Edmonton Home & Condo Living July 2013 by Source Media Group

contents J uly 2 0 1 3

volume 5 issue 4 0

COVER FEATURE

8 Leduc living lures

Southfork by Tamani Communities drawing buyers in droves

Show Home Profile

10 The Synergy II

shines in Newcastle

Coventry Homes’ northerly show home a favourite for families

Condo Profile

14 In their Elements

Carlisle Group’s latest condominium project boasts affordable quality in the north Community Profile

16 A Starling is born

Rohit’s award-winning community at Big Lake gets back to nature

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Design & DÉcor

20 Wallpaper 101

On-trend choices can make your style stick

Feature

25 Tales from

the condo zone

I’ll never forget the day I met ‘the librarian’

Market view

30 Alberta remains

a bright spot for housing

items

6 Editor’s Message 23 Around Town 26 Maps 29 Ad Index J uly 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 5

editor’s message

Hot summer in Edmonton and region housing Condominium living can be an affordable choice for buyers looking to get into the market. Those of you on the hunt for this maintenance-free lifestyle will want to check out this month’s profile on the Carlisle Group’s latest offering, Elements II in McConachie, which are now selling at some unbelievable prices.

PUBLISHER

Source Media Group

info@sourcemediagroup.ca A ssociate P U B L I S H E R

Jim Zang

jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca E ditor

Since life in a condo can mean sharing walls with others, there are bound to be some notable neighbours. Once again this month associate publisher Jim Zang entertains with his Condo Tales, this time waxing poetic on a personal experience about a chance meeting between the stacks of a condo library.

Shelley Williamson shelley.williamson@sourcemediagroup.ca AR T DIRECTOR

Jean Faye Rodriguez

jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca G R A P H I C D E S I G N er S

Those who prefer a more natural setting have

Lama Azhari

plenty of options in this edition of Edmonton

lama.azhari@sourcemediagroup.ca

Dave Macaulay

Home and Condo Living, starting with the cover

dave.maucaulay@sourcemediagroup.ca

story on Tamani Communities’ Southfork.

Megan Sereda

megan.sereda@sourcemediagroup.ca

The Leduc master-planned community is well

production administrator

underway, with single-family homes and duplexes

Colleen Leier

now selling from the $300,000s. Turn to page 8

colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca

for details on the family-friendly area on the city’s

E ditorial

Wesley Gunderson, Rosalyn Lazaruk, Jim Zang

outskirts to the south. Who said living in a new home has to mean

photography

giving up the creature comforts of having nature

Shelley Williamson

nearby? Certainly not Rohit Land Development,

director of S A L E S

Norma Robertson

whose award-winning Starling at Big Lake community is now in the early stages of development in the northwest, at 199 Street and 137 Avenue. Read all about which buyers, wildlife and builders are spreading their wings in the 135-acre neighbourhood on page 16.

norma.robertson@sourcemediagroup.ca A dvertising S A L E S

Jennifer Mills

jennifer.mills@sourcemediagroup.ca

Meanwhile, Coventry Homes is the subject of our show home profile. See why the Edmonton veteran builder’s Synergy II is turning heads in the community of Newcastle in the north, and what is in store for the builder’s next model address, set to

ACCOUNTING

Donna Roberts

accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY

Source Media Group, Media Classified

open up later this summer. Design darling Rosalyn Lazaruk is back with her always-popular expert advice, this time around with a practical take on wallpaper that won’t leave you hanging in our regular Design and Décor section. And no issue would be complete without weighing in on the market with Wesley Gunderson, who tells us once again that the time to buy in Oil City has never been better, thanks to employment growth in full-time work, a new downtown arena, and a strong housing inventory.

I SS N 1918 - 4 4 6 8 PRINTED IN C ANADA

Copyright 2013 by Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expressed written permission of the publishers. Source Media Group Corp. agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion.

Edmonton Home & Condo Living™ is published 12 times per annum and is available free through select distribution points in Edmonton and area. One-year subscriptions are available for $12 in Canada, $48 internationally. Edmonton Home & Condo Living™ accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to: enleditor@ sourcemediagroup.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request.

Shelley Williamson Editor shelley.williamson@sourcemediagroup.ca

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Source media group 207, 5809 Macleod Trail SW, Calgary, AB T2H 0J9 403.532.3101

Canadian Home Builders’ Association

S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

| Advertising cover Feature |

Leduc living Southfork by Tamani Communities drawing buyers in droves

uyers looking for a sense of community away from the hustle and bustle of the big city are seeing value worth digging in and planting roots in Southfork. The 376-acre master-planned neighbourhood on the south side of Leduc developed by Tamani Communities offers buyers the best of both worlds — a home close to small-city creature comforts, a quick commute to careers in Edmonton as close as 10 minutes away. “The appeal is the tight-knit community feel, with young vibrant families living in it,” says Nicole Westman, marketing co-ordinator for Tamani Communities. “And the amenities are beyond any other community located in (other communities in) Leduc.” Among those community perks is a “super park” now under construction, that will boast a waterfall as an entry feature, as well as scores of walking and biking paths, plus picnic areas, says Westman. “This is a draw as it gets the families together as they can enjoy barbecuing together while the kids play on the playground; it’s basically a park that fits for families of all ages,” she says. A central pond with two fountains, which are up and running each summer, adds some water to the well-planned community, says Westman. Meanwhile, the pathways in the neighbourhood

link up with the more than 35 kilometres of multi-use paths meandering throughout the city of Leduc, making for plenty of roadway for bikes, running and rollerblading for Southfork residents. For those who prefer to stay close to home, recreational pursuits within the City of Leduc include the Maclab Centre for the Performing Arts including a 460-seat theatre, and the 309,000-square-foot Leduc Recreation Centre, which boasts three NHL-sized arenas, an aquatic centre and a curling rink. Respected builders in Southfork include Tamani sister companies Innovations by Jayman and Jayman MasterBUILT, as well as Dolce Vita Homes, and Homes by Avi, with a mix of semi-detached, laned and single-family homes with front-drive garages for homebuyers to select from. While about a third of buyers so far hail originally from the Leduc area, about the same number are those from Edmonton proper looking for a place to live with a smaller community feel, says Westman, adding the remainder are from rural Alberta and Fort McMurray. New show homes just opened up, with 12 singlefamily homes to tour. Home styles of Contemporary

“The appeal is the tight-knit community feel, with young vibrant families living in it ... And the amenities are beyond any other community located in ... Leduc.”

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| Advertising cover Feature |

lures Heritage include handsome Craftsman, Prairie, Georgian and Colonial designs in distinctive darker hues, punctuated by white trim and dark shingle colours, to maintain property value and keep the area looking consistent well into the future. New lots being released in this phase also offer buyers plenty of choice, including south exposure and park-facing lots, poised to truly craft those dream homes with enviable views on. The community of Southfork is expected to be built-out in about 10 years, at which time the complete development will also include additional parks, at least one school and commercial services. n

Fast Facts Area: Southfork in Leduc Developer: Tamani Communities Builders and Prices: Homes by Avi, Dolce Vita Homes and Jayman MasterBUILT build front- drive homes starting at $385,000 (including lot and GST). Avi, Dolce Vita and Innovations by Jayman are also crafting semi-detached homes from $310,000 Hours: Monday to Thursday from 2 to 8.p.m., weekends and holidays 12 to 5 p.m. Web: www.southforkleduc.ca

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show home profile

The Synergy II shines in Coventry Homes’ northerly show home a favourite for families Story and photos by Shelley Williamson

y definition, synergy means that things work better, or are greater than the sum of their parts, when they are brought together as a team. Touring the Synergy II show home by Coventry Homes, and experiencing how the home’s flow seems enhanced from all of its spaces interacting, it’s clear the model’s moniker fits to a T. One of the more popular homes for the 35-year veteran city builder, would-be buyers seem to appreciate the practicality in the 2,049-square-foot two-storey, three-bedroom abode. “What they like is the simplicity of it — the main floor layout is very functional for people,” says Feisal Rahall, area sales manager

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for Coventry Homes in Newcastle. Among perks being served up as standard fare on the ground floor is a wide-open plan featuring living, eating and cooking space all within sight. A generous nook and large gathering room with a cosy fireplace are outdone only by the kitchen, which, save for the basement development, is the only upgrade to the show home. Here, a 36-inch professional gas range and hood fan are sure to whet culinary enthusiasts’ appetites, while space for four at the granite-top island lets the

S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

show home profile

Newcastle whole crew belly up to the eating bar. It’s all part of the “executive chef” lifestyle package with Coventry, one of nine bundles of features available, designed to save buyers on the overall upgrades by combining them. But most who visit the show home are surprised by what is not an upgrade in Coventry’s homes, says Rahall. “Buyers who end up buying with us are generally people who do their research; they are educated,” he says. Tankless water heaters, nine-foot basement ceilings, gas barbecue lines, full home networking, hardwood and tile and three distinct finishing packages are among a two-page list of features standard to Coventry Homes. The trip up the stairs is brightened thanks to a spindle railing and opening window flanking the landing heading to the well-designed upper level. Here, space for everyone abounds, from large bedrooms to a vaulted-ceiling bonus room that makes the perfect spot for movies, games or entertaining friends. Bedrooms are also generous, from nearly-identicalsized kids’ sleeping quarters, to a massive retreat for grownups, including an ensuite with a grand vanity, corner soaker tub and separate shower. “People love the fact that the master bedroom and the ensuite take up the whole back of the home,” says Rahall. Perhaps the best-kept secret of the second level is the laundry room, sure to spare elbow grease and trips up and down the stairs on wash day, complete with a window for airing out the space.

“What they like is the simplicity of it — the main floor layout is very functional for people.”

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show home profile

“... the master bedroom and the ensuite take up the whole back of the home.” The show home as it is seen is priced at $508,000, but that includes full basement development of a bedroom, bathroom and massive recreation room. While some opt for this, its inclusion was mostly to showcase what the builder offers, says Rahall. Coventry Homes builds about 230 homes annually and was recently honoured with the 2013 Awards of Excellence in Housing J.D. Power and Associates, Builder of Excellence award. “What speaks better to you of the qualifications than surveys of people after they have moved in?” says Rahall, of the accolade that is the result of top marks on third-party surveys of its homebuyers on the builder’s service. In addition to single-family homes with from attached garages like the Synergy II, Coventry Homes is also crafting duplex homes in Newcastle, with rear-detached garages and landscaping. “It’s an absolutely turnkey design,” says Rahall of the digs priced from $360,000 to $375,000. Coventry will open its next single-family show home in Newcastle this summer. In a bit of a design turn, the 2,269-square-foot Aurora will boast a formal dining room and main-floor “discover area,” four bedrooms and upstairs bonus room, plus basement development — including two bedrooms, media space and a bath. n 12 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J uly 2 01 3

Fast Facts Builder: Model: Area: Style: Size: Price:

Coventry Homes Synergy II Newcastle in north Edmonton Two-storey with front-attached double garage 1,500 square-feet $475,000 without basement development, $508,000 with Address: 12420-171 Ave. N.W. Hours: Monday to Thursday 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays from noon to 5 p.m. Web: www.coventry-homes.com S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

condo profile

In their Elements Carlisle Group’s latest condominium project boasts affordable quality in the north By Shelley Williamson

Fast Facts Builder: Project: Style: Size: Price:

Carlisle Group Elements II in McConachie Apartment-style condominiums 615 to 1,025 square-feet One-bedroom-with-den suites from $130,000s; two bedrooms from the $140,000s including GST Hours: Monday to Thursday 2 to 7 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. Address: Sales centre at 1060 McConachie Blvd.; show suite at 119, 11804 22 Ave. (Heritage Landing) Web: elementscondos.ca

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he Carlisle Group has done it again, and its latest offering has all the elements of an affordable condo priced for less than the cost of rent, in some cases. “Our big kick is our affordability,” says Kim Laskin, sales manager of the Carlisle Group, developer of Elements II in McConachie. At a launch event in April, 60 of 99 suites in the first phase of Elements II were snapped up from just $129,900 for two-bedroom units. Though many attractive suites went fast, one-bedroom-and-den units are now selling from the $130,000s and two-bedroom suites, still very reasonably from the $140,000s and $150,000s. “We deliver a very nice product for a nice price,” says Laskin. “It is unparalleled in the city; no one has come close to our prices.” It’s a familiar story for the Carlisle Group, whose Rutherford Landing launched in two popular events last June and September, and is now nearly sold out. Elements I, which launched last April, has 202 of its 209 units sold, says Laskin. S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

condo profile

nts

Two-bedroom suites in Elements II range from 615 to 1,025 square-feet, and include everything a first-time homebuyer could want. For just $795, residents can upgrade to wood cabinets throughout suites, while another $795 will fetch one-inch granite countertops in bathrooms and kitchens. “I would say 99 per cent of people go with both those upgrades,” explains Laskin. He credits the ability of the Carlisle Group, who has crafted five city condo projects prior to Elements II over the past two years, to netting finishing materials in bulk with being able to then pass affordable homes on to its buyers. That’s not to say residents will feel anything is missing from their well-planned apartment-style suites. Among other features, open floor plans, spacious rooms with large windows, five included appliances, in-suite laundry and balconies come with all units. While first-time buyers are definitely seeing the value in home ownership at Elements II, Laskin says empty-nesters and a few S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

investors have also been drawn to the price point and quality for the cost. “It really is an amazing spec we deliver for the price,” he notes. One thing home shoppers won’t find at Elements II are expensive amenities that drive up the cost of condo fees. “We really think the city’s recreation centres do it best, so we leave it to them,” says Laskin. “Fancy and elaborate amenities don’t allow you to keep the condo fees low.” A sales centre is open on site at 1060 McConachie Blvd. on weekends, noon to 5 p.m., and weekdays except Friday, from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. Those who prefer to get a taste for what show suites will look like, and get more of a hands-on experience with finishing details and colours, can do so at a show suite at Carlisle’s Heritage Landing project on the south side, during the same hours at 119, 11804 22 Ave. S.W. And residents, who will have a chance to save up for everything they need before making the move to Elements II suites next fall, get to take advantage of all the McConachie community offers. Pathways around the community’s wetland and park space are nearby, while shopping is also close at Hollick Kenyon Landing Shopping Centre. n

“We deliver a very nice product for a nice price ... It is unparalleled in the city; no one has come close to our prices.”

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COMMUNITY PROFILE

A Starling is born L

iving in a new home in a master-planned community doesn’t have to mean giving up proximity to nature. That’s the principle behind Starling at Big Lake, Rohit Land Development’s northwest Edmonton community at 199 Street and 137 Avenue, nestled right in the thick of it. “The loudest sounds are the birds chirping. Once you drop down into the subdivision, it’s completely private and quiet,” says Russell Dauk, vice-president of land and commercial development at the Rohit Group of Companies. Rohit’s portion of the land, Starling at Big Lake, encompasses 135 acres, but the Big Lake Area Structure Plan is much larger, with 28,000 slated as the area’s eventual population. Starling, itself, boasts arguably some of the richest real estate in the area, flanked not only by a natural pond, but also a storm water pond, all joined by park space and an environmental reserve.

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COMMUNITY PROFILE

Rohit’s awardwinning community at Big Lake gets back to nature By Shelley Williamson Photos courtesy of the Rohit Group of Companies As Big Lake is home to more than 220 bird species, the neighbourhood of Starling is aptly-named. The winged namesakes frequent the area, as do scores of other wildlife. Luck had nothing to do with it, says Dauk, noting the land was carefully selected for Starling, just as the treatment of the land will be careful throughout its development, through low-impact initiatives. That includes a bioswale, which keeps pollutants and silt from being cycled back into Big Lake, low-impact development of the area to keep migratory birds coming back, and details like LED streetlights and deeper topsoil on home lots to maintain moisture in lawns and trees longer.

The land was carefully selected for Starling, just as treatment of the land will be careful throughout its development, through lowimpact initiatives. S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

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COMMUNITY PROFILE

“There is no direct runoff to the lake … It ultimately keeps things just a little cleaner,” says Dauk. Rolling hills atypical of Edmonton also punctuate Starling, making it easier for home builders to design and build homes with walkout basements and expansive views of nature from each level. “There is about a 40 foot drop … you don’t just get into a pancake subdivision,” says Dauk. He argues that ravine lot prices in Starling, since it is still within its first 100 homes under construction, are now among “the best in Edmonton,” where rates for such views might run upwards of $300,000 to a half-million for land alone. In Starling, lots backing onto ravine start at $225,000. Dauk calls the community “a fresh start” for buyers looking to dig in roots in a new home and community. He says another draw to the natural neighbourhood, which will eventually be home to 1,000 families, is the job market all around it. “It is just surrounded by employment, with St. Albert to the north and the industrial hub to the west,” he explains. Builders in the community include Rohit’s building arm, Rohit Communities, as well as Kirkland Homes, Green Living Homes, Celebration Homes, and Cameron Homes. Duplex or semi-detached homes in the area start from the $330,000s, while single-family homes start around the $420,000 mark. Architecture, though classic, is also basic. “We’ve done something very simple. The trims (on the houses) in the community are all white; it gives a fresh feeling and a look that’s timeless,” explains Dauk. In terms of location, residents at Starling have a flock of options to reach amenities nearby. Just four minutes from the city of St. Albert and close to virtually anywhere in Edmonton thanks to the Anthony Henday ring road, Starling homeowners won’t feel like they are in the middle of nowhere. “We are definitely seeing people who have considered St. Albert

Just four minutes from the city of St. Albert and close to virtually anywhere in Edmonton thanks to the Anthony Henday ring road, Starling homeowners won’t feel like they are in the middle of nowhere. 18 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J uly 2 01 3

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COMMUNITY PROFILE

home, but we’re also seeing people from Edmonton looking for a home and a chance to have a fresh start in a new neighbourhood,” says Dauk. Show homes, which took best parade honours from this year’s Awards of Excellence in Housing through the Canadian Home Builders Association – Edmonton Region (CHBA – ER), are open Monday through Thursday from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays, noon to 5 p.m. For more information, and directions to Starling at Big Lake, visit starlingatbiglake.com Dauk is confident that now with the northwesterly community showing signs of progress — a nature viewing platform/gazebo is under construction now, while a second set of show homes will open over the next several months — next year might bring more awards and interest of even more buyers. But those who swoop in early will never regret the move, he says. “Early adopters will reap the benefits of Big Lake … I think it’s a hidden gem.” n

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Fast Facts Developer: Rohit Land Development Community: Starling at Big Lake Builders: Rohit Communities, Kirkland Homes, Green Living Homes, Celebration Homes and Cameron Homes Prices: Duplex or semi-detached homes in the area start from the $330,000s, while single-family homes start around the $420,000 mark. Location: Northwest Edmonton at 137 Avenue and Ray Gibbon Drive Hours: Monday to Thursday, 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays from noon to 5 p.m. Web: starlingatbiglake.com

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DESign & DÉcor

Wallpaper 101

On-trend choices can make your style stick By Rosalyn Lazaruk

talk often about wallpaper and how I love the way it transforms a space. It adds personality, texture, pattern and colour like no other treatment can. With on-trend paper becoming more readily available at many local big box stores, as well as your local paint store, it really is something we can all do. But that’s just the thing — how do you do it? I am often asked by clients, friends and family if wallpapering is a project a beginner DIY-er can take on, so this month I thought I would break down the basics and give everyone some wallpaper 101! There are several ways to install wallpaper and it is a good idea to do a little research to decide which is the best for you and your skill level. Easy: Self-adhesive papers install with a basic peel-and-stick method. It is easy to peel of and re-apply if you have made a mistake and is a great option if you are in a rental that doesn’t allow you to make permanent changes to the space. Intermediate: With pre-pasted papers, the backs have a glue or adhesive coating. The adhesive needs to be moistened with water or an adhesive activator before application. This is the most common type of paper on the market. Professional: Non-pasted paper comes just as that — paper. The manufacturer will recommend a paste or glue to use with their product. This process can be fussy and messy and I do not recommend it for first-timers! Tools of the trade: The items listed below will help make this daunting task a little less stressful and are

available at your local hardware store. I also suggest watching a few tutorials on-line to get the hang of it as well as some tips from experienced paperhangers. • Canvas drop cloth • Plastic wallpaper tray • Foam smoother • Plastic smoother • Metal ruler • Level

• Measuring tape • Pencil • Seam roller • Sponge • X-acto knife

How Much?

Unfortunately wallpaper rolls either come in single or double rolls, with the yardage, width and pattern repeat being different dependant on the paper. When you find the paper you love, check out the manufacturer’s website and they will have a quantity calculator to help you figure out the exact quantity you will need, and then I usually add a roll for good measure!

Projects

For your first project I would suggest starting small… don’t take on your entire dining room on the first go! Take a powder: Small bathrooms and powder rooms are a great place for a wall treatment. You can go big and bold with your paper choice and the job can get done in a day! Bedroom basics: A feature wall behind a bed is a favourite spot for a paper treatment. It creates a focal point in the space and a fabulous backdrop for a beautifully styled bed and nightstands. Hopefully that helps with the basics and inspires you to make a statement with wallpaper in your next décor project! n

Designer Rosalyn Lazaruk has been working in design and décor for seven years, and established her own business, Wicket Blue Interiors, in 2004. She has a broad repertoire in designing personal spaces within the home, as well as in implementing intriguing space and design concepts within the commercial setting. Rosalyn is devoted to developing and implementing unique design ideas that reflect the vision and individuality of her clients. To see more of Rosalyn’s design ideas visit www.wicketblue.com. S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

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AROUND TOWN By Shelley Williamson

Apartments going up, up up Housing starts rose again in May, especially in the multi-family market — which saw the best month in six years — according to the latest statistics from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). Starts in the Edmonton Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) were trending at 14,711 units in May compared to 14,417 in April. “The trend in total housing starts

continued to move higher in May, supported by heightened production in both the single-detached and multi-family markets,” says Lai Sing Louie, CMHC’s regional economist for the Prairie and Territories Region. “The gain in housing starts was most pronounced in the multi-family sector, where apartment starts in May reThe trend is a six month moving average ported the highest monthly total in nearly of the monthly seasonally adjusted annual six years,” he adds. rates (SAAR) of total housing starts.

Landmark goes for Net Zero The Landmark Group of Companies is doing its part to combat climate change with its second Net Zero project in the Edmonton region, 14 townhomes in Larch Park. Sparrow Landing in Larch Park was chosen as one of 12 sites open to the public for the 14th annual eco-solar tour back in June. The townhome project will double the Landmark’s Net Zero projects in Edmonton and builds on Landmark’s previous experience building zero-energy homes — specifically the 2013 University Hospital Foundation Lottery Home and the Solex 2 in Cranston in Calgary. A Net Zero home works by using enhanced energy efficiency design strategies to cost effectively reduce energy needs, while

Rendering of Sparrow Landing at Larch Park S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

supplementing with renewable energy technologies — in effect producing as much energy as it consumes on an annual basis. The idea of a Net Zero energy home is that it employs enhanced energy efficiency design strategies to cost effectively reduce energy needs, while supplementing with renewable energy technologies — resulting in a home that produces as much energy as it consumes. Landmark Group has a goal to be building all of its homes Net Zero by 2015. “We always have sustainable initiatives at the forefront of our mind and constantly aim to improve in this area,” says says Reza Nasseri, CEO of Landmark Group of Builders. “We take on the newest advancements in energy efficient building practices whenever we can.” Landmark was able to attract support from the Climate Change and Emissions Management Corporation (CCEMC), who provided partial funding to the project. Sparrow Landing at Larch Park is currently under construction and is slated to be complete this summer at 7804 May Link N.W., with September occupancy planned.

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Around Town

Fox One sales leaping ahead on 104 Street The same developer that brought residential towers of Icon and Omega to the city’s core will soon bring its third condo development to another prime downtown location. Langham Developments’ Fox One is now selling from its sales centre at 102 Avenue and 104 Street, and options to buy in the first phase are running out. The 142-unit, 28-floor tower , the first of two, is already 85 per cent sold, says Fox One sales associate Terry Reekie. “It is probably the best location in downtown, and the value is apparent,” she notes. The first building, when complete in March of 2015, will boost the area’s walkability with shops and services slated on the main and second floors, as mandated by the City of Edmonton. In fact, Walkscore.com rated the tower in the top two per cent of pedestrian-friendly locations in the world, says Reekie. So far professional first-time buyers and empty nesters alike are seeing the value in the white-and-glass tower, snapping up one-, two-, and especially three-bedroom suites within, she adds. “The larger units and those overlooking 104 Street went the fastest,” says Reekie. Remaining one-bedroom suites are priced from $262,000 to $287,000, while two-bedroom units are $351,000 to $384,000. A second tower, already approved at 32 stories, will follow Fox One. For more information visit the sales centre, or foxtowers.ca.

Fox One towers rendering.

Construction is big business Residential construction is big business in Alberta. How big? According to CHBA – Alberta, every 22 minutes work begins on a new home somewhere in Alberta. The figure comes from new research conducted by Will Dunning Inc. showing Alberta builders and renovators completed more than $15 billion in work last year, employing 48,000 workers directly and another 44,000 indirectly. Wages paid totaled more than $5.7 billion. That makes the home building industry a key player in Alberta’s economy. Consider that in 2011 shipments of Alberta agri-foods were worth $12.2 billion and forest products $4 billion, while the machinery and metal fabrication sector generated revenues of $13.7 billion. Residential construction beats them all. n 2 4 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J uly 2 01 3

To reserve your space in the next edition, contact Jennifer Mills at

780.905.3575 jennifer.mills@sourcemediagroup.ca

S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

Feature

Tales From The Condo Zone I’ll never forget the day I met ‘the librarian’ By Jim Zang

y wife’s mom and dad used to live in a seniors condo. Well, it wasn’t all just seniors. It was restricted to owners aged 45 and up. Since it was just up the street from our house the kids and I used to go there all the time to visit, and also to take advantage of the swimming pool, hot tub, billiard tables and theatre room. Voracious reader that I am, I even made regular runs to their inhouse library to borrow books from time to time. I had my own key and, unfortunately, looked old enough to be a resident. Actually, they had several smaller library areas scattered throughout the complex, but it was the main library, in the lounge area above the swimming pool, where “it” happened. “It” being my first close encounter with “the librarian”. She was 80 if she was a day, with a wild shock of snow white hair, a don’t mess with me attitude, and more wrinkles than seemed to fit on her face. She drove one of those motorized wheel chairs, but also carried a cane, knitting needles and yarn. I remember thinking, “I wonder why she carries that cane when she’s in a wheelchair.” I’ll never forget the first time I saw her. “Hi,” I said, nodding as I walked into the library/lounge area on the second floor of the four-storey building. “You’re pretty loud coming up those stairs,” she rasped. “Sorry,” I said. “You’d think folks would have a little consideration, this being a library and all.” Now she’s giving me the stink-eye. “Sorry,” I said again as I continued my search for a good murder mystery. “I don’t recognize you,” she said, manoeuvring her electric wheelchair to a spot between myself and the exit. My spider sense is tingling now. Danger. Maybe there will be a murder, right here! I can see the headline now: Man killed borrowing books from condo, librarian suspected! I tried to move around the other side of the coffee table — and her cane came out, blocking the way. Now I saw why she needed both the chair AND the cane.

“Do you live here?” she barked accusingly. “You can’t borrow books unless you live here.” “Sure I live here,” I lied, at this point more than a little nervous at being alone with a potential book lover/serial killer. “Suite 309,” I said. Not even my in-laws’ real suite number, which I didn’t remember under the pressure. “Hmmph,” she snorted, eyeing the three books in my hand, “well, make sure you leave some for the other folks.” And just like that, she turned her wheelchair on a dime and motored off. There’s more than 1,000 books on the shelves but I put one back, just in case she was still watching. n

Illustration by Lama Azhari S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

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EDMONTON AND AREA MAP NEW HOMES 1. Northern Lights Estates 2. Erin Ridge 3. North Ridge 4. Tuscany Hills 5. The Crossing at River’s Edge 6. The Manors of Oakmont 7. Regency Heights Estates 8. Kingswood 9. Greystone Manor 10. Pinnacle Ridge Estates 11. Riverstone Pointe 12. The Banks of Sturgeon Valley

CONDOS 1. Lakeview Estates 2. Sierras of Inglewood 3. Grande- Mission Hill 4. Tenor

NEW HOMES 1. Stony Village 2. Brookview 3. Graybriar 4. The Fairways 5. Willow Park 6. Lake Westerra 7. Stellar Homes

CONDOS 1. Laredo On The Park 2. Station 33 3. Stony Village 4. Graywood Terrace 5. Cedar Brae 6. Urbia Place

NEW HOMES 1. Jesperdale 2. Stoneshire 3. Harvest Ridge 4. Deer Park Estates 5. Hilldowns 6. Spruce Village 7. Spruce Ridge 8. Hawthorne at Heatherglen 9. Springate at Spruce Ridge 10. Legacy Park 11. Lakewood

CONDOS 1. Parkland Village 2. Fairway Eight 3. Harvest Ridge 4. Nova Ridge Villas 5. Spruce Ridge Manor 6. The Pointe 7. Kingstreet on Park

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S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

NEW HOMES 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Village Champlain La Rose Grandin Park Close Notre Dame Estates The Lakes

NEW HOMES 1. Valley Pointe Estates 2. Forest Ridge in West Park 3. Westwood Trails 4. West Woodlands 5. Southfort 6. Southpointe 7. Sienna

CONDOS 1. Village Champlain 2. Maple Brooks Villas 3. La Rose

CONDOS 1. Riverview Estates 2. Fort Gardens 3. Walnut Grove

NEW HOMES 1. Strathcona Village 2. Aspen Trail 3. Summerwood 4. Lakeland Ridge 5. Clarkdale Park 6. Foxboro 7. Willow Ridge/The Ridge 8. Sherwood Hill Estates 9. Balmoral Heights 10. Fountain Creek Estates 11. Sherwood Golf & Country Club Estates

CONDOS 1. Pallisades on the Ravine 2. Strathcona Village 3. Crystal Estates 4. Axxess 5. Summerwood Greens 6. Maple Ridge & Oak Ridge

NEW HOMES 1. Deer Valley 2. West Haven 3. Bridgeport 4. Aspen Creek 5. Suntree 6. Windrose 7. Southfork 8. Tribute 9. Meadowiew Park

CONDOS 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Brooklands at Bridgeport Ravine Villas Urbia Manor Urbia Green The Springs at Bridgeport

S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

NEW HOMES 1. Coloniale Estates 2. Montalet 3. Citadel Ridge 4. Eaglemont Heights 5. Montrose Estates 6. Westbrook 7. Four Seasons Estates 8. Goudreau Terrace 9. Triomphe Estates 10. Beaumont Lakes 11. Place Chaleureuse 12. Beau Val

CONDOS 1. Coventry Homes 2. The Village at Beaumont 3. Beausjour 4. Montrose View 5. Giselle Valley Manor

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CITY OF EDMONTON MAP

INNER CITY Legend Shopping Centre

Points of Interest

Hospitals

CONDO PROPERTIES 1. Aurora 2. Serenity 3. Axio Parkland 4. Mosaic Meadows Parkland 5. Windermere Village 6. Macewan Gardens 7. Sandstone at Walkers Lake Station 8. Aspen Meadows 9. Meridian Plaza 10. The Corners 11. Griesbach Wood II 12. Griesbach Wood III 13. Carlton Villas on the Lake 14. Trails of Millcreek 15. The University Brownstones 16. Century Park 17. Hollick Kenyon Pointe 18. Evergreen Community 19. Maple/Oak Ridge Community 20. The Esates of Upper Windermere 21. The Ion 22. Grand Scala 23. Heritage Landing 24. 12th Street Station 25. Mosaic Town Square 26. Mosaic Summerside 27. Axio in Parkland 28. Stone Pointe 29. Aspen Meadows 30. Walker Lake Landing 31. Rutherford Landing 32. Fox One 33. Fuzion

Colleges /Universities

NEW HOME LISTINGS 1. Walker Lake Estates 2. Lewis Estates 3. Secord 4. Parkland 5 The Hamptons 6 Copperwood 7 South Hamptons 8. The Properties of Donsdale 9. Cameron Heights 10. Terwillegar Towne 11. South Terwillegar 12. Palisades 13. Upper Windermere 14. Windermere Ridge 15. Ambleside in Windermere 16 Rutherford 17. Callaghan 18. Walker Lakes Station 19. Lake Summerside 20. Ellerslie Heights 21. Tamarack 22. Griesbach 23. Fields of Summerside 24. Allard in Heritage Valley 25. Tuscany Hills 26. McConachie Landing 27. McConachie 28. Laurel 29. Ravines of Richford 30. Trumpeter at Big Lake 31. Axio Summerside 32. Touchmark 33. Hawks Ridge at Big Lake 34. Woodhaven – Edgemont

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S O U R C E ME D I A G R O U P : C E L E B R AT IN G I T S 10 T H Y E A R

ADVERTISERS INDEX Brookfield Homes

Page 32

Mosaic Townhomes www.buildwithbrookfield.com Carlisle Group

Page 13

Elements II www.elementscondos.ca Lincolnberg Master Builder

Page 2-3

www.lincolnberg.com Sabal

Page 7

www.sabalhomes.com Symphony

Page 20

www.symphonyliving.ca Walton Development

Page 4

Hawks Ridge www.hawksridge.ca Walton Development

Page 31

McConachie www.mcconachie.ca Walton Development

Page 22

Woodhaven www.woodhavenedgemont.com

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J uly 2 01 3 E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 2 9

market view by Wesley Gunderson

Alberta remains a bright spot for housing Regular readers of this column know that Alberta and Edmonton have some of the strongest economic fundamentals in Canada, and the world for that matter. These fundamentals continue to get stronger, with notable improvements in employment, building activity and affordable housing. Employment growth On the surface Alberta’s employment has grown 0.4 per cent or 8,300 jobs in the first quarter of the year. This doesn’t seem like much, but there is something incredible happening behind these stats. Alberta actually added 25,500 full-time jobs while it lost 17,200 part time jobs. So, in essence, not only is employment growing in number of jobs, but we have effectively replaced part-time positions with full-time positions and increased the hours and pay of Alberta workers. This trickles down in consumer spending and helps bolster our already world class economy. Rise in building permits Residential permits to the end of April show a 31 per cent rise in the value and a 17 per cent rise in the number of units, year-over-year. When we look at Edmonton’s total permits — not just residential, but also industrial, institutional and commercial — values are up 60 per cent. A significant factor in this growth is related to a permit pulled for the new arena. Still, building permits translate into more jobs, contracts and materials, which lead to pay cheques and spending, all improving overall fundamentals. Similarly, Calgary’s total permit values to the end of April were up 18 per cent over last year.

Housing inventories support home prices This rise in construction activity is coming at the right time as Darrell Cook, president of the Edmonton Real Estate Board recently commented, “inventory levels … are still below traditional norms and there is a shortage of … single-family dwelling inventory.” This provides a solid foundation to home prices in Edmonton. It is also one of the reasons the average single family dwelling in Edmonton is up 5.35 per cent year-over-year to the end of April on MLS. Still, Alberta is considered one of the “bright spots” by RBC Economics Housing Trends and Affordability (May 2013) report, with Edmonton being the most affordable major market for detached bungalow, standard two-storey or standard condominium. Solid employment growth, solid construction activity and a bolstered housing market are improvements to our economy that already had strong fundamentals. Buyers can make a housing decision with the confidence that they will have work and that house values are solid. n

Wesley Gunderson is Vice President of Finance for Growth Marketing an Edmonton based real estate consultancy firm providing integrated marketing services to its valued clients. Mr. Gunderson has been with the firm since 1997 and actively involved in economic and market research, marketing and product strategy as well as advertising and sales promotion. 3 0 • E D M O N T O N H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J uly 2 01 3

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