spring 2014 | issue 07
contents
market overview
9
Déjà vu If you liked 2013, you’ll like 2014 too
11
feature
11 CHBA scholarships
Assisting on the goals of local students
events
14 Red Deer Home Show
Everything under ONE roof, for everything under YOUR roof
show home profiles
18 Mason Martin Homes
Building with new home buyers in mind
20 Laebon Homes
14
Built to exacting standards
business profile
24 An open and shut case
Experience the difference in quality and service with Red Deer Overdoor
industry news
27 Alberta New Home Warranty Act
Added security is great news for all future new home buyers
CHBA – Alberta on the new mandatory home warranty program
@chbaca1
20
departments
28 Q & A
18
CHBACA1
6 Message from the executive officer 30 Getting to know
Cover photo: Laebon Homes Photo by Ryan Melbourne
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
5
message from the executive officer
CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION – CENTRAL ALBERTA represents professionals in the housing industry. CHBA – Central Alberta has been in existence for over 55 years and is a network of professionals that manages industry issues to provide value to our members.
Signs of spring In the midst of one of the coldest, snowiest winters in recent memory, there’s one sure sign of spring — and that’s the Red Deer Home Show. Presented by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta, the 35th annual show is more than just somewhere to go look at things for your home, it’s the place to be March 7–9. Read all about it in the article on page 14. In addition to bringing the Home Show to life every spring, the CHBA contributes to the community in other ways as well. One of these is with our scholarship program.
10, 7895 - 49th Avenue Red Deer, Alberta T4P 2B4 Tel: 403.346.5321 Toll-free: 1.888.346.-5329 Fax: 403.342.1301 Toll-free: 1.877.342.1301 E-mail: eo@chbacentralalberta.ca www.chbaca.ca Denie Olmstead | Executive Officer eo@chbacentralalberta.ca Joan Butler | Executive Assistant admin@chbacentralalberta.ca
We are extremely proud of the role we play in helping not just to support industry education, but also the budding dreams of future industry superstars. We’ve profiled a few of those scholarship recipients in this
Published by Source Media Group Corp. 207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9 Tel: 403.532.3101, Fax: 403.532.3109 Toll free: 1.888.932.3101 Email: info@sourcemediagroup.ca www.sourcemediagroup.ca
edition. Big news to both builders and consumers is the Mandatory New Home Warranty that came down from the provincial government on February 1. What does it mean to you?
Associate Publisher | Jim Zang
We give the lowdown, and answer some
Art Director | Jean Faye Rodriguez
frequently asked questions, in a two-part feature on pages 27 and 28. Our regular Market Overview piece predicts good things for 2014, with continued high employment, wages and in-migration driving the demand for new homes. With all that good news in the forecast, now is the perfect time to buy a new home. We visit two great show homes from two great builders in this edition, Laebon Homes and Mason Martin Homes, plus profile one of the local industry’s biggest suppliers, Red Deer Overdoor. We’ve gone all out to even profile an Edmonton Oilers fan in our Getting To Know … segment. Find out why on page 30. As rich as our content is, however, don’t forget to check out the ads. Central Alberta Homes magazines is packed with ads from some of the areas top builders, suppliers and related services that are a fantastic source of information for consumers and industry members alike. Thanks for reading, and spring is coming. It must be, because the Home Show’s almost here. See you there! Sincerely,
Graphic DesignerS | Lama Azhari, Dave Macaulay, Megan Sereda Production Co-ordinator | Colleen Leier contributors | Tess Flewelling, Jock Mackenzie, Tanis Reid, Jenny Spur, Daniel White Accounting | Donna Roberts director of sales | Norma Robertson norma.robertson@sourcemediagroup.ca advertising sales | Andrea Rinkel andrea.rinkel@sourcemediagroup.ca © 2014 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publishers. Source Media Group Corp. agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group Corp reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion. Central Alberta Homes is published quarterly and is distributed to every member of the Canadian Home Builers’ Association – Central Alberta, as well as on free stands throughout the region.
Denie Olmstead Executive Officer CHBA – Central Alberta 6
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
market overview
Déjà vu If you liked 2013, you’ll like 2014 too By Tanis R eid
T
he year 2014 is now well under way and the first look at new home production starts in Central Alberta is definitely looking up, a good way to start off the year. “With regards to production in 2014, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) does expect new home production to remain active as the demand for housing is expected to continue to be supported by strong economic fundamentals, specifically employment growth,” says Felicia Mutheardy market analyst for Prairie & Territories Market Analysis with CMHC. “In terms of Central Alberta, as a whole, new home production has been quite strong this year looking at a year-over-year basis in both the multi-family component and semi-detached component,” says Mutheardy. Total starts in 2013, increased by 38 per cent from January through December of 2012 to 784 units, making this the best year for the residential construction industry since 2007. In terms of starts, the housing demands have continued to remain strong. This is supported by a number of factors. First, when looking at Alberta in terms of weekly earnings on a year-over-year basis, in 2014 earnings have come up four per cent. With more earnings comes more money that can be spent on the housing market. Second, after monitoring the labour force it has been noted that employment has come up about three per cent in Alberta and six per cent in Red Deer on a year-over-year basis. “This is
predominately in full time jobs,” says Mutheardy. “When you have full time jobs it leads to more stable income and it contributes to housing demand when people are looking at the housing market and looking at buying when they have this stable flow of income coming in.” The third component is net migration. The numbers for 2013 have not yet been released; however, looking back, net migration in 2012 was a significant statistic. The year 2012 showed 3,400
migrants coming to the census area (which included Red Deer) which was the highest point since the economic downturn. This is just another factor that leads to strong housing demand. With all of these factors working together, they continue to support housing demand and that is something that is definitely being seen in new home production. That is evident in the 10 per cent increase we are seeing for total housing starting in all locations combined for Central Alberta.
“... demand for housing is expected to continue to be supported by strong economic fundamentals, specifically employment growth.” Red Deer Housing Starts YTD: December
38.0% change
800 700
2012 2013
600 500 400
19.3%
63.2%
Single-Family
Multi-Family
change
change
300 200 100 0
Total Source: CMHC/CREA
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
9
feature
CHBA scholarships Assisting on the goals of local students
E
very year, since 2005 at Red Deer College and since 2007 at Olds College, the Canadian Homebuilders’ Association has awarded $6,000 in the form of one bursary and seven scholarships. At Red Deer College, scholarships are given for students in three apprenticeship programs: carpentry, electrical, and plumbing. Valued at $500 each, the awards are given to students who reside in Central Alberta, who are returning to RDC in the subsequent year of their program, and who intend on remaining in the area upon completion of their apprenticeship. Preference is given to individuals sponsored by a f¡rm that does residential work. At Olds College, a $1,000 bursary is given to a f¡rst-year student entering a program that supports the home building industry: carpentry, heavy equipment operation, or landscape gardening. Another $1,000 scholarship is awarded to a second, third or fourth year carpentry apprentice. The scholarship program is one that’s a win-win-win. The CHBA is pleased to offer the scholarships, the colleges are happy to determine the winners, and the recipients are thrilled to be chosen. Kevin Wilkie, President of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta Region says, “We support these scholarships to help people coming into our industry. It’s a great industry to get into.
If somebody’s looking for a career that has great opportunities for growth and always having work, the home building industry is right up there.” From the college perspective, Dan Daley, Dean of Trades, says, “Being able to get a scholarship takes f¡nancial stress off the students and, at the same time, acts as encouragement. When they see the CHBA giving awards, they realize the value of training and further education.” Charllotte Adkens-Weiler, Senior Development Off¡cer at Olds College adds, “I remember a student who was so thrilled to receive the reward because it allowed him to commute. He could not get into NAIT, SAIT, or Red Deer that year, because they were full, but when Olds took him and he won the award and received extra attention, his marks really picked up. He said, “You know, I feel that they really care about ME here. I am not just another number in the program.” When asked if the scholarship program would continue, local CHBA President Kevin Wilkie explains that he has always heard positive comments about the scholarships. “We have a great relationship with both Red Deer College and Olds College. The scholarship idea is part of our mandate for growing opportunities. It’s a good f¡t.” A sampling of comments about recent winners illustrates how important the scholarships are to those chosen to receive them:
By J ock M ackenzie
S Ppring R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
11
feature
Steve Sanderson Red Deer College, Carpentry $500 Scholarship
Steve is now a journeyman carpenter and works for Stacey Gummo of Finish First Interiors. Originally from King’s County, PEI, Steve said he was thankful to the Canadian Home Builders’ Association for his award and used it in the ongoing quest for newer and better tools. “If you’re going to be in the trade, and want to be better,” says Steve, “you’ve got to buy the good tools and spend money to make money.” He also says he was impressed with the program and the instructors at Red Deer College. He uses the term “top instructors” and says they even gave out their phone numbers and encouraged calls at any time. “They said to call any time, even 10 o’clock at night and I’ve done it.” When asked about his future, Steve says, “I want to keep on going in the carpentry business, keep doing what I’m doing, get my red seal, become a master carpenter — a wellrounded one at that.”
“I want to keep on going in the carpentry business, keep doing what I’m doing, get my red seal, become a master carpenter... ”
Adam Slomp Red Deer College, Plumbing $500 Scholarship
Adam has f¡nished half of his schooling: two of the four terms required and is currently employed in Red Deer by World Class Contracting. Born in Lethbridge, Adam came to Red Deer when he got married and plans to stay in Central Alberta. Before deciding to get his ticket as a plumber and gasf¡tter, he took several different career paths including spending two years to get a diploma as a mechanical engineer. Adam says he is enjoying his current work and likes the variety involved. “Right now, I’m doing a bit of everything: in-fIoor heating, installing boiler systems, water and drainage lines, and meters.” He hopes to get his ticket in two years time, continue working where he is, and eventually, get into the off¡ce doing estimating and whatever else is required. When asked if he had anyone to thank, he says, “My bosses at work have been super helpful.” He also says he’d like to thank both the instructors in years one and two at RDC as well as the scholarship donors.
“Right now, I’m doing a bit of everything: in-fIoor heating, installing boiler systems, water and drainage lines, and meters.” 12
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
feature
Jonathan Drok Red Deer College, Carpentry $500 Scholarship
Jonathan is about to begin his third year this March. He says, “My boss at JDK Lock and Hammer is a good fellow to work for; it’s just him and me. When it’s a bit slower at work, that’s when I go to school.” Like his fellow award winners, Jonathan has high praise for the instructors at RDC and singles out Walter Loov as being particularly helpful. Jonathan was born and raised in Red Deer and is a product of home schooling. “There’s a good group in Red Deer,” he says. “I’d do home schooling again.” His eventual goal “would be to go out on my own. It’s the f¡nishing side that I prefer. I enjoy the ability to really excel at my work; I like high quality.” Jonathan’s outside interests include music — he’s played the piano since age five — and more carpentry. He says, “Carpentry is a real passion,” and has begun building furniture even when not on the job. What began as a hobby came fairly easily for him, he enjoyed the work, and things have grown from there.
“I enjoy the ability to really excel at my work.”
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
13
events
Red Deer Home Show Everything under ONE roof, for everything under YOUR roof By J enny Spur
W
ith only a few weeks left, excitement is building for this year’s Red Deer Home Show. The three-day show kicks off Friday, March 7, when more than 250 home industry exhibitors will fill 125,000 square-feet of space at Westerner Park, guaranteeing it will be one of the biggest and best ever. “Guests can expect a wide variety of exhibitors from builders to suppliers and tradesmen; this year, we have a little bit of everything,” says John Christie, Chair of the 2014 Red Deer Home Show. Proudly hosted by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta since 1979, the Red Deer Home Show has provided products and services featuring award-winning builders, renovators, products, ideas and décor in Canada’s hottest economic region for the past 34 years. This year marks the show’s 35th anniversary. “To celebrate, we’ve brought Paul Lafrance, host of HGTV Canada’s Disaster Decks, Deck Wars, and Decked Out to speak on the main stage,” adds Christie. “He is one of the biggest celebrity speakers we have ever brought in!” Fans of the host and celebrity judge of Canada’s Handyman Challenge will have the chance to see Lafrance on Saturday when he takes the main stage spotlight. As creator, owner, and CEO of Cutting Edge Construction and Design, Lafrance has been building custom decks for over 15 years. He has successfully designed and built well over 1,000 decks across Southern Ontario, and has now expanded his design firm to include all of North America. His love for design 14
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
Paul Lafrance
“Choosing the right product is just one part of designing your yard properly. I will show people how to achieve the final grade and make a basic plan to create something out of their yards.” and architecture is matched only by his passion for music and composition. Being both a musician and a deck builder has given Lafrance the edge and the creativity needed to offer the one-of-a-kind deck concepts that have transformed countless backyards over the years. His advice to homeowners: “You don’t need to be a musician to know
Lise Prosser
a good song when you hear one; it’s all about how it makes you feel. A good backyard retreat is all about emotional response rather than just assembling sticks of wood!” Local expert and Sales Representative with Burnco Rock Products, Lise Prosser, couldn’t agree more. “We have such short summers in
events
Central Alberta, it’s important to make those few months count; your outdoor oasis should be beautiful.” Prosser will take the stage at the Red Deer Home Show to talk about the entire design process from budgeting to permitting, to hiring the right contractor for creating a backyard retreat. “Choosing the right product is just one part of designing your yard properly. I will show people how to achieve the final grade and make a basic plan to create something out of their yards,” says Prosser. She’ll be joined by a series of other local experts who will share their advice for various indoor and outdoor home improvement projects including Gary Halvorson of Red Deer College who will discuss the Evolve Project and it’s ecofriendly features that aim to reduce environmental impact and ensure longevity. Other presenters include Terry Hollman with Canadian Closets & Storage Co., and Ellen Walker with Ellen Walker Design Solutions. A top interior design professional, Walker is eager to share how interior design can affect the way people feel. She’s been helping clients create a warm, comfortable, and happy environment to come home to for more than 18 years. Ellen Walker “A well designed home affects the way you and your visitors feel, and is an important factor in how you feel about your life,” Terry says Walker. Hollman “I am looking
“A well designed home affects the way you and your visitors feel, and is an important factor in how you feel about your life.” forward to sharing with people how they can update or change their homes to so that they truly feel happy and relaxed!” Guests will walk away from Walker’s presentation with basic space planning, remodeling, and replacement strategies that will make a dramatic difference in how they feel about their home. Now for some, creating a calm, cozy space could mean cutting clutter. That’s exactly what Terry Hollman, President of Canadian Closet, will chat about when he takes the stage. “I hope to show our customers — past, present, and future — all of the new, interesting, and innovative solutions for helping to organize their homes and lifestyles,” says Hollman. A veteran of the storage and organization industry, Hollman’s advice to homeowners is simple: “Only keep what you actually use, and give away items that are rarely used or sitting around cluttering up your home.” The Red Deer Home Show is open to the public Friday, March 7 from noon until 8 p.m.; Saturday, March 8 from 10
Gary Halvorson
a.m. until 6 p.m.; and, Sunday, March 9 from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for students with valid identification, $8 for seniors aged 55 and up, and free for kids 12 and under who come with an adult.
For updates on speakers and a list of exhibitors, visit www.reddeerhomeshow.ca Ellen Walker Design Solutions’ design
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
15
16
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
17
show home profile
Mason Martin Homes Building with new home buyers in mind
by Tanis R eid
M
ason Martin Homes has been building homes in Central Alberta since 1990 and they understand that building a home is one of the largest and most important investments a family will ever make. Their newest condominium development, The Willows in Springbrook, are perfect for a small family or single person wanting to make that investment. Springbrook is a unique neighbourhood designed with an old fashioned feel. Located just outside of Penhold, it’s just a short five minutes to Gasoline Alley in Red Deer and is a quiet and friendly neighbourhood with plenty of lush green space.
18
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
“The Willows eight-plex at 639 Oak Street in Springbrook is great for first time home buyers,” says Bailey Zolinski, Marketing Co-ordinator for Mason Martin Homes, “as it’s a great price point and still very close to Red Deer’s south end and all amenities.” “The units start at $192,900. Currently condo fees are $100 but will be increasing to $150 after a new condo board is put into place. Right now, Mason Martin Homes is the Condo Association,” says Zolinski. Upon entering the 957-square-foot (approx.) unit you are swept into in the welcoming living room, a comfortable gathering area that can be filled with light from the large high-efficiency window.
Kiddy-corner to the living room is the dining area, which comfortably will seat six. Both rooms are great for family gettogethers or hanging out with friends. Between those two rooms is the beautiful kitchen. The kitchen comes fully equipped with four appliances; refrigerator, stove, microwave and dishwasher. The counters are laminate and the cabinets are finished with thermofoil, a surface finish applied to cabinets by manufacturers. It is a plastic material, which is termoformed to the profile of an underlying engineered wood. The benefits of thermofoil cabinets include their resistance to moisture. Thermofoil is also less expensive product and is much
easier to clean than traditional wood cabinets, and let’s face it any product that makes clean up easier is a plus. The Willow floor plan has two bedrooms and two baths. One bedroom is directly off of the dining area and the master suite is just down the hall. The larger bedroom has an ensuite and the other bath is in the main hallway. Each bathroom comes finished with a one-piece acrylic tub/shower unit complete with cap. The bathroom fixtures are white and the room is accented with chrome faucets, towel bars and paper holders. Both washrooms are equipped with vanity mirrors and dual flush toilets. At the end of the hall is the furnace room, which is home to the hot water tank, furnace, washer/dryer hook ups and a vent to the exterior of the home for the
show home profile
dryer. There is additional storage room under the stairs of the upper unit. Another important bonus features of these condos come outside the home. Each unit has access to two parking spots with plug-ins for parking. Anyone who’s lived through a winter in Alberta knows the value of this little electrical box. One other feature to be aware of is the Home Warranty. All homes are warranted by Alberta New Home Warranty Program with one year on material defects and five years on structural defects. With all that The Willow has to offer, it’s no wonder the first eight-unit building has sold out and the first four suites of building two have already been spoken for — leaving the remaining four up for grabs. The third building has been started already and there will be a fourth in the near future.
All homes are warranted by Alberta New Home Warranty Program.
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
19
show home profile
Laebon Homes Built to exacting standards by T ess F lewelling
L
aebon Homes has been building homes and communities since 1976. Laebon is a family owned and operated company and it shows. They focus on three points: show homes, experienced friendly sales staff (including a full in-house design team) and their CoConstruct program. “It starts with our show homes,” says Ryan Melbourne, Marketing Coordinator for Laebon Homes. “Our show homes are built to the Laebon Standard, meaning that there are very few, if any, upgrades in them. This makes it easy for homebuyers to envision the exact home they will be getting when they are quoted a purchase price.” The Laebon standard is very nice in its own right. The show home located at 6 Thompson Crescent, Timberstone is proof of that. From the moment you step into the entryway you feel like you haven’t just stepped into another house, but rather a home, perhaps your future home. The open concept floor plan as well as an abundance of natural light make the entryway a welcoming point to the Lyndon home. The other point of entry is through the attached double garage. The garage takes you directly into a large walk-through pantry that leads into the spacious kitchen. The kitchen in the show home in Timberstone features “brandy” colour stained Maple cabinets; however, home owners have a choice between Maple, Oak
20
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
or Hickory cabinets and can choose from six beautiful cabinet stain colours. The kitchen is equipped with four Laebon standard Whirlpool appliances and hosts a beautiful centre island that can be used as an eating bar, a homework station or simply a place to sit and relax. Just off the kitchen is the dining room and living room both featuring large windows that let an abundance of light into the home making it feel warm and inviting. Another window, in the staircase, lights your way to the upper floor where the master bedroom is located. The master bedroom features a walk-through closet
that leads to the ensuite. The standard home comes with a shower feature but there are options including a separate jetted tub and/or double sinks. As is common with Laebon you have options. Also on the upper level are two additional bedrooms and a bonus room and laundry hookups. The basement in this show home is not developed but there is definitely potential down there. Fully developed, the Lyndon can be a five bedroom house by adding two more bedrooms and a large family room in the basement. “Since we debuted the Lyndon floor plan about two years ago it has been one of our
From conception to completion Laebon Homes is a team that will not only help you envision your new home, but will make sure it becomes your reality. most popular floor plans,” says Melbourne. “The design is so efficient there is just no wasted space. You get tremendous value for your hard earned dollars with this home.” The 2,135 square-foot Lyndon starts at less than $446,800. When it comes to the Laebon team, the term all-inclusive comes to mind. They have knowledgeable people to help you through every step of the building process. “We have a team of five very talented designers that can modify any one of our exciting floor plans to suit a homebuyer’s needs, or they are able to create a completely custom home,” says Melbourne. “A homebuyer’s imagination is
their only limitation.” Finally, Laebon home owners have access to a web based program called Co-Construct. Co-Construct is a communication tool Laebon provides to keep homeowners involved and upto-date with what’s happening with their new home. “It is a great way for our home owners to communicate with the project manager and home owner liaisons who are working on their home,” said Melbourne. From conception to completion Laebon Homes is a team that will not only help you envision your new home, but will make sure it becomes your reality. S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
21
22
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
23
business profile
An open and shut case Experience the difference in quality and service with Red Deer Overdoor
By T ess F lewelling
R
ed Deer Overdoor has been serving homeowners and commercial clients of Central Alberta, providing and installing quality garage and overhead doors, for over 40 years. Leigh Stuart, Accounts Payable/Payroll Manager, indicates that the key to their success is very clear: “we want to make
Rob Karol and Leigh Stuart 24
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
our customers feel like part of the family. To know that they are getting the best deal around without sacrificing the quality.” With a large and dedicated team consisting of 55 full-time employees, they deliver on this motto every day, whether you are looking for a full customized door or just a few parts. The fact the majority
of their employees have been working with this family owned business for more than five years speaks volumes. Their team is spilt into five residential crews and five commercial crews, allowing more clients to be served at a faster pace. “If a client calls with a problem, we make sure to respond quickly, their peace of mind is top priority,” says Stuart. “Evenings and weekends too.” Garage and overhead doors are not the only products they offer; Red Deer Overdoor also supplies rolling steels, security gates, drive through windows and dock levelers, along with a fully stocked parts department. Their wide ranges of products are available for viewing in either of their two showrooms, giving the customer a first-hand look at the quality. Having good customer service is not the only ingredient that makes Red Deer Overdoor successful, their supplier of choice is Steel-Craft; who manufactures and tests its entire product line in Canada to ensure its durability against the Alberta weather and the wind. Their products are made from recycled materials and with
business profile
Red Deer Overdoor, says Stuart, has become the leading garage door dealer in Central Alberta.
the high R-value; help lower your heating and cooling costs without breaking the bank. Red Deer Overdoor has all the details on ThermoCraft, RanchCraft and CarriageCraft doors, with different R-values, colours and window options to choose from. In fact, they have access to any brand of garage door you might be looking for. “Dream up a door,” says Stuart, “bring
it to us and we will either custom build or find you that door.” You can even request special paint options to match your home or shop. Their line of Amarr Classica carriage doors are built in three sections instead of four, giving a more authentic carriage door look. They also offer a wide variety of specialty doors like the new Esteem series, which can be filled with colored glass or panels or the charcoal black door,
sold exclusively by Red Deer Overdoor. It is made from black recycled steel that requires no painting. “If you don’t find a door that matches what you are looking for, we offer full customizations; if you can think it, we can make it”, states Stuart. “Our warranty guarantees also allows customers to feel at home, even with fully customized doors”. As the winner of the 2007 Canadian Home Builders Association, Central Alberta Service Company of the Year, Red Deer Overdoor has proven their dedication to their customers, and the community. For example, they have a robust recycling program for all of their scrap metal and are proud sponsors of the STARS Home Lottery. By offering competitive prices and good, old-fashioned small town service, Red Deer Overdoor, says Stuart, has become the leading garage door dealer in Central Alberta.
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
25
26
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
W in t e r
2 013
industry news
Alberta New Home Warranty Act Added security is great news for all future new home buyers By Daniel W hite
I
n consumer culture, customers have come to expect that the products they purchase come with a warranty — from the big screen TV you love to watch to the mattress you curl up on after your favorite show. Just about anything and everything you can put into your house comes with some sort of warranty. Until quite recently, the same could not be said for your home. As of February first, home builders will be required to offer a mandatory warranty. Until recently, home builders were able to pick and choose what level of warranty services they would offer on their homes. All that changed when the Alberta government rolled out The Alberta New Home Warranty Act. The Act sets new minimum levels of warranty coverage that must be provided by all Alberta home builders. This means that buyers can have peace of mind in the fact that all the home builders in their area must participate in the warranty program. Not only will this relieve the stress of picking a builder but it will also offer some sense of security for those who are worried about potential issues that may show up a year or so down the road after their dream home has been finished. Kevin Wilkie, president of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association — Central Alberta Region, is ecstatic about what the new warranty means for Albertans. “Our CHBA members in Alberta were the first to offer warranty coverage on
new homes starting in 1974 and offering a warranty has long been a condition of membership in CHBA. Alberta’s New Home Buyer Protection Act will ensure all builders meet the same standard,” says Wilkie. Wilkie says the program is important because “New home buyers will enjoy stronger consumer protection when warranty coverage becomes mandatory.” The new warranty applies to almost all residential buildings. Multi-family units also fall under the new act and may have coverage in the millions, so even individuals who are interested in building rental properties can benefit from the Act. There are exceptions to the act though. Paul Holmes, inspector for the City of Red Deer, says some homes would be considered as exceptions to the rule. “Some exceptions include Habitat for Humanity and Alberta Social Housing which are exempt from the Act. Other exemptions, which can be referenced on the Alberta Municipal Affairs website, will still need to apply for exemption and proof of this exemption will need to be submitted when applying for building permit,” says Holmes. “For residential builders in Red Deer,” Holmes explains, “It means the City
Kevin Wilkie, CH BA – CA Presiden t
will not accept applications for building permits effective February without submitted verification that there is warrantee coverage and it is registered in the Public Registry through AMA.” Mandatory warranty legislation is new to Albertans but British Columbia has had a similar legislation for years. The prospects look good for Alberta homebuyers but of course only time will tell what long-term benefits the warranty will provide.
For more information about the Alberta New Home Warranty Act, visit www.mandatorywarranty.com S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
27
industry news
Q&A CHBA – Alberta on the new mandatory home warranty program
M
any people know about the new mandatory home warranty program, that there is one, but they don’t know much about that. CHBA – Alberta and other local CHBA chapters are doing what they can to inform both their members and the public about how these changes will affect them. CHBA – Alberta will post information, presentations, documents and links on their website and distribute material through local builders and renovators to ease implementation of the New Home Buyer Protection Act, which took effect February 1. Some remaining questions about the program may have arisen by the time this article is published so check for updates. In the meantime, here’s some information to get you started.
What types of homes require warranty coverage? Warranty is required for houses, condos, recreational properties, and modular and manufactured homes unless they will be used as purpose–built rentals, social housing, Habitat for Humanity, hotels, motels. Owner-builders can also obtain an exemption from the warranty requirement if they agree to certain conditions. Coverage is also required for common property or facilities in a condo development. Coverage is mandatory for building permits issued after February 1, 2014, unless there is an exemption. When does a renovation require warranty coverage? The regulations require a warranty be included for substantial reconstructions where 75 per cent of the enclosed space of a home above the foundation is new. That means if you started with a 1,000 sq. ft. home, it would be necessary to add another 3,000 sq. ft. to trigger the requirement for 28
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
a warranty. Rebuilding a home from walls in and floor up does not require a warranty. New construction on an existing foundation requires a warranty because more than 75 per cent of the space is new. Renovators are required to warranty elements of the home that are retained. What is covered and for how long? Materials and labour are covered for one year; delivery and distribution systems such as electrical, gas, plumbing and heating for two years; defects to the building envelope for five years with an option to purchase two additional years; and structural defects for 10 years. There are coverage exclusions, such as landscaping, site grading, some retaining walls, home appliances, historic resources and designs, as well as some material or labour not supplied by a builder. Coverage is also excluded for damages caused by weathering, acts of nature, normal wear and tear, shrinkage, alterations not by the builder, improper operation or maintenance. What are coverage limits? The limit for a single-family home is $265,000 and $130,000 on multi-family units. There is also up to $3.3 million in additional coverage for common property in each building of multi-family projects. Most warranty issues relate to minor defects. The most expensive claims are structural and building envelope problems. These are rare and even then can be repaired for well under the limit. When does coverage commence? For single-family and multi-family units coverage begins on the date when the home is first occupied, permission to occupy is granted or the transfer of title is registered. Coverage for common property is much more complicated. It begins when title of
the first habitable unit is transferred to a purchaser and the builder has agreed to prepare a Building Assessment Report (BAR) within 180 days of the transfer of title. What is the role of compliance officers? Compliance officers will investigate whether professional builders are constructing a home without a warranty, if coverage does not meet minimum requirements, an owner-builder has started a home without authorization or is selling a property without warranty, or permits are issued without verification of coverage and will oversee rental properties. The officers will not duplicate the role of Safety Code Officers. What are the responsibilities of the homeowner? Homeowners have a duty to mitigate damages by reporting problems in a “reasonable” time, notifying the warranty provider, taking “reasonable” steps to prevent more damage, and must provide access to the property. Homeowners now also have access to the Insurance tribunal process to settle disputes. Who will use the registry? Warranty providers will have access to the system to confirm that coverage is in place. Home owners will be able to check the warranty status of a property. Municipal officials may use the registry to check if a warranty is in place before issuing a building permit but procedures will vary in different communities. In the future, realtors and home buyers will likely want to check on warranty coverage before making an offer on a property. Submitted by Joan Maisonneuve, Manager of Policy and Industry Issues, CHBA – Alberta
Advertising Feature
Hospitals’ Lottery 2014
Supporting not one, not two, but three different causes at the Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre!
T
he Red Deer Regional Health Foundation knows the impact of the Hospitals’ Lottery on enhancing patient care at the Red Deer Hospital. For 16 years, staff and volunteers of the Foundation have been promoting ticket sales, and for 16 years the proceeds from those sales have improved patient services. In 2011 funds provided for patient monitors in Intensive Care. 2012 funds enabled the purchase of pulmonary equipment for the Respiratory Department, and money raised during the 2013 Lottery is being used in the Outpatient Department — which sees over 16,000 Central Albertans every year.
With enormous support for the Lottery from home builders and contractors, prize suppliers and ticket purchasers, the Lottery has grown to a point where we can anticipate a sellout and meet the needs of three Hospital Departments for 2014. Cause #1 is the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, affectionately known as NICU, where there’s a desperate need for upgrades to cardiac monitoring equipment. The NICU currently has capacity for 17 babies but often is required to overfflow to as many as 24. In 2012 NICU admitted over 600 babies, and the need continues to grow as Red Deer itself grows. Updates to
cardiac equipment will meet the needs of our growing population and enhance the quality of care for sick infants and premature babies. Cause #2 sees a need for enhanced obstetrical lighting in the Labour and Delivery suites. This will ensure healthcare providers can provide optimal care for childbearing women during and after childbirth. Finally, Cause #3 funds will be used in Gastroenterology where equipment purchases will increase the volume of procedures, improve the quality of service to patients, and decrease patient wait times.
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
29
getting to know…
Brandon Bouchard Membership Services/Events Committee Chair, CHBA – Central Alberta
H
e was born in Montreal, but Brandon Bouchard is “and always will be” an Edmonton Oilers fan. “Although,” he says, “it’s tough to admit these days”. What Brandon has a lot less trouble admitting to is his love for all things Red Deer. “In my short time in Red Deer I have discovered that this city is one of the best places to live and raise a family. We couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.” He and wife Stephanie, along with boys Nolan (9), Parker (2) and new addition daughter Piper (2 months) currently live in the historic Parkvale community. “We love the area,” he says, “as it’s close to parks, pools, shopping, and the farmer’s market. The folks in Parkvale are very neighbourly and we love that. We’ve always loved the older, established communities with large lots, and old growth. We’re hoping to build a new home soon, right where our current home stands now. We simply don’t want to give up our great location, but our family is growing!” Brandon spent most of his school and work years in Edmonton — which explains the Oilers thing — where his father was a truck driver and his mom a homemaker. He started his career as a contract roofing installer, working his way up the ranks to crew leader and gradually to positions in service, project management, insurance claims and sales. He moved to Red Deer in 2010 when Great Canadian Roofing & Siding Ltd. offered him the local General Manager position. Brandon’s role as GM is to manage the day-to-day operations of Great Canadian, but he’s also taken it upon himself to 30
ce n t r a l a l b e r ta h o m e s
S pring
2 014
spearhead the company’s social media efforts for all four prairie branches (Edmonton, Calgary, Red Deer, Saskatoon). Last year also saw him lead the ‘Buzz for the House’ campaign in which heads were shaved, including his own, and a total of more than $20,000 raised for the local Ronald McDonald House. In one of his other official roles, as a CHBA – Central Alberta volunteer, he sits as director on the Board, is Chair of the Membership Services/Events Committee and also a member of the Home Show Committee. Brandon still finds time for family and friends, however, and for pursuing personal interests. “I love camping and the outdoors,” he says. “I’m also a bit of a foodie and love the adventure of wine tasting and food pairing.” So much so that he hopes to one day open a wine bar and bistro. He’s also on the board of directors for Parkvale Community Association and the Downtown
Business Association of Red Deer, and has a “dream of running for council in the future”. In his ‘true’ down time, Brandon enjoys watching movies with his kids — the best movie he’s seen lately is Disney’s ‘Planes’ — and listening to what can best be described as an eclectic variety of music. “I’m turning 40 in April, and have only recently discovered Frank Zappa, so I have some catching up to do there,” he laughs. As for the future of the housing industry in Red Deer … “I think one of the major challenges we face in the industry is education, or lack thereof, for consumers. I think that service providers today have an obligation to help their customers make informed decisions when choosing products or services for their homes. People need to know the right questions to ask. Quality builders and contractors should offer not only great customer service and workmanship, but peace of mind and confidence so their clients know they’ve chosen a contractor that has their best interests in mind.” Truer words have never been spoken, even by an Oilers fan.
S P R I N G 2 014
centr al
a l b e r t a h o m e s
31