Annual Winnipeg in Bloom contest

First impressions definitely have an impact when selling a home and making that first impression falls within the category of curb appeal. 

With this in mind,   WinnipegREALTORS® is again supporting Take Pride Winnipeg’s annual Winnipeg in Bloom garden contest by sponsoring a special residential curb appeal award — its 1,300 REALTORS® will nominate homeowners who have made an effort to beautify their properties.

The Take Pride Winnipeg contest has grown over the years. In 2007, there were over 600 participants and this year the expectation is that 700 homeowners, businesses and community groups will take part.  

The city of Winnipeg has made it clear that lawn untidiness will not be tolerated, as it has announced the fine for failing to cut grass or weeds on private property — home, commercial, industrial or agricultural properties including boulevards —  has more than doubled to $135. If a homeowner does not comply with the Unsightly Premises or Boulevard Maintenance Bylaw, the city will take remedial action and bill the violator accordingly.

The message of this year’s contest is to “plant” some pride and beautify your community. Nominate someone you know who has worked hard to make their property spectacular. Judges will be looking at the front yard to evaluate its overall curb appeal, innovative features and the property’s cleanliness. The property might even be recognized nationally.

Contest categories include residential property, business (national chain, business), independent, apartment blocks and condominiums, community effort (e.g., parks, community centres), business improvement zones and previous winners of residential properties.

Only Winnipeg properties are eligible for the contest. As well, back yards are excluded from the judging. 

Entry cards are available at Home Depot and MTS Connect Stores or on-line at www.takepride.mb.ca. The deadline for entries is July 5.  Judging takes place from July 7 to 31.

For contest details and answers to frequently asked questions, go to www.takepride.mb.ca.

All entrants are invited to the awards ceremony in August at Rainbow Stage.  All winning properties will have addresses posted on the Take Pride Winnipeg website on August 18.

Show Winnipeggers how one yard can make a difference and inspire other people to spruce up their yards. After all, curb appeal does not stop at one address but is a challenge to your entire neighbourhood.