Calgary Condo Living January 2013 by Source Media Group

COntents january 2013 | VOLUME 9 ISSUE 157

Focus On 8 Frame of reverence Capture a moment in time one frame at a time Cover Feature 10 Feeling the love at Copperfield Park Last chance to love it, live it, and afford it in Copperfield Park’s final phase Condo Profiles 14 Future perfect Excitement builds as Waterfront readies for 2013 20 The shape of the future 3 Eau Claire will shape the future of Calgary’s downtown market Community profile 25 Golden Silverado Family-friendly, natureconnected enclave enchants LifestyleS 29 Home sweet first home First time homebuyer finds perfect fit in Airdrie’s The Edge ON TREND 37 Colossal cabinets Function meets fab when it comes to built-ins Features 34 HomExpo HomExpo starts the year off right 42 Spacious garages Storage facilities absorb the clutter in the garage

10 Shopping 47 Heavenly hardwood Hardwood flooring puts the gleam and glam in your home news 51 Homeownership made easy City-backed program makes it easier to own your own home Column 55 Around Town ITEMS 6 Editor’s Message 58 Maps 62 Ad Index 62 Condo Comics

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE |

On ward and upward in 2013 Well, I’m assuming that when you read this, the December 21 end-of-the-world day came and went without too much trouble and life as we know it still hasn’t changed. In fact, change for the better seems to be in the cards in 2013 for Calgary’s home building industry. From all indications, Calgary’s home industry looks like it will be in for a terrific year in 2013; new home starts are on the rise, and resales are doing well too, so there’s a good balance. Net migration is going up, and the economy is on stable ground. The good news is enough to warm every home builder’s heart this winter. Our cover feature on Copperfield Park seems to bear out this fortuitous turn, as the highly successful 254-unit development by Brad Remington Homes released its final phase, barely two years after starting. We also feature two condo developments in Eau Claire, which is turning out to be the hottest residential real estate property in the downtown. Waterfront by Anthem Properties has become a landmark in this beneficially-located neighbourhood that’s close to the serenity of Prince’s Island Park and the electric hum of the downtown core. The first two towers of this fourbuilding project are already up and running and they are set to begin sales for the third early this year. 3 Eau Claire — the latest development to start in this part of town — promises to redefine the Calgary skyline with its lower case “n”shaped towers. The 3 Eau Claire Developments conglomerate that’s bringing this ultra-modern edifice to life believes Calgary’s rising stature as an economic powerhouse makes this high-rise a surefire investment. Aaliya Essa takes a stroll down to the southwest neighbourhood of Silverado and finds Alberta’s ranching heritage reflected in its design and close connection to nature making it one of the best places to live and raise a family in the city. Aaliya also talks to a young Next month: first-time homebuyer about finding a new home in Airdrie’s We warm the The Edge condo. hearts with our Jessica Patterson talks to a couple of renowned cabinet designs for the companies to give readers some design tips on how to have master bedroom. your bookcase lend an element of sophistication to your home. Kathy McCormick’s Shopping feature on hardwood floors lays out the dos and don’ts when it comes to this now readily-available flooring choice, which undoubtedly brings an understated elegance to any home. These are exciting times in Calgary, the condo market is booming, so many terrific options all over the city. One thing’s for sure, the choices are a-plenty, and making a decision to find your new condo starts right here.

PUBLISHER

Source Media Group info@sourcemediagroup.ca ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Jim Zang jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca Editor

Pepper Rodriguez pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca ART director

Jean Faye Rodriguez jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca graphic designers

Lama Azhari lama.azhari@sourcemediagroup.ca Dave Macaulay dave.macaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca Megan Sereda megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITORIAL ASSIsTANT

Aaliya Essa aaliya.essa@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITORIAL

Dan Graydon, Kathy McCormick, Jessica Patterson PHOTOGRAPHY

Aaliya Essa, Pepper Rodriguez ADVERTISING SALES

Al Donegan al.donegan@sourcemediagroup.ca accounting

Donna Roberts accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY

Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group Issue 157 • ISSN 1918-4409 Copyright 2013 by Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expresssed written permission of the publishers. Source Media Group 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 reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion. Condo Living® is published 12 times per annum with copies available for distribution at more than 1,500 locations every month. Condo Living® accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to: cleditor@sourcemediagroup.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request. Condo Living® is a registered Trademark the property of Source Media Group Corp. Reg. USPTO 3,584,683 & 3,584,583. Contact: Source Media Group Corp., 207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9; Tel 403.532.3101 Toll free 1.888.932.3101; www.sourcemediagroup.ca

Pepper Rodriguez

Editor pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca

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FOCUS ON | By Aaliya Essa

CAPTURE A MOMENT IN TIME ONE FRAME AT A TIME

FRAME OF

REVERENCE

Nothing is more ubiquitous in a home (or office desk) than a picture frame, but you can really get creative with how you frame your memories with the wide range of choices available. From the traditional rectangular photo frames, to elaborately gilded ones, and multi-frame models, you can choose one that not only best captures a moment in life, but accents your home décor as well. CL

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| FOCUS ON

1] Dazzle Frame – Red, $34.95 at Pier1 imports. 2] OLSBO, $4.99 at IKEA. 3] Red Felt Roses Frame, $29.95 at Pier1 imports. 4] Muchomix Multi Frame – Black, $60 at Urban Barn. 5] Classic Photo Cube, $39 at The Bombay Company. 6] Isabel 8 x 10 Frame – Grey, $26 at Urban Barn. 7] Hand-painted Henna Frame – Brown, $12.95 at Pier1 imports. 8] KNYTTA, $19.99 at IKEA. 9] Collage Frame – Blue, $21.93 at Walmart.

10] Earth Bangle Frame, $15 at The Bombay Company.

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| Advertising cover Feature |

Last chance to love it, live it, and afford it in Copperfield Park’s final phase

Feeling the love at copperfield park 10 |

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| Advertising cover Feature |

he runaway success of Copperfield Park has been one of the brightest stories in Calgary’s condo market this year, and 2013 looks to be even better as sales begin for the last phase of this exciting development from Brad Remington Homes. The fifth and final phase of Copperfield Park’s 254-condominum complex was launched on December 1, and the demand for these value-filled homes is high. Based on the successful sales run for the last four phases, which saw long line-ups of buyers wanting to invest in this innovative development, the For Sale sign will not be up for long. Located in the heart of the popular southeast community of Copperfield, and just five minutes to the new South Calgary Health Campus, Copperfield Park is both convenient and unique. Outside, condo owners enjoy the perks of no yard work, while having access to a beautifully-designed park, complete with the seven-acre Wildflower Pond, walking paths, tennis courts, an outdoor skating rink, and toboggan hills. With its location by McIvor Boulevard, Copperfield Park’s homeowners also enjoy its proximity to nearby BRT bus stops, restaurants, grocery stores, and other retail shops and services. Anticipation is growing as “people who bought and have moved into Phases 1 and 2 are telling people about us,” says sales and marketing manager Bryan Logel. The momentum is moving forward. It’s also being pushed along by the new South Hospital nearby. It’s having a major impact as a lot of people are looking for high quality, affordable product like ours. Inside, condo owners enjoy quality craftsmanship, innovative design, and a high level of standard specifications at an affordable price. “It’s because we want to offer homes that are livable, that make sense, and that buyers can see themselves living in,” says Logel. “Buyers are sophisticated; they want to love it before they buy it, but they also want to afford it and not be cash poor.”

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| Advertising cover Feature |

Logel says that they’ve been able to come up with the most efficient and functional condo floor plans anywhere in the city. “We’ve designed spaces that people want, with full-sized kitchens, expansive counter space, slab or mission style cabinets that come in three different colour choices, and four appliances: fridge, stove, dishwasher, and over-the-range microwave with hood fan.” Each suite also has laundry with both the washer and dryer included, plus a good-sized balcony that is perfect for outdoor entertaining. All homes have titled parking stalls and come with private storage areas, he adds. Phase 5, with a starting price of $149,900, also includes the popular floor plan: The C-Plus, which was introduced in the previous phase. The enhanced design includes an oversized second bedroom, separate linen closet, and computer area. Alternatively, this second bedroom can be easily turned into another master suite, a design that has been attractive to those looking for roommates to share the mortgage. At 860 square-feet, the C-Plus also includes two bathrooms, and has an open concept living space. Other floor plans available in Copperfield Park’s final phase range from 600 to 970 square-feet with two and three bedroom options. “Our two bedrooms start at a very affordable $149,900 plus GST, and we offer deluxe two-bedroom, two-bath models from $189,900 plus GST,” Logel says. “Copperfield Park also offers high quality building specifications, eye catching exteriors, titled parking and, of course, an appealing location.” 12 |

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Residents will also be able to utilize the new 130th Avenue S.E. and Stoney Trail South extensions that are expected to be completed in 2013; these only add to the long list of reasons to invest in this convenient lifestyle. The appeal of Copperfield Park can be distilled to the simple mantra: “Love it, Live it, Afford it.” This is a vision that Brad Remington Homes adheres to, and it is not surprising that buyers have responded so overwhelmingly to it. The much-anticipated final phase of Copperfield Park is expected to sell fast. Available suites are limited. Check it out before this incredible opportunity passes you by. n

Fa s t Fa c t s Community: Copperfield Project:

Copperfield Park

Developer:

Brad Remington Homes

Style:

Apartment condos

Size:

Starts at 600 sq. ft.

Prices:

From $149,900

Address:

279 Copperpond Common S.E

Directions:

South on 52 St. SE and east on McIvor Blvd.

Website:

www.copperfieldpark.com

Condo Profile | By Pepper Rodriguez

Excitement builds as Waterfront readies for 2013

FUTURE W

aterfront, by Anthem Properties, is known for its refined level of condo living, in the heart of Calgary’s downtown. This esteemed riverfront property has achieved a level of sales success that outpaced much of the market and is now preparing for another release in the Spring of 2013. Waterfront has been one of the most successful multi-family developments in Calgary, as Anthem adroitly navigated the dangerous waters of the past economic downturn and came out on the other end better and stronger than ever. Waterfront’s periodic releases of choice luxury homes have been some of the most well received campaigns in town, despite the tightening competition in the inner city. Its latest release of 30 homes sold out at a record pace. “This spring promises to be even more eventful as we get ready for our next release. But you’ll have to stay tuned in the New Year for more details. We promise not to disappoint,” says sales manager Darien Verbrugge.

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PERFECT “Our biggest advantage over our competitors is that we are already an established product where buyers can actually see, feel and touch what they are getting. Everything is already here — from the luxurious details found throughout the homes, to the extensive amenities found in and around the property. It’s a future they can already see.” Its highly sought after Eau Claire location is another reason for Waterfront’s success. Located between the fast-paced hum of the city’s core and idyllic Prince’s Island Park, Waterfront offers an unparalleled location and balanced lifestyle that sets this development apart from any other condo on the market. “Waterfront was built on a long-term vision and masterplan to energize Eau Claire. Our trademark hard work and dedication is succeeding in redefining what it means to live a contemporary, urban life in Calgary’s downtown core,” Verbrugge says.

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Fa s t Fac ts Community: Chinatown and Eau Claire Project: Waterfront Developer: Anthem Properties Style: Apartment-style units, townhomes and penthouses Size: One-bedrooms start at 581 sq. ft. Price: Starts at $389,000 Address:

216 Riverfront Ave. S.W.

Hours:

Mon. to Sun. — 11 to 5 pm. (closed Fridays)

Website: www.waterfrontcalgary.com

Waterfront combines high quality design, luxurious amenities and riverfront views, topped with the convenience of Eau Claire’s proximity to the downtown core. “You can already see the difference in the community since the completion of the first two towers. There is such a live-wire buzz of activity in this part of town.” Waterfront combines high quality design, luxurious amenities and riverfront views, topped with the convenience of Eau Claire’s proximity to the downtown core. From onebedroom homes to sprawling penthouses, Waterfront gives Calgary homebuyers their first real opportunity to live an elite lifestyle, suited to everyone from up-and-coming executives to down-sizing retirees. “We’re not the least expensive, nor are we the most expensive, but what we do offer is a level of stylish comfort and convenience that you can’t find anywhere else. Plus it’s available for immediate possession. In fact, you can move into your own home before the New Year if you please,” Verbrugge says. One look at their show suite on the 13th floor gives an indication of the level of luxurious living that Waterfront offers. Almost everything in the suite is included in the standard package, including high-end Sub-Zero concealed appliances, quartz countertops 16 |

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and a full-height mosaic stone backsplash in the chef-inspired kitchens. Every detail has been considered, including the vertical extension of the windows throughout the homes — a detail that dramatically enriches the views and the amount of natural light that comes into every home. One-bedroom-plus-flex, to two-bedrooms-with-flex are still available in the first two towers. “Each floor plan has been thoughtfully designed to make the most of each home, working to increase the value of your real estate investment. These homes provide an elevated living experience that is second-tonone,” Verbrugge says. Waterfront also comes with a variety of on-site amenities that enhance its urban village feel. Some of the highlights are the in-house fitness centre and spa, concierge service, multi-seating theatre and the rooftop garden. CL

Condo Profile | By Pepper Rodriguez

The shape of the future 3 Eau Claire will shape the future of Calgary’s downtown market

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algary’s growing prestige as a modern metropolis continues to soar to new heights, as sales begin for 3 Eau Claire, the latest twin tower development in downtown that seeks to bring a new kind of sophistication with its modern looks and lifestyle. 3 Eau Claire is a new kind of mixed-use skyscraper with 12-floors of office and commercial space at its base, and around 500 apartment style condos along its two towers (a 48-storey East building, and a 42-storey West tower adjoined near the top by a four-storey span with residential units and a glass atrium lounge). It undoubtedly adds prestige to Calgary’s blossoming downtown, as the city turns into a major financial hub for the West with a growing offering of stylish, contemporary condos that are more in line with its image of an economic powerhouse. 3 Eau Claire is all this and more, as it will rise in one of the city’s most prestigious downtown neighbourhoods: Eau Claire. It is supremely well situated to offer both a relaxed lifestyle close to the river and its pathways, and an amazingly convenient one that’s just a short walk to the city’s business core. “I believe we have the best location in downtown,” says Andrew Lee, Jr., Project Manager of 3 Eau Claire Developments Inc. “Everything you need to fit a contemporary, busy lifestyle is right around the corner.” He tells Condo Living that their location in Eau Claire

is a transitional area where zoning for residential and commercial areas meet. “You get the best of both worlds,” he says. “The city encourages these kinds of mixed-use projects like ours.” The building itself will have a tremendous impact on the city’s skyline, and has a distinct, futuristic bent. The development group’s vision was to achieve two distinct points in the design that creates not only a unique architectural shape that provides for optimal living space but also maximize views and the amount of natural light that comes into each unit. Lee says 3 Eau Claire uses a 6,500-square-foot floor plate, smaller than the 9,000 square-feet most residential towers use. This allows for shorter distances from the building core to exterior windows, giving each suite significant glass frontage. “It’s not the size that’s important, it’s the intelligent use of space you have,” Lee adds. “We’ve been able to

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Fa s t Fac ts Community: Eau Claire Project:

3 Eau Claire

Developer: 3 Eau Claire Developments Inc. Style: Mixed-use twin tower building with apartment style condos Size: Starts at 452 sq. ft. Price: Starts in the $300,000 range plus GST Sales Centre: Suite 102 615 3rd Ave. S.W. Hours:

Noon to 6 p.m.

Website: www.3eauclaire.ca

“Our Smart Home System allows you to control lights, temperatures, security, TV and even an elevator call button from your smart phone or tablet device.”

eliminate dead space in our design that not only allows us to offer suites at a very competitive rate and increase the efficiency of each suite.” For example, their one-bedroom suites are designed with an L-shaped, two-bay layout that recognizes that the bedroom and living spaces are the two most important spaces to have window frontage and this layout ensures that each one will have optimal natural light and views. The design’s efficiency makes 3 Eau Claire a very sustainable development, as well. On average, citydwellers use 40 per cent less energy than those in the suburbs, but at 3 Eau Claire this efficiency is raised to 55 to 60 per cent, Lee adds. The European design of the interiors is also very refreshing. Not very much needs to be upgraded in even their standard units that include premium quality wide plank laminate flooring, neutral nylon loop carpeting in the bedrooms, three-quarter-inch quartz countertops and custom European-style kitchen cabinetry. Kitchen appliances that blend with the background include a wall oven, gas or electric cooktop and a sleek, pull-out hood fan. The Euro-style washroom plumbing package includes Raindance shower head, and the linear modern polished porcelain tile for tub surround with co-ordinating matte tile for the floor. “We will also have one of the most advanced automated suites in the city with our Smart Home System

“The value everyone gets is incredible, a luxurious, high-end package in one of the best locations in downtown…”

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that allows you to control lights, temperatures, security, TV and even an elevator call button from your smart phone or tablet device,” Lee says. One-bedrooms start at 452 square-feet and two-bedrooms at 641 square-feet and prices are in the $300,000 range plus GST (but a one-bedroom suite with no parking is available at $235,000). “The value everyone gets is incredible, a luxurious, high-end package in one of the best locations in downtown,” Lee says. The show suit is already open on 3rd Avenue S.W., where interested buyers can get a feel of lavish luxury that is the promise of 3 Eau Claire. CL

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By Aaliya Essa | community profile

Golden silverado Family-friendly, nature-connected enclave enchants

T Silverado is divided among two developers: United Communities (northwest portion) and Qualico Communities (southeast corner). The former holds three of the four parcels of land in the community, and Qualico the rest.

here’s a gold rush going on in the southwest corner of Calgary — real estate gold, that is — and the community of Silverado is at the heart of it. Blending a master-planned community with resplendent single-family and multi-family offerings, with a location that’s at once in tune with nature and yet offers unmatched accessibility, is a rare find anywhere. Silverado is a community where luxury connects with nature. Silverado is divided among two developers: United Communities (northwest portion) and Qualico Communities (southeast corner). The former holds three of the four parcels of land in the community, and Qualico the rest. But the family-friendly aspect and idyllic nature of the whole neighbourhood carries on throughout. Setting Silverado apart are its strong Western Heritage roots, based on an equestrian theme, which makes

sense given its proximity to the world-renowned Spruce Meadows show jumping facility that’s right next door. This refined Western theme can be easily seen in its Dressage (Qualico) and The Ranches (United) estate home areas, where homes mirror a classical world of ranching elegance. Steve LePan, marketing director at United Communities, says the Western look of the community is very distinctive. He says their architectural controls try to follow the “unique equestrian vibe with a rancher style.” Qualico Communities marketing co-ordinator, Nicky Barvir, agrees, adding that the panoramic backdrop of the Rockies gives Silverado a very scenic view. “We have focused on the vibrant colours in this community, we have a unique twist on the classic architecture,” she says. But asides from the natural beauty of the land, Silverado’s strategic and accessible location is a key j a n u a r y

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community profile |

factor for its continued popularity. It is close to some of the best recreational hot spots in the city, including Fish Creek Park, and the amazing array of commercial amenities that makes life that much easier are but a stone’s throw away. LePan says there are a number of top-notch golf courses nearby, including the soon-to-open Blue Devil. “Fish Creek Park is close, and being at the edge of the city too makes it very easy to get out to Bragg Creek and Kananaskis Country, and we are close to City transit as well,” he says. The wide selection of shops, restaurants and big box stores are five minutes away at the Shawnessy Towne Centre and, if you can’t find what you need there, Southcentre Mall is just a little further down the road on Macleod Trail. But with Silverado Marketplace already fast developing, residents don’t even have to go outside the neighbourhood for most amenities. Sobeys grocery store is already open here, and a Shoppers Drug Mart, TD Bank and other commercial outlets are soon to open. Easy accessibility is another factor, as Silverado is surrounded by major thoroughfares, including Marquis of Lorne Trail, Deerfoot Trail and Macleod Trail. There are plans to extend the LRT line from Somerset right to the community so getting anywhere in the city is a cinch. It is admirable that despite the apparent busy location, Silverado still holds to its identity as a peaceful oasis in tune with nature. It helps that it has over 90 acres of designated green space, and is replete with parks, playgrounds and pathways to

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| community profile

It’s not just the lots for the bigger homes that make Silverado so enticing. There is also a wide selection of multi-family developments, starter homes and move-up homes available here. encourage an active lifestyle. There is an additional 60 acres set aside as an environmental reserve as its very backyard and even a seven-acre wet pond, the perfect spot to observe the wonders of nature. Further distinguishing Silverado is that home lots here are also generally larger than can be found anywhere else in Calgary. Estate lots start at 80-feet-by-170-feet, almost double to the 42-feet-by-115-feet that is the norm in most new communities in the city. “In the Ranches of Silverado, these are all estate lots and they are actually the largest lots you can buy in the city right now,” says United’s LePan. These estate lots in the Ranches of Silverado are almost all sold out, and demand remains strong for what’s left. LePan explains that this is because their lots are a much better deal than buying an acreage outside the city. “You get the acreage feel with the city convenience and not have to worry about getting services to your home,” he says. “The Ranches of Silverado estates provide something that has been sought after, but previously unavailable in Calgary,” agrees United Communities’ Marketing Manager Tes Bonyai. It’s not just the lots for the bigger homes that make Silverado so enticing. There is also a wide selection of multi-family developments, starter homes and move-up homes available here and a varied range of price points that will fit anyone’s budget. First-time homebuyers find the wide array of home choices here very appealing, as there are townhomes, attached

homes, and laned homes that aren’t only budget-friendly but family-friendly, as well. Townhomes start in the $240,000 range, while single-family homes start in the $300,000s. Qualico Communities neatly partitioned their section of Silverado into two. “Dressage is our estate product and Sequoia is the starter and move up product,” says Barvir. “The views from Dressage are amazing as it backs out onto Spruce Meadows and Radio Tower Creek,” she says while Sequoia offers a variety of home styles and lots large enough to have a deck, a swing set and a garden. Among the newest multi-family offerings are Hunter House by Streetside Development (a division of Qualico) and Sawyer Silverado by Avi Urban (the multi-family arm of Homes by Avi). A few units in the Townhomes of Silverado by Slokker-West, are still available. Single-family builders for United Communities are Lifestyle Homes, Baywest Homes, and Augusta Fine Homes. While Qualico Communities builders are Broadview, NuVista, Sterling Homes, and Jayman MasterBUILT. Residents here will really have the best of the worlds, the extravagant options in homes and the outdoor living they crave, Silverado community has all the ingredients, that will make coming home the best part of your day. CL

Fa s t Fac ts Commmunity: Silverado Developer: United Communities and Qualico Communities Builders: United Communities: Lifestyle Homes, Baywest Homes, and Augusta Fine Homes Qualico Communities: Broadview Homes, NuVista Homes, Sterling Homes, and Jayman MasterBUILT Price: Townhomes start from the $240,000s, and single-family homes from the $300,000s Directions: Macleod Tr. south to Hwy 22X. Head west to Sheriff King St. turn south, then west onto Silverado Blvd. Turn right on Silverado Ranch Way Hours: Monday to Thursday, 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Website:

www.ranchesofsilverado.com and www.silveradobyqualico.com

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By Aaliya Essa | lifestyles

Home sweet first home First time homebuyer finds perfect fit in Airdrie’s The Edge

he first time of anything can be daunting — exciting and scary at the same time. And when it’s something as life-changing as buying your first home, it definitely helps to have a clear head. If anyone is ready for such a challenge, then Kelsey is definitely one of them. This 22-year-old gymnastics coach has a sense of purpose about her, and a maturity beyond her years. She was able to buy her new home by herself and didn’t even need a co-signer to be approved for the mortgage, which not many people her age can claim. It took her some time before she found the home she wanted, but when she saw Streetside Development’s The Edge condo in Airdrie, she knew her search was over.

Photo by Aaliya Essa j a n u a r y

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CONDO C O N D O LIVING LIVING |

lifestyles |

Interior photos are of the B8 show suite. Photos by Pepper Rodriguez

She tells Condo Living that what made her search a little more difficult was that she constantly ran into indifference in a lot of the condos where she had inquired, maybe because of her girlish looks that belie the quiet determination that has always been her strength. But it was different at The Edge, as the Streetside sales reps went the extra mile to answer all her questions and treat her like the homebuyer she is. “When I first came in and checked out the show suite, it was my very first time looking anywhere in Airdrie, and I had only been house shopping prior for a few months,” says Kelsey, who has lived in Calgary all her life. “I came in everyone was super friendly and very helpful, it was so much more than just their customer service, they were above anyone else that I had come in contact with during this whole house search project,” she says. To top it all, The Edge met all her needs. Kelsey says “the price is definitely right for me.” The Edge’s one-bedroom units range in size from 582 to 635 square-feet and range in price from approximately $155,000 to $168,000. While two-bedroom suites range from 735 to 982 square-feet and range in price between approximately $177,000 to $270,000. “The unit that I bought compared to a similar unit in Calgary is about $80,000 less.” Kelsey chose the A4 floor plan in The Edge’s second and final building that’s under construction. She will be taking possession later this fall. “It’s a one-bedroom, one-bath, and 585-square-feet. I have a balcony, it’s on the fourth floor, and I’m going to have a nice view of the lake,” she says. Her suite also comes with underground parking. Kelsey 30 |

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has made a few upgrades as well, “I upgraded my countertops, both in the kitchen and in the bathroom to granite, I upgraded my appliances to stainless steel, and I upgraded my backsplash to a mosaic glass tile which is a little bit thicker.” The mosaic tile for the backsplash she has picked comes in a white, grey, and marble mix. She also upgraded her floor tile to a ceramic tile versus a laminate. Key to her decision to move here is the location on the west side of Airdrie, with convenient access to the Queen Elizabeth II Highway (Deerfoot Trail). “The location is really booming right now, I like all the amenities that are very close by, and it has all the luxuries of a brand new community that Calgary would have, but its got that ‘homey-ness’ of a small town,” says Kelsey. Besides, she works is a northeast Calgary gym, and her commute to work in about 15 minutes. “It’s also close to the airport in Calgary, it sort of has the best of both worlds, “ she says. Kelsey’s family and friends also live in the northeast, which makes meeting up and hanging out together a cinch. “Living here will not interfere with my life at all.” The Edge is also just next door to the multi-million dollar Genesis

The Edge is undergoing construction on the second building, and offering great prices — especially for first time homebuyers.

| lifestyles

Place recreation centre, which was another allure that drew Kelsey in. “Airdrie is a great option for people looking to buy,” says Kelsey. Kelsey had been living in a rental prior to making the purchase, and she says news that rent was going up was what finally pushed her to The Edge “I was paying rent for about 18 months when I was living on my own, and I just found that if I was going to be paying rent for upwards of $900.00 per month, I might as well be paying a mortgage.” She heard about The Edge from her mother, “my mom had the Condo Living magazine, and she suggested I take a look.” And after looking into the pricing and rates Kelsey found that this was a good time to invest. Kelsey says she can’t wait to move in. “My parents are really excited and proud of me. They’re really great, as I really worry about everything and I go over all the condo rules, and the bylaws, and I have so many questions, my parents keep me calm and assure me to not worry about it.” Next on her to-do list — becoming a member of the condo board. It seems the sky’s the limit once you get your first home. The Edge appeals to those looking to downsize from acreages, and those looking to get into the market, and this Streetside Development offering is one of the most affordable ways to get into home ownership in Airdrie. Check out the new show suites to see what the “cool factory” is all about. “All suites either have a den, a storage room, or a large laundry area,” says The Edge’s Lindsey Michalchuk. “These are features that will suit every lifestyle.” With 20 floor plans, buyers will be able to pick the perfect functional and modern layout for their lifestyle. For new purchasers, there is still the opportunity to choose from a selection of color palettes, and to choose upgrades that will suit their lifestyle. For more information, check out The Edge website, coolfactory.ca CL j a n u a r y

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feature | By Kathy McCormick

HomExpo starts Calgary’s robust economy sets up a strong year for everyone in the home industry

Crowds get a chance to listen to experts at the HomExpo show.

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013 could very well be the year you finally get that renovation underway or the year that you move into your new home. And HomeExpo is just the place to begin the quest. HomExpo kicks off Calgary’s consumer trade shows for home, renovation and décor, and will be held on January 11 to 13 at BMO Centre, Stampede Park. The city’s strong economic numbers point to a big year, indeed. Net migration to Calgary is expected to almost double last year’s figure at 20,000 this year and 18,000 next year, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. That means people will be looking for new or resale homes in the city. CMHC is forecasting 12,400 total housing starts this year and 11,900 next. MLS sales through Calgary Real Estate Board are expected to hit 25,200 this year and 25,800 next — continuing the positive growth that began in 2010.

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At the same time, with the Calgary economy set to outpace the rest of Canada, people are optimistic and making plans to update and renovate their homes. “Renovations tend to rise with resales as owners make themselves more comfortable in their new home,” says Lai Sing Louie, regional economist with CMHC’s Calgary branch. Renovation spending in Alberta is forecast to be in the neighbourhood of $6.6 billion this year, up from $6.4 billion last year and $6.2 billion in 2010, according to CMHC’s Housing Market Outlook. In fact, renovations are expected to be a major component of the market even further in the future, says Clyde Pawluk, senior corporate economist with the City of Calgary, which recently released its Calgary and Region Economic Outlook 2012 — 2017. That includes a longterm economic trend to 2042 which says that Calgary’s housing starts will hit 14,000 this year and be down to just 9,000 by 2042 — largely because of the demographics, says Pawluk. With HomExpo, the first consumer trade show of the year dedicated to home builders, renovators and suppliers, the information is there — and you’ll have a chance to talk to those in the know about the latest products, services, technologies, green innovations, and so much more. “Finding ‘stuff’ on the Internet is one thing, talking face-to-face with a group of serious businessmen involved in residential construction about your next home or home renovation is priceless,” says Rick Young, producer of the show. With the 200,000-square-foot show floor jam-packed with the many booths from all those companies involved in some way in residential construction, renovation or services, visitors will have a lot to see. “HomExpo attracts a wide variety of quality companies providing new and energy efficient products for the home,” Young says. Be sure to stop by Destination Renovation,

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year off right the special booth set up and manned by all the RenoMark™ renovators in the show who will be happy to answer your questions and provide information on the topics related to your needs. And it doesn’t stop there. The show has more to offer. For the first time, popular designer and TV personality Hilary Farr, host of W Network’s ‘Love It or List It,’ will share her design experiences and expertise in two presentations — Friday at 7 p.m. and Saturday at 1:30 p.m. Farr is the president of Hilary Farr Design Company, and one of Toronto’s top designers. And returning again this year is the always-popular kitchen and bath renovator John Sillaots. Sillaots is an Ontario-based home improvement specialist who also runs a cabinet manufacturing company to complement his renovation business. “His insights into how renovation planning needs to develop and be executed is essential information for homeowners,” says Young. And for the second year CHBA – Calgary Region is providing a valuable resource for every visitor to HomExpo free of charge — a Consumer Directory with the names and contact information of every member as well as articles to help you make the most of your decision to buy or renovate. The Directory comes in a handy cloth bag. As many as 18,000 people are expected to attend — and for the second year, the early birds get the proverbial worm.

“Again this year, HomExpo is very pleased to be able to offer free parking on the Stampede grounds for the first 300 cars each show day,” says Young. “This was such a popular and user-friendly incentive for visitors last year that the halls were packed with free parkers long before the show opened. I guess that means come early.” It is the 41st year for HomExpo, sponsored by Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region. CHBA – Calgary Region is a not-for-profit organization representing more than 600 member companies in all aspects of residential construction.

For the first time, popular designer and TV personality Hilary Farr, host of W Network’s ‘Love It or List It,’ will share her design experiences and expertise… Another value-added part of HomExpo is the Calgary Herald Recreation and Investment Properties Show, which showcases properties and developments from North America and beyond. And Sears Canada will be giving away a major prize to one lucky entrant at the end of HomExpo. All-in-all, it’s the perfect start to a new year. CL

HomExpo Quick Facts Where: BMO Centre, Stampede Park When: January 11 – 13, 2013 Time: Friday — Noon – 9 p.m. Saturday — 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday — 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Price: Adults — $12 Seniors/Students — $10 Children 12 and under — FREE

Presenters: Hilary Farr, popular designer from TV show ‘Love It or List It,’ and John Sillaots, Ontario-based kitchen and bath renovator and home improvement specialist. Special features: Free Consumer Directory for all participants and chance to win a prize, complements of Sears Canada. The show also features the Calgary Herald Recreation and Investment Properties Show. Anticipated Attendance: 18,000 people. “Love It or List It” host Hilary Farr

** First 300 cars each day park for free at Stampede Park.

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By Jessica Patterson | ON TREND

Colossal cabinets T

his year, think outside of the bookcase. Bookcases, cabinets, shelving, whatever you call it, has gone on steroids, expanding to cover entire walls. These storage solutions, or builtins as they’re called, dwarf the traditional bookcase or cabinet. They’re modern and chic, using materials like durable composite, wood, metal and airy glass. They’re definitely not your grandmother’s built-in, says Jennean Norris, a senior design consultant with Superior Cabinets in Calgary. Using an entire wall for storage is multi-purpose and multi-functional, Norris says. “When I’m designing something like this, there has to be closed storage because you want somewhere to hide all of your junk, there should be some functionality in terms of the interior components, like file systems, and drawers

Function meets fab when it comes to built-ins

that pull out,” she says. “And, it doesn’t have to be books.” Shelves can be adjustable, so they can all be sitting at various heights to fit various treasures. “So, this takes it from Grandma’s built-in, to a modern, clean, sleek look,” she says. “Built-in storage takes your basement (that might have looked like a bowling alley to begin with), to clean, crisp, organized, with a place for everything.” And for most condo owners, space can be a bit of an issue. Built-ins make good use of your space vertically, if you don’t have so much horizontally. In small spaces, a built-in bookcase, shelving or cabinet unit maximizes storage. “People are going to this wall scenario, as opposed to a single cabinet or a set of shelves,” says Wendy McAllister of Simple Spaces.

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ON TREND |

“If you can fit it in a room, it looks stunning, it looks like it was made to be there,” she says. “It becomes a focal point in the room.” People have taken the traditional hutch out of their dining rooms and replaced it with walls of lower covered cabinet storage, with upper shelves, McAllister says. Use the architecture of the design to show off your furnishings. The box shape of open or floating shelves can act as a frame for your personal collections or artwork, making a feature or focal point of those objects, as you display for all to see. Your eye candy might actually include books, should you want to incorporate office space into your wall. Display your crystal, your dinnerware, your train collection on glass shelves for everyone to see. She recently finished a project where the design consisted of an entire wall of storage for a customer’s extensive model train collection. “We put storage below and halfway up, we started building with glass

Photo courtesy Simple Spaces

Photo courtesy Superior Cabinets

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| ON TREND

shelves, mirrors behind and glass above, so that you could turn light on certain sections of the collection,” McAllister says. “There were 50 trains on display at any given time. It was that entire wall of that room.” For smaller spaces, it’s important to design to scale. “Each piece of wood is cut by us here, there’s nothing in a kit,” McAllister says. “Every piece is cut to measure, custom-made by us. You’re not stuck with certain heights, widths and depths. We can do pretty much anything.” For condo owners, more compact walls of storage may do the trick. “It doesn’t mean they’re not functional, they will just fit your space better,” Jessop says. “That way, they don’t look out of place, too.” She warns against putting a large piece of furniture, like a ready-made bookcase or shelving unit in a small space,

FOR MODERN AFFICIANIADOS, THE TREND WILL ALWAYS BE HIGH-GLOSS WHITE. because it’s almost counterproductive. Trends in colour and material vary. For modern afficianiados, the trend will always be high-gloss white, Jessop says. “They’re now coming out with high-gloss black or grey, because those neutrals are really trendy right now.” A second trend Jessop sees as far as material goes is reclaimed or industrial. “Restoration Hardware is mixing reclaimed wood with metal,” she says. “That look is really here to stay.” Wood, which has been popular as a bookcase or cabinet material for decades (centuries, really), is still strong. “They usually go with maple or something with a finer grain, as opposed to oak, which is more of a traditional grain,” says Norris. Though, glass shelves in a wooden frame are also gaining in popularity. “In terms of materials, we see a combination,” says Wendy McAllister from Simple Spaces Closets and Glass. “The actual cabinet itself is wood, but the components can be glass shelves. Definiatly the advantage there is everything is adjustable and you can choose your own colours.” This type of storage solution is where function dominates, though it can also be aesthetically pleasing, too. It’s function, turned fabulous. CL

Photo courtesy Superior Cabinets

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FEATURE |

Spacious garages Storage facilities absorb the clutter in the garage

Photo courtesy Specialty Auto Storage

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By Aaliya Essa | FEATURE

f you can pimp your ride, no reason you can’t pamper it all the way. And the way to do it in Calgary, at least, is to get your car its own condo. It may seem an outrageous bit of extravagance that only the well-heeled car aficionado can afford, but you’d be surprised. The two facilities in the Calgary area that offer this kind of car comfort are doing big business and are almost always full. “The main benefit for having their luxury car or summer car put away in storage, is so people can park their main vehicle in their own garage,” says David Free, owner of Specialty Auto Storage. “Most of the cars here are luxury sports cars,” says Free, though this service is also perfect for people who have multiple cars, and may not use one car as much the others. His three-building facility in DeWinton, just south of Calgary, has up to 80,000 square-feet of usable car storage space and it’s almost always full. “We do have a lot of Audis, BMWs, and Porsches, but we also get corporations who want to maintain a fleet

of vehicles for executives who are in town for a long time,” he adds. This is the easy answer to homes for the car enthusiast who has more vehicles than room in his garage. And increasingly, it’s not just cars vying for the home’s garage spot: there’s a big number of big-ticket toys that are also being crowded into the limited space. Springbank Self Storage & RV’s is another vehicle storage facility in town, which in addition to cars allows their clients to store RVs that range in a variety of sizes. Here you can store pretty much whatever you have, from boats to large RVs that could be from 20 to 31 feet, you name it they have a locker for it. This facility offers individual lockers, that come in a variety of sizes, allowing people to have the option of even sharing a locker with a friend and then splitting the price per month, or whatever amount of time you select to store your cars.

Photo by Aaliya Essa

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FEATURE |

Photos courtesy Specialty Auto Storage

There are some things to keep in mind when you are leaving your car in storage for a considerable amount of time. Free gives an important checklist of what to do to the car to insure that it meets all the necessary requirements for his storage facility: • Get an oil and filter change prior to storing the car, “it’s important to put fresh oil and a new filter in the car, otherwise contaminants in the old oil will have a field day corroding the insides of your engine,” says Free. • Make sure to gas up, the tank should be filled to the brim, Free suggests also adding a gasoline stabilizer called STABIL, “put this in before fueling up and run the engine to make sure that it fills the system with the stabilized gas.” • The tires should be over-inflated to about 40-50 psi (pressure per square inch), this will help avoid any issues, as there is a natural pressure loss per month. Wash the car the day before dropping it off, as it is not recommended for cars to be put away wet, “unless you want to encourage rust to form everywhere the water collects,” says Free. • Next is cleaning the wheels, “brake dust is very corrosive and you do not want that sitting on your wheels all winter,” explains Free. The cars insurance can be adjusted while in storage too, “most people cancel their liability and collision while the car is not in use, and just carry fire, theft and vandalism coverage,” he says.

These are just a few suggestions on how to ensure your car comes out well maintained, and ready to go. And as for the price of storage, at Specialty Auto Storage, it is $210 for a month or $1,000 for a year. Prices at Springbank vary depending on the size of the locker and the length of time storage is booked for, one large car garage is $280 for a month. And it is wise to make arrangements sooner than later, as these facilities get booked up fairly quickly, Specialty Auto Storage is presently booked up until May 2013. Having these storage options are perfect for people that simply need that extra space, it’s a solution for people in love with their homes — falling out of love with their garages. For more information on either facility their websites are as follows www. specautostorage.ca and www.springbankselfstorage.com CL

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By Kathy McCormick | SHOPPING

Heavenly hardwood I

Hardwood flooring puts the gleam and glam in your home

t used to be that you’d only see gleaming hardwood floors in the most upscale estate house — the kind of places you’d ogle on your tour of the homes of the movie stars. Yet today, hardwood floors are showing up everywhere, even in the modest starter homes in the suburbs. And no wonder. Not only are they beautiful and easy to care for, the choices have expanded to include almost every kind and colour of wood imaginable, and they’re priced to suit almost every budget. “Hardwood is a great choice for increasing the value of your home,” says Ganesh Krishnan, merchant of flooring at Home Depot.“Many styles and species are available including oak, domestic and exotic hardwoods, bamboo and cork. “Hardwood floors provide an ideal backdrop for almost any decorating style, and are renowned for their warmth and elegance. They are also a great choice for future resale of your home.” Dark woods are still a favourite in homes, but that is changing, says Daryl Stayura of Divine Hardwood Flooring. “Browns are still very popular, but the trend is definitely heading towards lighter colours, including grays and whites,” he says.

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“With the proper maintenance products, UV oil-finished floors can be easily repaired and restored and they are very economical.”

Top: Natural maple, solid hardwood, by Quickstyle Industries. Imperial Walnut, Engineered hardwood by Strategies International. Photos courtesy The Home Depot Canada

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Krishnan agrees: “Greys and medium tones are back,” but adds that handscraped hardwoods with wider planks are also starting to trend. “Traditional hardwood remains popular, mind you, but we are seeing this new trend.” Wire-brushed hardwood, two-tone colour schemes and reclaimed or Canadian-made woods are making an impact with Home Depot buyers as well. Texture, colour variation and oil finishes are the newest products people are asking for at Divine Hardwood, says Stayura. And they have definite advantages. “Benefits are durability and ease of maintenance. Texture and colour variation offer a significant advantage in hiding any future damage that may occur, as well as dirt and dust. “UV oil-finishes are a new technology developed out of Europe. With the proper maintenance products, UV oil-finished floors can be easily repaired and restored and they are very economical. In most cases re-oiling a floor will eliminate the need of completing a full sand and refinish. There are many different types of oil products in the market, as well as many maintenance products. The key is to find the right combination of product and maintenance products that are eco-friendly, easy to use and quick drying so you can do it yourself.” Thermo treatments are another newer technology from Europe.

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“The thermo-treated process changes the colour of the wood through the entire product,” he says. “The advantage of this treatment is that if any dents or scratches occur, the product will be the same colour right through. Compare this to a dark-stained maple where the dark colour is only on the surface; the natural maple colour is underneath, so if dents and scratches do occur on a floor that is only stained on the surface, the dents and scratches will be much more noticeable.” Aside from the beauty of hardwood and the durability, the ease of care is another huge advantage in this age where people are looking for maintenance freedom wherever they can. The floors are simply dry mopped or vacuumed regularly for best results. Here are tips to care for your hardwood floors from Divine Hardwood Flooring: a. Vacuum or sweep up crumbs or dust. b. Use a micro fiber mop in addition to a hardwood cleaning product that is recommended by a hardwood specialist. “If the wrong cleaning product is used, a residue build-up on the floor may occur causing the floor to look dull and the finish to look cloudy,” Stayura says. “Divine Hardwood Flooring carries an exclusive eco-friendly product called Clean and Green that can be used on all hardwood floors.” c. Use felt pads on all furniture feet and make sure to remove any small pegs that may be on the bottom of chair legs as well.

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d. When cleaning your floor, make sure the mop is only damp and not wet enough to leave puddles of water on the floor. Leaving water on the floor may result in water damage to your floor. So what are the disadvantages of hardwood flooring? For one, it may be out of your budget. It tends to be the most costly of the flooring options, depending on your choice. A general rule of thumb from Home Depot: “if you are installing hardwood flooring in a typical 10-foot by 15-foot room you should plan on $2.99 for product costs per square foot (for basic hardwood) and around $2.65-$3.50 per square foot for installation costs. And always allow for 10 per cent more material when you have determined your room size.” Lack of stability in Alberta is also a challenge, says Stayura. “We typically try not to go any wider than 3.25-inches with a solid wood floor to avoid serious issues with expansion and contraction. Solid wood flooring also cannot be glued or floated over concrete, and it is not recommended that they are installed on radiant-heated floors.” Hardwood isn’t easy to do yourself, either, says Stayura. “Unless you are very handy with tools, such as table- and chop-saws, I would not recommend installing a hardwood floor yourself. The installation is a ‘HUGE’ part of the process. You can have the best product in the world, but if not installed properly it can look and perform terribly.” It can be done, however, as long as you have some confidence in your ability to learn how to use some equipment

“You can have the best product in the world, but if not installed properly it can look and perform terribly.” you may have not used before (i.e. hard floor nailer), says Krishnan. “The best place to obtain this information is on our website,” he says. “Right now our homedepot.ca ‘how to’ section is being updated but homedepot.com has some great tips.” Of course, if you are moving into a new home, the builder will do the work for you — and you just glean the benefits. Both Stayura and Dicarlo recommend looking at alternatives, as well, such as engineered flooring. “Engineered flooring has the ability to be glued or floated over concrete and installed on radiant heated floors which opens up the possibilities for condominium owners,” Stayura says, noting that it is more stable for our Alberta environment and available in plank sizes. “Engineered hardwood combines a tough real hardwood surface with underlying multiple layers of plywood or fibreboard. It is remarkably strong and more resistant to moisture than solid wood so it is great for below or above-grade applications,” adds Dicarlo. The key to a successful transaction, both say, is to make sure you are purchasing a very well manufactured and warrantied product. And deal with reputable companies who stand behind their work and are knowledgeable about the products. CL

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Below (L to R): Birch walnut fromGoodfellow Inc. Red oak natural, solid hardwood from Dubeau Parquets Hick Autumn Sunset from Armstrong World Hardwood.

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| news

Homeownership made easy City-backed program makes it easier to own your own home

n recent years, the milestone of owning a home has eluded more and more Calgarians for a variety of reasons. Housing prices continue to outpace the average salary. The cost of renting leaves little room to save for a down payment. Day-to-day living expenses turn planning for a home into a distant dream. While many middle-income families have resigned themselves to these realities, aptly-named nonprofit Attainable Homes Calgary is in the business of breaking this rental cycle and putting people into the homes they aspire to own. “We routinely hear comments like ‘I thought this was too good to be true,’ or ‘I can’t believe how nice this place is’ from clients we’ve helped,” comments Tara Cooney, Sales and Marketing Manager for the City-owned nonprofit. “People tend to look for the catch, but there isn’t one. As our name suggests, we really do help people tackle obstacles that stand in the way of homeownership. We provide gifted down payments. We host free info sessions and arrange one-on-one meetings with mortgage specialists. We offer beautiful, well-appointed, affordable homes in great neighbourhoods. Simply put, we help middle-income Calgarians own their own home far sooner than they would normally be able on their own.” Prospective homeowners can register for this Attainable Homeownership Program — and can view the actual properties for sale — at www. AttainYourHome.com. By creating a shared appreciation plan that provides clients with a financial stake in the equity of their new home, and by forging strategic partnerships with respected developers, Attainable Homes enables applicants with a yearly income of less than $80,000 to

own homes in neighbourhoods like Cranston in the vibrant southeast quarter, or Skyview Ranch in Calgary’s new north. “There are some other criteria that need to be met,” adds Cooney. “People who apply must be able to qualify for a mortgage, and they need to commit to the deal by putting two thousand dollars of their own money down. It’s not for just anyone. But for those who qualify, the payoff is significant: a gifted five per cent down payment, the first rung up the real estate ladder, and the peace of mind that comes with owning their own home.” Frustrated with the renter’s rut, many middle-income Calgarians dream of homeownership and everything it entails: equity; growth; freedom; security. Attainable Homes Calgary has found a way to deliver this dream to a great many — and in the process help fuel the economy of our vibrant and rapidly-growing city. CL For more information, visit www.attainyourhome.com j a n u a r y

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around town By Pepper Rodriguez

SoBow revitalizes Inglewood

nglewood has always been one of the most unique inner city neighbourhoods in Calgary, possessing a unique village vibe with a strong bohemian character. Now you can find out more about the community’s treasures — hidden or otherwise — at the recently opened SoBow sales centre. SoBow (standing for “South of the Bow”) is going up in what was formerly the site of Riverside Quays off Blackfoot Trail and 17a Street S.E. The revitalized development is now under M2i Development, and they want to raise the profile of the neighbourhood itself even as they begin sales for their new 1912Cross multi-family building. M2i President Iain McCorkindale says that the company’s goal is to “create a vibrant urban village that connects residents to their neighbours,” to their community and to their city. Visitors are

taken on an immersive virtual tour of Inglewood as soon as they enter, which he says enlightens people about the history and charms of the neighbourhood. “SoBow is very much a part of Inglewood, with links via Calgary’s pathway system and the Bow River. It’s planned to offer optimal accessibility for residents, while encouraging the public to visit and feel welcome,” he tells Around Town during the opening of the new sales centre on 1640 17a Street S.E. 1912Cross, scheduled for occupancy in 2014, is a 120-unit six-storey full concrete building that will have a wide variety of housing options — from 694-square-foot studios, to 1,414-square-foot two-storey loft or garden townhomes, and 1,632-square-foot three bedroom homes. Prices start in the $300,000 range. Visit www.m2involve.com for more details.

SoBow sales centre

SoBow back wall

Strong net migration bodes well for Calgary

ccording to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., net migration to the Calgary census metropolitan area will balloon to 20,000 people this year after numbers dropped to 9,209 in 2010 and 11,220 in 2011. And the CMHC is forecasting net migration to the region to be 18,000 in 2013. “With the relative strength of our labour market, the growth of employment and a low unemployment rate will help attract people to Calgary,” says Richard Cho, senior market analyst in Calgary for the CMHC on Tuesday as the agency held its

19th Annual Alberta Housing Outlook Conference in Calgary. “Net migration is a key component to housing demand . . . Whenever you have an influx of people come to a region you’re going to see some strong demand for housing in the rental market as well as in the homeownership market.” Net migration to the Calgary region peaked in 2006 as it approached 25,000 people. Those net migration numbers will help boost MLS sales by 15.7 per cent this year in th e Calgary CMA to 26,000 transactions

and by another 1.9 per cent in 2013 to 26,500 sales. The CMHC is forecasting average MLS sale prices in the Calgary region to rise by 2.0 per cent this year to $411,000 and by another 2.7 per cent next year to $422,000. Total housing starts are estimated to rise by 33.4 per cent this year to 12,400 units but dip by 4.0 per cent in 2013 to 11,900.

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Around town |

Brookfield plans tallest building in Calgary

rookfield Homes has been one of the biggest fish in Calgary’s home market, and now it aims to have the tallest building in its skyline as well, as the developer’s commercial properties arm plans to build a 56-storey, 247-metre office tower in the heart of downtown. Brookfield Office Properties’ $1 billion-plus development — 225 Sixth — is a proposed full-block commercial development located between 1st and 2nd Streets and 6th and 7th Avenues S.W. in downtown Calgary. Brookfield says this block represents one of the best remaining undeveloped sites in the city and affords Brookfield the opportunity to create another landmark development that significantly contributes to the public realm. The entire project represents an investment in excess of $1.0 billion in Calgary’s downtown and is expected to create approximately 1,300 construction jobs and

7.5 million construction man-hours. The recently competed Bow Tower holds the tallest tower title in Calgary at 236 metres high, but with falling vacancy rates for office rates in Calgary, 225 Sixth seems to be a much needed development.

Vacancy rates for office rates in central Calgary are some of the lowest in the country, falling from 3.6 per cent in the first quarter of 2012 to 3.1 per cent in the second quarter, according to a report from the Cushman & Wakefield real estate firm.

Crave Furniture opens

he newest luxury furniture store in Calgary will make you “crave” for the finer things in life, as Crave Furniture opens its doors. The 3,600-square-foot show room on 456 42 Avenue S.E. boasts stylish, comfortable, multifunctional and eco friendly contemporary furniture, many crafted in Italy.

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“Great design and comfort are the main criteria we use in selecting our products,” says Crave’s Olga Brovkina. “With a wide variety of European products in stock or available through catalogues, we cater to the needs of Calgary’s ever expanding middle and upper class.” Crave Furniture also provides professional

design consultations, show home decorating, complete furnishing and decorating solutions for busy clients. You can also visit them on www.cravefurniture.com CL

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Calgary Map | North West, North East and Inner City

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North West, North East and Inner City | Calgary Map

MAP LEGEND

Inner City

High Volume Roads Main Roads

Parks Bodies of Water

See Advertiser Index for Project Page Reference

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North West | North East Projects 1 Evanston Square

2 Red Haus 3 Taralake

4 Highland Park 5 Panorama West 6 Tribeca 7 TheRiver 8 The Block 9 Varsity Landing

10 Valmont at Aspen Stone 11 Village at West Springs 12 Ovation 13 Estates of Valley Ridge

14 Brownstones

15 SageHill Village

16 Swan Landing 17 UNO Mt. Royal

Inner City Projects 1

20 NEXT

21 Groves of Varsity 22 Flights

23 Emerald Sky

24 Sonoma at Sage Hill

25 Havenworth

26 Landings at Cougar Ridge

27 Arrive @ SkyView Ranch

28 Kintalla at Redstone

29 Ginger Park

30 IndigoSky 31 McPherson Place 32 Aspen Highlands

11 13

33 SageStone 34 Galleries Renfrew

35 University City

15 17

18 Wildstone

18 19

19 Crossings of the Bridges

Vogue MARK Xenex Oscar The Montana Drake The Park First Riverfront Pointe Alura Keynote 3 Eau Claire The Guardian St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tenth St. CALLA PIXEL by Battistella Evolution 6th and Tenth Waterfront

34 19

increase your advertising visibility take advantage of premium positions contact:

al donegan 403.542.1347 al.donegan@sourcemediagroup.ca

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Calgary Map | South West, South East and Calgary Area

5 3

6 30

32 2 1

42 49 41

AIRDRIE

OKOTOKS 16 12 13

COCHRANE 60 |

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South West, South East and Calgary Area | Calgary Map 1 Upland

2 The Galleries 3 Casel

4 E@Marda Loop

6 Destiny

8 Nueva 9 Ascent 10 London at 11 12 13

MAP LEGEND

14 15

High Volume Roads

Main Roads

Parks

Bodies of Water

See Advertiser Index for Project Page Reference

5 The Mission Crossing 7 Stonecroft Auburn Bay

21 22

Heritage Station Sierra Gardens Sanderson Ridge Bridlecrest Pointe Evergreen Grove Silverado Highbury 2 Canvas at Millrise Stonewater at Lake Chaparral Silhouette Monarch

Airdrie

The Courtyards of Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heights The Edge

26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38

Sawyer Silverado Mosaic Cranston Side-by-Side McKenzie Towne Prestwick Place Mosaic Mirage in McKenzie Towne Riverside The Chaparral Side by Side Auburn Bay Bellacasa Apex Aurora at Chinook TREO Boulevard Townes of Quarry Park Edison @ Silverado Chaparral Valley Riverside Townhouse Chesapeake Mosaic Lakeside Auburn Bay

Ravenswood Townhomes Synergy in Kings Heights Windsong by Mattamy

41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54

Copperfield Park Stonecroft at Copperfield Townhomes of Dallaire Ave Victoria Cross ZEN in McKenzie Towne York29 Gala, The Champagne Aura in Copperfield Belmont Townhomes Evolution by Greenboro Cranston Place Chalet No 4 TRIBECA Hunter House SoBow

CHESTERMERE

Townhomes of Chestermere Station

cochrane

Alora in Sunset Ridge The Homesteads of Sunset Ridge Laredo Riverstone at Cochrane Sunset Pointe The Village Townhomes at Jumpingpound Ridge

33 46

39 40

okotoks Calvanna Village Drakes Cove Mesa Crystal Shores Penncross

24 47

44 51

40 39

20 25

37 19 36

27 35

26 28

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CONDO COMICS | By Dan Graydon

advertisers index 6th and Tenth Bel Calgary page 3

Einstein The Providence Group pages 36

MARK Qualex-Landmark page 7

Sonoma-Sage Hill Vertical Properties page 40

1912 Cross M2i page 63

Evolution Embassy/Bosa page 41

Market Place Events Home & Garden Show page 45

Townhomes Calgary.com Slokker Canada West page 57

Alura Cove Properties page 46

The Groves of Varsity Statesman page 50

The Montana Procura page 17

Aura Aldebaran Enterprises page 18

The Guardian Hon Towers page 19

Monarch Cove Properties page 46

Carlisle Group page 32

Mosaic Mirage Brookfield Homes page 23

PIXEL Battistella Development page 52

Champagne Remington Development Corp. page 2 Copperfield Park Brad Remington Homes FC, pages 10-12, 61 & 64

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Kintalla at Red Stone Streetside Development page 58

Riverfront Pointe Carlisle Group page 33

The Landings Statesman page 28

Sonik in Mahogany Sabal Homes page 4

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Viridian Trico Communities page 24 Wildstone Rockford Group page 53 Wellspring Calgary page 13 york29 Trico Communities page 24 Zen, Auburn Bay Avalon Master Builder page 54

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