why Edmonton is a great place to call home:

Beautiful scenery: Edmonton is home to the stunning River Valley, North America’s largest urban park, and a range of parks, gardens, and trails. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just looking for a peaceful escape, Edmonton’s natural beauty won’t disappoint.

Vibrant arts and culture: Edmonton is home to a thriving arts and culture scene, with festivals, performances, and exhibits happening year-round. From the world-renowned Fringe Festival to the Art Gallery of Alberta, there’s always something to see and do in Edmonton.

Strong economy: Edmonton has a diverse economy and is home to a range of industries, including oil and gas, healthcare, education, and technology. With a low unemployment rate and a strong job market, Edmonton provides great opportunities for career growth and advancement.

Whether you’re looking to pursue post-secondary education, start a new career, or just enjoy a great quality of life, Edmonton has something for everyone.

Are you considering selling your home in the Edmonton area? Pricing it correctly is crucial for attracting the right home buyers and securing the best outcome. Here are some tips we recommend considering for pricing your Edmonton home to sell:

1. Research the market: Look at comparable properties in your area and see how much they sold for. This will give you an idea of what buyers are willing to pay and how to price your home competitively. The good news is your agent can help you with this part.
2. Set a realistic price: While it may be tempting to list your home above market value, this can backfire and lead to a longer time on the market. By pricing your home more realistically, you will attract more potential buyers and receive offers that are close to or above your asking price.
3. Highlight unique features: Emphasize the unique features of your home to showcase added value. For example, if your home has a large backyard or a recently renovated kitchen, make sure to highlight these features in your listing and or what you love about your community.
4. Consult with an Edmonton real estate agent: A local real estate agent can help you price your home based on current market conditions and comparable properties in your area. They can also provide insights on how to make your home more attractive to potential home buyers.

By pricing your Edmonton home correctly, you’ll increase your chances of attracting more potential buyers and receiving offers that are close to your asking price. This can lead to a faster sale and more money in your pocket.

In Edmonton’s competitive real estate market, it’s important to stand out. Chat with our Edmonton real estate team today to learn more about how we can get your home sold in the right amount of time. Or get more insights on the Edmonton home selling process here.

Houseplants are a wonderful addition to any home. Not only do they add colour and beauty, but they also have many benefits for your health and well-being. However, not everyone has a green thumb or the time to take care of high-maintenance plants. Fortunately, there are many low-maintenance houseplants that require minimal attention and are perfect for beginners or busy individuals.

Let’s explore the best low maintenance houseplants that can thrive with minimal care.

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)

The snake plant is a popular choice for low maintenance houseplants. It has long, tall leaves that are resistant to pests and diseases. This plant can tolerate a wide range of light levels, from bright to low light, and can go weeks without water. It also helps purify the air by removing toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde.

2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ plant is another low-maintenance option that can tolerate neglect. It has glossy, dark green leaves that can grow up to three feet long. This plant prefers low to medium light and can go weeks without water. It is also resistant to pests and diseases and can help purify the air.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

The pothos is a popular trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves. It can tolerate low to medium light and can go weeks without water. Pothos is also easy to propagate and can grow well in a variety of conditions. It can help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.

4. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

The Chinese evergreen is a low-maintenance houseplant that can grow up to three feet tall. It prefers low to medium light and can go weeks without water. The plant has green leaves with silver markings and can help purify the air by removing toxins such as benzene and formaldehyde.

5. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

The spider plant is a popular choice for beginners due to its easy care and ability to propagate easily. It has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to three feet long. The plant prefers bright, indirect light and can go a week or more without water. Spider plants also help purify the air by removing toxins such as carbon monoxide and formaldehyde.

6. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

The peace lily is a low-maintenance houseplant with dark green leaves and white flowers. It prefers low to medium light and can go a week or more without water. The peace lily can also help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene.

7. Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)

The rubber plant is a low-maintenance houseplant with shiny, dark green leaves. It prefers bright, indirect light and can go several weeks without water. The plant can grow up to eight feet tall and can help purify the air by removing toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene.

These are some of the best houseplants that can thrive with minimal care. Whether you are a beginner or a busy individual, these plants can add colour and beauty to your home while providing numerous health benefits. Remember to check the specific care instructions for each plant and adjust accordingly based on your home’s unique conditions.

When it comes to buying real estate in Edmonton, many homebuyers are drawn to new or recently renovated homes. However, there are several reasons why you might want to consider a “fixer-upper” instead. Firstly, a fixer-upper is typically priced lower than a move-in ready home. This means that you can often get more square footage and a larger lot for your money. Additionally, if you’re willing to put in some sweat equity, you can potentially increase the value of your home over time.

Another advantage of buying a home that requires renovations is the opportunity to customize the space to your liking. With a move-in ready home, you’re limited to the existing layout, finishes, and features. When renovating, you have the freedom to turn something with “good bones’ or the “perfect ” location, into your dream home – whether that means knocking down walls, installing new appliances, or adding a deck or patio.

Of course, buying a fixer-upper does come with some challenges. You’ll need to have a solid understanding of your budget and the costs associated with renovations, as well as a clear idea of what you’re looking for in a home. You’ll also need to be prepared to handle the logistics of the renovation process, including obtaining permits, hiring contractors, and managing timelines.

However, for those who are up for the challenge, a fixer-upper can be a great investment. By putting in the work to renovate and customize your home, you can create a space that truly feels like your own, while potentially increasing its value over time. So if you’re in the market for a home in Edmonton, don’t overlook the potential of a fixer-upper!