Central Alberta Homes - Fall 2015 by Source Media Group

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contents

fall 2015 | issue 13

market overview

New home market check-up

Red Deer passes with flying colours

features

12 Major milestone

Red Deer’s population reaches 100,807

18 Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing

Local builders earn provincial recognition

29 10 reasons to buy

a new home from a CHBA member

events

15 Home Renovation Show

First-time event promises new products, expert advice

industry news

11 Homebodies

community profile

20 North or South?

Malibu Communities has three conveniently located communities to choose from

17 Office space

CHBA – CA has a new home

24 Housing industry websites

show home profile

22 Settle down in Savanna

Local housing industry in good hands

One of Red Deer’s newest neighbourhoods has something for almost everyone

Information literally at your fingertips

26 It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s …

The CHBA – Central Alberta Annual Golf Tournament

mortgages

25 Finding the right fit

How much is too much? And how much is just enough?

@chbaca1

CHBACA1

items 6 Message from the executive officer 30 Getting to know Cover photo: Maeson Martin Homes, 2015 Awards of Excellence in Housing Builder of the Year finalist.

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message from the chief executive officer

Keeping busy It’s been an eventful few months here at the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta Region. The big news — we’ve got a new home! We moved into the old Landmark Homes offices at #200, 6700-76 Street and celebrated with a big barbecue on September 23. In between packing and unpacking we’ve kept busy with a few other events also, including our annual golf tournament (see story page 26), and planning our first ever Renovation Show (page 15), with special guest presenter Damon Bennett. If you’re playing your own home version of Love It Or List It, come down to the show on October 30 to November 1 and check out some

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. #200, 6700-76 Street Red Deer, Alberta T4P 4G6 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 | Chief Executive Officer eo@chbacentralalberta.ca Joan Butler | Administration & Event Co-ordinator admin@chbacentralalberta.ca

of the options, experts and advice. We elected a new president and board at our AGM (page 11) and even had a handful of our CHBA-CA members nominated for awards at the Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing in Jasper in late September. Judging by our feature article on Red Deer’s population growth, we’re not the only one’s that have been busy lately. And, now that Red Deer has hit 100,000 people, what’s next? And is the housing industry keeping pace? You’ll find the answers to these and more important questions, plus a ton of related statistics, in Jim Zang’s regular Housing Market Check-up. It really is a great homes line-up this edition, as there’s a little something for everyone. First, there’s the award finalists, Falcon Homes and Mason Martin Homes, in a nice two-page spread. Then there’s a feature on Avalon’s new condo project, Savanna, and then we take a quick tour of three new neighbourhoods from Malibu Communities: Valley Ridge Estates, Springbrook, and Hazelwood Estates. So, no matter what kind of lifestyle you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered. Finally, speaking of lifestyles, join us as we drop in on RBC mortgage specialist and long-time Red Deer resident Marilyn La Rose and her chocolate lab Tucker at their home in Inglewood. I invite you to check out not just the homes in this publication, but also the many around town, including in our annual October Parade of Homes. See our website at www.chbaca.ca for the latest details and see you there! Sincerely,

CE N T R A L A L B E R TA H O M E S

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER | Jim Zang ART DIRECTOR | Jean Faye Rodriguez GRAPHIC DESIGNERS | Dave Macaulay, Megan Sereda PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR | Colleen Leier CONTRIBUTORS | Jennifer Blair, Kristina Cajipe, Jock McKenzie, Shelley Newman DIRECTOR OF SALES | Norma Robertson norma.robertson@sourcemediagroup.ca ADVERTISING SALES | Cindy Marks cindy.marks@sourcemediagroup.ca © 2015 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from 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 Chief Executive Officer CHBA – Central Alberta

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

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market overview

New home market check-up Red Deer passes with flying colours BY J I M Z A N G

hen it comes to the new home market in Red Deer, the numbers really do tell the story. And that story is that, like the town itself, which has grown in population by 27 per cent in the past 10 years, the new home market is growing right along with it, with community developers and home builders trying their darndest to keep pace with demand. From just 2014 to 2015, 2,222 more people came to Red Deer (see Chart 1). That’s about six people per day, so approximately two average households. Check out 2009, the heart of the last big recession, and note that fewer than 200 people, total, came to Red Deer that year. And, while it’s expected that in-migration might decrease somewhat from current levels, chances are we won’t be seeing numbers that low anytime soon again. In order to keep pace, the new home market would have to be producing two homes per day or 730 per year. In actual fact, They’re doing a pretty good job, with end of the year estimates still on track to fall somewhat short of 2014’s 867 total new Chart 1

Source: www.reddeer.ca

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Chart 2

NEW HOME STARTS BY DWELLING TYPE July 2015

July 2014

YTD 2015

YTD 2014

Single-family

151

222

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

232

184

429

ALL

521 Source: www.cmhc.ca

home starts. In fact, starts in 2015 currently lag about 18 per cent behind last year’s pace (see Chart 2). However, they’re still on target to meet demand based on current population growth rates. Looking closely at the numbers, one can see that a lot of the growth in 2015 can really be attributed to the multi-family segment, specifically apartments, which alone accounted for 232 (54 per cent) of this year’s starts to date. Looking even more closely, you can see that not much really happened in the way of semi-detached or row homes, just a couple of projects. Reading between the lines, it would seem that most Red Deerites either want to own their own single family home, or opt for the apartment lifestyle. There’s not as much demand for anything in between. Most apartment style condos in Red Deer are of the medium-rise, four-storey wood frame variety. The segment that’s down the most, perhaps due to the economy and the fact many people in Central Alberta are tied so closely to the oil and gas industry, is the single-family home market.

Although, it should be noted, there’s a big difference between starts being down and and an unhealthy market. Sometimes bigger numbers are simply unsustainable and smaller numbers aren’t necessarily bad, they’re just… smaller. Starts don’t always tell the whole story about the housing market though, as it’s one thing to start a home and another thing altogether to sell it. So it’s also important to look at things like new home absorptions when gauging the health of any market. Absorptions can most easily be thought of as sold and occupied new homes. In a healthy market these numbers remain fairly steady through the year, with a few traditional seasonal peaks and valleys (see Chart 3). One side effect of a moderating market that is appreciated by homebuyers is Chart 3

SINGLE DETACHED ABSORPTIONS 2015 Absorbed inventory

Unabsorbed inventory

April

May

June

July

64 Source: www.cmhc.ca

market overview

increasing affordabilty, and Red Deer is no exception to the rule. With less demand and plenty of unabsorbed inventory, prices have dropped. According to information from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), the average absorbed price in July 2015 was $549,793 compared to $583,582 only a year ago. By comparison, the average single family home in Calgary in July sold for $759,433. Construction statistics, as well, tell an interesting tale and, again, in Red Deer’s case, a pretty good one. Single-family homes under construction drop steadily month by month as homes are finished, which is pretty much as it should be. Meanwhile, multi-family under construction numbers remain pretty steady month to month as projects remain in progress until all the units are complete. For example, hundreds of units of apartment style homes could

very well all be in one project that will be under construction for months until first possessions (see Chart 4). Looking at the numbers can help you get a feel for what Red Deer might look like in the very near future. For example, more than three-quarters of new homes currently being built in the city are multifamily. That seems to be the trend in major centres everywhere, especially those that have experienced economic prosperity, and

the subsequent increases in in-migration and housing costs that come along with it. Of course, when you step back and look at the bigger picture — starts, completions, absorptions — it’s clear consumer demand still drives the market and so there’s a wide variety in housing styles, at different price points, for homebuyers to choose from. What it all boils down to is that — for now at least — Red Deer’s new home market is, as the saying goes, “healthy as a horse”.

Chart 4

HOMES UNDER CONSTRUCTION BY DWELLING TYPE April

May

June

July

Single-family

173

152

133

115

Semi-detached

Row

Apartment

318

307

306

582

532

499

ALL

493 Source: www.cmhc.ca

Neighbouring communities tell a different tale While Red Deer is the largest population hub in Central Alberta, it is by no means the only one. Towns like Lacombe, Sylvan Lake, Innisfail, Olds and Sundre (and many other small communities) act as service centres for the oil and gas and agriculture industries, with people choosing to live their either for proximity to work or for the small town lifestyle. At first glance, it would appear, with less industry and a smaller retail base, that these towns would be more susceptible to downturn because they are so service centred. Housing starts are down across the board. Or are they? On closer inspection, things aren’t that simple. Housing starts for the second quarter of 2015 were down Chart 5

Lacombe

from 2014 levels for the same period in Sylvan Lake, Red Deer County (which includes Innisfail), and Mountainview County (which includes Olds). Lacombe, however, was up more than double from last year in quarter two and also up significantly year-to-date (see Chart 5). But not so fast. Although Sylvan Lake’s housing starts are down, when you add the number of completions to the number of starts, it’s actually ahead of last year’s numbers (200 to 184). Red Deer County and Mountainview County, meanwhile, as expected from smaller, more rural communities, lacking the resort-pull of a Sylvan Lake, have been on a steady moderating trend.

Sylvan Lake

Red Deer County

Mountainview County

Start

Completions

Start

Completions

Start

Completions

Start

Completions

Q2 2015

Q2 2014

YTD 2015

111

YTD 2014

122

39 Source: www.cmhc.ca

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industry news

Homebodies

Local housing industry in good hands

he Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta Region held their Annual General Meeting (AGM) June 17, with the results that a new Board of Directors has been elected for 2015/2016. Lori Erickson of Erickson Homes was appointed the position of President, Dwayne Eagleson of Mason Martin Homes was appointed the position of 1st Vice President, Brandon Bouchard of Paul Davis Systems (Red Deer) was elected as 2nd Vice President, and John Christie of Falcon Homes assumed the role of Past President. Leigh Stuart of Red Deer Overdoor was re-elected as the association’s Treasurer, while new Directors elected to the Board

for a two-year term are Chris Beaumont of Abbey Master Builder and Dustin Edey of Proform Precast Products Ltd. Re-elected Director for a second two year term were Dorinda Gallant, Sorento Custom Homes and Kelly Coutts of Doormasters Inc. Returning Directors serving their second year of a two year term are Tyler Hansen of Melcor Developments, Marilyn LaRose of RBC, Justin Munchinsky of All Weather Windows and Troy Walker of Laebon Homes. Also remaining as a Director-at-large is Kevin Wilkie of TrueLine Homes, while retiring from the board with appreciation from the association for his contributions is Tim Jackson of Audio Intergrations.

STANDING, LEFT TO RIGHT: Troy Walker, Laebon Homes – Director, Chris Beaumont, Abbey Master Builder – Director, Kelly Coutts, DoorMasters Inc – Director, Brandon Bouchard, Paul Davies System of Red Deer – 2nd Vice President, Tyler Hansen, Melcor Developments – Director, Kevin Wilkie, True-line Homes, Director, Dustin Edey, Proform Precast Products Ltd. – Director, Dorinda Gallant, Sorento Custom Homes Ltd. – Director SEATED, LEFT TO RIGHT: Leigh Stuart, Red Deer Overdoor – Treasurer, Lori Erickson, Landmark Homes Red Deer – President, Dwayne Eagleson, Mason Martin Homes – 1st Vice President, Denie Olmstead, CHBA Central Alberta – Chief Executive Officer MISSING FROM PHOTO: John Christie, Falcon Homes – Past President, Justin Munchinsky, All Weather Windows – Director, Marilyn La Rose, RBC – Director

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feature

Major milestone Red Deer’s population reaches 100,807 BY SH EL L E Y N E WM A N

he new residential neighbourhoods in Red Deer have been telling the story of the city’s growth for the last few years. And now, the 2015 municipal census numbers released in June confirm what people have been seeing: Red Deer isn’t a small town anymore. As of this year, the city has officially crossed a population milestone, with 100,807 people calling Red Deer home. This number represents a 2.2 per cent population increase, which translates into 2,222 more residents in the community. In addition to that, it also translates into a shift in perspective for how citizens view the city. “This is an important watershed moment for Red Deerians collectively, as it 1995 TO TODAY changes how we perceive ourselves,” says YEAR POPULATION Craig Curtis, Red Deer’s city manager. “It also will change how others perceive 1995 59,834 our city.” 2005 79,082 Curtis notes that the city’s new population status — as well as the growing 2015 100,807 regional population of Central Alberta Data from City of Red Deer 2015 — makes Red Deer an attractive location Municipal Census Report for economic growth. “Economically, this puts us on the radar and that’s where we need to be,” he says. “When companies are looking at locations for the headquarters of their operations, for example, Red Deer is situated perfectly for economic growth and development.” This impacts the homebuilding industry, where Red Deer’s growing population will also have positive effects on residential construction. “This will bring more opportunities for the industry, as well as a more consistent and stable building sector,” says Lori Erickson, president of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta and co-owner of Erickson Homes. “Plus, it will attract new builders, suppliers and developers, as well as more specialized builders, giving consumers more choices. All of these groups will help to bring new ideas and products to the local industry.”

RED DEER’S GROWTH

Craig Curtis

According to the 2015 census data, Red Deer has grown the most on the city’s east side in the past year, with Timberlands seeing the largest growth of 529 new residents and Vanier Woods reporting 425 new residents. The census also records dwelling type by structure, with single detached

Red Deer is the largest mid-sized city in Alberta, with Lethbridge 12

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feature

NEIGHBOURHOODS WITH STRONGEST GROWTH IN 2015 NEIGHBOURHOOD

# NEW RESIDENTS

Timberlands 529 Vanier Woods

425

Photo by Shelley Newman

Lancaster/Lonsdale 379

DWELLING COUNT BY STRUCTURE STRUCTURE TOTALS

Single detached Suite in single detached

22,208 972

Manufactured home

1,151

Duplex/semi attached

3,403

Fourplex/triplex 1,517 Townhouse/rowhouse 3,865 Apartment 8,786 Collective dwelling*

Other 94 TOTAL 42,034 *Structures where people stay for long periods of time (six months or more) or live permanently having no other permanent home (ie. nursing homes, hotels, motels).

Michener Hill

127

Normandeau 123 Clearview Extension/Ridge

111

Oriole Park

Garden Heights

homes being enumerated the highest at 22,208. But a variety of other housing types were also counted, and Erickson notes that these different types are being driven by different needs. “There’s a high cost to develop new lands,” she says, “and, with changing demographics, redevelopment of inner city lands will continue to favour multi-family projects.” She also observes that “for young families, a single-family home with an attached garage is still the most desirable product.” In addition to dwelling and neighbourhood statistics, the census provides basic demographic information for Red Deerians, offering a snapshot of the people who call the city home. The average age is now 37 years old, for example, and the population is split quite evenly between male and female. While this type basic of census doesn’t record detailed multi-cultural data, some households did request communication in languages other than English, with Tagalog, Spanish and French being the top three languages requested. Now that Red Deer has passed the 100,000 resident milestone, it’s officially become the largest mid-sized city in Alberta, with more growth expected for the future. “The growth we’ve seen is projected to continue,” says Curtis, “as we expect that Red Deer will be approximately 175,000 by 2041.”

For complete information on Red Deer’s 2015 municipal census, visit www.reddeer.ca/census

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events

Home Renovation Show First-time event promises new products, expert advice BY J O CK M ACK ENZI E

amon Bennett, well-known TV personality and home construction expert, is returning to Red Deer for the first ever Home Renovation Show. Since moving on from being Mike Holmes’ partner from Holmes Makes It Right, Holmes Inspections and Holmes on Homes, Bennett spent several years on new home construction but has now turned his attention to what he loves best — home renovations. Due to such a successful visit to the 2015 Home Show, he’s been invited back. Damon Bennett

What’s Damon Bennett’s big message? Simply this: “Preparation!” In what he calls “interactive presentations” (Friday, October 30 at 5:30 p.m. and Saturday, October 31 at 1:30 p.m.), he says he will not only entertain and explain but he will engage in a conversation with audience members about how best to go about the job of renovating a home. “I love coming to Alberta,” says Bennett, “because I’m a blue collar guy and I can relate to the Western audience. We talk the same language and despite my thirty years of experience, even though I know I can offer a lot of great advice, I always come away having learned something myself.” “The homeowner is the boss if… and only if…the homeowner is willing to do the necessary preparation that’s needed before getting started,” he says, “and a show like this one is the perfect place to get started. No matter what size your reno is going to be, it’s very likely almost all of your trades will be here to talk to.” Over 80 exhibitors will be available to show and explain all aspects of homes and home renovations. (see sidebar). Home renovations are all about making your dreams come true. Do you want new windows, flooring, closet organization, a spa or bath, fireplace, security, or air quality upgrades? Is it a specific part of your castle you’d like to improve: kitchen, deck, garage, yard? Who’s going to help with financing?

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events

So many questions — and so many answers. The Home Renovation Show has the advantage of being a buffet of ideas. You will enjoy the expertise of Red Deer and Central Alberta companies, many of whom are members of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta, the kind of companies you can trust. Winner of the 2015 Renovator of the Year, Bowood Homes (Supervisor Todd Zimmerman) gives this advice: “With a reno, you can break it up into different phases.and spend how much you have at that time. If your kitchen’s combined with your living room, it might make sense to renovate both together. With a downstairs family room, it’s easy to renovate that by itself.” Zimmerman does add a word of caution, “Sometimes one thing can lead to another and a small reno can turn into a big one. In some cases, new construction might even be the best answer.” In times like these, contractors are anxious to attract your interest. The newest member of the CHBA – Central Alberta, Carlo Vleeming, Owner/Operator of Vleeming Construction in Lacombe says, “We are so excited to be an exhibitor in the upcoming Home Renovation Show. Be sure to stop by our booth and discuss your plans.”

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CHBA – Central Alberta First Annual Home Renovation Show

Friday, October 30 to Sunday, November 1 Westerner Park, Red Deer, AB Friday: noon – 8 p.m. Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sunday: 10:00 a.m. - 5 p.m. Adults: $5 Students: $4 (with valid ID) Seniors: $4 (55 and up) Under 12: free with adult www.reddeerhomerenoshow.ca The excitement and interest in developing a plan based on your wishes and your budget is the key to a successful renovation. It’s something to build on!

industry news

Office space CHBA – CA has a new home

PHOTO BY KRISTINA CAJIPE

he Canadian Home Builders’ Association is excited to announce that they have moved into their new office facility on August 14. The new office is just off Johnstone Drive in NW Red Deer. The new address is: 200, 6700 76 Street, Red Deer, Alberta, T4P 4G6. Pictured are CHBA – CA chief executive officer, Denie Olmstead and administration and event coordinator, Joan Butler, outside their new digs. Members and anyone looking for information on new home construction are welcome to stop by during office hours Monday to Friday.

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feature

Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing Local builders earn provincial recognition Falcon Homes – Solaris

he Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Alberta (CHBA – Alberta) proudly announced the winners of the 2015 Awards of Excellence in Housing on September 18th at BUILD 2015, CHBA – Alberta’s annual conference, held at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Lethbridge’s Ashcroft Master Builder was a big winner, taking home the Ralph Scurfield Builder of the Year Award in the large volume category, sponsored by RBC Royal Bank. White Eagle Homes of Edmonton was named Builder of the Year in the smallvolume category, narrowly edging out Red Deer’s own Mason Martin Homes for the title. The multi-family Builder of the Year Award winner was Qualico Group of Companies for their various Alberta projects.      Awards were also presented in 25 categories to Alberta’s top home builders, renovators and community developers. A total of 19 companies won awards. Projects by CHBA – Calgary Region members won 10 awards, followed by seven from Edmonton Region, six in Lethbridge, and one in Medicine Hat. Two Central Alberta Region builders were finalists: Falcon Homes in the Single-family

Laebon Homes – JJ Custom

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Falcon Homes – Solaris

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feature Photos on this page are of Mason Martin Homes – Jarvis Bay

under $250,000 category; and Mason Martin Homes, who won the Estate Home over $1.5 million category with their Jarvis Bay custom home entry; and another, Laebon Homes, won Builder of Merit. Also honoured at the event was CHBA – CA’s Gord Bontje, who was inducted into the CHBA – Alberta Hall of Fame. “The competition to be named one of Alberta’s best was fierce,” said Jim Rivait, CEO, CHBA – Alberta, “with more than 400 entrants and 75 finalists. CHBA – Alberta is pleased to see such a broad range of companies and communities reach the winner’s circle. The awards also illustrate the many choices available to Albertans, from affordable single and multifamily homes to spectacular estate homes and renovation projects.”    CHBA – Alberta also announced the winners of the Safety Leadership Awards, sponsored by ATCO Gas, and again a Central Alberta company took first place honours, with Bruin’s Plumbing & Heating capturing the title for Large Employer. Entrants were judged based on responses to a detailed survey about fostering a safety culture among workers, management and contractors, as well as ways they share their success stories with the industry.

SINGLE FAMILY UNDER $250,000 *Avonlea Homes, Bristol

Lethbridge

Falcon Homes, Solaris

Central Alberta

UrbanAge Homes, Switch14

Edmonton

ESTATE HOME OVER $1,500,000 *Mason Martin Homes, Jarvis Bay

Central Alberta

Windsor Brunello, Lyalta

Calgary

Wolf Custom Homes, Creekstone

Calgary

SAFETY LEADERSHIP AWARDS LARGE EMPLOYER GENERAL MEMBER

Bruin's Plumbing & Heating

AWARDS OF MERIT Laebon Homes

JJ Custom

Central Alberta Region

*Winner

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community profile

North or South?

Malibu Communities has three conveniently BY SH EL L E Y N E WM A N located communities to choose from

ooking for a new location to put down roots? Malibu Communities, a locally owned and operated developer, is creating three new communities in Central Alberta.

VALLEY RIDGE ESTATES Just a few minutes north of Red Deer in Blackfalds, you’ll find Valley Ridge Estates. Located in the northwest corner of the town, Valley Ridge Estates is perfectly placed for families and people onthe-go. “This area in Blackfalds is really expanding,” says Andre Lachance, development manager with Malibu Communities. “The Abbey Centre is located at the southeast corner of Valley Ridge, the high school is just down the road and there are elementary schools nearby, so it’s a great place to raise a family.” Plus, as an added perk, Lachance notes that the highway is just a few minutes away. “Access to the QEII is a

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huge bonus for people,” he says. “It’s great for anyone who has a recreational vehicle, a boat, or for those who have to travel to get to work.” Access is one perk at Valley Ridge Estates, and opportunity is another, as home buyers still have the opportunity to build on lots in phases four and five of the development, which is at the home construction phase now. “We have two more phases to build, six and seven, and we’ll start development construction on these next year,” Lachance explains. “These lots will be ready for home construction in late 2016 or early 2017.”

SPRINGBROOK Continuing with its theme of convenient locations, Malibu Communities is developing a new neighbourhood in Springbrook, located just seven minutes south of Red Deer on highway 2A. “Springbrook is a great community,” says Lachance, “and so far in 2015, it’s been the primary destination for many of our customers.” With its lower tax base and price of lots “20 to 30% lower than in the city,” Lachance says that Springbrook is also a great choice for many young families. The wide variety of home styles and sizes that are offered in a Malibu Communities neighbourhood is also an advantage for home buyers. “We design communities for a mix of home sizes, right from starters and townhomes to larger homes with walkout basements,” Lachance says. In Springbrook, buyers will benefit from this variety of home styles, as the community has 12 development phases in total and will continue to build on these in the coming years. “Phase seven, which

community profile

will be ready for home construction in the spring, will have large pie lots on a cul-de-sac, backing onto green space and a water feature,” says Lachance. “We’re also going to continue developing green space and walking paths throughout the neighbourhood, so homeowners can enjoy all the outdoor amenities the area has to offer.”

HAZELWOOD ESTATES A little farther south, Malibu Communities is developing Hazelwood Estates, located on the west side of Innisfail. For home buyers looking to connect with a quiet lifestyle in a natural setting, Lachance suggests this might be the perfect place to build. “The neighbourhood itself has a walking path along the lake, as well as parks and green spaces,” he says. “There’s also Innisfail Golf & Country Club to the west and Dodd’s Lake, a natural lake, to the southeast.” The community of Hazelwood Estates is “currently about 1/3 built out,” Lachance says. With 13 phases in total, Malibu Communities is now selling in phase three, with plans to construct phases four next spring. “This really is a fantastic and beautiful location,” he says. “It will certainly be a fit for anyone who loves the outdoors.”

For more information and to see maps of the three communities, visit www.malibucommunities.com

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show home profile

Settle down in Savanna O

ne look at Avalon Central Alberta’s newest townhome development on Red Deer’s southeast side will put any misconceptions to rest. “Savanna is an awesome community full of great people,” says Kevin Schreder, sales manager for Avalon Central Alberta. “The whole area is full of family-based neighbourhoods, and Savanna is no different.” Perfectly situated in Laredo close to parks, schools and grocery stores, Savanna has just over 100 brand new townhouses in three different styles — traditional two-story townhomes; townhomes with front garages; and single-level ‘garden’ homes. That diversity is one of the real benefits of buying in Savanna, says Schreder. “It’s a nice community because there’s such a mixture of buildings and price ranges,” he says, adding that the floor plans range from 1,100 square feet to 1,350 square feet. The blend of housing styles attracts everyone from first-time homebuyers to people who are downsizing. “The good thing about something like Savanna is we’re able to get a price range that’s more affordable for people,” says Schreder. “If you just continue to build singlefamily houses, they get more and more expensive, and then it’s hard for first-time homebuyers to save up a down-payment and get into it.” Because they come with two bedrooms and two bathrooms upstairs — as well as an optional basement with extra bedroom, bathroom, and living area — Savanna homes are perfect for people who are looking to share ownership. “You can get into shared ownership or have a roommate with a Savanna home and still have your own space,” he says. “The

Perfectly situated in Laredo close to parks, schools and grocery stores, Savanna has just over 100 brand new townhouses in three different styles…

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One of Red Deer’s newest neighbourhoods has something for almost everyone BY J EN N I F ER B L A I R floor plans are all spacious and open.” And no matter which style someone chooses, “they all look amazing,” says Schreder. Buyers can choose upgraded countertops, flooring and appliances, but if they don’t want “all the bells and whistles,” the standard suites come with high-quality materials and stylish design elements too. Savanna townhomes are inspected by the Holmes Approved Homes program and come with sustainable features like lowflush toilets, energy efficient furnaces and triple-glazed windows, among other things. All of the materials used outside are also “low-maintenance.” “The fencing is a very durable vinyl fence, not wood, so you don’t need to stain it or maintain it all the time,” says Schreder of the fully fenced backyards. “It’s in there and it’s going to last.” But the real benefit of buying in Savanna is the convenience, he says. “The great thing about living in a community like this is you don’t have to do any outside maintenance, like mowing or snow

shoveling,” says Schreder. “When you come home, you can just sit on the deck and have a drink, rather than coming home and cutting the grass. All of that’s taken care of for you.” And with over half the properties in Savanna sold already, Schreder has one piece of advice for prospective buyers: “Buy one. You won’t regret it.”

“You can get into shared ownership or have a roommate with a Savanna home and still have your own space. The floor plans are all spacious and open.”

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industry news

Housing industry websites Information literally at your fingertips

ere are some links to some organizations that can help you with your questions about residential construction. • HOME BUILDING INDUSTRY SITES The Canadian Home Builders' Association www.chba.ca

The Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Alberta (Provincial Association) www.chbaalberta.ca The Canadian Construction Association www.cca-acc.com Renomark www.renomark.ca • GOVERNMENT SITES Canadian Consumer Information www.ConsumerInformation.ca A government of Canada site that provides detailed consumer information on housing and related topics in Canada.

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Affordability and Choice Today — ACT www.actprogram.com An advocacy group working for better homes for Canadians. The ACT program is sponsored by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and is jointly managed by the Canadian Home Builders Association, the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association, and the Federation of Canadian Municipalities. Canada Mortgage and Housing — CMHC www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca The Government of Canada's national housing agency. CMHC develops new ways to finance home purchases, encourages innovation in housing design and technology, and provides mortgage loan insurance. Alberta Building Code Information www.municipalaffairs.alberta.ca • HOME WARRANTY PROGRAMS Alberta New Home Warranty www.anhwp.com

Blanket Home Warranty Ltd. www.blanketltd.ca National Home Warranty www.nationalhomewarranty.com Progressive Home Warranty www.progressivewarranty.com Travelers Insurance Company of Canada www.travelerscanada.ca • CENTRAL ALBERTA COMMUNITIES Central Alberta Economic Partnership Ltd. (CAEP) www.centralalberta.ab.ca/index. cfm?page=communityprofiles A regional economic development alliance of 39 Central Alberta communities. • OTHER RELATED SITES Central Alberta Real Estate Board www.rdreb.ca Multiple Listing Services (MLS®) information in Central Alberta.

mortgages

Finding the right fit How much is too much? And how much is just enough? BY J O CK M ACK ENZI E

n the fairy tale world, the question for Goldilocks was always, “what is just right?” In the real world, the same question applies to a mortgage — “how much is just right?” Mortgage professionals are an excellent source of assistance. Roger Marion, Regional Sales Manager for Mortgage Development for Servus Credit Union suggests even before you look at what you can afford, you look at your life plan. He says, “ask what is important to you, to your lifestyle, to your kids’ lifestyle.” He adds, “we always hear about location, location, location. That can’t be understated. It affects your lifestyle. Is there daycare, a school, recreation? Do you have to be close to work?” Jean-Guy Turcotte of Dominion Lending Centres — Regional Mortgage Group says, “the first thing we do is to review your mortgage application. We’ll have a look at your entire budget, income and your credit. It’ll show us a bit more about what your liabilities are, what you’re spending each month. Depending on the strength of your credit, lenders will determine what you’re allowed to afford.” Marilyn LaRose, Mortgage Specialist with the Royal Bank of Canada notes three areas of concern: leave wiggle room (after comparing your pay cheque to your total costs, is there room for new furniture, repairs, cost of living increases?), cover all the angles (what are the total costs of home ownership e.g. heating, taxes), look to the future (stress test your mortgage for future rate increases). A term common to the industry is Gross Debt Servicing ratio or GDS. With a strong credit rating (above 680), a homebuyer

may qualify for the maximum GDS, the percentage of your income it takes to make the payment on your house. All of the specialists agree it is unwise to stretch one’s resources to the very maximum allowed, approximately 34 per cent of your income to pay for principal, interest, heat and taxes. When you have determined the size of your mortgage, you must then determine the term. Turcotte says, “your choices are one-, two-, three-, four-, five-, seven- and 10-year terms. Historically, most choose a five-year term. It has the best stability, one of the better rates and there’s less risk.” Says Marion, “the length of term depends on the comfort level of the individual. The longer the term, the more you know and can depend on. And that comfort level has to, most often, be that of two people.”

Roger Marion

Marilyn LaRose Once you know what’s just right for the amount of your mortgage and you know the term, should you lock in the rate? Unsure of where rates are headed? LaRose says, “you can have the best of both worlds by splitting your mortgage in two — part fixed and part variable — with a hybrid mortgage to hedge your bets.” In one area, all of the specialists agree: We are in most unusual times. Rates are at an all-time low. Perhaps this is one time when the fairy tale world and the real world are almost the same thing.

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industry news

It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s … The CHBA – Central Alberta Annual Golf Tournament BY J O CK M ACK ENZI E

“I

couldn’t wear my Cat Woman costume for the entire 18 holes,” said Shanice Dionne, Sales Rep for Doormasters Inc. “It was pleather and latex… and it was 24 degrees out!” Still, Shanice won Best Dressed and joined the 100 or so golfers who enjoyed the annual tournament and won prizes that matched the Comicon theme of science fiction and superheroes. Troy Larsen, co-owner of Central Alberta Tile One (also the presenting sponsor), won a set of Star Wars knives as a member of the Team with Best Score. Central Alberta Flooring won for Best Dressed Team. Held at Alberta Springs, the yearly tournament is one of CHBA-Central Alberta’s most popular events with members — both those serious about golf and those ‘not so much’.

“It’s great,” says Cindy Marks, Advertising Account Executive for Central Alberta Homes magazine, “because people are just out to have fun and not be too serious.” Says Larsen, “It’s nice to see people face to face, because you usually deal with them on the phone or by email. We don’t spend enough time with dinners or lunches — or golf tournaments.” For local home builders, their trades-

people, and suppliers, it was sunny skies all day, from the burger and beer lunch to the New York steak supper. It was especially sunny for the CHBA commitment to both Red Deer College and Olds College, with $6,000 raised for the Student Scholarship fund. If you weren’t able to attend this year’s event, put June 3 in your calendar for next year, and get our there and start practicing!

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feature

10 reasons to buy a new home from a CHBA member

YOU KNOW WHAT YOU ARE GETTING. Buying new takes the guesswork out of homeownership. You know how the home is built — both what you can see and what’s behind the walls. If you have questions later, the builder will be there to give you helpful and accurate information. That’s very reassuring, whether it’s your first home or your fifth. GET WHAT YOU WANT. Choose from an incredible selection of homes, and then work with your builder to add features and finishes to suit your own personal preferences. When you buy new, you don’t have to live with someone else’s decisions, or spend extra to set things right. QUALITY CONSTRUCTION. It is a fact that “They don’t build them like they used to.” Built to the latest codes with state-of-the-art construction techniques and technology, a new home is an investment in high performance, durability and long-term satisfaction.

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WARRANTY. PROFESSIONAL new home builders stand behind their work with an after-sales program and a guaranteed third-party warranty. Many products used in your home are covered by the manufacturers’ warranties for an extended time. That’s a lot of peace of mind. ENERGY SAVINGS. Thanks to quality construction and energyefficient heating and cooling systems, a new home will reduce your energy costs and the environmental impact of your home, year after year. Plus, your home will be far more comfortable to live in. GREAT DESIGNS. New homes are designed for the way you live. Style and function go hand in hand, with open, inviting living areas, lots of light, well-planned working areas and flexible layouts to accommodate future changes in your life.

FABULOUS FINISHES. New home features and finishing products have never been better. From flooring to faucets, enjoy great looks and superior performance. Best of all, the choice is yours. EASY MAINTENANCE. With today’s advanced products and materials, it is easy to keep your home in great condition inside and out, with minimum effort and cost. That leaves more time for the things in life that really matter to you. SAFETY & HEALTH. A new home comes with a whole range of safety measures to protect you and your family, for example, electrical circuit protectors, safety glass and hard-wired smoke detectors. Ventilation and careful use of low-emission materials help to keep the indoor air fresh and healthier. INTEREST RATES: Interest rates currently remain near historic lows. The Bank of Canada is at its lowest since the early 1950’s.

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getting to know

Marilyn La Rose Mortgage Specialist, RBC Royal Bank BY J I M Z A N G PHOTO BY SHAE PATERSON

arilyn La Rose figures she’s had the best of both worlds. Born and raised in Rexdale, in the greater Toronto area, as the youngest of four siblings — she has twin sisters and a brother — by nine and seven years respectively, she moved to Red Deer with her parents at age 12 while her brothers and sisters stayed behind. Her father, Norman, was the general manager at the Red Deer Federal Pioneer Electric until they closed in the early 1990’s. “My father passed in 2000 and my mother was a bookkeeper for a law firm in Red deer before she retired and still lives in Red Deer,” says Marilyn. “In the past few years my one sister moved from Ontario to Red Deer.” She graduated from Lindsay Thurber Comprehensive High School and then attended Reeves Business College in Red Deer. Since then she’s been able to continue her education with various financial and other courses — offered by organizations like the Canadian Securities Institute and Institute of Canadian Bankers, among others — over the course of her 22-year career with RBC, where she now serves as a Mortgage Specialist.

An average day, she says, sees her “meet with clients, complete mortgage applications, provided advice and information, seminars, As a mortgage specialist, I help people get the financing they need to suit their lifestyle and to make home ownership goals happen, assess financial situation and needs and discuss strategies and advice tailored to each situation.” In another role she sits on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Central Alberta region, helping to guide one of the country’s healthiest home building markets through interesting times. “the government has been making lots of changes over the last couple of years so it really speaks to everyone needs to get a pre-approval to see what they can qualify for, if you’re a first time home buyer or a repeat home buyer.” Marilyn’s far from all work and no play, however, and she cherishes the ‘down time’

“…I help people get the financing they need to suit their lifestyle and to make home ownership goals happen, assess financial situation and needs and discuss strategies and advice tailored to each situation.” 30

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she gets to spend with her husband of five years, Wayne Scheelar, and her four-legged friends Tucker (chocolate lab) and Daisy Mae (cat). She also inherited and instant family when she got married. “My two step children are adults, Robert and Melaine, Melanie is married to Andrew and they have two children. I have to say the best is they came with grandchildren, Lucas and Kaylie who are the best thing ever. They currently all live in BC so we enjoy when we can all get together even if it’s just on ‘Facetime’.” Marilyn and Wayne love to golf and hike in the summer — “Banff and the mountains are my favorite place on earth and living so close to them is great” — and go to Rebels hockey games and Hawaii in the winter. And if you can’t find her there, well, she’s probably either out walking the dog on one of the local pathways in her community of Inglewood or over at the neighbours for a glass of wine.