New month, new opportunities—and new improved pricing on our Townhomes! If you’ve been waiting for the perfect time to make a move, this is it! Plus, if you’ve been eagerly anticipating new lots in Miller’s Pond and Harvest Run, you’re in luck! Don’t miss your chance to build your dream home in these sought-after communities. Our team is here to help you every step of the way. Let’s find you the perfect home!
Sales Update
Hello, February! 2025 is already off to a busy and exciting start! In January, we introduced improved pricing on our Townhomes and released new lots in Miller’s Pond—and we’re keeping the momentum going.
This February, we’re thrilled to announce the release of new lots in Harvest Run!
Whether you’re looking for a beautiful Quick Possession Home or the perfect lot to build your dream home, now is the time to explore your options. Let our expert sales team guide you every step of the way.
Reach out to us at contact@dougtarryhomes.com and take the next step toward your dream home today!
Until next month...
the Sales team
Explore the possibilities Floorplan Options
Each month, we’re excited to showcase how flexible and adaptable your future home can be with us.
This Month’s Feature: The optional 1.5 bath plan in our Pinewood floorplan.
Upgrade to a 1.5 bath plan for added convenience and functionality, ensuring less waiting and more comfort for your household.
Marketing Update
This month has been nothing short of busy at Doug Tarry Homes! From hosting exciting events to receiving prestigious recognition, here’s a look at what we’ve been up to:
We were thrilled to host an open house in Harvest Run to highlight the new improved pricing on our stunning Ashton Townhomes. Thank you to everyone who attended and made the event such a success! It was wonderful to connect with so many of you and showcase why our townhomes are a perfect fit for modern living in the vibrant Harvest Run community. If you missed it, don’t worry— Jackie is always happy to provide information and tours.
This month, our esteemed leader, Doug Tarry Jr., was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal, a prestigious recognition. Congratulations, Doug!
We were excited to participate in this year’s Lifestyle Home Show, where we had the opportunity to connect with homeowners, industry professionals, and community members. A standout moment was when Doug took the stage to speak about LifeARK™, an innovative solution for sustainable and resilient housing. Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth or joined Doug’s presentation.
Our sales team has also been hard at work preparing for the release of new lots in both Harvest Run and Miller’s Pond. These exciting opportunities provide even more options for families looking to build their dream homes in these sought-after communities.
Being a newsletter subscriber has its benefits! If you were on the list for Miller’s Pond, you should have already received an email notification about the new lot releases. Stay subscribed to get the latest updates before anyone else!
Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming projects, events, and community initiatives.
Until next month!
the Marketing team
Quick Possession Homes
THE ADVANTAGES OF QUICK POSSESSION NEW HOME SALES OVER RE-SALE PROPERTIES
For prospective homebuyers, the decision between purchasing a re-sale property and opting for a quick possession new home can be a challenging one. Quick possession homes, also known as move-inready homes, offer unique benefits that often outshine the appeal of pre-owned properties. This article explores the advantages of quick possession homes, their target market, and how these homes cater to the specific needs of buyers.
What Are Quick Possession Homes?
Quick possession homes are newly built houses that are either fully completed or nearing completion. Builders construct these homes to showcase their craftsmanship or to meet the demand of buyers seeking a faster move-in timeline.
Key Benefits of Quick Possession Homes Over Re-Sale Properties
1. Move-In Ready Convenience Quick possession homes eliminate the waiting period associated with builds. Buyers can move in almost immediately, making them an ideal choice for those with tight timelines, such as families relocating for work or individuals facing lease expirations.
2. Brand-New Features and Warranties These homes can come with brand-new appliances, modern finishes, and the latest design trends. Additionally, buyers benefit from builder warranties suck as Tarion, which provide peace of mind and reduce maintenance costs in the early years of homeownership.
3. Energy Efficiency and Modern Standards Quick possession homes are built to current building codes and energy efficiency standards. This means lower utility bills and a reduced environmental footprint compared to older re-sale properties.
4. Transparent Pricing Unlike re-sale properties, where negotiation and hidden issues can complicate the buying process, quick possession homes typically have transparent, fixed pricing. Buyers know exactly what they’re getting without unexpected repair or renovation costs.
5. No Need for Renovations Re-sale properties often come with the need for updates, repairs, or personalization. Quick possession homes are designed with modern buyers in mind, reducing the hassle and expense of renovations.
Who Is the Target Market for Quick Possession Homes?
Quick possession homes cater to a variety of buyers, including:
1. First-Time Homebuyers First-time buyers often prioritize affordability, simplicity, and move-in readiness. Quick possession homes provide a stress-free entry into the housing market with modern features and minimal maintenance concerns.
2. Relocating Professionals Individuals or families relocating for work often have limited time to find a new home. Quick possession homes offer a seamless solution, allowing them to settle in quickly and focus on their new job or community.
3. Growing Families Families needing more space or moving to better school districts can benefit from the convenience and immediate availability of quick possession homes.
4. Downsizers and Retirees Empty nesters looking to simplify their lives often appreciate the modern amenities and low-maintenance lifestyle offered by quick possession homes.
Benefits to the Target Market
Quick possession homes provide tailored advantages to their target audience. For first-time buyers, the fixed pricing and lack of renovation requirements remove much of the stress associated with purchasing a home. Relocating professionals save time and effort, enabling a smoother transition to a new city. Growing families enjoy the modern layouts and energy efficiency, while retirees find comfort in the lowmaintenance aspects of these homes.
Conclusion
Quick possession new homes offer a compelling alternative to re-sale properties. With their modern features, move-in readiness, and targeted benefits for various buyer demographics, these homes are an excellent choice for those seeking convenience, value, and peace of mind. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a relocating professional, or a retiree, a quick possession home might just be the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
If you have any questions about our Quick Possession Homes, give Andy O’Reilly a call at 519-266-4561 or visit our Quick Possession page on our website.
Eagle Ridge
Get ready to call this lovely bungalow home - Our last Quick Possession bungalow currently available in Eagle Ridge! The Glenwood plan had a recent price reduction of $10,000 making this the perfect time to buy.
The home features open concept main floor with gorgeous kitchen and island, vaulted great room, ensuite bath, main floor powder room, and main floor laundry. The unfinished basement is ready to be completed, or not! Listed at $683,288 contact Cathy Fox today 519-266-4561 cfox@dougtarryhomes,.com for more information.
Congratulations to our purchasers of the beautiful Danbridge quick possession home in Eagle Ridge!
Eagle Ridge
Don’t miss these last few lots on Firefly Lane. Check out lots 4 and 5 backing on the pond, and fabulous deep lots 22 and 29. And one remaining corner lot 30 firefly lane.
Contact Cathy Fox for more details.
Coming soon…
Have you been eagerly waiting for more lots in Eagle Ridge? The wait is nearly over as we prepare for the release of Hawk’s Gate in March 2025. Stay tuned for updates next month
Harvest Run
Exciting News: New Improved Price on Ashton Town Homes!
We’re thrilled to announce a fantastic new price for our Ashton Town Homes! These stunning properties offer everything you’ve been dreaming of, now starting at just $549,900.
Key Features:
• Spacious Layout: With 1,600 sq. ft. of living space plus a finished basement, you’ll enjoy nearly 2,000 sq. ft. of comfort and style.
• Open-Concept Design: Perfect for modern living, the open-concept layout provides a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining, and living areas.
• Large Master Bedroom: Your private retreat includes a generous master bedroom with a walk-in closet and ensuite.
• Convenient Upper Laundry Room: Say goodbye to lugging laundry up and down the stairs!
• Appliances Included: Move in with ease – a fridge, stove, and dishwasher are all included.
• Freehold Ownership: Enjoy the benefits of freehold ownership with no condo fees.
• Move-In Ready: We have move-in ready units available now! If you prefer a later closing date, we can accommodate that too.
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to own a beautiful new home at an unbeatable price. For more information or to schedule a viewing, contact Jackie DaSilva at 519-207-6222 or jdasilva@dougtarryhomes.com.Make the Ashton Town Homes your new address today!
Miller’s Pond
February – hot start to new year more activity
It’s been an exciting start to the year here in Millers Pond, with plenty of activity and showings happening in the community. Despite the very cold weather, we’ve seen impressive movement in the market, including three Quick Possession Homes already sold! This is a great sign as we head into what’s expected to be a bustling spring market. Homebuyers are clearly eager to jump in, and we can expect even more action as the weather warms up.
Speaking of February, did you know it’s the shortest month of the year due to the ancient Roman calendar? The Romans originally created a year of 355 days, and to keep it in sync with the solar year, they made February just 28 days long (29 days in a leap year). A bit of history to kick off the year with!
Contact Drew Caspi 519-207-3066 or dcaspi@dougtarryhomes.com
Don’t miss the Stonehaven!!
Our Stonehaven is now staged!! We are excited to be hosting an open house February 1st and 2nd from 12-4pm to showcase this incredible home.
Listed at $769,495 this is our LAST home being built in the highly sought after Lake Margaret Estates subdivision. This plan spans 1,937 sq ft and features 3 Bedrooms including an ultraconvenient main floor master bedroom with an upgraded ensuite. My favourite part of this home is the diverse sitting room on the upper level.
Come see for yourself and tell us what you think!
Doug Tarry Homes Sponsors Minor Hockey Night with the Port Stanley Sailors
What a fantastic night for the local community! Doug Tarry Homes was proud to sponsor Minor Hockey Night, where so many kids had the chance to cheer on the Port Stanley Sailors. The energy in the rink was incredible as the kids filled the stands, showing their support for the team. After the game, it was a special treat for them to meet the players and get autographs!
It was a memorable evening for everyone involved, and I had the honor of dropping the puck to kick things off –a fun experience I am proud to have been a part of. It’s moments like these that truly show the power of sports in bringing our community together, and I’m so glad Doug Tarry Homes could be a part of it!
5-Star Review! We’re beyond grateful for this amazing feedback we received recently:
"Great builder, amazing team! They answer any questions and are always available to help you with anything. Highly recommend Doug Tarry Homes."
"It was a pleasure working with Drew Caspi on the sale of a semi-detached home with my client. Drew was very professional and took his time"
It’s reviews like this that inspire us to continue doing what we do best—helping you build your dream home!
Thank you for the trust and kind words!
Miller’s Pond
Sub Slab Insulation
Check out this behind this scenes picture of one of our Quick Possession Homes for sale! At Doug Tarry Homes, we’re committed to making your home as comfortable and energy efficient as possible. That’s why we include R10 Sub Slab Insulation (spray foam) as a standard feature in all our homes.
This high-performance insulation helps keep your basement floors cozy during the colder months and more comfortable year-round.
Make A Referral – We think good friends and family make great neighbours!! Doug Tarry Homes is pleased to offer $500 for referrals in its friends and family rewards program. Reach out to me if you have someone in mind who is looking to purchase a Doug Tarry Home!!
More Hockey
If you were wondering what I will be up to besides selling homes this month you can find me tuning into the 4 Nations Cup! This tournament is especially exciting because we’ll be seeing some of the world’s top NHL players on the ice, representing their home countries in what promises to be a heated competition. Let’s hope Canada can come out on top!!
300 Manor
Looking for Your Next Place to Call Home? We’ve got beautiful 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom apartments available in our 300 and 310 Manor Road buildings. These units are stylish, spacious, and ready for you to move in!
• Rent: $2250/month
• Modern living spaces
• Convenient location
Don’t wait—these units won’t last long! For more details, email rentals@dougtarryhomes.com today.
Careers
Doug Tarry Homes has earned a national reputation for crafting awardwinning, energy-efficient homes. As a forward-thinking organization, we’re constantly pushing the boundaries of high-performance sustainability in the industry. To continue our growth and success, we’re seeking individuals who share our passion for sustainability and innovation to join our workforce.
When you become part of the Doug Tarry Homes team, you’ll enjoy competitive compensation packages that include bonuses, health and dental benefits, a wellness spending account, and opportunities for professional development. We believe in investing in our employees and supporting their growth.
Currently, Doug Tarry Homes is not hiring. However, be sure to check next month’s newsletter or visit our Careers page on our website for future opportunities!
Upcoming Events
Global Flavours Passport Event
February 5-27 , 2025
Join us on a culinary adventure! Every year, for the month of February, we invite you to download your Global Flavours Passport and experience the world in St. Thomas. Have fun, show some local love, and make February a delectable month for the record books!
Organizer: RAILWAY CITY TOURISM tourism@stthomas.ca
St. Thomas Uncorked
February 14, 2025
A fun and interactive evening of mystery wines, tasty hors d’oeuvres and friends.
Sample varieties of mystery reds and whites, or try one of Jamie Quai’s premium selections.
Location: CASO Station 750 Talbot Street, St. Thomas, ON
Elgin County Wedding Show
February 9, 2025
Love is in the air, and we’re thrilled to invite you to the Elgin County Wedding Show, in partnership with Schwartzentruber Music Services. Whether you’re a blushing brideto-be, a dashing groom, or a wedding enthusiast, join us for a day filled with inspiration, excitement, and everything you need to make your special day truly unforgettable.
Location: St. Anne’s Centre 20 Morrison Drive, St. Thomas, ON
Improv Night by Rail City Theatre
February 21, 2025
If you have seen Whose Line is it Anyway, then you already have a pretty good idea of what we do. The audience builds the show as we react to their suggestions. You get a different and hilarious experience every time you come out. No two shows are the same.
Location: Princess Avenue Playhouse 40 Princess Avenue, St. Thomas, ON
Featured Small Business Meet Our Team
Leslie Jones Cleaner
If you haven’t checked out Sweet Spot Candy Shop in Elgin Mall yet, you’re in for a treat! Owned by Dane and run alongside his wife Nicole and daughter Hayley, this family business is a fun space filled with unique candies and goodies for all ages. Nicole and Hayley are pictured here, ready to greet you with a smile!
Location: 417 Wellington St., St. Thomas Call: 519-200-2566 Visit: @sweetspot.candy
• I grew up in Port Stanley
• I enjoy golfing, gardening, and trying out new recipes
Based in London and St. Thomas, Ontario, Diamond Painting & Wall Finishes Ltd. is dedicated to transforming spaces with precision, quality, and a keen eye for detail. We take pride in providing our clients with beautiful, lasting finishes and reliable, friendly service. Our skilled team specializes in residential and commercial painting, custom wall finishes, thin brick walls, Stuki (Venetian plaster), and mortar walls, working closely with you to bring your vision to life with the finest craftsmanship and materials.
Our company is committed to maintaining the highest standards and providing exceptional customer service in every project. From wallpaper removal and priming to unique wall treatments and custom colour consultations, we bring expertise and passion to each job, ensuring a seamless experience and premium results.
Diamond Painting & Wall Finishes Ltd. is here to create vibrant, luxurious spaces with unparalleled quality and attention to detail.
Decor Trends
The Importance of Lighting in a Home: Setting the Perfect Mood all Year Round
Lighting is one of the most transformative elements in a Home. Beyond its practical function, lighting influences mood, ambiance, and the overall aesthetic of any space. Whether you’re curling up with a book, hosting a dinner party, or simply winding down after a long day, the right lighting can make all the difference. Here, we’ll explore why lighting matters, how it relates to having a sustainable home, and how to use different types of lighting to elevate your space.
Ambient Lighting
Ambient lighting is the foundation of any room’s lighting design. Often referred to as general lighting, it provides overall illumination to make a space livable and comfortable. This includes ceiling-mounted fixtures, recessed lighting, or even large floor lamps. Ambient lighting should be soft and even, eliminating shadows and creating a welcoming environment.
Task Lighting
Task lighting focuses on functionality, providing bright, concentrated light for specific activities like reading, cooking, or working. Desk lamps, under-cabinet kitchen lights, and pendant lights over a dining table are examples of task lighting. When choosing task lighting, opt for adjustable fixtures and bulbs. Dimmers can be a great option to open up the ability to transform task lighting into accent or decorative lighting when bright direct light is no longer needed.
Decorative Lighting
Decorative lighting is where form meets function. These fixtures are designed to add personality and style to your home. Chandeliers, pendant lights with artistic designs, and statement sconces are great examples. While decorative lighting may not always be the most practical, it adds an element of visual interest and serves as a focal point in your space.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting is all about creating depth and highlighting specific features. Think track lighting to showcase artwork, LED strips to accentuate architectural details, or spotlights for your favourite decor pieces. Accent lighting is typically softer and directional, drawing the eye without overpowering the room’s overall lighting scheme.
Lighting and Sustainability
At Doug Tarry Homes, sustainability is at the core of our values. Incorporating sustainable lighting solutions is an essential step towards creating an eco-friendly home. Energy-efficient options, such as LED bulbs, not only reduce electricity consumption but also last significantly longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, minimizing waste. Solar-powered outdoor lighting and automated systems that adjust based on natural light can further enhance sustainability. By prioritizing energy-efficient lighting and thoughtful design, we aim to create homes that are both beautiful and environmentally responsible. Choosing sustainable lighting not only benefits the planet but also contributes to long-term savings and a healthier living environment.
Tips for Choosing the Right Lighting
Maximize Natural Light: Before you start lighting a room consider how much natural light it gets throughout the day and take note of the areas that need brightening. Maximize natural light by selecting window treatments that filter and do not entirely block out light. Mirrors around a space are a great way to bounce light.
Layer Your Lighting: Combine ambient, task, decorative, and accent lighting to achieve a balanced and dynamic space.
Match Light Temperature to the Season: Use cooler tones in summer and warmer tones in winter to create a harmonious atmosphere.
Dimmers Are Your Friend: Install dimmer switches to adjust lighting levels according to the time of day or your mood.
Consider Energy Efficiency: LED bulbs are not only energy-efficient but also available in a wide range of color temperatures and styles.
Use Lighting to Define Zones: Open-concept spaces can benefit from distinct lighting setups to visually separate areas like the kitchen, living room, and dining area.
Warm regards,
the Doug Tarry HomesDécor Staff
Designers Corner
DROPPING THE BRICK LINE AT THE FRONT OF THE GARAGE
When grading leaves a certain amount of exposed foundation wall at the front of a house, we will drop the brick line at the front of the garage to maximize the amount of brick & decrease the amount of exposed foundation.
This creates better curb appeal while still maintaining 6” of exposed foundation as per the Ontario Building Code.
This is a standard practice at Doug Tarry Homes and an example of how a small element can have an impact on the overall design.
Warm regards,
the Home Designer Team
Did you know? Abode services and installs gas fireplaces
Having trouble with your gas fireplace and don't know where to turn?
Abode Home Comfort is here to help! Whether it's maintenance, repairs, troubleshooting, or installing a new unit, our expert team can get your fireplace working smoothing again. Don't let issues keep you from enjoying the warmth and comfort of your home this winter. Call us at (519) 953-4821
Home Tight
Have you wondered if it’s worth it to add “air sealing house” to your project to-do list? You absolutely should.
Plenty of homeowners don’t know the huge impact that air sealing can have on the comfort of their house—and some even worry that too much air sealing will make their home stuffy or unsafe. (Spoiler: That’s not true.)
Not to worry. With Home Tight Air Sealing, we can cover common air sealing questions—including what air sealing is, if air sealing is worth it, and what air sealing a house costs.
Key points:
1. Open gaps and seams, called air leaks, allow cold or warm air from outside to enter your home through window frames, exterior doors, uninsulated rim joists, your attic, and more. Air sealing fixes this issue.
2. Along with insulation, air sealing is one of the most important things you can do to improve your home’s comfort, health, and energy efficiency—but it’s often overlooked by both homeowners and even some contractors.
3. Whole-home air sealing is more than just caulking in your attic. Home professionals use specialized blower door tests, sealants, foam gaskets, and more to close up open gaps and seams in your home. It’s science!
To find out how we can help you, go to hometight.ca for more information.
Warm regards,
the Home Tight Team
Congratulations Doug!
Our esteemed leader, Doug Tarry Jr, was presented with the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of his significant contributions to our community, province, and country.
Congratulations! We are so proud of you!
Why a Doug Tarry home Might Not Be for You
If you’re not interested in reducing your impact on the planet, then a Doug Tarry home might not be for you... Why bother lowering your energy footprint on the environment when you can leave a legacy of sky-high utility bills and excessive carbon emissions? Reducing energy use is for people who care about things like breathable air and a stable climate. Who needs sustainability when you can live like there’s no tomorrow… literally!
Recipe of the Month
Ham and Cheese Sliders
INGREDIENTS:
1 package (12 ounces) Hawaiian sweet rolls
3/4 pound sliced deli ham
1/2 cup butter, cubed
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 teaspoons poppy seeds
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Directions
1/2 cup horseradish sauce
6 slices Swiss cheese, halved
2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
1 tablespoon spicy brown mustard
1-1/2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1. Without separating the rolls, cut rolls in half horizontally. Arrange bottom halves of rolls in a greased 9x9-in. baking pan. Spread cut side of roll bottoms with horseradish sauce. Layer with ham and cheese; replace top half of the rolls.
2. In a small skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add onion; cook and stir until tender, 1-2 minutes. Stir in remaining ingredients. Pour over rolls. Refrigerate, covered, for several hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 350°. Remove rolls from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Bake, covered, 25 minutes. Bake, uncovered, until golden brown, 5-10 minutes longer.
A message from our President
It’s perhaps rather ironic that the US Federal Government has now come under the control of a group of climate change deniers at the same time as California is on fire. My heart breaks for the thousands of families who have lost their homes, especially those who are no longer qualified for insurance to rebuild.
Here in Canada? Well, it’s likely only a short matter of time before we are also led by a group who have turned their backs on climate change and the science behind it. I would think at this point that these first three comments are merely stating the obvious; however, there is one more change happening that affects me personally that is related to all of this. As of January 1st, 2025, I became President of the Energy & Environmental Building Alliance (EEBA), a US organization founded in 1982.
At EEBA our objective is to “Guide the residential new construction industry forward to a more sustainable future.” As one of the very few Canadians to be named EEBA President during the history of the organization, I take this responsibility very seriously. Clearly, I have my work cut out for me. But I look forward to continuing my personal mission to share better building practices with all those who are interested in a more sustainable future. I actually outlined a great deal of this in my book, “From Bleeding Edge to Leading Edge: A Builders Guide to Net Zero Homes.” In the book I outline what I term “The Four Principals of Modern Design” as being Carbon Reduction, Indoor Air Quality, Occupant Comfort and Climate Resilient Construction, as well as what I call the Two Commandments: Water Management and Air Tightness.
What do the California wildfires have to do with construction here in southern Ontario? I’m glad you asked. With more frequent and more severe climate events (hurricanes, droughts, tornados, floods, extreme heat, extreme cold, all of which are happening here in North America), there is the very real risk that homeowner’s insurance covering this will become impossible to afford, if not outright unavailable. If the insurers can’t manage the risk, or can’t continue to cover their losses, then there is the very real possibility that they will stop insuring houses for climate related risk, or perhaps if we are fortunate, will continue
to provide it only if the home is built to include climate risk mitigation standards. And this, folks, does not have anything to do with who’s in government. It is strictly about financial viability, and the market withdrawal by insurance companies is happening much more broadly than we know.
So, what are we at Doug Tarry Homes doing about it besides me writing a book on what can be done? Here are a few examples:
• We’ve partnered with Western University and the Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction (ICLR) to do ongoing field trials of different wind resistant details designed to enable our homes to withstand tornadoes up to an EF2 in strength.
• We have implemented the use of AeroBarrier for ensuring every dwelling meets a minimum air tightness standard. This includes compartmentalization between units of our semis, towns and apartments. This is considered an industry best practice, but in reality, very few builders are doing this.
• The use of low solar glass to manage temperatures within our homes and multifamily units, helping to avoid dangerous overheating in the summer in case there are extreme weather events and the power grid goes down.
• And we have also opened two “LifeARK™” discovery homes here in St. Thomas where we can demonstrate the possibilities of sustainable survivability in the event of a significant climate event.
All of this we strive to provide for our customers as cost effectively as possible. While we might be led by those who want to turn back the clock, the need for climate resilient construction that considers the health and safety of our homeowners matters. It matters a great deal, and I am honoured to lead the Doug Tarry team as we continue to advance this philosophy in every home we build. I am also deeply honoured to serve as the 2025 EEBA President.
