Profiles of Excellence in Real Estate - 2018 by Real Estate Weekly

EXCELLENCE

2018 PROFILES OF

R E A L E S TAT E

AWARD -WIN NING

VISIONARIES DE VELOPER S

RE ALTO R S

Â®

B R O K E R AG E S

I N D U S T RY O R G A N IZ AT I O N S

COMPANY PROFILE

Elevating the Built

Environment

Holborn Group is garnering international attention for its projects, which range from high-end elite to community-focused

ITH INCREDIBLE attention to detail, exceptional design and robust market research, Holborn Group is fast becoming one of the West Coast’s most esteemed real estate developers. “I am motivated to create spaces that harness experiences for people,” says Joo Kim Tiah, principal of Holborn Group. “We pride ourselves on design-focused commercial and residential projects that are different than others in the market, while never duplicating a design.” Tiah’s defining moment in his career came in 2009 when he took over running the family

Profiles of Excellence

University Heights by Holborn phase 2 is set to launch in 2018 with 51 single-family homes in Squamish.

business. He became part of Vancouver’s elite developers with the Trump International Hotel & Tower Vancouver. This is hugely credited to his forward-thinking efforts researching some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts. He also spent numerous years travelling and educating himself in the hospitality industry, from studying restaurants to bars to nightlife and entertainment.

International accolade Recently, Holborn Group received the prestigious award for the 2017-2018 Best International Hotel Architecture, from the International

Property Awards, the largest and most prestigious global competition of its kind. The International Property Awards celebrates the most coveted achievements by companies operating in all sectors of the property and real estate industry across the globe. An International Property Award is a world-renowned mark of excellence. “Th is was such an honour… competing against developers from all over the world and winning was a huge deal for us,” says Tiah. “Trump International Hotel & Tower Vancouver also received other regional awards from the International Property Awards.”

Rendering of Hastings and Abbott market rental building designed in collaboration with Gair Williamson

Core values Every project Holborn Group takes on are based on its core values – to be significant in the places it develops, to create environments where the fondest memories are shared, and to elevate the communities and cities where they live. “We listen, we observe and respond with vision to create the most celebrated landmarks and developments,” notes Tiah. This is why you won’t see the company build the same product among any two communities. The team recognizes the special nuances that make a property unique and design their communities to accentuate them. Each project is a blank canvas and a chance to set another benchmark.

2018 projects This is an exciting year for Holborn Group. Capitalizing on its phenomenal success, Holborn Group will focus on three major projects within its expansive portfolio. Little Mountain: This masterplanned community on a 15-acre site alongside Queen Elizabeth Park will consist of 1,600 condominiums and townhomes, including 283 social housing units. It is expected to be completed in 10 years, over four phases. Once finished, Little Mountain by Holborn will encompass 18 buildings, ranging from four storeys to 12, as well as 32,000 square feet of commercial space, with a neighbourhood house, daycare, retail, and grocery store. Holborn has engaged local architecture firms such as Stantec and B+H Architects to begin building designs of the first phase. And international architecture firm Ministry of Design for the spectacular presentation center set to open Fall 2018 on the site. “Little Mountain is literally next to Queen Elizabeth Park, a very sought-after neighbourhood,” notes Tiah, adding they will break ground later this fall on two social housing buildings and the presentation centre. “As we move forward with the

different stages, we are hiring some of the best local and international architects to set a new benchmark for this area.” University Heights: The second development launching this year for the company is Phase 2 of Squamish’s University Heights by Holborn. Riding on the success of the sold-out Phase 1, it consists of 20 acres adjacent to Quest University in the Garibaldi Highlands community. Phase 2 will comprise of a mix of 51 single family homes designed by Vancouver’s Frits de Vries Architect Ltd, and 69 townhomes conceived by Battersby Howatt Architects. “We understand the changing demographics here, which consist of young families and outdoor enthusiasts,” Tiah says. “This project will offer a contemporary design not seen in Squamish until now.” Holborn Group is currently in pre-sales for its nine serviced lots (three are already sold), while the single-family homes pre-sales begin in late fall. Hastings and Abbott: Lastly, Tiah is hoping to start on its Hastings and Abbott market rental building in Gastown’s Victory Square by the end of this year. This market rental building will consist of 132 units and 6000 square feet of commercial space. “With all of the projects I undertake, I really want to make an impact on Vancouver’s skyline,” Tiah says. “The joy of creating something new and exciting is why I do what I do.”

Date founded? July 2001. Current principal Joo Kim Tiah took over in Jan 2009 How many local projects so far? Six projects completed, three under way, and one hotel How many employees? About 30 employees Proudest accolades and awards: Achieving the highest price per square foot sold for residential pre-sales in 2015 for Trump International Hotel & Tower Vancouver at $1600/sq ft Trump International Hotel & Tower Vancouver won the following eight awards from the Americas Property Awards and International Property Awards for 2017-2018: • International Property Award for BEST INTERNATIONAL HOTEL ARCHITECTURE 2017-2018 • Best Hotel Interior Canada (5 Star award – best in Canada) • Best Hotel Architecture Canada (5 Star award – best in Canada)

Principal, Joo Kim Tiah receiving the International Property Award for Best Hotel Architecture

• Best New Hotel Construction & Design Canada (5 Star award – best in Canada) • Best Residential High-rise Architecture Canada (5 Star award – best in Canada) • Development Marketing • Residential High-rise Development • Mixed-use Development

200-1111 West Georgia Street | Vancouver, BC | V6E 4S4 www.holborn.ca | info@holborn.ca

604 688 8387

Profiles of Excellence

Reliability in a

Volatile

Real Estate Market When it comes to the biggest purchase of your life, look to the experts you can trust

elcome to the 2018 Profi les of Excellence – the second annual publication dedicated to celebrating the best of the best in the Lower Mainland’s real estate and development industry. In a market where home prices are far out of reach of many and seem to be decoupled from local incomes, asking people to read – and care – about real estate and development industry wins might initially seem like a tall order. But our difficult-to-navigate, messy, volatile market is exactly the reason why you should take note of the key players and their achievements – whether development companies, real estate brokerages or individual REALTORS®. Because without 100% reliable expertise behind you, making the biggest purchase of your life – your home – is going to be that much more challenging. If you’re buying a new home, going with a developer with a stellar track record is a must. If you’re building or renovating, you should deal only with a trustworthy building company that produces homes of the highest quality. And if you’re buying (or selling) your home on the

resale market, an awesome agent with bags of experience and local expertise is the only person you want going to bat for you. That’s why we at Glacier Media have produced Profi les of Excellence, showcasing the work of the finest companies and individuals in the industry. Not just to celebrate them, but also to help you, the consumer. Also contained in these pages is our annual Market Forecast, offering tips on some of the hottest spots in the region to buy real estate right now. There’s also a comprehensive guide to industry awards and the associations that hand them out, along with some of the biggest winners through the years. We have a how-to on tracking down the best REALTOR® for your home sale or purchase, plus our Amazing Amenities article features some of the coolest things about Metro Vancouver’s condo communities. We hope that you enjoy this publication and that it inspires you to work with the industry’s best. After all, this is not just any purchase we’re talking about – it’s your home.

Enjoy!

Joannah Connolly is the editor-in-chief of Glacier Media Group’s real estate division, which includes Real Estate Weekly Homes, West Coast Condo, Western Investor and the Vancouver Courier’s online real estate section. She appears regularly on radio, TV and conference panels discussing the Vancouver real estate market.

Profiles of Excellence

28 20

Inside

Metro Vancouver Market Forecast 10 2018 Wondering where to buy your home? Looking for an up-and-coming area? Here are our predictions and hot spots

2 Holborn Group Than Just a Statue 20 More The industry awards – and biggest winners – that you can use as a benchmark

6 CENTURY 21 Canada

for quality

9 Michele Cummins - RE/MAX Little Oak Realty Makes a Great Real Estate Agent? 26 What How to identify the attributes you need to work with – and then fi nd

14 Dexter Associates Realty

the agent who has them

16 Ruthie Shugarman and Paige Kraft Dexter Associates Realty

Amenities 28 Amazing The Lower Mainland is full of incredible condo communities boasting all kinds of

18 StreetSide Developments

luxury lifestyle extras. Here are our top picks

Publisher:

Janai York

Production:

Darko Isic

Editor-in-Chief:

Joannah Connolly

Designers:

Sales:

Tracey Aussem Igor Pogorelo Lynn Fry Jackie Mollenhauer David Witherspoon

Arslan Sultan Annette Spreeuw

Vancouver Head Ofﬁce: 303 West 5th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C. V5Y 1J6

Copyright: Proﬁles of Excellence in Real Estate is published by Real Estate Weekly Partnership. Copyright 2018. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of articles and advertising that appear in each edition of Proﬁles of Excellence in Real Estate, the publisher may not be held responsible for any errors or omissions that may from time to time occur. No part of this publication may be quoted or reprinted in any medium without the express written permission of Real Estate Weekly Partnership.

BROKER PROFILE

Innovation and the Gold Standard in Service CENTURY 21 Canada gives agents and clients the technology and tools for an exceptional experience

CENTURY 21’s executive vice-president Brian Rushton (left) and vice-chairman and CEO Martin Charlwood (right) present Michael La Praire, (middle right) and John Berry with an award at the annual awards night in Vancouver.

ENTURY 21 is a name synonymous with real estate. It was the first real estate franchise to enter the Canadian market in 1976, growing into one of the largest real estate companies in the world with nearly 400 locally owned offices in Canada and 7,700 worldwide. Brian Rushton, executive vice-president of

Profiles of Excellence

CENTURY 21 Canada, credits the company’s success to the family that owns it, the Charlwoods. Founder U. Gary Charlwood had a vision of innovation, and a team approach to servicing franchisees, REALTORS® and most importantly customers. Another reason for the Vancouver-based pioneer’s success is capitalizing on cutting-edge

technology. Ten years ago, they invested heavily into a website and online back office system. Th is year, in partnership with Real Estate Webmasters, they’re launching a brand new state of the art marketing platform. In another first, CENTURY 21 Canada is the first company to offer agent reviews on a national basis. This way, customers can read the reviews of

a REALTOR prior to engaging them in business.

Emphasis on education and culture With a strong emphasis on improvement through education, CENTURY 21 offers ground-breaking training programs helping sales representatives establish themselves as experts in their markets. To keep their skills sharp, REALTORS have access to a comprehensive online learning platform, networking meetings and conferences across the country. Moreover, franchise owners can attend its annual Canadian Management Academy - an intensive five-day program focused on helping its brokers proactively and profitably run their businesses. “CENTURY 21 Canada offers the best in class training, and provides all our agents with websites and marketing tools so they can focus on providing the best experience for clients,” notes Rushton. “No matter what trends come and go, quality is valuable and timeless.” That strong culture of support attracted Michael La Prairie. “My wife Heather and I wanted to start a family, so we decided to invest in a solid business,” says the CENTURY 21 In Town Realty franchisee. In 2005, the couple looked at several businesses before selecting CENTURY 21 Canada. “I was actually working at CENTURY 21 Canada’s corporate office so I knew and liked the corporate culture,” says La Prairie. “I liked the fact that CENTURY 21 encouraged a cross-Canada cooperative association of franchisees. We share ideas and if I need help from anyone across the country, it’s there.”

Worldwide phenomenon Today, CENTURY 21 In Town Realty has more than 130 realtors who speak more than 28 languages, and offers property management and mortgage brokerage services. LaPrairie and his management team are not active in

selling real estate themselves, instead they solely focus on supporting their agents and promoting the business. The company consistently ranks in the top 30 offices in Canada. It’s also been honoured with the CENTURY 21 Grand Centurion Office award for the past 12 years, the brand’s most prestigious recognition for sales excellence globally. In addition to all the tools, training, systems and support that CENTURY 21 brings to the table, La Prairie goes over and above the norm to make his agents the best in the community. “I created a mentorship program for new agents. Th is gives them hands-on training and the support of experienced REALTORS who are passionate about their career.”

Michael La Prairie, CENTURY 21 In Town Realty franchisee, chose to join the franchise in 2005

Date established? CENTURY 21 Canada opened its doors in January 1976

Tech tools CENTURY 21 In Town is one of the first CENTURY 21 offices in Canada to leverage the new technology provided by Real Estate Webmasters, www.Century21Vancouver.com, which seamlessly integrates into other platforms including BombBomb™, Top Producer® and Market Snapshot®, giving agents a competitive advantage when it comes to generating leads and building their business. La Prairie has also partnered with a start-up company called Ampify, an app that creates and manages your social media while generating leads and promoting listings. “I believe in investing in my REALTORS,” says La Prairie. “I really want to support them in being the best they can be.” CENTURY 21 is also an enterprise with heart. CENTURY 21 In Town Realty single-handedly has raised nearly $85,000 for the company’s charity of choice, Easter Seals, supporting local families living with disabilities.

How many ofﬁces? 391 in Canada, 7700 worldwide How many Network Members? 10,267 in Canada, 117,000 worldwide. Proudest accolades and awards? 2016 CFA Hall of Fame; 2007, founder Gary Charlwood was inducted into the International Franchise Association Hall of Fame.

421 Pacific Street | Vancouver BC V6Z 2P5 604.685.5951 intownrealty@century21.ca w w w. C e n t u r y 2 1 Va n c o u ve r. c o m

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AGENT PROFILE

From Showbiz to the Realty Biz Actor-turned-agent Michele Cummins has a starring role in the real estate spotlight personal calls. A chance meeting with a real estate agent changed all that. “I drove him to his rental car and asked him about his career. As he shared, I realized that as a realtor there was great flexibility beyond a rigid 9-5,” she says.

The right move

ith a family background in show business, Michele Cummins wanted to carry on the tradition. Both her father and grandfather had worked for MGM Studios, and would tell stories of working with the likes of Jimmy Stewart, Clint Eastwood and even the great Elvis Presley. “I was receiving many calls,” she says. “But then I lost a re-occurring role on a TV show and a commercial because I was missing casting calls.” The missed calls happened because Cummins worked in a rental car company that didn’t allow

It turns out Cummins was a natural REALTOR®. Fifteen years later, she consistently ranks in the top 1% of all agents across Canada, as well as number one selling and listing RE/MAX agent in the Fraser Valley. Qualified as both a buyer’s agent and a listing agent, Cummins has the expertise, knowledge and tools to work with everyone – from the firsttime home buyers to luxury properties (Cummins is a certified RE/MAX Collection of Luxury Real Estate, Properties and Homes marketing specialist), investment situations, developments and much more – not only in the Fraser Valley but across the province and beyond. “I like to collaborate with REALTORS in other provinces and countries,” she adds. “Helping people get into the right home, whether it’s an investor, a renovator who likes to flip homes or someone purchasing their first home, is very rewarding.”

She spent five years on the Fraser Valley Real Estate Board’s government relations committee. Today, Cummins donates regularly to the Union Mission Gospel (UMG) and the Mission Hospice Society’s fundraiser. Moreover, a portion of each of her commissions goes directly to the Children’s Miracle Network. “The greatest thing about giving back is that you positively enable others,” she adds. “Additionally, with each free home evaluation, I let people know that if they choose to make a donation to the UMG, I will match their donation.” Cummins sponsorship ranges from Hockey to Car Racing, and you just might catch her driving around in her personal Dodge Daytona race car.

A giving spirit Besides being known as a successful REALTOR, Cummins is also known for her giving spirit.

Years in industry: 14

Proudest accolades:

Most proud of: Helped launch a major masterplanned community that nobody thought would work and it became one of the most successful projects in the Lower Mainland

• Canada top 1%

Average # of homes sold yearly: 100

• Top RE/MAX Diamond Award, Certified Mentor and Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist

• RE/MAX top Fraser Valley agent 2016-2017 • #1 listing and selling agent RE/MAX Little Oak five offices

33119 1st Avenue | Mission, BC | V2V 1G5 | 778-885-4659 mcummins@remax.net | www.michelecummins.ca

Little Oak Realty

Profiles of Excellence

2018 Metro Vancouver Market Forecast

Will prices rise or fall this year – and where are the hot spots to watch? Here are some crystal-ball predictions

HE RECENT Urban Development Institute 2018 Forecast Luncheon – a sold-out panel event featuring four of the industry’s top developers – was a little hazy on fi rm predictions for the market in the year ahead. The general consensus was that the Metro Vancouver market will continue to flourish, even – just as long as one of any number of possible events doesn’t occur. It could be argued that the industry forecasters were somewhat hedging their bets – gun-shy, no doubt, after the recent series of unexpected gamechanging government interventions. These possible market-changing factors cited range from a mooted ban on non-residents buying BC or Vancouver real estate, a potential extension of the foreign buyer tax, a speculation tax, and more interest rate increases – among others. Certainly, none of these can be ruled out, especially after the slew of market interventions in recent months and years, such as the foreign buyer tax and the new mortgage stress test.

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The “stress test” effect The latter, the strict new mortgage qualification rules introduced on January 1, could be the biggest market influencer. This new test requires that mortgage applicants qualify, based on their income, for a mortgage at the Bank of Canada’s posted rate, rather than the discounted rate they will pay each month. The ruling applies to federally regulated lending institutions, which includes all the major banks. Combined with a trio of recent interest rate hikes in the space of just over six months, and more predicted to come later this year, the stress test could push many buyers out of the market, especially condos, according to economists. Thomas Davidoff, UBC Sauder School of Business economist and housing expert, and associate professor of the school’s Strategy and Business Economics Division, said in response to January’s rate increase, “If you look at the data, we can see a lot of people are purchasing based on affordability – especially because it has been the lower end of the market that

has performed so strongly. So for borrowers just getting by, [the interest rate rise] is an added stress – and then you add in the new ‘stress test,’ which is now qualifying borrowers at an even higher rate, and that creates additional headwinds. It creates a risk for the entry-level condo market, as a lot of the buyers who would have been there are not going to be there.” And in a report prepared by chief economist Will Dunning, Mortgage Professionals Canada (MPC) estimates that 18% of buyers will fail the new mortgage stress test, which requires that all homebuyers qualify for a mortgage rate higher than what is available in the market. However, brokerage Royal LePage does not anticipate a corresponding drop in condo market activity in 2018, due to the new qualification rules. The brokerage anticipates that many buyers who might have been able to purchase a house or townhome will now be competing for a limited number of condos, due to their reduced purchasing power.

“While the new OSFI changes may have a disproportionately larger effect on purchasers in Greater Vancouver due to the region’s high home values, it is doubtful that it will be able to create a strong enough headwind to keep price appreciation at bay,” said Randy Ryalls, general manager, Royal LePage Sterling Realty. “By diluting prospective homeowner’s purchasing power, these regulations will likely place many purchasers into the entry-level market, causing the segment to overheat further.”

Price rise predictions Indeed, in the same report, Royal LePage predicted that, having risen by 8.2 per cent year-over-year to $1,267,769 in 2017, the aggregate home price in Greater Vancouver will rise by a further 5.2% by the end of 2018, “as low inventory levels continue to fail to meet demand for homes in the region.” This bullish price-rise prediction was echoed by the British Columbia Real Estate Association in

December last year. The association predicts that, following BC home sales falling by 8.8% in 2017 compared with 2016, resale transactions will decline a further 10.4% in 2018, to around 91,700 units sold across the whole year. Despite the sales slowdown, just like in 2017, prices are expected to continue to climb. Home resale prices across BC, having climbed around 3.1% in 2017 from 2016, at an average of $712,300, are forecast to rise a further 4.6% to $745,300 in 2018. However, the BCREA’s price-rise predictions for next year vary considerably across the province, with Greater Vancouver’s average home prices expected to rise 5.5% in 2018 (in line with Royal LePage’s predictions), but Victoria’s just 1.4%. The BCREA’s forecast highlighted the fact that some areas are hotter than others – and that’s true even within the Greater Vancouver market. So which areas and municipalities do we think will see the most action in 2018? Here’s our rundown.

The Amazing Brentwood is a masterplanned community that plans to bring more than 6,000 new residential units to this burgeoning area

Hot areas to watch Burnaby North and South Burnaby North and Burnaby South are arguably the hottest spots in the Lower Mainland for new condo construction – both areas are seeing monumental growth in new homes and masterplanned communities. The former is home to two massive under-construction communities, The Amazing Brentwood and the City of Lougheed, which will add around 17,000 new homes between them when built out. In Brentwood alone, 2,690 new units are expected to be released for sale this year, according to MLA Canada – more than double the number expected in the whole of Vancouver proper. And in Burnaby South, Metrotown is slated to release 1,839 new homes this year. So will this flood of supply bring down local home prices? With the buzz around these areas, demand so high, and such limited supply in Vancouver, it’s unlikely. With so much new retail and commercial activity, we predict that these areas will become increasingly desirable urban hubs in the next few years.

Coquitlam Buoyed by new transit links in the Evergreen Line SkyTrain extension, yet still relatively affordable, Coquitlam is seeing a huge ripple effect as young buyers look further east to buy a home. Our sister website REW.ca found that views-per-listing in North Coquitlam more than tripled in a year, Q3 2017 vs Q3 2016. Look out in 2018 as this could well translate to an increasing rush in sales and steepening price rises.

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Port Moody’s ofﬁcial community plan is calling for widespread redevelopment of former industrial waterfront sites into new residential and mixed-use communities

Port Moody The other hotspot in the Tri-Cities is Port Moody. Not only has it benefitted from the Evergreen Line effect like Coquitlam, above, but the waterfront city is also anticipating a population boom. To match the anticipated demand, developers are building new homes there like never before. Expect this to turn Port Moody into a thriving centre, with 2018 just seeing the beginning of this new phase.

Surrey A great performer for rising values in 2017, Surrey is apparently not done yet. The city has once again been named the top investment town in BC in an annual report by the Real Estate Investment Network. The Fraser Valley city ranks above New West, the Tri-Cities and even Vancouver as the city with

the best real estate profit potential. REIN believes the fastest-growing city in the province is still at the beginning of its real estate boom. Surrey beat out nine other cities thanks to its proximity to transit and an increase in population, jobs and household incomes. “The main conclusion… is that Surrey is a unique combination of a youthful, growing city with a diverse economy that is relatively affordable compared to the rest of the Metro Vancouver region,” the report states. For the record, second on the list was Abbotsford, followed by New Westminster.

Abbotsford We agree with REIN that another city to look out for is Abbotsford. An area that has struggled in terms of perception of being too far to commute

Surrey was voted the best BC city to invest in real estate by an industry research group in its latest annual survey

to Vancouver, and a little too rural to be exciting, things are changing rapidly. The city’s innovative Abbotsfwd revitalization plan is coming to fruition, creating a vibrant urban hub in its own right. And let’s not forget Abbotsford has amazing transport links, with Highway 1, proximity to the US border and its own international airport. Add all that together and you get a desirable city for professionals and young families to call home.

New Westminster New Westminster is experiencing a commercial real estate boom, along with new infrastructure projets such as the $1.1 billion Royal Columbian Hospital expansion. And with such projects come jobs – and with jobs, people. Developers are flocking into New West to attempt to accommodate the anticipated demand, with $100 million in building permits issued every year, and skyline-changing projects such as Bosa’s 53-storey Pier West tower well under way. Home prices in the riverfront city have risen dramatically over the past two or three years, and aren’t looking like they’ll stop any time soon.

Hastings Hastings-Sunrise has been touted as the new Main Street for a couple of years now – and although that’s been slow to happen, we still believe. The reason for this delay is likely its awkward transit – there’s no SkyTrain link, so you’re relying on driving, or buses

along Hastings or Powell. But this area is so close to downtown Vancouver and home to so many craft breweries, artist studios and small galleries, we think a ripple-effect of gentrification – and therefore rising prices – is inevitable. Plus it’s a very easy bike ride to all Vancouver’s social hot spots.

Rate hikes on the horizon Despite three Bank of Canada overnight rate rises between July 2017 and January 2018, more are predicted to come later in the year. Having seen a quarter-point rise in the ﬁ rst quarter of this year, the BCREA predicts that two more will come – one in the second quarter, between April and June, and another in the latter half of the year. If each of these is another quarter-point rise, that will take the Bank of Canada’s overnight rate from 1.25% as of January 2018 to 1.75%. The BCREA predicts this will take the posted qualifying rate to 5.14% – which will be tough for many buyers to qualify at under the new mortgage stress test.

Profiles of Excellence

COMPANY PROFILE

A Brokerage Built on Relationships Referrals are key to success of this 170-agent local real estate company

INCE TAKING OVER Dexter Associates Realty in 1989 from the founder, Christine Dexter, president David Peerless has dedicated himself, along with his partners in recent partners years Tony Ioannou and Kevin Skipworth, to building a successful real estate company based on fostering relationships. “The vast majority of our business comes by way of referral,” says Peerless. “Referral business is business that you earn. Our goal is to become the trusted advisor of our clients and create a generational relationship.” Its referrals are the reason Dexter Associates has grown into a premier independent brokerage with 170 agents operating out of two offices – Kerrisdale and Yaletown. Peerless himself has been a REALTOR® for 38 years, with a combined management team experience well in excess of 100 years. Support is the cornerstone of Dexter’s philosophy, both for their agents and clients.

“We deal with generations of families in Vancouver,” he says. “We have relationships with people who have lived here and owned real estate for a long time, as well as people who are new to the city. With the relationships we have developed with Global networks like Leading Real Estate Companies of the World, this allows us to not only help locally, but globally as well.” Although Dexter is one of the city’s larger brokerages, agents pride themselves on personal relationships and its local expertise. In order to better serve the rental housing market, the firm launched Dexter Property Management in 2016. A full-service management throughout Metro Vancouver, it offers free rental rate assessments, scheduled showings, tenant screening, rent collection, move-in and moveout condition reports, lease renewals, 24-hour emergency service and everything landlords require for superb tenant servicing and rental operations.

Building goodwill Dexter Associates isn’t just a brokerage firm; the company builds goodwill through its active corporate citizenship and volunteering to work on various industry committees and boards. The brokerage has been recognized numerous times for its philanthropic initiatives. Most notably, various Dexter agents have participated in every Ride to Conquer Cancer since its inception and have raised well over $400,000. Dexter agent Jimi Brockett, who lost his five-year-old son to cancer in 2009, has the largest team in the Ride to Conquer Cancer (Riders for Ryders: www.ridersforryders.com), which has

raised over $3 million. An avid cyclist himself, Peerless says the Ride to Conquer Cancer allows him and other agents to make a positive contribution to improving and prolonging lives. “It allows you the feeling of satisfaction that you’re doing something on this issue,” he says. With the support of compassionate Dexter Associates, agents Tom and Kerrie Everitt went on a journey through 80 countries with their two children, raising money for SOS Children’s Villages to create awareness for orphaned children around the world. Dexter is also helping fund a documentary Around the World in 80 Anthems (www.aroundtheworldin80anthems.com). Date established: 1983 Number of ofﬁces: Two Number of employees: 170 realtors Proudest accolades: REALTORS® Care Award – 2012 (brokerage) and 2015 (agent Jimi Brockett), Kerrie and Tom Everitt 2016

Kerrisdale 2094 West 43 Avenue Vancouver, BC | V6M 2C9 604.263.1144 Managing broker: David Peerless peerless@dexterrealty.com Yaletown 1399 Homer Street Vancouver, BC | V6B 5M9 604.689.8226 Managing broker: Kevin Skipworth skipworth@dexterrealty.com www.dexterrealty.com

From left to right: Tony Ioannou, David Peerless and Kevin Skipworth

Profiles of Excellence

AGENT PROFILE

Telling the Story of Real

EOPLE DON’T JUST BUY A home; they buy a lifestyle. Dexter Associates Realty agents Ruthie Shugarman and Paige Kraft understand that well. The two develop a special narrative for each home listing they take on. “We don’t rush into a new listing, we plan as much as possible by creating a story around the listing,” explains Shugarman. Using actors and drones, Shugarman and Kraft create four-minute videos that capture the home’s signature features, as well as highlight what makes each neighbourhood unique, including its main attractions. The idea of creating a story around each listing came from Shugarman’s 13-year career as a successful owner of an event management company. “I was always interested in home design. Selling real estate actually combines my two loves; curating an event and the beauty of selling homes,” she adds. Working for a digital marketing company, Kraft’s interest in real estate grew out of her love of the building process. “My husband and I built our home and I loved all elements of the build,” she says. “I met Ruthie while working on a fundraiser. We worked so well together that Ruthie suggested I join her in the business.” Tired of the constant travel her job entailed, Kraft knew they would be a great team. Creative careers Creativity defines this duo. In 2008, Shugarman was thinking of innovative ways to launch her career. Doing what she knew best, Shugarman hosted an event, a clothing swap in her home. Her plan was twofold: put on a

Estate

Listing homes is all about selling the lifestyle, say Dexter’s Ruthie Shugarman and Paige Kraft social event that would benefit women, and introduce herself as a REALTOR®. “I had about 100 women come for a gently used clothing exchange,” she says. “It was a great way to network, not only for me, but for the women present as well.” A decade later, her eco-friendly clothing swap has morphed into a “cult following, twiceyearly event that combines networking with fundraising efforts [supporting two non-profit organizations: Avalon Recovery Society and the Wish Drop-in Centre].” However, don’t be fooled by their fun-loving attitudes. These two savvy businesswomen are dynamic sales

professionals who love what they do and have a proven track record of exceeding expectations. Building on their residential sales success, they recently launched into the boutique strata market, working with developers from concept to finish. “We help developers fi nd older homes that can be converted into multi-family units,” says Kraft. “Diversifying really keeps us on our toes… we change up our strategies all the time to best serve our clients.”

Ruthie Shugarman (left) started working with Paige Kraft in 2014 and the agent duo has gone on to receive top 10% awards

How long have you worked in real estate? Shugarman has been a REALTOR® since 2008 and Kraft joined forces with her in 2014 How much in sales last year? $80+ million Awards most proud of: Both were awarded Dexter Associates Realty’s Elite Award since they started; Kraft received the 2013 Rookie of the Year; Shugarman and Kraft were honoured with the Real Estate Board’s Medallion Club, which is reserved for the top 10% of agents in the Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver, the last three consecutive years

2094 West 43rd Avenue | Vancouver, BC | V6M 2C9 www.ruthieandpaige.com

Profiles of Excellence

604.263.1144

COMPANY PROFILE

A Legacy of Quality and Trust StreetSide Developments may be a relative newcomer to Metro Vancouver, but it is sprung from an established award-winner

EEPLY ROOTED in a legacy of hard work, quality and trust, family-owned StreetSide Developments is a division of Qualico – one of the largest fully integrated, privately owned real estate companies in Western Canada. Founded by Dr. David Friesen and his wife Katherine in 1950, Qualico has fi rmly established itself as a leader in design, innovation, safety, and environmental standards.

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Forte in Burnaby Heights will be a four-storey mixed-use residential/commercial development

The multiple award-winning Qualico prides itself on its commitment to superior quality; hiring the best designers and tradespeople to deliver on its promise of excellence in all aspects of construction. Its people are renowned leaders in design, innovation, safety, and environmental standards. That same dedication is what founded StreetSide Developments in Metro Vancouver in 2014. “With nearly seven decades of creating

masterplanned communities across western Canada, Qualico saw that the Lower Mainland affordability was moving towards more multifamily homes, a market that we know well,” says Vanessa Isler, director of sales and marketing at StreetSide Developments.

Hitting its stride StreetSide debuted in 2014 with South Point Walk. Th is South Surrey masterplanned commu-

nity consisted of two phases of condominiums and townhomes. The second phase sold out in record time this past year. Designed by award-winning architect, Robert Ciccozzi, South Point Walk not only captured the attention of the homeowners who have chosen to live there, but also the judges as well. It was a fi nalist for a 2016 Georgie Award for best multifamily low-rise. Riding on the phenomenal success of South Point Walk, Hycroft 2 and Everly Green, StreetSide will be unveiling Canopy at Tynehead Park, a masterplanned community of 302 townhomes. Set among mature trees and 642 acres of adjoining park, Canopy will feature two-, three- and four-bedroom craft sman-styled townhomes with StreetSide’s hallmark design and superior fi nishes. “Situated beside Tynehead Park and surrounded by old growth trees, Canopy will offer direct access through a multipurpose trail in to the park, as well as a Clubhouse with lounge, full gym, kitchenette and outdoor picnic area for homeowners,” says Isler. “Although Canopy is only a couple of minutes from Highway 1, you feel like you are in the country.” The charming exteriors are showcased by a blend of Hardie Board, shakes and brick accents complement with a unique roof line, creating a contemporary yet timeless look.

A coveted address In 2018, StreetSide will also pre-sell Forte, a boutique low-rise collection of 34 generously sized condominiums, consisting of one-, one-and-den, two- and two-bedroom-and-den contemporary homes in the coveted Burnaby Heights neighbourhood. In the evening, owners will want to entertain guests and family in style on the rooftop terrace, which will feature a lounge with barbecue area and communal gardens, offering sweeping views of the North Shore mountains and the lights of downtown Vancouver in the distance. In true StreetSide trademark design, Forte homes will embrace classic beauty and elegance with modern amenities. Each of the homes will feature gourmet kitchens with shaker-style cabinetry, high end stainless steel appliances, pot fi ller and Quartz countertops, to name just a few of its many features. Forte bills itself as fashion forward, boutique style apartments showcased by 700 to 1,100 square feet of open living space. The interior floor plans will be both functional and spacious, with a seamless flow from room to room.

Coming soon is Canopy, a masterplanned community of 302 townhomes located beside Surrey’s Tynehead Park

“Forte is attracting the attention of local downsizers who don’t want to leave this amazing neighbourhood,” Isler notes.

Giving back Under the umbrella of Qualico, StreetSide Developments is equally committed to the communities it serves – donating funds, time, and expertise to charitable organizations. Qualico’s philanthropic efforts are focussed on education, Sold-out Hycroft is a 2 phase collection of 95 freehold rowhomes in children and families, arts and South Surrey’s desirable Grandview Heights neighbourhood culture, housing, the environment, as well Date established: 2014 as health and medical research. “We’re into our third year of Volunteer Days How many employees? 50 at StreetSide,” Isler says. “Our team members are Proudest accolades: selecting charities that mean the most to them, and • 2016 Georgies – best multifamily scheduling a day to contribute their time. Last year low-rise finalist: South Point Walk our office contributed most of our hours with the • 2016 UDI Awards – best multifamily Surrey Food Bank and Surrey Parks, focusing our townhouse finalist: Hycroft Rowhomes efforts where most of our communities are curFinalist in upcoming 2018 Georgie rently under construction.” Awards categories: StreetSide Developments continually raises the • Best Multifamily Townhouse bar. From condos to townhomes to rowhomes, its Development (Production): Maple Heights commitment to excellence in everything they do is reflected in the multiple awards it has garnered in • Best Project Identity: Everly Green the short time the company has been operating in • Best Advertising Campaign: the Lower Mainland. Everly Green “The hallmark of StreetSide is that we design • Best Sales Centre: Everly Green homes for your living legacy,” adds Isler. “Homes • Best Corporate/Project Website: that aren’t considered a stepping stone – homes that Everly Green will stand the test of time through better design, • Grand Georgie Award: Marketing quality, and by a company that will be here for our Campaign of the Year: Everly Green homeowners in the long run.”

310-5620 152nd Street | Surrey, BC | V3S 3K2 | 604.579.0018 vancouver@streetsidedevelopments.com | www.streetsidebc.com Profiles of Excellence

More than Just

a Statue

Industry accolades are a great way to tell that a company or person has the goods to deliver your new home

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This kitchen-dining room Hayer Builders Group’s Summit overlooks a sunken living room in a split-level design

WARDS SEASON is almost upon us. During the next several months, industry insiders from all sectors of Vancouver’s robust residential construction industry will gather to celebrate the crème de la crème – the builders, developers,

renovators, and sales people who continue to keep Vancouver and British Columbia among the leaders on the global stage. For consumers, this recognition of innovation, sustainability practices, and intelligent design provides a benchmark of quality – a further indicator that their investment in a

home is a safe, smart one. But what makes a winning entry? Here we take a look at some recent winners and the details that brought them gold.

Showcasing growth For local contractor Troy Van Vliet, principal of Tavan Group, entering awards at all levels is part of his ongoing marketing strategy, a way to showcase that the Vancouver-based company continues to grow and evolve. “When people come into our office and see the display wall, there’s an immediate sense of confidence they are dealing with a company that has a solid reputation.” In 2017, Tavan added four gold Ovation Awards to their collection including the coveted Custom Home Builder of the Year and Best Custom Home ($1.5 to $3 Million) for Hudson on the Park in Shaughnessy. “One of our signatures is building homes that fit so

Smart living room design at Virtuoso by Adera

well into a heritage neighbourhood like Shaughnessy that you can’t tell if it was built this year or 100 years ago,” Van Vliet says. Judges were impressed by Hudson on Park’s extensive use of heavy, dark-stained dimensional timbers and red brick that replicated Old World Tudor façades. Inside, meticulous craft smanship gave seamless integration between tradition elegance – furniture-grade oak wall panels, coved ceilings, and marble-encrusted bathrooms – and distinctly 21st-century details, including a central staircase with glass railings, a lavish eating bar in the kitchen, and a well appointed, lower-level entertainment area with bar, wine room and theatre.

Integrating with the environment

By design, Hudson on the Park by the Tavan Group appears to have been built long ago

Twice named the Georgie Awards’ Multi Family Home Builder of the Year (2016 and 2017), South Surrey-based, Zenterra also took top honours for Hyde Park which was named 2017 Residential Community of the Year. Derek Fenton, development and project manager, believes Hyde Park’s winning attributes began with the philosophy of integrating Profiles of Excellence

Located in the heart of Murrayville, Heritage by ﬁrst-time entrant Inﬁnity Properties took top honours for Best of the Fraser Valley at the 2016 UDI Awards

the masterplanned community into the landscape rather than the other way round as is more typical. “We had trees on the site that were over 100 feet tall. We preserved most of them by designing the homes around them – something that we knew from market research was extremely important to our buyers,” he explains. Fenton also believes Hyde Park’s diversity of floorplans contributed to the community’s three gold Georgies and multiple fi nalist finishes to date. “We included smaller homes of 1,200-1,300 square feet for first timer buyers, 2,000-square-foot homes for upsizers or young families, and the larger 3,000-square-foot styles with master on the main that many downsizers want.” Th is type of innovation and leadership, he adds, consistently score point with award judges.

Innovation is key

Hot tub friendly rooftop patios were a hit at Summit by Hayer Builders Group

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Brandon Trent, development manager with Hayer Builders Group, agrees innovation is key – the ability to translate features consumers want into

Going for Gold An overview of the development industry awards you should be aware of.

Ovation Awards Who: Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association (GVHBA) Where: ovationawards.ca The scoop: Nine years old in 2018, the Ovations now have over 40 categories including highrise, lowrise, rowhomes, heritage renovations, as well as specific categories for in-fill, multifamily projects of six units or less and small-scale homes like laneway housing.

Georgie Awards Who: Canadian Home Builders’ Association – BC Where: georgieawards.ca The scoop: Arguably the best-known housing competition in the province, the Georgies attract entries from around the province – many that were previously honoured at a local level.

Fraser Valley Housing Awards of Excellence Who: Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Fraser Valley Where: chbafv.com The scoop: 2018 makes the second year these awards will showcase the best of the Fraser Valley.

UDI Awards for Excellence Who: Urban Development Institute Where: udi.bc.ca The scoop: Held only every other year, this prestigious competition places a strong emphasis on sustainable, pedestrian-friendly design that integrates public spaces, community amenities and transportation alternatives to reduce private vehicle use. Zenterra’s Hyde Park included a broad selection of home styles to create a dynamic, diverse community

CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence Who: Canadian Home Builders’ Association Where: chba.ca

a practical reality. At Summit, a multifamily development that garnered top honours in the 2017 Ovation Awards for Best Townhome over 1,500 Square Feet and the People’s Choice for Best Residential Community, spacious rooftop patios were one of the big wow factors for buyers and judges. “As backyards get smaller having private, usable space is often a deciding factor in the buying process,” Trent says, adding that Hayer now structurally engineers each rooftop patio to be hot-tub friendly.

Summit’s hillside location also allows theses homes to be designed with an inventive split-level plan that feels even larger than the already generous footprint. “It’s a floor plan that not only looks and lives more like a single-family house, it allows 11-foot ceilings in the living room,” Trent says. Summit is currently a nine-time finalist in the 2018 Georgies that will be announced in March.

Listening to customers Adapting to customer feedback was the fi rst step to awards success for Infinity Properties

The scoop: Almost 40 years old this year, these awards are the highlight of CHBA’s annual national conference. And in the battle between west and east, Metro Vancouver consistently shows well.

Medallion Club and President’s Award Who: Real Estate Board of Greater Vancouver (REBGV) Where: rebgv.org The scoop: Awarded to the real estate agents with the top 10% and 1% sales volume respectively, these awards also honour REALTORS® who consistently demonstrate above-and-beyond ethics, integrity, knowledge and service.

Profiles of Excellence

A wine lover’s delight is one of the wow factors at Hudson on the Park by Tavan Group

Hudson on the Park by the Tavan Group combines contemporary interiors with classic design

The Georgie leaderboard Once a company has won a collective total of 25 golds, they’re further honoured with a Platinum Georgie Award. But the competition doesn’t end. Here are the top 10 mostGeorgie-awarded companies in BC. Adera Gold: 44 Silver: 133 Portrait Homes Gold: 41 Silver: 119 Parklane Homes Gold: 36 Silver: 85 Concert Real Estate Corp Gold: 32 Silver: 114

Hyde Park by Zenterra was planned to allow preservation of the many 100-year-old trees on the site

Profiles of Excellence

MAC Marketing Solutions (now MLA Canada) Gold: 31 Silver: 107

My House Design/Build Team Gold: 18 Silver: 70

Kenorah Construction & Design Gold: 21 Silver: 73

Concord Pacific Development Corp Gold: 18 Silver: 35

Homescape Building & Design Gold: 21 Silver: 55

Onni Group of Companies Gold: 16 Silver: 73

in Langley. After being named Best of the Fraser Valley at the 2016 UDI Awards – a feat virtually unheard of for a first time entrant – Heritage in Langley’s historic Murrayville neighbourhood went on to be named Best Multi-Family Townhouse Development at the 2017 Georgie awards. “We originally envisioned Heritage as a higherdensity development,” says Tim Bontkes, principal at Infinity. “But we had so much feedback that indicated local residents who were downsizing didn’t want to be shoehorned into a smaller home that we completely redesigned it. We also upgrade all the finishing specifications, increased the amount of community green space, and created an entertainment-oriented clubhouse that includes and outdoor patio with fire pit.” The design change not only impressed the judges, it’s given the long sold out Heritage community an enviable achievement of having no resales since it hit the market.

Eco-conscious construction Long time awards heavyweight on local, national and international stages, Adera’s commitment to

environmentally conscious construction continues to bring gold to the company’s head office display wall – project after project. Sail, Prodigy and Virtuoso at UBC have all garnered gold awards in multiple competitions – an achievement Eric Andreasen, vice president of marketing and sales, says results from a combination of intelligent design, the proprietary Quiet Home™ technology that eliminates noise transference, and used of state-of-the-art, cross-laminate timber construction (CLT). “Initially, people can be suspicious of mid-rise wood construction,” he admits. “The reality, though, is that in many ways CLT – or mass timber as it’s also known – is better than dimensional lumber or even concrete. It’s produced from sustainably managed forest rather than old growth, it doesn’t warp or shrink, it doesn’t burn because it self-chars so oxygen can’t get at it, and since the panels are prefabricated by computer there’s virtually no on-site waste.”

Many homes at Hyde Park by Zenterra overlook inviting natural greenery

Judges’ corner: Winning wow factors We asked three judges what makes a development worthy of the win. Here’s what they said…

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“Outside-the-box site design that not only integrates a development into its setting, it makes the entire community better – perhaps with new service, retail, or amenities.” – Derek Fenton, Zenterra

“Use of contrast and colour, especially in kitchens. Seeing an established trend taken in a new direction – like the 20-year-old trend of great-room design that’s now incorporating outdoor entertainment areas that bring the outdoors in.” – Ralph Belisle, TQ Construction

“Bringing natural elements into the design: a live-edge wood surface for the kitchen island, unique tile accents in showers or feature walls. One kitchen incorporated a window instead of a backsplash above the stove so the view of the surrounding setting became the backsplash.” – Todd Senft, reVISION Custom Home Renovations

Incorporating CLT construction, Virtuoso is Adera’s newest midrise at UBC

Profiles of Excellence

What Makes a Great

Real Estate Agent? When you’re buying or selling a home, you need to work with the best agent for the job. But what does that mean – and how do you ﬁ nd it?

HETHER you’re buying or selling a home, you’ll need a great REALTOR® going to bat for you. And although the way you might fi nd the agent might be different –

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depending on whether you’re listing your home or buying one – the attributes of a great agent are the same in either case. The following is what you’re looking for. Local knowledge: It is essential that the agent

thoroughly knows the neighbourhood you are buying or selling in. If buying, they need to know details of similar home purchases, and problem buildings – and if selling, you’ll want them to have recent sales success in the area. David Richardson of Re/Max Crest Realty says, “I won’t

sell the homes of friends or family, but when they come to me, I always tell them the same thing: Pick an agent with real experience in your neighbourhood, with knowledge of prices, with a history of actually selling homes in your area. It’s the number one thing.” Great communication and listening skills: If the agent is easy to communicate with, both face-to-face and via email and phone, they will not only be fun to work with, they’ll also likely be good at negotiating on your behalf, too. Make a note of which agents respond quickly and professionally to your inquiry and explain the process effectively, and who also listen to your needs and is on the same page as you. Wide connections and industry relationships: Inside the industry, it’s often about referrals and mutual back-scratching, so you’ll want a REALTOR® who is well connected to other agents. That can put you in a position to get a better deal on a home if you’re a buyer, get the inside scoop on new listings, or draw in more potential clients if you’re selling your home. Proactive approach and tenacity: You want someone who is really going to bat for you, so it’s got to be an agent who doesn’t give up, whether that’s arranging showings, marketing your home extensively or following any and all leads. Professionalism, inside and out: Not only does your agent need to have a professional approach and attitude in order to get you a home or sell it, they also need to look the part. Unless they are a total rock-star agent who everybody knows, no agent can get away with scruff y clothes and a lax attitude. Honesty and a strong work ethic: When you’re placing your home, or your life savings, in someone’s hands, it is essential that they are trustworthy and hard-working. Make sure that you know exactly who they are and that they have awesome testimonials across the board (not just from selected clients).

Choosing a great agent So now you know what qualities you need in a great agent – but how do you go about fi nding someone with all those attributes, out of the 13,000+ real estate agents in the Lower Mainland alone? A lot of people go with a REALTOR® they already know, or a recommendation from family or a friend. But is that the best approach? But local REALTOR® Matt Kerr says that expertise in a local area or specific building is a much better reason to pick an agent. “One of the biggest problems we see when

people use a family friend who has their licence and don’t know anything about the area they are selling in, it has trouble written all over it,” says Kerr. “When you’re looking for recommendations, ask for a referral for an agent in that area.” Kerr says that you should always interview prospective agents – whether a buyer’s agent or a listing agent. “Speak to them in person and see what kind of rapport you have. For a buyer’s agent, you can just go for a coffee and a chat.” With listing agents, you can expect them to put together a comprehensive presentation of how they would market your home – with no obligation on your part. Do your research, fi nd local experts and create a shortlist of agents that you think would be right for the job. Then the interviewing begins!

Questions to ask an agent These are the questions Matt Kerr says buyers should ask of prospective agents: What kind of education and experience do you have? How long have you been in the business? “If they’re new, that can be a great thing if they’re super-keen – but you want to check that they know everything about what and where you want to buy.” Where are your areas of expertise, geographically and in terms of property types? “Th is is certainly a big one to fi nd out.” Are you a full-time REALTOR® or do you have a second job? “You need somebody who is com-

mitted to the job and not distracted by other obligations.” What kind of referrals do you get from your database and from friends/family? “How many people are in their database and how many are referrals, what percentage that is, a good agent should know that.” How many clients do you have right now: buyers and sellers? “If they have several listings on the go, they’re probably not going to be available to you during key open house times, as they’ll be running their own open houses.” How many deals do you do a year? “A good agent would have between five and 10 clients at a given time. You don’t want a client who is boasting of dozens of clients – they won’t have time for you.” Are you part of a team or working alone? “The great thing about someone being part of a team is that you will often get a dedicated buyer’s agent who won’t be taken away by confl icting obligations.” How will you communicate with me and how responsive will you be? “You should always be able to get hold of your agent, and other agents should be able to as well.” Do you come with trusted partners in terms of mortgage brokers, lawyers, home inspectors? “You’ll need to get all these people in place.” Profiles of Excellence

mazing

menities

Movie theatre, anyone? Rooftop bar? How about a bowling alley? Our region’s hottest condo communities are all about the lifestyle

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Park Avenue West LOCATION: Surrey

ncredible pools, luxurious lounges, private dining facilities, movie theatres, even bowling alleys – when it comes to amenities, Metro Vancouver’s condo developments have what it takes to entice and entertain. Here’s our pick of some of the most fabulous amenities offered in some of the region’s hottest condo communities.

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At the glamorous Park Avenue West, home ownership offers a resort lifestyle more reminiscent of Las Vegas than Surrey. Club PA features a stunning swimming pool surrounded by cabanas, a yoga pavilion, a fitness centre with state-of-the-art equipment, a sky garden, a grand entertainment lounge with wet bar, tennis courts and much more besides. The residences themselves are equally fabulous, with super high-end finishings, gracious proportions and fantastic mountain views.

INFO: www.parkavenueliving.ca

Altus at Solo District LOCATION: Brentwood, Burnaby

The sold-out Altus tower in Brentwood’s Solo District had to make this list because it has the coolest, nightclub style rooftop bar and patio that we’ve seen – with unbelievable views. In fact, Club 55 is so-named because it is Burnaby’s highest rooftop patio, soaring an equivalent of 55 storeys high. It offers residents more than 5,000 square feet of amenity space indoors and outdoors, with the outdoor component including a full-sized outdoor kitchen/BBQ area, wet bar with a long counter and stools and chic lounging areas. There’s also an outdoor rooftop multisport court and landscaped rooftop gardens featuring environmentally considerate and drought-resistant landscaping.

INFO: solodistrict.com

Milano LOCATION: Brentwood, Burnaby

One of our favourites for outdoor amenities is this stunning sold-out development in the heart of Burnaby’s burgeoning Brentwood district. Outdoor movies, anyone? Perhaps polish up your putting? Th is luxury condo building by the Solterra Group has a podium-level landscaped roof terrace with a barbecue and dining area, fi re pit, lounge areas, putting green, children’s play space and – yes – an outdoor movie theatre.

Other inside amenities include underground parking with optional electric vehicle charging stations, bicycle storage, car wash area, dogwashing station, fitness gym, indoor hot tub, steam room, a guest suite and a party room.

INFO: milanoliving.ca Profiles of Excellence

The Residences at Lynn Valley LOCATION: North Vancouver

Now selling Phase 2, the Residences at Lynn Valley by Bosa Developments is a masterplanned community that blends seamlessly into the surrounding area. Residents will enjoy more than 15,000 square feet of luxury amenities including a lush rooftop garden with an outdoor BBQ and entertainment area, plus a dog run. That’s in addition to the interior amenities of theatre room, games and meeting room, steam room, sauna, yoga studio, gym and huge social room with catering kitchen, which opens on to the BBQ area outside. And throughout the development run pedestrian trails and bike paths to effortlessly move locals from their homes to the natural environment. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, this has to be a good choice for you.

INFO: lynnvalleyresidences.com

Fremont Village LOCATION: Coquitlam

Fremont Village by Mosaic is a substantial new masterplanned community in Coquitlam that has proven a big hit. Not least, we suspect, because of the fabulous common amenities. The Riverclub is a 12,500-square-foot clubhouse that includes a glamorous outdoor pool area with a lap pool for dedicated swimmers, family pool, daybed loungers and a dining terrace. All this is also a stone’s throw from the river, which some of the homes also back on to. Looks fairly idyllic to us.

INFO: mosaichomes.com/fremont

Belpark, Westside LOCATION: Vancouver

Belpark by Intracorp offers residents state-of-the-art gym, a games room with billiards, and an entertainment lounge. But what put this development squarely on the list of favourites is the wine tasting lounge with optional temperature-controlled wine lockers for protecting your favourite vintages — and that’s in addition to the 101-bottle wine fridge that’s standard in each home. Now honestly, can you think of a better way to impress your favourite foodie friends? Ah ha, we thought not.

INFO: www.belparkliving.com

Avalon Park LOCATION: River District, Vancouver

Now selling Avalon 3 units, Avalon Park’s amenities include a rooftop pool and terrace, the SkyBar and SkyLounge – a three-storey kitchen/dining and lounge area ideal for large-scale entertaining with indoor hammocks and other seating, opening to outdoor dining and BBQing. All have great

views of the Fraser River and the community’s central courtyard. Of course, there’s also a fitness room with cardio and strength-training equipment, two guest suites, meeting rooms, multi-purpose room and secure bike storage.

INFO: www.riverdistrict.ca

Concord Gardens LOCATION: West Cambie, Richmond

Buyers of the nearly-sold-out Phase 4 of Concord Gardens get to enjoy the Diamond Club, with more than 20,000 square feet of amenity space spread over two floors, serving this master planned community. Features are numerous and diverse: hotel-style indoor pool and hot tub, sports lounge, gym, golf simulator, billiards room, dedicated yoga/Pilates room, sauna and steam room, private screening room, as well as a grand ballroom with full kitchen so you can dance the night away when it’s time for a life celebration. Most unusual amenity? A private bowling alley that’s proved wildly popular in previous Concord Pacific developments.

South Ridge Club LOCATION: Morgan Heights, South Surrey Great location on a sloped property, these townhomes cluster around the resort-style clubhouse this project is named after. The outdoor pool with lounging terraces is perfect in summer. On cooler days, get fit in the well-appointed exercise room or shoot some hoops in the 1,300-square-foot multi-purpose gym. Perhaps billiards in the fi reside lounge followed by popcorn and drinks in the theatre room? And when there’s a special occasion to share, get sizzling with friends and family in the chef’s kitchen and banquet-ready dining area.

INFO: adera.com/properties/southridgeclub/grandview/

INFO: www.concordgardens.ca

Hampton Cove LOCATION: Ladner, Delta

The Hampton Club brings Polygon’s well-known resort-style clubhouses to this master planned neighbourhood. Over 12,000 square feet in a charming, East Coast-themed building just steps from the Fraser River. Highlights include: resort-style pool with terrace and BBQ, fireside lounge with bar and billiards, fitness studio plus gymnasium, music rehearsal rooms, games room, two guest suites, a dog wash station for your four-footed family members, and the security of a resident manager.

INFO: www.polyhomes.com

River Green LOCATION: Richmond Oval, Richmond

Th is amazing Richmond waterfront development hotel-style lobby with custom art and inviting lounge, indoor pool, steam room and sauna, fitness centre with personal training options, golf simulator, music room, study areas, and fully equipped entertainment kitchen. Cool bonus: in addition to a 24/7 concierge, you’ll have access to a private shuttle service ready to whisk you to the airport or any of Richmond’s major shopping centres.

INFO: www.rivergreen.com

The Peninsula LOCATION: Queensborough, New Westminster

The Peninsula’s unique location on a point that’s surrounded on three sides by water gives all amenities here amazing views of the Fraser River. Think: working out while admiring the sailboats and passing paddlewheelers, savouring sunsets and fine dining at the chef’s table after a private cooking class, or cheering on your favourite team from the bar in the community’s private, state-of-the-art theatre room… okay, fully confession, you can’t see the river from this room. Cool feature: a “grocery valet” allows you to drop off your groceries in a designated, secure room off the porte cochère while you park – no more hauling bags of groceries through the underground parkade.

INFO: www.aragon.ca/portfolio/the-peninsula/

TI MELESS DESIGN • WORLD CLASS VIEWS • ELEGANT HOMES AT PACIFIC AND HORNBY IN DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER

1 BEDROOMS

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TOWNHOMES

FROM 564 SF

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FROM 1,245 SF

FROM $890,900

FROM $1,475,900

FROM $2,875,900

FROM $2,250,000

VISIT THE SHOWROOM TODAY | 1050 HOMER STREET IN YALETOWN 604.227.3542 | GrosvenorPacific.com Pricing subject to change without notice. Rendering is an artist’s interpretation only and may not be accurate. E&OE.

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