Condo Living January 2014

OUTLYING COMMUNITIES

SHOPPING FOR AREA RUGS

INNER-CITY PATHS

FOUR NEW CONDO PROFILES

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COntents JANUARY 2014 | VOLUME 10 ISSUE 169

12 Focus On 12 | The light touch Sconces and other wall lighting bring a light touch to your home Condo Profiles 20 | A place in the sun Cardel Lifestyles continues successful run with Sage Place 26 | It’s a keeper!

New King’s Heights townhomes have everything a first time homebuyer needs 30 | ARRIVE home ARRIVE @ Redstone is the next step in the evolution of the townhome Community profiles 34 | Inner-city gem The Beltline has become a hotspot for multi-family developments 39 | Heart of Cochrane Heartland offers relaxed, friendly lifestyle Lifestyle 44 | The right fit Ottawa transplant finds a new life in Sonoma at Sage Hill

14 Cover Feature 14 | LIDO legacy Battistella lifts the lid on newest Kensington condo: LIDO CO N D O L I V I N G

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COntents On trend 48 | Sound design Speakers provide sensory experience at home shopping 53 | A magic carpet ride Instantly turn your floor into an artwork features 58 | The McGillivray touch Income Property star, Scott McGillivray, to take the stage at HomExpo

ITEMS 10 | Editor’s Message 88 | Maps 92 | Ad Index

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61 | Not so sleepy now Calgary’s outlying towns become the centre of attention for home builders

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67 | Walk this way Residents of the inner-city enjoy full benefits of City pathways 72 | Hot water, cold facts Failing to maintain water tank can land homeowners in hot water 94 | Tales from the condo zone Jumping for joy Columns 77 | ACOA Owners’ Corner

by Bernice M. Winter 79 | Ask Maria

by Maria Bartolotti 81 | Hope at Large

by Marty Hope 83 | Around Town

by Pepper Rodriguez

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EDITOR’S MESSAGE | PUBLISHER

Resolute in 2014

It’s the coldest day of 2013 (so far) as I write this, but warm thoughts for the year ahead keep my mind from spiraling into hypothermic depression. One of the items cheering me up these days is the new look for our magazine. It’s not an over-the-top redesign, but a more subtle renovation that jazzes up the pages to make it an even more enjoyable read.

That’s not the only new thing we have in store. We also welcome Bernice Winters and Dr. June Donaldson in our pages. The co-founders of the Alberta Condo Owners Association will have a page dedicated to discussing condo owners’ concerns and help them achieve the group’s goal of giving condo owners a more distinctive voice in issues that concern them.

Speaking of distinct voices, Battistella again brings another one-of-a-kind condo design in Kensington with LIDO, their follow-up to the ultra-successful PIXEL. But this new midrise promises to be even more unique, as it will be among the first developments in Calgary that will have a hotel component and a public parkade that will surely help ease the parking concerns in this vibrant inner-city neighbourhood.

We also feature a couple of new developments in the thriving north sector of the city. Cardel Lifestyles has a Next month: knack of finding the best communities for their popular Watch for our cover line of condos and Sage Place in Sage Hill is no different — feature on FRAM except this time it has a more modern design to go with the Slokker’s newest convenient lifestyle of this northwest community. Arrive offering in East Village. @ Redstone is Partners Development Group’s newest townhome development in this new northeast community and it promises affordability and style that first-time homebuyers are looking for. Further north is StoneKeep at King’s Heights by Merge Developments. They are located in an already established community in Airdrie, which also has the best access to Deerfoot Trail.

We also have Janine Workman looking into the livability of the Beltline in our inner-city community feature, and Jennifer Seamone examines Apex Land’s Heartland in Cochrane.

We also have Karen Durrie writing about the emerging boom of Calgary’s outlying towns as the land crunch in city seems to have been a boon for the residential developments of Airdrie, Cochrane, Chestermere and beyond. We’ll see more about this in our line of Loving (Airdrie, East Side, and Cochrane) Living mini-magazines that we publish through the year.

Our magazine is read by a lot of newcomers to the city and we thought it would be useful to inform them of the various ways of getting around the inner-city, and Elizabeth Booth takes us on this tour.

Condo starts are expected to rise in 2014, which bodes well for the buyers, but there is the nagging question of the increasing lack of serviced land in Calgary’s suburbs that may present some problems ahead. But you can be sure that it’s something Condo Living will be keeping an eye on in the year ahead. Happy New Year!

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 PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR

Colleen Leier colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITORIAL

Elizabeth Booth, Karen Durrie, Aaliya Essa, Marty Hope, Deanna McArthur, Kathy McCormick, Jessica Patterson, Janine Workman, Bernice M. Winter, Jim Zang Photography

Don Molyneaux, Janine Workman 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 169 • ISSN 1918-4409 ©Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expressed 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.

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@CondoLivingYYC

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CondoLivingCalgary

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FOCUS ON |

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The light touch Sconces and other wall lighting bring a light touch to your home

By Aaliya Essa

You can never have too much light in your home, and for those tricky areas, sconces are the perfect solution. With so many styles and colours to choose from, finding the perfect fixture that goes with your décor will be a cinch. CL

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Progress Lighting, $84.18, at The Home Depot.

2 EGLO, $39.97, at The Home Depot.

3 EUROFASE, $48, at The Home Depot.

4 Turquoise & Brown Pillar Wall Sconce, $55, at Pier1 imports.

5 Dainolite, $117.60, at The Lighting Centre.

6 Uttermost, $155.76, at The Lighting Centre.

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7 Mosaic Wave Pillar Sconce, $49, at Pier1 imports.

8 Mirror Branch Sconce, $65, at Pier1 imports.

9 Hinkley, $575.52, at The Lighting Centre.

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| Advertising cover Feature |

lido legacy Battistella lifts the lid on newest Kensington condo: LIDO

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he corner of 10th Street and 2nd Avenue N.W. has long been a centre of life in Kensington, the very nexus of the neighbourhood’s social and commercial scene. And with the advent of LIDO, Battistella Development’s latest mixed-use multi-family project, this spot will remain so for a long time.

The respected inner-city condominium developer has recently opened their newly renovated show suite that displays the richly sophisticated design of LIDO, the follow-up to their enormously successful PIXEL condos. And sales for the latest mid-rise picked up where PIXEL left off, as many who missed out on Battistella’s first Kensington development saw LIDO as another chance

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to live a relaxed, modern lifestyle in one of Calgary’s most popular inner-city communities.

Battistella’s Traci Wilson says LIDO’s design is all about this relaxed lifestyle. “We designed this condo to provide the utmost in comfort and relaxation, with suites that are bigger than what we’ve offered in previous buildings,” she says.

The majority of suites at LIDO are between 1,000- to 1,500 square-feet, “which are the biggest that Battistella has ever designed,” Wilson adds, and goes a long way to reinforce the theme of comfortable living for the building. After all, lido in Italian can mean beach or shore, but has a broader meaning as “a place for relaxation,” Wilson says. “It’s also a way of honouring the Italian heritage of the Battistella family.”

Key to its appeal is its location along the main commercial strip of 10th Street, and just across the bridge to downtown. It’s a five-minute walk to the Sunnyside C-Train Station, and right in the middle of all the various boutique restaurants, cafes, and shops in the immediate vicinity.

The eight-storey LIDO will have 60 apartment style condos, but it won’t be at all like any other mixed-use condo development in the city, as it will be one of the first to have a hotel component.

Battistella is partnering with the renowned Calgary-based Dobbin Group to build LIDO. The Dobbin Group has been instrumental in the revitalization of Kensington and their involvement with LIDO ensures that the design will fit with the overall look of the neighbourhood, she adds.

The hotel, to be run by a different managing company, will have about 20 units on the second floor. They will cater to more long-term clients like visiting business executives, but can be handy for residents to put up their guests as well.

The retailers on the ground level will be more specialty boutique shops rather than chain stores, according to Wilson, and there will be a public parkade level, adding more public parking options to the area. The hotel and public parkade will have a separate entrance from the residential units.

“These features just add more to the convenience and colour of Kensington, the public parkade alone adds some 35 parking stalls and

goes a long way to ease the parking crunch in the area,” she says.

Wilson says LIDO also continues the tradition established by the former Lido Café to keep this spot as a vibrant gathering spot for the neighbourhood. LIDO is going up on the block of this landmark diner, whose owners are retiring after years of serving the community. “LIDO will continue being a part of the fabric of life of the neighbourhood.”

LIDO’s exterior will complement the rest of the neighbourhood with an eye-catching design along the podium, combined with plenty of glass and steel that makes it readily identifiable as a Battistella building.

Suites range from 500 to 1,700 square-feet. Most will be two-bed-two-bath suites, but junior one-bedroom, one-bed-plus-den, and three-bedroom homes are also available.

Battistella has really gone to town with the suite design, hiring Ce De Ce Inc. to do the interior design. “There are some really unique and innovative designs incorporated with each suite,” Wilson says, like a floating floor system, using a product completely brand new in the Canadian market that moves away from Battistella’s signature concrete floor.

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| Advertising cover Feature |

Fa s t Fa c t s Community: Hillhurst/Sunnyside Project: LIDO Developer:

Battistella Developments

Style: Apartment-style condos, mixed-use building with public parking, retail and boutique hotel Size:

From 500 to 1,700 sq. ft.

Price: One-bedroom from $240,000s, one-bedroom plus den from $420,000s, two-bedroom from $550,000s Sales Centre: 1120 Kensington Road N.W. Website: Interested parties can register at www.battistella.ca/lido to get latest info for prices and launch dates

There’s also a gas stovetop on the island with an urban modern island hood fan over it, and Fisher & Paykel appliances including built-in wall oven and microwave. Wilson says the quartz top island is also integrated with a textured wood-esque top dining table, for a completely modern yet functional look that fits nicely with the suites’ open concept floor plan.

Although LIDO’s demographics tilt mostly towards the downsizers and active baby boomers, Wilson says these are people who appreciate the active, urban lifestyle LIDO offers. “One buyer said they don’t want to live in a building where it’s just old folks and that they like the energy and vibrancy that young people bring to a condo, which makes LIDO perfect for them.”

One-bedroom units start in the $240,000s, a one-bedroom-plus-den is from the $420,000s, and two-bedrooms are from the $550,000s. “A lot of prime units are still available but they’re going fast,” Wilson says. n

There’s a gas stovetop on the island with an urban modern island hood fan over it, and Fisher & Paykel appliances including built-in wall oven and microwave.

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CONDO PROFILE |

A place in the

Interior images are from Cardel Lifestyles Panorama West show suite.

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| CONDO PROFILE

sun

Cardel Lifestyles continues successful run with Sage Place

By Pepper Rodriguez

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high-level of consistency has been the trademark at Cardel Lifestyles, and the top builder of multi-family developments in Calgary continues this award-winning tradition with Sage Place.

This consistency not only applies to the quality of their construction — they have unfailingly had the fewest deficiencies per possession in the city — but also in getting the best locations for their condos and townhomes. Sage Place promises to bring all these hallmarks of a Cardel Lifestyles development and more.

“Name any of our developments and you can see that they have constantly been located in the most convenient part of the community, with easy walkability and tons of nearby amenities,” says Brad Logel, Cardel Lifestyles sales and marketing manager.

“Sage Place already has plenty of existing amenities surrounding it, but a lot more will be coming in the future,” he tells Condo Living.

“The newly opened Symons Valley Farmers Market is just a five-minute drive from your door. A new 17-acre commercial centre is also being built across the street, so you can just imagine the convenience this will bring to Sage Place residents.”

Sage Place will go up on Sage Valley Drive N.W., just south of 144 Avenue and just off the recently opened Shaganappi Trail extension, which speaks tons about its accessibility.

“We’ve been fortunate to build our condos in what I like to call ‘instant communities’ where everything you need for an easy, comfortable lifestyle are already in place.”

But in some ways, Sage Place is unlike other Cardel Lifestyle offerings. “We went with a slightly more modern look this time with the exterior of Sage Place. With its flat roof profile, it looks and feels like those upscale condos you see in the Beltline,” Logel adds. “It just shows that, despite our success, Cardel Lifestyles is never complacent, we’re always looking for newer designs and improvements to make it the best condo for our buyers.”

Hardie board fibre cement is used for increased sturdiness and safety, as well as to give the development a more pleasing street appeal. Their Cranston Ridge development in the south, launched almost simultaneously with Sage Place, uses the same exterior siding material. “Cranston Ridge has a more traditional look and Sage Place has a more contemporary one, but they offer the same amount of comfort, convenience, and affordability,” he adds.

“…Cardel Lifestyles is never complacent, we’re always looking for newer designs and improvements to make it the best condo for our buyers.”

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“Condo living is all about convenience, and that easy lifestyle is what we offer…”

FA S T FAC TS Community: Sage Hill Project: Sage Place Style: Apartment condos Size: Popular two-bedroom suites are at 897 sq. ft Price: Available suites start from $221,900 plus GST Directions: North on Shagannapi Trail and right on Sage Valley Dr. N.W. or visit showsuites at 175 Panatella Hill N.W. Hours: Monday to Thursday, 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays, noon to 5 p.m.

Website: www.cardelcondos.com

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Sage Place will have four buildings of 48 apartment-style condos each with heated and secure underground parkades for most homes. There are seven floor plans available, including their popular two-bedroom and two-bedroomwith-den suites.

“The plans are very open with a modern look. Almost all the windows have been made larger, including an eightfoot sliding glass door to the patio, This creates a very bright condo that feels even more spacious.

The 897-square-foot two-bedroom two-bath suites are among their best sellers, which is also available as a two-bedroom with a deluxe ensuite option. “We also have four kinds of corner unit floor plans, which are bigger homes that give our buyers a wider set of options to fit their lifestyle,” Logel points out.

Sage Place has been selling at a fast clip since it was launched in November, and they are already approaching the halfway point in the first building. Available units now start at $221,900 plus GST. “Majority of our homes in Sage Place are in the $238,900 range and come with titled underground parking, and you have the option to buy an additional exterior parking slot for only $9,995, a fraction of the $14,000 most other developments are charging.”

First time homebuyers make up the majority at Sage Place, as they find all they need to set them on the path to homeownership in a Cardel Lifestyle condo, but single professionals, downsizers and retirees also find a home here. “Condo living is all about convenience, and that easy lifestyle is what we offer, as our locations are all in established communities where you don’t have to wait for amenities.”

The northwest has just been surging along, it’s a very popular destination for homebuyers Logel says, pointing out just see how fast neighbourhoods here are being snapped up. “Panorama Hills and Evanston are all but done, Sage Hill is getting close too,” he says. “Sage Place provides an amazing opportunity to buy a new quality-built, affordable multi-family home in the N.W. part of the city.”

An on-site sales centre is open for visitors, and interested parties can still check out show suites at their sold-out Panorama West condos in Panorama Hills to see a sample of the kind of lifestyle Sage Place will offer. CL

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It’s a keeper!

New King’s Heights townhomes have everything a first time homebuyer needs

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irst time homebuyers may have a modest budget, but that doesn’t mean they can’t enjoy all the comforts of a well designed, well appointed home.

StoneKeep at King’s Heights proves you can still feel like a king in your own castle with their uniquely designed townhomes.

Located in one of Airdrie’s most popular communities, Merge Development’s StoneKeep at King’s Heights offers single-level and two-storey townhomes with drive-under garages. They are designed to accommodate a wide range of lifestyles, but they hold a particular appeal to those looking to go into homeownership for the first time.

“These are affordable homes that are designed to give the buyer all they will really need in a first home,” says Rick Spooner, president and operating partner at Merge Developments Corp. “You can get two- or three-bedroom units, with

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by Pepper Rodriguez

attached single or tandem garages, which are perfect for young families and those just starting their life as adults. Downsizing couples looking to stay in the neighbourhood also find a comfortable home here.”

Quality finishings and excellent craftsmanship come standard with a Merge Development home, Spooner adds. “Each of these homes also comes with a layout that offers an abundance of natural light.”

Its location in the southeast Airdrie neighbourhood of King’s Heights is another key

| CONDO PROFILE

“These are affordable homes that are designed to give the buyer all they will really need in a first home ... ”

factor in its appeal. King’s Heights by Melcor Developments provides the best access to Deerfoot Trail from Airdrie, Spooner says.

“It is a well developed community with the amenities already completed. Groceries, restaurants, and shops are immediately available at the entrance to the community, the CrossIron Mills Mall is a five-minute drive and the airport isn’t too far away either.”

Two large reflection ponds provide a picturesque natural habitat for the King’s Heights’ many waterfowl; there are five kilometres

of paved pathways for running, biking or a leisurely stroll; and two designated school sites give residents access to large playing fields. These are just some of the charms that living in King’s Heights offer residents, Spooner says.

The 72-townhome development is distributed among the Streetside Series and Backyard Blocks two-storey models, and the single-level Courtyard Collection.

The Streetside Series allows you to see your neighbourhood out your front window.

All of these townhomes face the street, giving you and your guests convenient, private access to your home. They also have a single, attached rear garage with a full driveway, and range from 1,041 to 1,124 square-feet. There are three floor plans, including three bedrooms, dual masters, or two bedrooms with flex space.

The Backyard Blocks provide a quiet backyard retreat that you can enjoy in every season. They also have a single, attached front garage and full driveway,

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CONDO PROFILE |

All the townhomes have quartz-topped islands that are as functional as they are stylish, laminate flooring in the main floor and tile in the bathrooms. and range from 1,026 to 1,085 square-feet and are available in similar floor plan variations as the Streetside series.

Their Courtyard Collection presents single-level living at its finest, as they are intelligently designed to make use of every inch of space, with plenty left for storage. They are available from 779 to 909 square-feet with two spacious bedrooms, with single, or tandem, attached garage. They have a covered front porch to enjoy rain or shine, overlooking a beautifully landscaped central park.

All the townhomes include quartz-topped islands that are as functional as they are stylish, laminate hardwood flooring on the main floor and tile in the bathrooms. Each home comes with five appliances, including a stacked washer and dryer for the ultimate in convenience. Soft-close cabinet doors and a bank of drawers are standard, as are electric hot water tanks, high efficiency furnaces and low-E windows.

Stone accents with James Hardie fibre cement features and dark colour siding gives StoneKeep at King’s Heights’ exterior a better street presence and character.

Prices start from the $220,000 plus GST. There is an on-site sales centre and Spooner says two show homes will open next spring, along with first possessions.

Merge Developments is so confident of the Airdrie market that they are deep in the plans for launching their new Brookside at Baysprings townhome development. Located in neighbouring Baysprings community, Brookside will have 57 townhomes. “They will be bigger than most, starting from 1,550 square-feet, with 20-by-20 rear detached garages. It will give buyers a more single-family home feel,” Spooner adds. CL

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F as t F ac t s Community: King’s Heights, Airdrie Project: StoneKeep at King’s Heights Style: Single-level and two-storey townhomes Size: Single-level units start from 779 sq. ft., two-storeys from 1,026 sq. ft.

Price: From $220,000 Address: 1225 King’s Heights Way S.E., Airdrie Directions: North on Deerfoot Trail and right on Yankee Valley Blvd., right on Kingsview Blvd., and follow the signs.

Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m.

Website: www.stonekeep.ca

CONDO PROFILE |

The Windstone

ARRIVE

home ARRIVE @ Redstone is the next step in the evolution of the townhome

By Pepper Rodriguez

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townhome design revolution is quietly taking place in the new northeast community of Redstone as Partners Development Group unveils some of the biggest townhomes in the area, some featuring four bedrooms.

Not only do buyers get a more spacious multi-family home, but they also get one of the most sustainably built townhomes around, as Partners delivers BuiltGreen® certified homes with endorsed energy reports and New Home EnerGuide labels.

“We want our home owners to arrive home to comfort, lifestyle and energy savings,” says Partners Development Group sales and marketing manager, Jade Mahon. “We find our purchasers are mindful of saving money not only in their initial investment in their home, but also for their long term savings and benefits as well.”

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The Waterstone

The Earthstone

ARRIVE @ Redstone will consist of 24 buildings, for a community totaling 164 homes.

There are a variety of units per building — configured with a frontage of either a fourplex or six-plex.

“We have three building types, all with two-and-a-half baths and single garage with a full depth driveway for additional parking,” Mahon adds.

The Earthstone townhomes are generating the most buzz for its genius use of all available space that includes an option to turn it into a full four-bedroom home. It is available with two bedrooms, three bedrooms with den, or as a four-bedroom plan and range from 1,342 to 1,590 square-feet, almost as big as some of the single-family homes in the area.

“There is a demand for a four-bedroom plan.

These are our Earthstone end units (1,590 square-feet),” Mahon says. “We have designed

“We have three building types, all with two-and-a-half baths and single garage with a full depth driveway for additional parking.”

this Earthstone building type for Redstone specifically and have had a great reception to its uniqueness and fantastic use of space.”

The Windstone townhomes are similar to their sold-out ARRIVE @ Skyview Ranch, and the model has been one of their top sellers.

The Windstone is available in two bedrooms with den and are offered from 1,210 and 1,348 square-feet.

The Waterstone townhomes, meanwhile, is another new design made especially for Redstone. It is a walkout featured townhome with an individually fenced, exclusive-use backyard, with the option to develop the full basement, turning this into a 1,700-square-foot home.

“These are unique west facing walkouts with unobstructed mountain views that back onto the beautiful pond that (community developer) Qualico has built in Redstone’s southwest corner,” Mahon says. The Waterstone are three-bedroom plans with an optional double master and range in size from 1,173 to 1,196 square-feet.

ARRIVE @ Redstone’s exterior detail also presents a handsome streetscape that adds to the family-friendly ambience of the community.

“We are using plenty of stonework and heavy beams as an accent through-

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“We have found our townhome communities to have a wide variety of demographics, with many young professionals moving into their first homes … to empty nesters looking to downsize …”

out each building, which gives the decks and front entries a ‘trellis’ feeling,” Mahon points out. Currently, homes start in the $270,000s, a key reason why 25 per cent of the development has already been sold.

This enormous variety of products has attracted a wide range of buyers to ARRIVE @ Redstone. “We have found our townhome communities to have a wide variety of demographics, with many young professionals moving into their first homes or starting a family, to empty nesters looking to downsize from their single family homes to have a maintenance-free lifestyle — no shoveling and mowing!” Mahon says.

Accessibility is key, too, as Redstone is just off Stoney Trail or Country Hills Boulevard and Metis Trail in the northeast.

“Eventually, Redstone will have an LRT station once the line expands further north from its current Saddletowne location, which is only a short five minutes away,” she says.

ARRIVE @ Redstone also has a central green space and playground exclusive to its residents, add to this the tremendous amount of landscaping done throughout the community with a substantial number of trees and shrubs, and you have the makings of a neighbourhood for the ages.

A show home is located at 102 Skyview Ranch Road N.E., just a couple of blocks away, where interested parties can get an idea of what life will be like at ARRIVE. “Our first possessions will be late spring 2014, along with our four new show homes in Redstone,” Mahon says. CL Interior photos are from ARRIVE @ SkyView Ranch show homes

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FA S T FAC TS Community: Redstone Project: ARRIVE @ Redstone Style: Two-, three- and four-bedroom townhomes Size: From 1,173 to 1,590 sq. ft.

Price: Starts in the $270,000s Sales Centre: 102 Skyview Ranch Road N.E. Directions: From Metis Tr. turn east onto 128 Ave. and right onto Skyview Ranch Rd. (to sales centre) Hours: Winter hours are Wednesday and Thursday 4 to 8 p.m. and Friday to Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

Website: www.arrivehome.ca

COmmunity PROFILE |

Inner-city gem The Beltline has become a hotspot for multi-family developments

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By janine workman

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iversity is the life-blood of any metropolitan city and the vibrant, inner-city streets of Calgary’s Beltline community are teeming with it. It’s a community quickly evolving and condo opportunities are climbing, as modern luxury high-rises mingle with historical sites and long-standing residential buildings.

“It’s always dynamic and that’s the great thing about living inner-city, it’s always changing,” says Evan Woolley, City Councillor for Ward 8, which encompasses the Beltline community.

Stretching south from 9th avenue, which borders the downtown core, to the restaurant, bar and retail hot spot of 17th avenue, the Beltline was created with the amalgamation of the historical communities of Connaught and Victoria Park.

“I think what we are going to see in the next five years is a lot more investment in our inner-city neighbourhoods,” says Woolley.

The 31-storey 6th on Tenth by Toronto condominium builder Lamb Development Corporation is just one of the many high-rise condominium projects in the works in this community, with 230 luxury homes ranging from 449 to 1,950 square-feet.

Also soon to grace the Beltline sklyline is Mark on 10th, a 34-storey, condominium project under construction on the corner of 10th Avenue and 8th Street, by the Qualex Landmark group.

“Our concept is more about urban living,” says Kaleigh Salmon, sales manager. “We are so close to everything, you are steps to downtown, to Safeway, to the design district, that has been a big draw for people coming to buy.”

With 274 ultra-modern homes, Mark on 10th homes range from 452 to 1,496 square-feet and feature luxury finishings, roof-top amenities, landscaped gardens and concierge services.

When 25-year-old, up-and-coming real estate investor, Imad Saleem first checked out the show suite at Mark on 10th he was instantly impressed —so impressed in fact that he bought two units in the building.

“I was planning on just investing, but I really fell in Imad Saleem love with the building and I wanted to live there myself,” he explains.

“The amenities are phenomenal, I don’t think any other developer is doing anything like it.”

Toronto-raised Saleem is no stranger to urban living, and when he relocated to Calgary two years ago for work in management consulting, he knew he wanted to live downtown.

“I like the Beltline because it is mixed use for residential and commercial,” he explains. “I don’t want to live anywhere else but downtown.”

6th and Tenth MARK on 10th

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Photo courtesy Qualex-Landmark

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“There is always something going on.

You can walk outside the apartment and you are next to coffee shops, bars and restaurants.”

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Directly across the street of the construction site of Mark on 10th is The Social Page, an owner-operated, eclectic gift shop.

Open for 21 years, The Social Page has sat on the corner of 8th Street and 10th Avenue for the last four of them. A high-traffic intersection has been a boom to this business, which specializes in wedding and event invitations, accessories and unique gifts.

“Generally speaking, our walk-by traffic has dramatically increased in this location,” says Dawn Messer, co-owner of The Social Page.

And it is easy to see why pedestrians stop in to take a peak, as huge windows packed with beautiful displays invite you inside to look at everything from baby toys to Christmas tree decorations.

Because of its location, The Social Page also caters to the condo culture that surrounds it, offering items Dawn Messer such as condo-style Christmas trees.

“People in this area are not getting to the ‘burbs to purchase their things, so we carry more household items to cater to the condo-living lifestyle,” explains Messer.

“For us it is great,” she says of upcoming residential opportunities in the Beltline. “The more retail that comes the better it will be too, because when you can offer diversity on a street, your traffic increases that much more.”

Colin Norris, a 28-year-old Asset Manager with Brookfield Properties, recently purchased a two-bedroom suite in the Nova condo, also by the Qualex Landmark Group, on 12th Avenue.

“There is always something going on,” he explains of the location of his new home. “You can walk outside the apartment and you are next to coffee shops, bars and restaurants.”

As he works within the downtown core, Norris plans Colin Norris to walk to work — eliminating rush hour traffic, parking or the use of public transportation.

He initially debated purchasing a home in Lower Mount Royal, but chose 12th Avenue because it was a little farther away from the hustle and bustle of 17th Avenue, while still close to other inner-city communities.

“12th Avenue is close enough to Kensington and downtown,” he says.

“This is where everyone is going L to R: Stella, to be showing up in the next five LUNA and NOVA to ten years.”

by Qualex Landmark And, certainly plans are in motion for this community, with the Beltline Area Redevelopment plan approved by City Council, which “encourages growth of an already vibrant community,” through both increased residential and retail opportunities — with a focus on maintaining heritage sites.

“Bustling streets and sidewalks are the hallmark of great cities around the world,” says Woolley. CL

| COMMUNITY PROFILE

Heart of cochrane Heartland offers relaxed, friendly lifestyle

By Jennifer Seamone

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estled in the rolling foothills on the edge of the sweeping Bow River Valley with soaring Rocky Mountains as a backdrop, lies the charming and desirable community of Heartland. Located in the heart of Cochrane with easy access to amenities and downtown, this intimate and family oriented community truly has a special rhythm.

“A lot of people here want to know their neighbours, and that is important to them,” explains Excel Homes Senior Area Manager, Nada Elaraj. “I have never seen a community with such a big concentration of friends and family who want to be neighbours.”

In keeping with the area’s small town western ambiance, Heartland, a master planned community by Apex Land, offers its homeowners a different way of life from

bustling city neighbourhoods. “It is a place that steps back in time to a slower and simpler way of life, and that is why people choose to make Heartland their home,” says Elaraj.

Situated between highways 1A and 22 — Heartland’s architecture and design reaches back in history to honour Cochrane’s heritage and Alberta’s storied Western tradition.

Featuring home styles of Alpine, Homestead, Prairie and Arts and Crafts, it is easy to imagine the roaming bison, and cowboys of the past.

There is an old saying ‘home is where the heart is’, and if this is true, Heartland will certainly steal yours. HorseShoe Park, a centrally located green space, provides residents a 3.5 acre recreational spot in their own backyard. The park features a large play-park, paths, soccer field, and an abundance of trees and benches.

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Wilton townhomes

“It is a place that steps back in time to a slower and simpler way of life, and that is why people choose to make Heartland their home.”

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Future plans include two more parks, two ponds surrounded by walking paths, and a 10-acre parcel of land which has been set aside for commercial development.

Adding to the community’s appeal, an elementary and middle school are located close by, so children have less ride time and more play time.

Everything about Heartland and Cochrane says ‘let’s get outside’, including the planned pedestrian access connecting residents to the 30 KM pathway system which connects the communities of Cochrane and the charming western-styled town centre.

In addition to the great outdoors, Cochrane has many other health and fitness opportunities including the Big Hill Leisure pool and two golf courses. There is also Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Center, featuring three ice rinks, a running track and fitness centre. As part of the facility, a new aquatics center is slated to break ground in 2015. With the mountains so close by the recreational and sport opportunities are endless. As if all this wasn’t enough, Canmore and Banff are a mere 45 minutes away.

The community of Heartland consists of two townhome projects by Birchwood Properties and Excel Homes, but is mainly of detached single-family homes by Excel Homes.

The Range, by Birchwood Properties consists of 17 three-storey, four-plex buildings. Prices in this development start at $199,900 plus GST for 1,140 square-feet. There are three plans to choose from with optional basement development which adds an additional 252 square-feet. These homes have great standard features and each one includes an above ground parking stall. Since their

F as t F ac t s Commmunity: Heartland, Cochrane Developer: Apex Lands

Stapleton show home

Builders: Excel Homes, Birchwood Properties style: Townhomes, laned homes, front-drive single-family Price: Townhomes from $199,900; laned homes from $336,000; front-drive single-family $369,000 Address: 153 Heartland Way, Cochrane Directions: Exit off Trans Canada to Cochrane, left on 1A, first left.

Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m.

Heartland Townhomes closed Thursdays.

Website: www.heartlandcochrane.com

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Wilton show home

launch on October 5, sales have been going very well, says Community Sales Manager Dahlia Macrae. Each building is surrounded by a green area, and each home has its own private entry and verandah; with charming ranch styled exteriors our townhomes feels more like a house, she adds.

Heartland Townhomes by Excel, offers two-storey townhomes in blocks of three and four side-by-side units. Three of the models include rear attached garages and an optional loft, adding an impressive 700 square-feet of living space. The three bedroom two-and-a-half bath, 1,209-square-foot Berkley starts from $274,900. The largest home, the Stapelton, sits at 1,532 square-feet, with garage, from $360,000. The optional loft would bring the home to a generous 2,200 square-feet.

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With many more floor plans available, there is an abundance of selection, all offering great value.

“The loft is great, it gives people the option for more above-ground square footage without having to develop the basement,” says Area Manager, Mary Therese La Madrid.

Rounding out the selections of homes is Excel Homes with front-drive garage single-family models, and Laned single-family homes. Two front-drive garage show homes are available to be viewed. The Weston, 1,739 square-feet starts at $395,000. The Ainsworth sits at 2,108 square-feet and starts from $415,000.

Both homes feature three bedrooms, two-an-a-half baths and bonus room. Laned homes beginning at 1,420 square-feet are priced from $336,000.

With many more floor plans available, there is an abundance of selection, all offering great value. Elaraj adds that prices of homes in Heartland average about $70,000 less than what you pay for the same house in Calgary, and all include the sought-after benefits of small town life. CL The Range townhomes

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liFestyle | liFestyle sommer

The right fit

Ottawa transplant finds a new life in Sonoma at Sage Hill StORY BY kAREN dURRIE PhOtOS BY dON MOLYNEAUx

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ometimes, the stars just align and little signs tell you you’re on the right path.

For Sommer, a close-up photo of a wine label represents her “sign”. It’s mounted on canvas and hangs on her kitchen wall.

“I realized I had bought Sonoma wine the day I decided to buy. I thought — it’s a sign,” she smiles.

After a whirlwind look at condos in Calgary’s northwest, Sonoma at Sage Hill is where Sommer settled last May. Built by vertical Properties, a division of Morrison Homes, the 173-unit project consists of two-storey townhomes in a new community bordered by a natural ravine and numerous green spaces.

Sommer is a recent transplant to Calgary, having moved from Ottawa to follow her PhD supervisor, who had taken a position at the University of Calgary.

Sommer has a master’s degree in sports psychology and is currently a PhD candidate at the U of C. She works counseling elite athletes as a mental performance consultant.

And all around her new condo, there are reminders of Sommer’s passion for sports and her profession.

| LIFESTYLE

“I had no idea what I was doing with this being my first home. Morrison made it easy, they helped at every step of the way.

It’s really structured the way they do things.”

A former member of Canada’s women’s rugby World Cup team, Sommer’s décor includes a special quilt made from her #9 jerseys and t-shirts related to places she has traveled for matches.

On her walls, the hobbyist photographer has hung prints that include close-ups and near-abstracts focusing on sports in which she’s counseled athletes, such as equestrian, kayaking, football and Irish dance.

Sommer drove her Yaris filled with books and clothing across Canada and arrived in Calgary last January. She stayed with her supervisor in the Briar Hill area prior to purchasing her condo.

Finding an affinity for the northwest part of town, Sommer figured that between the University of Calgary and working with athletes at Canada Olympic Park (such as the Alpine Canada Development team), it would be the best area to lay down roots.

“I Googled the northwest, went to three different showhomes, and I just showed up and loved this place. I put $1,000 down, then went to Turks and Caicos and had to put an offer in before the end of the week. I had to figure out my financing in Turks and Caicos,” she laughs.

Her townhome was originally slated for different owners, but the sale fell through, and she was eager to snap up a unit that was already complete, rather than wait several more months for the ones still under construction.

As luck would have it, she loved everything about the place, and would probably have made near-identical selections for colours and finishes.

The two-storey Boulevard model has an attached garage — where Sommer’s car and motorcycle reside — and a walk-up entry that opens to an open-concept main floor with large windows, a powder room, and

plenty of thoughtful storage space, including a closet containing a stacked washer and dryer.

The kitchen has contemporary espresso-hued cabinetry, luxury vinyl tile flooring that looks like real hardwood, and an oversized island where Sommer, who often works from home, sets up her laptop and enjoys the tranquility of her surroundings.

“It’s peaceful. I get up, make coffee and relax as I go to work,” she says.

An avid runner and cyclist, Sommer loves the pathways and ravines in the area.

In searching for the right place, she relied on her plumber father and a Calgary uncle for advice — one who it turns out supplies mirrors to the builder — and both had deep respect for the Morrison homes name, Sommer says.

“They were highly recommended, so I felt very comfortable moving in here. I had no idea what I was doing with this being my first home. Morrison made it easy, they helped at every step of the way. It’s really structured the way they do things,” she says, adding the buying process for the $263,400 townhome was facilitated by the company.

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Sommer was so excited to take possession of her first home that she spent the first night sleeping on the floor of her new bedroom.

Buying furniture was at the top of her to-do list and Sommer purchased a number of matching pieces from Ikea, including a massive king-sized bed that she was nervous might not fit in her master suite. But it did, with room to spare for a large mirror and generous bureau.

With her eye for tasteful décor, she has decorated with dark furniture, metals, pops of red, and a luxuriously thick gray throw rug.

The two-bedroom unit’s second floor also includes a good-sized guest bedroom with a walk-in closet. The bathroom is accessible from the hallway and also via a large walk-though closet off the master bedroom.

Sommer loves the high-end lighting and plumbing fixtures that give her space its luxe feel.

Though she’s a busy professional, Sommer has found time to explore her neighbourhood and has cultivated some favourite haunts, including the Symons Valley Farmer’s Market, Phil and Sebastian Coffee Roasters, Scotsman’s Well pub, and plenty of nearby amenities.

She is well pleased with her just-right home and her positive first-time purchasing experience.

“It came with everything in place. There was so little thought involved, and I am such a busy person, so it was perfect.

People ask me ‘Why are you so far north?’ but I would be paying the same rent downtown as I am a mortgage here, and it’s brand new and really quiet.” CL

“People ask me ‘Why are you so far north?’ but I would be paying the same rent downtown as I am a mortgage here, and it’s brand new and really quiet.”

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Speakers provide sensory experience at home

Sound design

By Jessica Patterson

Photo courtesy Creative TSI.

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our favourite music isn’t limited to your iPhone or radio anymore.

The soundtrack of your life can be integrated into your home, too, with built-in sound systems.

Bridgett Jessop, owner at Calgary interior design firm Debutante Design, has noticed an upswing in the number of homes she puts sound systems into. She decorates a lot of show homes, where speakers are put into ceilings during construction, flush with the surface.

“Budget permitting, we like to do the great room which is open to the kitchen in most floor plans,” Jessop says. “And, also, I like to put them into the ensuite bathroom, to bring some ambience to that space.”

Built-in sound is great for entertaining, for background music in one’s study, bonus room, home theatre, great rooms, kitchens and bathrooms. What ensuite would be complete without piped in music to bring in that spa-like feeling even more?

“I think it’s great for that background music, and creates some coziness,” Jessop says.

“Locations where they wanted a bit more of that personal touch.”

Around 90 per cent of Jessop’s clients have sound systems wired into show homes.

“They want to attract all of the senses while potential homeowners walking through the house. It makes a show home less stale, and feels more like it could be someone’s space.”

And from show homes, to real homes, Calgarians are tuning into sound systems like never before.

“It depends on who you are and what you’re into,” says John Lattion, owner at Creative TSI in Calgary. “Some people love background music, and always have something on, whether its radio for noise. For people who are into sound, or into music a little bit more, have a good sound system wherever they go.”

Lattion thinks of designing a sound system like an interior designer would design lights.

“Wherever you spend time in a house, you would want to incorporate some sort of sound system,” he says.

“It’s not just hitting play on whatever music source and have it play throughout the house, it’s being able to bring up a certain type of music you want in a specific area of the home.”

And whether that’s a track, a radio station, a playlist, an album or another type of audio file, a good sound system should be flawlessly integrated into your home, with your needs in mind.

“I like to put them into the ensuite bathroom, to bring some ambience to that space.” »

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Photo courtesy Creative TSI.

“There’s so much we can do. We can do wireless technology, we can do built-in, in ceiling or wall.”

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“How do you want it to function when you’re in the home?”

Lattion asks.

“If you start off with what you’re Photo going to listen to courtesy Vision Electronics. and build on it from there, that’s a great place to start.

“Some people listen to the radio all day, turn it on, turn it off, turn it up turn it down, and that’s all they need to do. But, most people, like a little bit of variety that they can control.”

Lattion says how homeowners control the system is as important as the speakers themselves. If there’s no easy way to control the sound, it doesn’t get used. Depending on the system you choose, you could be able to control it with your phone, or a small remote, or a control panel on the wall.

“It’s not an inexpensive thing to install a sound system across your house and into all of these different rooms,” Lattion says.

“As far as speakers go, there’s so much out there. There’s so much we can do. We can do wireless technology, we can do built-in, in ceiling or wall. Some people like to see big speakers, some people like to see bookshelf speakers. Some people have the luxury of pre-wiring a home.”

Lattion suggested searching out a local expert, and finding out how more sound can be a part of your life and your home. “It’s a matter of what you want to do, and how you want to use it,” Lattion says. “Part of the issue is, a lot of people don’t know what’s available.” CL

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| SHOPPING

A magic carpet ride Instantly turn your floor into an artwork

By Kathy McCormick

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arpets have been flying out of Calgary and area stores — and there’s no magic about it.

Area rugs bring warmth, beauty, design, and definition to spaces. And they come in every style, size and monetary value to suit every home and every budget.

“Area rugs always work on hard surface floors — tile or wood — and warm them up,” says John Fitzsimmons, owner of Fitz Flooring, which has been looking after customers for two decades.

“They’re also used as hallway runners and under tables where people have their feet.”

But that’s not all, says Nishant Mehrotra, director of marketing for Indo Designer Rugs, which was founded by his parents Rana and Anchal Mehrotra in 1988.

“Pets love rugs, as well.” In fact, “rugs are the only kind of art that you can walk on and sleep on.”

He likens area carpets to “make-up for the floor. It’s one of the oldest luxuries of our times.”

The best of the rugs are not only for floors, either, says Emad Keshmiri, the third generation of the founders of the House of Persian Rugs, opened in 1968.

“We’ve seen them used as artworks — a central focus of any given space, including wall hangings.”

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Photo courtesy House of Persian Rugs

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People will opt for a combination of traditional and contemporary to create an eclectic look…

Photos courtesy Fitz Flooring

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The centuries-old Persian and Oriental rugs are the kings of the castle, where many antique area carpets still grace the floors in Europe and the Middle East. They bring a rich warmth, character and history to a home.

And they can fit in with any design choice today, say the experts.

“Usually older people tend to like the classic designs — but with new colours,” says Mehrotra.

“Lately, more neutral, modern rugs are very popular with both young and older buyers.”

At the House of Persian Rugs, “classic designs with traditional motifs and elegant floral patterns are now being produced in monochromatic colour palettes to match today’s contemporary taste,” says Keshmiri.

“A lot of hand-knotted rugs are now produced in minimalist, contemporary designs. These include abstracts, geometrics and completely new forms that have never been seen in rugs before.”

Although Fitz Flooring does carry Persian rugs (but only those where the store knows the origin — “we make sure they fit into our code of ethics and values,” says Fitzsimmons), buyers’ tastes are “all over the place,” he says. “We see a lot of Tex-Mex to contemporary design choices. There is a lot of influence here from the Southwestern States.”

And mix-and-match is a very popular way of decorating today, Keshmiri says. People will opt for a combination of traditional and contemporary to create an eclectic look that will really make that special piece of furniture, rug or accessory stand out.

That resonates with Mehrotra as well. “Modern furnishings with traditional rugs give the home more flare and contrast, in my opinion. It’s all about opinion — and sometimes you have to push boundaries to create a style all your own.”

Even so, says Keshmiri, “Like with any form of

CO N D O L I V I N G JAN UARY 2014

Photo courtesy Indo Designer Rugs

fashion and industrial design, there are trends in the rug world as well. Modern rugs with abstract designs as well as designs with a deconstructed or stressed look are being produced today by various artists and workshops.”

Contemporary carpets can often be very plain, often without borders, says Mehrotra.

“They can be like botanical paintings.”

It all comes down to picking what you love, the experts say.

“Pick a piece that resonates with you, even if it’s not an original Oriental or Persian rug,” says Keshmiri. “Ask a lot of questions and do research.”

Check the internet for many helpful hints on what to choose, says Fitzsimmons.

“By understanding the context in which it was woven, you will often grow a sense of appreciation for each work, regardless of price,” Keshmiri says.

How do you know if a rug is old or valuable?

“First of all, not all old rugs are valuable,” says Mehrotra. “Certain designs and dyes of

| SHOPPING

the wool are considered rare or more valuable.”

It’s best to leave it to the experts, they say. At House of Persian Rugs, “even after 45 years and three generations in our family business, we are still learning and educating ourselves on rugs,” Keshmiri says.

An experienced carpet dealer or appraiser will often be able to not only pinpoint the country in which the rug was made, but in many cases, even the city.

Here are a few tips to help: • “If a rug is really old, the back of the handmade carpet should be very smooth,” says Mehrotra.

• “Silk and wool rugs develop a patina on the surface — a thin layer that develops over time and becomes softer and smoother.”

For those who are on a tight budget, the area carpet doesn’t have to break the bank, but it’s all about checking the quality.

“Tribal pieces in our store are affordable,” says Keshmiri. “These are done in rural areas and by the nomads. The wool is sourced locally and designs are minimalistic, often a depiction of their surroundings. They have a lot of character, but are affordable.”

At Indo-Designer Rugs, Mehrotra says, “dhurries are the cheaper, handmade alternative. It’s a flat weave style, which means you can use both sides.”

All recommend wool or silk, or a combination of the two natural fibres for lasting quality.

And prices can range anywhere from $700 for a six-by-ninefoot dhurrie that will last 40 years, to thousands of dollars for Persian or Oriental rugs in wool or silk.

“You could get a tufted rug for a lesser price, but it won’t last as long,” says Mehrotra. And it won’t have the ‘Wow’ factor.

Again, it’s all about choice, says Fitzsimmons. “The new, man-made fibres are great for colour and style without breaking the bank.” CL

“Pick a piece that resonates with you, even if it’s not an original Oriental or Persian rug.”

Photo courtesy House of Persian Rugs CO N D O L I V I N G

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The McGillivray touch Income Property star, Scott McGillivray, to take the stage at HomExpo

By Deanna Mcarthur

Editor’s note: Deanna McArthur is the Communication Assistant at the CHBA – Calgary Region, and she wrote this feature on the HomExpo as a special for Condo Living.

One of many HomExpo exhibitors.

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cott McGillivray, business savvy real estate investor, contractor and host of HGTV’s hit show Income Property, is coming to Calgary to take the stage at the 42nd annual HomExpo January 17-19, 2014.

The first home, renovation and décor show of the year held at the BMO Centre, Stampede Park and hosted by Canadian Home Builders Association – Calgary Region, is jam packed with exhibitors from all facets of the home building industry.

With over 230 exhibitors expected, this is the perfect opportunity for anyone looking to renovate, rebuild or get the first look at the newest trends in 2014.

And with many Calgarians still feeling the effects of the floods in June, this is a chance to meet contractors and get professional advice on upcoming projects, saving time, money and giving peace of mind after a summer of uncertainty.

McGillivray is bringing a whole new set of unique skills and information with him to share with the crowd at this year’s HomExpo. He will touch on the five most valuable renovations for the home and he’ll talk about the ways homeowners can increase Scott McGillivray the value of their property — and so much more.

Stick around after the show, because McGillivray will host a question and answer period and will do a meet and greet with his fans, signing autographs and taking pictures.

McGillivray takes the stage Friday, January 17, 2014 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, January 18, 2014 at 1:30 p.m.

McGillivray on Secondary Suites It is not only homeowners who have been affected by the summer floods, the rental vacancy rates in Calgary have dropped close to zero per cent, making housing affordability an issue and bringing the topic of approving secondary suites, which is supported by CHBA – Calgary Region, into the spotlight.

This is one of McGillivray’s passions, and he hopes to see secondary suites approved by City Councillors soon.

“Albertans have this amazing opportunity to come out of these hard times stronger,” says McGillivray. “Hopefully we can get some bylaw changes and some people can profit from the rebuilding they are doing.”

An expert in his field McGillivray has been investing in residential real estate for 13 years, has been running a reno-

| feature

illegal suites in Calgary still greatly outweigh those that are considered legal. In fact, the City estimates that as many as 50,000 illegal suites are now in Calgary.

“It almost seems as though some of the rules and regulations have been put in place to deter some people from doing it legally,” says McGillivray. “A certain percentage of the population will always rent. Supply and demand will always find a balance and, whether it is done legally or illegally, it will happen.”

And it is not only the rules and regulations that are showing opposition to secondary suites, it is some neighbours, says McGillivray.

“A lot of rentals are getting bad raps and some people are very vocal that they don’t want them in their areas, and this is because most are done illegally. If they are done legally — and legally is doable — then you can get a balance between proper rentals and neighbours that won’t have a problem with it.”

Helping Consumers It is not only beneficial for the rental market to have more secondary suites being approved in Calgary, but it is also a big financial assistance to homeowners, says McGillivray.

“The biggest reason most people decide to add a suite to their home is to generate some extra income from a very expensive asset. It will be even more important in the future as interest rates go up and people need to find a way to make additional income.”

Hom E x po : But it is important to ensure that adding a suite is right for your property. Before Show Hours: deciding to create a suite you have to Fri. Jan. 17 – noon - 9 p.m. think about separate entrances, windows, Sat. Jan. 18 – 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. ceiling height, transportation, parking Sun. Jan. 19 – 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and more.

Tickets: “If a suite is done properly it is the Adults - $12 most valuable renovation you can do. I Seniors/Students - $10 have done hundreds of them and every Children 12 & under - FREE single one of them has added more to For more information visit the value of the house than the cost of www.homexpo.ca the renovation.” CL

vation company for eight and a half years, and has been hosing the show Income Properties for eight seasons.

He knows better than anyone, that one of the keys to affordable housing is legalizing secondary suites.

“I have been in touch with the mayor’s office and we have had a few preliminary housing meetings to see how we can make the secondary suite situation in Calgary work a little better,” says McGillivray. “It is a matter of balance between making sure rental properties are being built safe and legitimately, while at the same time making sure to not over regulate them and to keep them affordable.”

Bad outweighing the good Even thought city figures show building permits for suites have risen steadily in the last five years, the number of CO N D O L I V I N G

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Not so sleepy now Calgary’s outlying towns become the centre of attention for home builders

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By Karen Durrie

he dwindling availability of serviced land in Calgary along with the increasing consumer demand for more choice of products and price point have helped to drive a veritable building boom in communities outside the city.

Airdrie, Cochrane, Chestermere, Okotoks and other outlying communities are reaping the benefits, as builders look to these areas because of more readily available land and a speedier approval process.

And consumers looking for new homes can often find the same models for less in these areas.

“Typically homes cost a little less in these communities, however people are also finding lifestyle choices that better match their needs,” says Derek Squirell, executive vice president of corporate development at Jayman, which started building in Airdrie and Cochrane eight years ago.

These lifestyle choices may include wanting an easier or shorter commute, the desire for a smaller community, and the availability of a variety of new home products.

Jayman, for example, builds a full range of homes in Cochrane, including laned lots and semi-detached homes in Riversong, townhomes and apartments in Sunset Ridge, and move-up and estate housing in River Reach.

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Windsong in Airdrie.

Photo courtesy Mattamy Homes.

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“raw and developed land in the outlying communities is less expensive than Calgary, so this savings is reflected in house pricing. Our customers in Cochrane and Airdrie enjoy the small town atmosphere and on the business side, municipal authorities can process development approvals faster and this allows us to bring housing product to the consumer in a more timely manner,” Squirell says.

There is also a growing demand for entry-level and movedown products in these communities, he adds.

Jayman has already invested $7 million in their various developments in Cochrane over the past few years, seeing the enormous growth potential in the pioneer town. More such moves will likely be seen from other home builders in the near future.

Bridget Sellers lived in Calgary for 30 years before moving to Airdrie recently with husband, Adam Murtha.

Murtha grew up in a small town on vancouver Island, and found Calgary very hectic, so the pair decided to move to get a small-town feel, but still remain close to family living in the city.

“The people we know who live in Airdrie all seem to love it. So we thought it would be a great place to eventually raise our kids when we have them,” Sellers says.

The price tags in Airdrie didn’t hurt, either, Sellers says, noting the homes they saw were a bit cheaper than the same types in the city, and you get more for your money.

Sellers traded her job in southeast Calgary for one in Airdrie after the move, and Murtha’s commute to his northeast job takes just 20 minutes each way.

The couple also feels they’ve been quickly embraced in Airdrie.

daphne harris & hal Paddock with olivia

“Everyone I met has been so friendly. We meet more of our neighbours in the first few weeks of living in Airdrie than we did in our old (Taradale) house which we had for four years,” Sellers says.

Daphne Harris and fiancé Hal Paddock feel the same way about living in Chestermere. The pair recently moved there after living in McKenzie Towne. They felt the urge to move after mounting frustration over lengthy commutes to their jobs both via road and public transit — so frustrated by the arduous process that both would end up in bad moods by day’s end.

Both Paddock and Harris, new parents to baby Olivia born in August, grew up and went to school in Chestermere, and after looking at homes in their price range in between downtown Calgary and McKnight Boulevard decided to return to their roots.

“The difference was staggering. We bought a beautiful nine-yearold 2,300 square-foot house in Chestermere, and in the area that would have worked for our commutes in the city, we would have

“Places like Airdrie, Okotoks and Cochrane are focused on becoming more self-fulfilling municipal entities and they offer a lot of the same services Calgary used to offer exclusively.” riversong — cochrane

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Chestermere. Photo by Don Molyneaux

been able to afford a 1,000-square-foot, 1960s home with no updates,” Harris says.

The growth that Chestermere has seen since she lived there is another bonus, Harris adds, with more restaurants, shopping and services nearby, plus Chestermere Lake, which both enjoy for boating and beach days.

And their nightmare commute is becoming a distant memory.

“It’s changed dramatically. I drive less than 10 minutes to Sunridge Station and have a quick zip downtown. Hal takes 16th Ave. almost all the way to work. We are literally 20 minutes from downtown, and I can’t even say that about the south of Calgary.”

Developers are constantly scouting for good opportunities to provide for what the market is looking for, says Karin Finley vice president of community development — Southern Alberta for Qualico Communities and chair of the Urban Development Institute.

“If anything has changed over the years, perhaps it’s the opportunity in the outlying communities. There is a lot more acceptance to growing those places almost as quickly as a Calgary would grow in terms of percentage of growth. Places like Airdrie, Okotoks and Cochrane are focused on becoming more self-fulfilling municipal entities and they offer a lot of the same services Calgary used to offer exclusively,” Finley says.

Qualico owns quite a bit of land in the Municipal District of Rockyview, Sunset Ridge — Cochrane

Airdrie Bayside

“The buying public isn’t seeing their choice is limited yet ... It’s absolutely going on.” the Langdon area, and is currently building in Airdrie and Okotoks.

What Finley calls a pending land supply shortage in Calgary is indeed a factor that goes into builders looking to neighbouring communities to develop, but it’s also a matter of people simply wanting the choice to live in a smaller place, and the level of affordability and larger lot sizes that often go along with it.

“Typically, it is more expensive to live in the city because it has more amenities. It has a well-developed arts program, a number of schools, more choice of communities, a well-developed transit system, and you probably accept a commute for groceries,” Finley says.

The advantages for builders doing business in smaller communities include quicker approval and permit processes — with the various approval stages, a development in Calgary can take an average of five years to break ground — sometimes more lenient land use bylaws, and jurisdictions eager to provide growth opportunities.

“They see it as an economic positive, so they are promoting more growth through residential and commercial development. The city of Calgary has policies that it wants to shift growth from the periphery to the inner-city,” Finley says.

The building industry is seriously concerned about a land supply shortage in the city, Finley says, and it’s something that builders feel about two years before the average homebuyer starts to feel it.

“We are having to buy land in outlying communities to stock the shelves. The buying public isn’t seeing their choice is limited yet. But our industry is projecting that’s coming, and their actions are already trying to mitigate that. It’s absolutely going on.” CL CO N D O L I V I N G

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BY ELIzABEth ChORNEY-BOOth

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algary usually doesn’t rank very high on urban walkability scales when compared to other Canadian cities, but that doesn’t mean that you need a car to be able to take advantage of everything that the city has to offer.

Calgary ranked dead last in a recent Top 10 list compiled by Walk Score among Canada’s 10 biggest cities. But things are starting to change.

As our city grows and urban planners continue to work on making the downtown core more vibrant and accessible to all Calgarians, the options for getting around the inner-city without your own set of wheels are getting more and more attractive.

With an ever-expanding transit system, easy-to-use car-share services, and a world-class pathway system, more and more urban dwellers are finding that living car-free offers a sense of independence they didn’t necessarily expect.

Chelsey Patrick is a 20-something Calgarian who recently moved into a high-rise building right in the heart of downtown Calgary. Even though she works in an office on Macleod Trail south of Chinook Centre, Patrick feels no reason to drive a car to get around. In fact, she owns a car, but chooses to park it elsewhere because she would not use it enough to warrant paying for downtown parking.

“Biking is my main form of transportation and when the weather is too miserable, I take transit,” Patrick says. “I do it for the peace of mind. I don’t like sitting in traffic. I like to ride my bike because I get that freedom to control my pace.”

One key way that many Calgarians who do not wish to drive are getting around inner-city neighbourhoods is via the City’s pathway system, which weaves through many highly-prized inner city neighbourhoods like the downtown core, Sunnyside, Eau Claire, and Bridgeland. A 2010 survey reports that 89 per cent of Calgarians use the pathway system in some capacity, with 14 per cent using it primarily to commute, whether it be by walking, cycling, or rollerblading.

“Calgary’s pathway system is strategically built to offer connectivity between communities,” says Duane Sutherland, the City of Calgary’s Parks Pathways Lead. “This means people, no matter where they are located in the city or what mode of alternative transportation they choose can use the pathways to get around Calgary.”

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Photo courtesy City of Calgary

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…there are more worthwhile businesses within walking distance of most urban condo developments than ever before in Calgary.

Photos courtesy City of Calgary

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The pathway system is only going to get better as the city continues to grow. In 2013 the City of Calgary will implement the last phase of the recommendations stemming from the 2011 Pathways Safety Review Report, including adding centre lines, curb cuts, and wheel chair ramps to existing pathways.

Not everyone likes to bike, and there are plenty of other ways to get around Calgary’s inner city as well. As new shops, restaurants, office buildings, and other amenities pop up downtown, in the East Village, Inglewood, Mission, and other neighbourhoods, there are more worthwhile businesses within walking distance of most urban condo developments than ever before in Calgary. More and more people are finding that they can walk to work, and their favourite

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places to eat and shop, all without breaking a sweat. If weather isn’t cooperating, downtown dwellers can duck into a building and use the +15 system of elevated walkways to stay warm and dry.

The City of Calgary has made a concerted effort to make what they call Calgary’s Centre City (consisting of the downtown core, the East Village, Stampede Park, East Victoria Crossing, Victoria Crossing Centre, Connaught Centre, West Connaught, West End, Eau Claire, and Chinatown) more vibrant via a document called the Centre City Plan that was introduced in 2007. Among other things, the plan aims to make downtown more walkable and accessible to all Calgarians, but it is really those who live in the inner-city who reap the most benefits.

Centre City initiatives include bridge lighting projects, late night taxi

stands, +15 improvements, underpass enhancements, the installation of litter bins, additional lighting, plant life and public toilets in busy corridors, and other details that make walking in the inner-city a safer and more pleasant experience. Likewise, getting to the core from other popular neighbourhoods like Sunnyside, Ramsay, and Crescent Heights is just a matter of walking over one of the city’s many footbridges.

Chelsey Patrick says that as a young woman she doesn’t always like to walk around at night on her own, but finds it safe and convenient use the C-Train even if she only needs to go a few stops. She frequently takes advantage of the free fare zone, which stretches from the Downtown/West Kerby stop to City Hall along 7th Avenue. With the new West LRT line now open and city council considering adding new lines, it’s relatively easy for residents of the inner-city to ride the C-Train (and if needed, transfer to the bus system) to the outer corners of the city if they should need to visit friends or reach locations located outside of the city’s core. If a particular route is too unwieldy, you can always hire out a car share service like Car2Go to zip off to places that aren’t easily reached by transit.

Car2Go offers the flexibility of renting a compact, electric car to drive to the grocery store or to other further destinations at an economical rate. Parking is easier too as they are free to park in all authorized Calgary Parking Authority parkades and surface lots.

So, the old adage that you need a car to enjoy life in Calgary is quickly slipping away, especially for those lucky enough to live in the thriving inner-city. The city is changing rapidly and there are ever-increasing options for those who want to adopt an urban lifestyle and the peace of mind that comes from living a life that doesn’t include rush-hour traffic. CL

Car2Go offers the flexibility of renting a compact, electric car to drive to the grocery store or to other further destinations at an economical rate.

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Hot

water, cold facts Failing to maintain water tanks can land homeowners in hot water

by Karen Durrie

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e rely on them for baths, showers, cooking, washing dishes and doing laundry.

They’re those cylindrical things tucked in the basement into which cold water journeys through pipes to become hot water delivered through our faucets.

We don’t think about our hot water tanks much, but when they malfunction and need repair or replacing, we sure realize how much we rely on them. Condo owners usually don’t have to deal with this, unless the mechanicals are in the unit — like in a townhome — in which case you would still be on the hook if the water tank breaks down.

A hot water tank that has broken and caused damage to the home can be a costly situation. Repair or replacement of hot water tanks is not covered by homeowner’s insurance, according to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, but any water damage caused by such indoor plumbing emergencies is usually covered.

Understanding hot water tanks — and what options are out there if you are looking for a new one — is useful information for any homeowner.

We asked Stuart Rudolph, president of Rudolph Plumbing and Heating, for information and guidance on hot water tanks.

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Tankless heaters

What is the average size and cost for a hot water tank?

Water heaters typical to Calgary are usually 50 gallon gas-fired tank-style units, with either natural atmospheric chimneys, or in newer homes and homes updated with high-efficiency furnaces they might have fan-induced chimneys.

Costs can start from around $800 and up. Tanks with conventional chimneys are the least expensive, followed by power vent heaters and then tankless units being fairly close for material costs — but requiring much more installation labour, especially on retrofits.

How long does a hot water tank typically last?

The average life span of a typical gas-fired water heater tends to be in the 10-14 year range, though we experience both ones that fail within the warranty period as well as ones that last far beyond that. The oldest I have ever personally replaced was 42 years old for an elderly gent down on Bow Crescent.

It was made in 1958 and I replaced it around 2000.

What should people do maintenance-wise to keep their heaters working at maximum efficiency?

Manufacturers have maintenance recommendations in the manuals they provide with the heaters, but they usually remain as unopened as Bart Simpson’s textbooks. In Calgary, our water is moderately hard and the mineral scale that accumulates in water heaters reduces the efficiency of heat transfer, so its helpful to throw a garden hose on the tank’s drain valve and flush the water for five minutes twice a year. This will remove some of the accumulated scale. You can avoid this by installing a water softener. They remove the water’s hardness prior to the water heater, so no scale build-up occurs.

What is the latest and greatest in water heaters?

The tankless heaters are becoming more popular and have efficiency advantages, though there are trade-offs. One is that they are more sensitive to scale build up, and unless they’re fed with softened water they require periodic descaling about once a year. These tanks have sensitive flow switches that will cut off the gas to the burners if scale accumulation is reducing the flow rate excessively. Being that they’re more complex, they can be more expensive to repair.

While these heaters offer efficiency improvements, sometimes human nature can offset those gains, because when they don’t run out of hot water, some people will shower or bathe longer, increasing their consumption. Call me a dinosaur, but my personal preference leans towards the good old tank-style heaters for simplicity and reliability paired with lower costs for both installation and maintenance. Add those figures up and you’ll likely more than negate your per-gallon energy savings of a tankless.

What is the average warranty on a hot water tank?

Most fall within the 5-10 year range, depending on manufacturer’s model ranges and features.

What else should homeowners know?

The recent devastating flooding here in Calgary and southern Alberta brings to mind service bulletins posted by heater manufacturers noting that any heater that has been submerged must be replaced. Some extremely frugal sorts might try to simply replace the gas control and clean the burner and air intake on conventional tanks, but this is not recommended at all for safety reasons.

When seeking repairs or replacements, be sure to use a licensed and insured contractor — not all that you find advertising in various websites and classifieds are. Curiously low prices should be your first clue. If using a smaller contractor, it’s fair to ask if your installation tech will be a journeyman or registered apprentice. I’ve carried my journeyman tickets in my wallet for 19 years, but have only been asked for them by a client once. CL

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ACOA OWNERS’ CORNER ALBERTA CONDOMINIUM OWNERS ASSOCIATION (ACOA)

Your Condo, Your Investment What every condo owner should know (First of two parts)

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hen you purchase a condominium you are buying more than a home.

You are also buying a share in a corporation. The small ones cans be worth over a million dollars and the larger can be multi-million dollar corporations. The important question is, how can you enjoy living in your condominium home, while protecting your investment?

Let’s start with the basics: A condominium is created by registration of a condominium plan at the land titles office.

The condominium plan contains detail such as the Unit Factor, the legal size of the home (unit), the location of the boundary of the unit and it identifies the components that are common property.

The Unit Factor determines the “undivided interest share” each owner has in the common property. Common property is owned in common by all unit owners in proportion to their Unit Factor.

Every owner is impacted personally and financially by the style of management, the financial strength and the overall viability of the corporation. When it is time to sell the unit, the salesperson, the prospective buyers, lenders, and mortgage insurance companies evaluate the viability of the corporation. There are condominiums in Alberta that are not able to get risk insurance, that mortgage insurance companies will not insure and

that lenders will not finance. This means that owners in these properties are not able to sell for fair value until the causes of these problems are corrected.

The great news is that protecting your condo investment is not rocket science.

You do not need a degree in corporate management or financial management.

All you need is an understanding of the

roles and responsibilities of the elected board of directors and the owners. The areas that will assist you in protecting your condo investment that I am highlighting in this article are based on my 38 years of condo experience. As each condominium project is unique to itself governed by its own management style, condo plan and customized bylaws, the following comments are of a generic nature as a guide for living in a condominium and protecting their investment.

Election of the Board of Directors Every condominium is required to have a Board of Directors. This board is com-

prised of owners elected by owners at the annual general meeting (AGM). In Alberta the condominium legislation and bylaws give the board the power and the responsibility to make many decisions without the vote of the owners. These responsibilities include budgeting, spending, borrowing money, hiring contractors and proving information to owners (shareholders). The Board does require the vote of the owners to change the use of common property, to borrow money in excess of the limits in the bylaws, to select the annual auditor, to spend reserve funds on capital improvements and to amend or change the bylaws.

As the Board of Directors hold a lot of power and responsibility. It is important that the owners attend the annual meeting and elect the owners they believe will have the best success in running the business of the Corporation. Too often owners are elected to the board only because no other owner is interested or willing to step up. CL

This month’s article by Bernice M. Winter, ACOA co-founder. Part two next month.

The Alberta Condominium Owners Association (ACOA) is a non-profit

association intended to represent ALL Alberta condominium owners and give them a concerted voice in issues that affect living in a multi-family environment. Co-Founders are Bernice M. Winter and Dr. June A. Donaldson, Calgary based business women who have diverse and extensive condo, business, entrepreneurial and academic experience to bring to this most necessary initiative.

Visit www.Albertacoa.com for more information and how to become a member.

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Editor’s note: Readers are encouraged to ask their most confounding condo questions to our resident condo specialist: Maria Bartolotti.

ASK MARIA By maria Bartolotti

UNWANteD GUests What to do when you see mice in your condo

Q:

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Dear Maria, there’s a mouse in my condo unit. Help!

You might have noticed some unwanted guests this winter, and no we’re not talking about the in-laws. I’m talking about mice. Cold weather drives these little critters indoors to seek warmth, which could lead them straight into your condo and if they find a food source, guess who’s moving in.

If you are a resident who lives in a condominium apartment and you see evidence of mice inside the common property, you should notify the property manager of the building. Your property manager can work with your condo board to take the necessary steps to help deal with the problem. In most if not all cases, a pest control company will be hired to investigate and help maintain the common areas for mice activity in a condo, which can help reduce the frequency of mice inside the building and in your unit.

Here are some helpful hints that may help discourage and keep mice out of your unit.

• Seal possible entries — Mice can get through small tiny holes. It is best to seal around pipes and holes inside your apartment.

• Stick steel wool in mouse holes — Steel wool pads will prevent mice from using the same hole to get back into your home before caulking or plastering.

• Try a humane trap — These are traps that catch mice in a box. The mouse can

get in but not out. Once you catch the mouse; you will need to release them at least one mile from your home.

• Keep your home clean — if there is nothing to eat, they will be less likely to stay. In other words; keep all food stored properly in an airtight containers.

• Trash — Mice smell it and get attracted to your home.

Keep lids shut on your garbage can, and ensure your garbage is being emptied regularly. DO NOT leave garbage on your decks or on the floor inside your unit. Bring the garbage directly to the bin.

• Water source — such as leaky taps, sweating pipes and open drains should be addressed.

• Bird and squirrel feeders — are pretty to have but, be aware of the fact that the same offerings can become mice food.

• Pest control company — can be called if you would like to obtain more help or advice.

All mice need is a little crack in a wall or foundation to get in. Being proactive and taking the necessary steps to help protect your home from these little critters, may stop the problem.

Until next time… CL

Maria Bartolotti

is the owner-manager of New Concept management Inc. she has developed a strong reputation for rendering timely and efficient services to the condominium industry. maria believes that her company’s success hinges on her hands-on approach to condominium management as well as maintaining open lines of communications with her clientele. maria is actively involved in her industry. for more information, visit www.newconceptmanagement.com CO N D O L I V I N G JAN UARY 2014

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HOPE AT LARGE By marty hope

CONDO OppORtUNItY

the elements signals cedarglen first foray into multi-family developments

T

he learned folks at Oxford Dictionaries define the word opportunity as a “time or set of circumstances that makes it possible to do something.”

Opportunity knocked, and Cedarglen Living opened its door.

Coming up on its first anniversary as a home builder in Calgary, Cedarglen Living (CL) is the multi-family division of Cedarglen Homes, which has something like 32 years experience on the local housing scene.

And CL general manager Cole Haggins says the decision to jump into the condo marketplace in the spring of 2013 was the blending of some good and not so good ingredients to create an optimistic business story. rolling out the company provided an opportunity to increase product diversity for Cedarlgen as a whole, to help maintain a healthy market share, provide jobs, and offer potential homebuyers an affordable option.

The Elements by Cedarglen Living is the company’s first offering — a 107-unit townhouse project in northwest Panorama Hills — consisting of 18 buildings with between three and eight units per building. ranging in size from 1,203 t0 1,425 squarefeet, the open-concept homes come with either single- or double-attached garages, three bedrooms or double master layouts, two-and-one-half baths, stove, refrigerator, microwave, washer and dryer, and dishwasher, granite countertops and hardwood floors.

They are priced from the mid-$320,000s into the $360,000 range.

“We will most likely have the site built out and occupied by the end of this year, as we are more than 40 per cent sold at this point,” says Haggins, who was supervisor of accounting and sales administration for

Cedarglen Homes prior to shifting to the multi-family side.

A second project could be ready to break ground in southeast New Brighton this spring. This one, a pair of four-storey, 70-unit apartment-style buildings as well as 100 townhouses with single and double garages — similar to the Panorama project — with occupancies beginning in 2015.

Busy, you bet. And there are more opportunities likely.

the Elements by Cedarglen Living

“With the limited opportunity for further growth in the single-family marketplace — given the land supply restrictions and assuming that we did not want to expand outside of the Calgary marketplace — multi-family seemed like a natural transition in order for us to maintain volumes,” says Haggins.

The decision to open Cedarglen Living meant workers facing possible layoff with the single-family division could transfer over.

“Beyond that, with the decreasing supply of land and what seems to be continued growth in the Calgary area, we are seeing prices creep up and surpass 2007 levels. Affordability has once again become an issue, and moving into the townhouse and condo product allows us to be on the lower end of the affordability spectrum,” he adds.

And, he says, based on demand levels and the direction being taken by city planning officials “it would only be natural” to assume that multi-family housing is going to become a larger portion of the overall company’s portfolio.

For now, though, Haggins says CL is “just trying to get our feet wet” and learn everything there is to learn about the multi-family process.

Being deep in the learning process has not meant shunting aside Cedarglen’s charitable efforts.

Cedarglen and the Calgary Homeless Foundation are moving through the development process for the building and delivery of a four-storey stacked apartment-style building in victoria Park that will also include 30 individual use units for individuals in need.

The project is part of rESOLvE, a community-driven campaign aimed at creating a mix of affordable, rent-based housing across the city that involves Cedarglen, Homes by Avi, Albi Homes, Brookfield residential Properties, Jayman Group of Companies, Morrison Homes, Qualico, and Shane Homes.

For information on Cedarglen Living, visit www.cedarglenliving.com. CL

Marty hope. for more than two decades marty hope has been reporting on the housing and development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In march, he was presented with the maple Leaf Award from the Canadian home Builders’ Association which is given annually to a non-builder member in Canada for contributions to the industry.

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AROUND TOWN

By Pepper rodriguez

attainaBle homes calgary Partners With mattamy homes

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ttainable Homes Calgary Corporation is an integrated master-planned commu(AHCC) announced a new partnernity that will ultimately offer 4,000 ship with Mattamy Homes, Canada’s homes. Mattamy Homes will build 10 largest new home builder, that will bring townhomes at Cityscape for AHCC and affordable townhomes for ownership at interested homebuyers are encouraged to Cityscape, the building and development visit AttainYourHome.com to see if they giant’s first project in Calgary. qualify.

The new northeast community of AHCC is a non-profit organization and Cityscape has been so well received since wholly owned subsidiary of the City of its launch last May that President of Calgary that has developed innovative Mattamy Homes in Calgary, Greg Mills, financing solutions to provide gifted says he was looking for an opportunity to down payments to qualified homebuyers. l to r: david Watson, david laycock, greg mills thank and give back to the community.

The organization was created by City “We consulted the City of Calgary and agreed that housing Council to support people who are working, who have a moderaffordability was one of the key issues facing the city, so we ate income and are finding it difficult to save the sizable down thought it was important to partner with a local organization that payment required on the market. was helping more people enter the property ladder,” Mills says. visit MattamyHomes.com for more information regarding “We look forward to welcoming AHCC and its homebuyers into Cityscape. our new master-planned community.” www.mattamyhomes.com Located at Country Hills Boulevard and Metis Trail, Cityscape

Jay Westman donates $5 million to hasKayne school oF Business

O

ne of the leading lights in Calgary’s new home industry has given a generous donation to one of the country’s leading business schools to improve studies on the real estate industry.

Jay Westman, chairman and chief executive of Jayman MasterBUILT, donated $5 million to create the Westman Centre for real Estate Studies at the University of Calgary’s Haskayne School of Business.

The centre aims to educate business leaders for the real estate industry by offering academic and research programs, as well as serving as an industry resource through its community outreach activities.

“The real estate and development industry has had a strong hand in shaping this community and in building Calgary’s reputation as one of Canada’s most entrepreneurial cities,” Westman says in a newspaper article. “The industry has really come of age here. I am committed to its ongoing strength through the development of responsible business leaders, and I believe the Haskayne School of Business is the place to make that Jay Westman happen.”

BrooKField announces Brand uniFication

O

ne of the biggest players in the home building industry announced that it is unifying its brand under the Brookfield residential banner.

As of January 6, 2014, Brookfield Homes (its home building arm) and Brookfield residential (the land development unit) will be unified under the name, Brookfield residential.

In a company statement, Brookfield says the brand unification will allow them to remain ahead in the competitive industry. “Having been in business in Alberta for more than 55 years, we are humbled by the success we have had and we don’t take that lightly. By combining all of our experiences together — locally and across North America, from building homes to designing communities to creating commercial developments — you can expect us to be more innovative, to be a better resource and to continue to be a leader in the industry.”

It hastens to add that the brand unification will mean a new name and logo, it will not affect the way they are currently doing business.

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6th and Tenth public art piece unveiled

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he corner of 6th Street and 10th Avenue S.W. will never look the same, not only because of Lamb Development Corporation’s (LDC) 6th and Tenth upscale, high rise condo going up here, but because of the public art that they have commissioned to enhance the look of this particular corner of the Beltline.

After a world-wide search, Chilean artist, Brad Lamb Francisco Gazitua, won LDC’s open-call art competition with his “Land of Horses” sculpture that is destined to become one of Calgary’s most distinctive public art pieces.

“Horses are very much part of the culture in Calgary, as they are in my native Chile, and that was my inspiration for this piece,” Gazitua told Around Town during the 6th and Tenth event to announce the winner.

LDC’s Brad Lamb says the metal sculpture will be a defining presence in front of 6th and Tenth, the first project in Calgary by this Toronto-based developer. “We wanted to give back to the community that has been very supportive of our development,” he says, as sales for the 232-unit, 31-storey tower hit the 55 per cent level.

Gazitua’s work will be the crowning piece of 6th and Tenth’s park-like setting.

Homeownership in Canada

A

ccording to the 2011 National Household Survey conducted

by Statistics Canada, the rate of homeownership in Calgary is 73.9 per cent. The Alberta rate of home ownership, 73.6 per cent, ranked third highest in the country. Nationally, the rate was 69 per cent. Newfoundland and Labrador had the highest rates (77.5 per cent), while Quebec had the lowest (61.2 per cent).

Interestingly, the rate of homeownership for couple-family households was 82.4 per cent, compared to just 55.6 per cent for single-parent households. Not surprisingly, it was also found that, across all geographic areas and age groups, households with higher annual total income had higher homeownership rates. People age 30 to 34 were more than twice as likely to own a home than people under 25.

A strong economy which lures workers — more than 27,000 people moved to Alberta during the first quarter of 2013 alone — with the promise of high wages and low unemployment rates factors heavily into the equation. In fact, figures show that while just two per cent of Albertan households earned more than $191,150 annually, that number was nearly a full percentage point higher in Calgary, at 2.9 per cent.

www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/130911/dq130911b-eng.htm

C

algary has the strongest housing market in Canada, according to a recent report from BMO Economics.

The report, titled Canadian Housing Update: Tale of Four Cities, compared the housing markets in the country’s four largest metropolitan centres — Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver and Calgary. Sorry Edmonton, you weren’t included.

Three familiar factors were specifically identified as being big contributors to Calgary’s status as number one: a strong local economy, strong population growth, and good affordability. And, according to BMO, barring a sudden collapse in oil prices, things should stay that way for a while, prompting even more Canadians and new Canadians to head west in search of work, driving both the economy and the housing industry.

The BMO report says increased home starts are barely keeping up with demand, with the result that inventories are low and prices are climbing, slowly but steadily.

The report also listed Calgary’s median income at $100,500, nearly $30,000 more than second place Montreal at $73,200.

Calgary also scored better when it came to the mortgage service costs of owning a home, the percentage of income which goes to pay for the home, at 23.1 per cent.

Montreal was close at 23.1, while Toronto checked in at 39.3 per cent and Vancouver a dreary 50.2 per cent.

So, while it may be cold outside, cheer up Calgarians! It might not snow a lot in Vancouver, and their hockey team might be a little bit better than ours (for now), but Calgarians earn more money on average and most importantly, we get to keep more of it.

The Park tops off

L

ake Placid marked a momentous occasion with a winter barbecue to celebrate the topping off of their The Park condo.

Richard Lobsinger, Lake Placid’s vice president of sales and marketing, says they have hit $50 million in sales, accounting for nearly 80 per cent of units in the 18-storey building.

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CO N D O L I V I N G JAN UARY 2014

“This is truly the finest location in the Beltline, overlooking Central Memorial Park and Haultain School Park. We designed the structure to take maximum advantage of those assets, notwithstanding the new City 13th Ave Greenway, which runs right in front of our location,” he tells Around Town.

The Park is to be completed by next winter. CL

Lake Placid team

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ADVERTISERS INDEX | 43 Park Vericon page 57

Copperfield Park II Brad Remington Homes pages 91 & 96

Kincora Summit Cove Properties page 55

1912 Cross M2i page 70

Cranston Ridge Cardel Lifestyles page 9

Kintalla Streetside Developments page 38

The Alexander Assured Communities page 78

The Edge Streetside Developments page 95

Arrive @ Redstone Partners Development Inc. page 33

Edison at Walden Avi Urban page 37 & 42

The Landings at Cougar Ridge Statesman page 52

Aura Aldebaran Enterprises page 60

Einstein The Providence Group page 43

Avenue West End Grosvenor/Cressey page 66

Einstein 2 The Providence Group page 4

The Block Avi Urban pages 37 & 42

The Gates Remington Development Corp. page 23

Carlisle Group page 86-87 Chalet N0 5 Sabal Homes page 51 Champagne Remington Development Corp. page 93

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The Landings at Rocky Ridge Swan Group page 82 LIDO Battistella Developments FC, pages 14-17 MARK Qualex-Landmark page 2 Market Place Events page 65

The Park Lake Placid Development Corp. page 5 The Post Avi Urban pages 37 & 42

Valmont Riverbend Developments page 19 VEN Bucci page 6

River Reach Jayman Masterbuilt page 56

Verve Fram/Slokker Developments page 76

Sawyer Silverado Avi Urban pages 27 & 42

Zen, Auburn Bay Avalon Master Builder pages 24 & 71

Steps Bridgeland Giustini Bridges Inc. page 11 Stonecroft Copperfield page 75 Stonecroft Auburn Bay page 74 Stonecroft Highland Park page 75

Glas Avalon Master Builder page 25

Mission 34 Assured Communities page 34

The Groves of Varsity Statesman page 64

Mosaic Cranston Brookfield Homes page 18

Stonekeep at King’s Heights Merge Developments page 29

HomExpo page 92

Muskoka Auburn Bay Brookfield Homes page 18

Toupee for a Day Wellspring page 80

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FEATURE |

Tales from the condo zone Jumping for joy Story by Jim Zang Illustration by Lama Azhari

Special thanks to our Edmonton editor, Michelle Lindstrom, for spotting this interesting, and true, item in an August copy of the Edmonton Journal.

I

t seems three parachutists in Edmonton decided jumping off an incomplete 36-storey condominium tower was a pretty good idea. The story in the Edmonton Journal went like this: On Sunday evening around 9:15 p.m., police first started getting reports about three men who allegedly entered the locked construction site at the 36-storey Pearl Tower project at 12080 Jasper Avenue, then parachuted from the top floor. A witness said it took less than 15 seconds for them to float down, and hit the middle of the street on the Victoria promenade. They then sped away in a waiting, black vehicle.

No one has been identified or charged.

This isn’t the first time base jumpers have targeted downtown Edmonton.

In July 2011, three never-identified jumpers parachuted down — in broad daylight, according to media reports from the time — from the downtown Epcor building which was also under construction. But in January 2007, a 29-year-old man waited until three a.m. to base jump from a communications tower in Bonnie Doon. He was spotted — and later charged with trespassing and stunting, and fined $287 and $402 for the charges — by police officers who happened to be driving around the traffic circle near 90th Avenue and 83rd Street.

So what is it that drives people from Edmonton to jump out of buildings with silk sheets attached to their backs?

I mean, the Oilers aren’t THAT bad. Whatever the case, if you see increased security around any new high-rise condo constructions, you’ll know why. And if you don’t see any security, look up, way up. CL

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