Loving Cochrane Living April 2014

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april 2014

Cover feature

5 With nature at your back

Riversong beckons with the allure of nature

Community feature

6 More than just ice cream

Cochrane’s boom has not affected its quaint, small town lifestyle

builder features

10 It’s great to be green!

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Landmark Homes built for people who care

14 Pinnacle of dreams

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Calbridge offers Cochrane townhomes with a view

16 Style and substance

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Sabal Homes offers uncommonly stylish lifestyle in Riversong

20 Home on The Range

Birchwood offers stylish townhomes for Cochrane’s first-time buyers

22 Tried, tested, and true

Homes by Avi is a builder buyers trust

24 In love with Innovation

Stylish street towns ready for quick move-ins in Sunset Ridge

26 Riviera romance

18 The heart of the matter

28 Classic appeal

30 Hearth of Cochrane

ReidBuilt’s varied home designs help create a strong sense of community in Fireside

DEVELOPER features

12 Family-friendly Fireside

The warm glow of small town living is evident in Fireside Heartland’s location and affordability are keys to success

Source Media Group Associate PUBLISHER • Jim Zang Editor • Pepper Rodriguez Art director • Jean Faye Rodriguez graphic designers • Lama Azhari, Dave Macaulay, Megan Sereda PROD UCTION co-ordinator • Colleen Leier Contributors • Aaliya Essa, Christine Roulston, Jennifer Seamone, Janine Workman, Portia Yip Advertising SALES • Heather Dougall Accounting • Donna Roberts PUBLISHER •

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Riversong’s exclusive enclave brings estate appeal to Cochrane La Vita’s the Willows of River Heights offers boutique-style living

Loving Cochrane Living® is published bi-annually and is available free through select distribution points in Calgary and Cochrane. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from the publishers. Copyright 2014 by Source Media Group Corp. All rights reserved. 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.

Contact: Source Media Group, 207 – 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 0J9.

E-mail info@sourcemediagroup.ca; Tel 403.532.3101; Fax 403.532.3109; Toll free 1.888.932.3101; Printed in Canada. Distributed by Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group. PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011. Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Source Media Group, 207 – 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 0J9.

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Riversong by Tamani n

With nature at your back Riversong beckons with the allure of nature n By Pepper Rodriguez

Riversong is the only new community in South Cochrane that backs onto the Bow River.

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t’s hard to believe that the Cochrane community of Riversong has become a thriving new community so shortly after it launched six years ago. This idyllic neighbourhood set on the banks of the gently flowing Bow River is indeed approaching its final phases, yet its strong connection to nature remains evident.

It is estimated that this first Tamani Communities’ development in Cochrane will be built out in the next few years, but busy as it has been, Riversong’s quiet, small town ambience has not been lost. Key to this appeal is that about a third of the 340-acre community has been set aside as an environmental preserve.

“We’ve been very well-received in Cochrane, people immediately knew that we had something special in Riversong,” says Nicole Westman, marketing manager, Tamani Communities.

Riversong has had an approximate 25 to 30 per cent market share in Cochrane for the past four years, which is testament to its popularity. Its ingenious design has also been noted by the industry, and this year Riversong is nominated for the SAM Awards’ community of the year.

It is also the only community on the south end of Co-

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chrane that backs onto the Bow River, and the only one with direct pedestrian access to downtown Cochrane.

Westman says a great majority of buyers are made up of first-time homebuyers with young families. “We have a wide range of homes here that will appeal to everyone — from first timers, to young families, to even downsizers,” she says. “In a few more years there will be homes built up along the ridge which will have full views of the mountains and the Town of Cochrane.”

Though it may seem a world away, Riversong has plenty of nearby amenities that make life easy for families. The Bow Valley High School is already located here.

Its location just off Highway 22, just 10 minutes from Calgary, has been one of its most attractive feature, another is its top-notch architectural designs that gels with the community’s close-to-nature environment.

Currently numerous styles of homes and floor plans are available, including — front drive, semi-detached, laned, manors and villas. Some of the phases are situated along the Bow River or backing onto a large amount of treed green space.

Riversong includes a broad range of real estate options crafted to satisfy the diverse needs of our buyers,” adds Westman. “Rarely has a property like this been available to home buyers in the Cochrane and Calgary area.”

New to the community are street oriented townhomes, starting in the high $200,000s, from Innovations by Jayman. Also available are semi-attached homes from the low $300,000s from Trico Homes and Innovations

by Jayman, laned homes from the low to mid $300,000s are from Sabal Homes and Trico Homes, and narrow lot front drive homes in the mid to high $300,000s from Innovations

by Jayman.

Trico Homes and Jayman MasterBUILT have also recently opened semi-estate show homes in the Riviera portion of Riversong, with some lots backing onto the river. Homes here start from the low $500,000s to over $1million. n

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More than just ice cream Cochrane’s boom has not affected its quaint, small town lifestyle

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tanding atop a hill looking down at the Town of Cochrane, and west to the foothills and Rockies beyond, it’s easy to see why the people who live here fall in love with it.

Cochrane truly is one-of-a-kind, with many unique features, and it all starts with the most important: location, location, location.

Nestled along the banks of the Bow River, Cochrane is the gateway to a nature lover’s paradise.

It’s the last town before you get to the Rocky Mountains, clearly visible from the higher elevations in town, while it is still only ten minutes away from Calgary. If a town ever offered the best of both worlds, it’s Cochrane.

“Our location is second to none, it is a beautiful valley, if you’re up on the hillsides, you have awesome mountain views, if you’re down in the valley you have access to the river, we have a lot of parks and paths,” says Ivan Brooker, Mayor of the Town of Cochrane. “Aesthetically it’s a beautiful place to live,” he adds.

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Mayor Ivan Brooker

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The downtown is quaint, almost like stepping back in time, with many old-fashioned western storefronts including, yes, MacKay’s Ice Cream.

It’s a throwback to a small town atmosphere where people nod ‘Hello’ to neighbours and strangers alike when they pass on the street.

Another thing that sets Cochrane apart is the strong connection the people who live there seem to have to the outdoors. And they have tons of recreational activities right outside their doorstep, in town and, of course, further west.

The pathway systems in town are perfect for a nice hike, or a bike ride, a great way to spend the day on your own or with your family. The trails along the river are simply breathtaking, and new pathways going in along the other side of the river will further connect the community.

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There is an excellent dirt biking track as well in addition to the urban skate park, for cyclists that want to take there ride to the next level, and get out there and reach new heights.

And the fishing! Some of the best fly-fishing in the world is right here, along the Bow River banks.

Cochrane also has plans to be even better equipped with additional indoor recreational facilities. “The new rec-centre is being worked on presently,” says Brooker.

“Council set the budget at $45 million budget, for a pool, curling centre/multi-purpose dry land area, where there could be curling in the summer, and there could be a secondary turf surface.”

Currently residents busy themselves with a number

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of activities available at the Spray Lake Sawmill Family Sports Centre, with tons of sports to choose from such as: hockey, figure skating, ringette, inline and floor hockey, soccer, lacrosse, football, basketball, badminton, volleyball, running/walking, gymnastics and a fitness centre.

While downtown retains much of its small town charm, with a historical part of the town still intact and reminders of western heritage everywhere, the outskirts of town are filling up with new stores.

“Walmart is the biggest new store we now have in our downtown quarry site, that was a major anchor tenant for the town, and its now finally open,” says Brooker.

There is also a new Sobeys store, an Original Joe’s restaurant, and residents here can look forward to a Staples

MacKay’s Ice Cream

View from Melcor’s Sunset Ridge.

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Some of the best fly-fishing in the world is right here in Cochrane.

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and Sportcheck coming soon. With new amenities being built, there are many new job opportunities here too.

“We have a movie theatre, they expanded about five years ago, they now have five screens, which is great as now you don’t have to go to the city to watch movies anymore,” says Brooker.

The housing market here is booming too, Brooker says.

“I don’t see Cochrane really slowing down, it will be continuous steady growth, we budget for four per cent growth rate a year, which for the norm is quite aggressive, but for us is somewhat conservative.”

Based on the last civic census, in 2013, there were 18, 750 residents living in town, and growing at about sevenand-a-half per cent a year.

Land developers and homebuilders have responded to this demand with several new communities, on both

sides of the river, offering an abundance of affordable new housing options. From single-family starter homes, to move-up and estate homes, to multi-family, there’s something for everyone being built in Cochrane.

The variety is certainly there, and this gives buyers the ability to pick and choose, not just what part of town they want to live, but also to be choosy about which home they want and which builder they select.

Some residents commute to work in the city and may want to be able to access the highway quickly, while others may want to have easy access to the mountains, and others close to a school, it’s really up to you.

One thing is for sure, however, no matter if you go to work in the city, when you come home for the day, you will notice the difference, and that difference is that there is no place quite like Cochrane. n

NEW COMMUNITIES Fireside

Riversong

There’s something to suit everyone in Fireside, from first time homebuyers, to a downsizing demographic. There will be 1,700 single-family homes and 800 multi-family units. Homes start from the $300,000s.

Developer: La Vita Land Builders: Calbridge Homes, Janssen Homes, Landmark Homes, ReidBuilt Homes

Riversong has a selection of luxury homes including townhomes, villas, and estate lots. Choose from ravine, mountain or river views. Homes start from the $300,000s.

Developer: Tamani Communities Builders: Jayman MasterBUILT, NuVista Homes, Trico Homes, Sabal Homes, Innovations by Jayman

Heartland The former TRC Ranch was acquired by Apex Land. This 250-acre parcel of land is very accessible and located between Highways 1A and 22. Homes start from the $200,000s.

Developer: Apex Land Builders: Excel Homes, Birchwood Properties

Heritage Hills Developed by Harmony Park Development Corp.

Heritage Hills is located on a hilltop, giving residents in this community some of the best views around. Homes start from the $340,000s.

Developer: Harmony Park Developments Builders: Trico Homes, Stepper Custom Homes

Jumping Pound Ridge Find serenity and a western neighbourly feel while remaining just thirty minutes from downtown Calgary, thanks to easy access to George Fox Trail. Homes start from the $240,000s.

Developer: Jumping Pound Ridge Developments Builders: Gallery Homes, WestView Builders

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Sunset Ridge Sunset Ridge is one of the biggest new developments in town, featuring a hundred acres of land where approximately 1,000 single and multifamily homes are to be built. Homes starting from the $300,000s Developer: Melcor Developments Builders: Jayman MasterBUILT, Landmark Homes, Innovations by Jayman, Excel Homes, Homes by Avi

Willows of River Heights Willows of River Heights is a quaint and cozy community, with a total of 500 homes on build out, that will include single-family, semi-detached, and townhomes. Homes start from the $280,000s Developer: La Vita Land Builders: Janssen Homes, Kingsmith Homes, NuVista Homes

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Landmark Homes

It’s great to be green!

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eople who purchase a new home in Cochrane from Landmark Homes care. They care about where they live, and they care just as much about how they live.

If they can have the lifestyle they want, at an affordable price point, AND be environmentally friendly too, well, that’s just the icing on the cake.

As more and more buyers look outside the city for a new home, the Town of Cochrane is becoming that much more popular as the perfect destination. And Landmark Homes’ new townhomes in the community of Fireside are right at the top of many buyers’ wish lists, providing potential buyers with everything they want and need in a new home.

“What sets our townhomes apart within the Town of Cochrane is the location, the first thing is that they face out into the future school sites and a very large park,” says Stuart Wen, marketing coordinator for Landmark Homes.

The Lancaster layout ranges from 1,338 to 1,356 squarefeet in size, with three-bedrooms, two-and-a-half-bathrooms, and a comfortably sized deck. These townhomes are starting from the $295,900 with only 29 units in total.

The townhomes offer an optional kitchen layout for the open concept main floor, as well as an option to convert the third bedroom into a loft.

Landmark Homes built for people who care n By Aaliya Essa

“Landmark is primarily known for building environmentally responsible homes, and that is what sets us apart from everyone else.”

“We are seeing an interest from first-time homebuyers”, says Wen. “We are also seeing an interest from people that have been in single-family homes, looking to move to a more maintenance-free lifestyle and a more manageable size and layout,” says Wen. Both groups have been thrilled by the fact that there are no condo fees.

Buyers here will be in a community that has two natural reserves; each with multiple walking paths, making it a real family and nature-oriented neighbourhood. Residents will have a great view of the mountains from their townhomes, a daily reminder of their connection to the environment.

Having such great respect for nature and being acutely aware of things like their ‘environmental footprint’ is one of Landmark’s core philosophies. “Landmark is primarily known for building environmentally responsible homes, and that is what sets us apart from everyone else,” says Wen. Buyers simply love all the creature comforts and finishes, but they also appreciate the fact that they have a home that is energy efficient, environmentally-friendly, and that will hold its value for years to come because, says Wen, “we use products that last longer.”

Buying a home in Fireside also comes with its own set of benefits. “Coming soon to Fireside is a Tim Hortons and gas station,” says Wen, “so your coffee and other immediate needs are being looked after without having to leave the community.”

The show suite is set to open this spring, with a temporary sales centre set up at 255 Fireside Boulevard. For more information Contact area manager Barb Nagel at fireside_th@landmarkgroup.ca. n

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Fireside by La Vita Land

Family-friendly Fireside T

he small town friendliness, the amazing bounty of natural beauty — everything that has made Cochrane the amazing southern Alberta foothills town it is — are all captured in La Vita Land’s Fireside community.

This wildly popular new development in the southern tip of Cochrane, just off Highway 22, is already on Phase 4, where they will have more of the variety of homes that has become one of its most distinguishing features.

Townhomes and semi-detached homes from the $300,000s, single-family homes from the $320,000s and the ever-popular villa homes from the $450,000s are all available in Fireside.

“This amazing range of homes creates a uniquely varied streetscape that doesn’t look cookie-cutter at all,” says Theresa Tucci, marketing associate at La Vita Land. “It presents an eclectic visual that’s rare in new communities.”

Fireside presents La Vita’s vision in creating a community that that “honours and reflects the values and genuine warmth of the Town of Cochrane and the people who choose to live there,” Tucci says.

Key to achieving this vision is the plentiful amenities found in Fireside — some of which are already being enjoyed by residents. It will have 32 acres of parks and pathways, including natural preserved wetland parks that are designed to strengthen the bonds of community.

The warm glow of small town living is evident in Fireside n By Pepper Rodriguez

Five more future parks will be intertwined along the pathway systems, and will provide the perfect resting place and gathering space, a naturally inviting area for the entire family to spend time together.

Flagstone Park was the first park constructed, which offers traditional favourites ­— swings, slides, jungle gyms and the like — plus benches for parents to sit and chat while the kids climb and play. There are also several picnic areas — perfect places for outdoor gatherings with family and friends. Bulrush Park is complete and surrounds a preserved natural wetland. Cattail Park will be found along the northern part of Fireside.

Five more future parks will be intertwined along the pathway systems, and will provide the perfect resting place, gathering space, a naturally inviting area for family and friends to spend time together.

There are two future school sites in this community and a commercial area located at the entrance called The Embers that will soon begin construction and will include commercial venues like Tim Hortons, and a Shell gas station. More will be added in the future.

The warm, family-friendly ambience of Fireside is enhanced by the homes offered by its distinguished builder group formed

by Calbridge Homes, Janssen Homes, Landmark Homes, and ReidBuilt Homes. Nine single-family show homes are available to tour, as well as two new Clearbrooke villa show homes from Calbridge.

Prices for home in the community start in the $300,000s, which includes lot and GST. The attractive pricing has been key to attracting buyers, approximately 60 per cent of whom are from Calgary, Tucci says.

“Your money just goes so much further here, you get a bigger home and still enjoy the small town lifestyle.” n

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Calbridge Homes

Pinnacle of dreams Calbridge offers Cochrane townhomes with a view n By Christine Roulston

The Pinnacle’s exterior is equally stylish with a handsome craftsman style design and attached garage.

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nter the front door of the Pinnacle in The Ravines of Sunset Ridge and it’s clear this is no ordinary townhome. Combining a smart use of floor space with expansive views, the newest development by Calbridge Homes packs a lot of living into its 1,408 square feet.

The Pinnacle is just one of the models in The Ravines, a community of upscale townhomes designed for stylish living on a smaller scale. Situated on a plateau in Cochrane’s northwest, Sunset Ridge offers 400 acres of gently sloping land with the river valley in the foreground the Rocky Mountains in the background.

“The Ravines’ location, in a private cul-de-sac is a secluded area that allows for most homes to have stunning views,” says Leo Doiron, area sales manager for Calbridge.

To take advantage of the beautiful surroundings, homeowners have access to a network of walking trails that wind through the ridge. The development is also an easy walk to downtown Cochrane.

There are still a few homes available in the sought after area in Ravines. Doiron says the Pinnacle has been attracting homeowners from every demographic. “It’s low maintenance living moments away from all the amenities,” he says. A middle school is already located in the community and a K-8 school is coming in 2016.

The Pinnacle is a three-bedroom and two-and-a-half bathroom townhome. The design is unique in that the

master bedroom, complete with ensuite and walk-in closet is located on its own level above the first floor. The two extra bedrooms, bathroom and laundry room are on the level above.

The first floor combines the best of stylish design and open concept living. The front foyer opens up to the main and upper levels to give an open, airy feel. A few steps upstairs reveal the kitchen, guest bathroom and great room.

The space is clearly designed with entertaining in mind with homeowners sure to appreciate the efficient layout and stainless steel appliance package. The flush eating bar in the kitchen and fireplace in the great room beckon guests to stay a while. Enhancing the living and entertaining space even further, a concrete patio outdoors flows from the dinning area.

Wide-plank laminate floors seamlessly connect the space while oversized windows and nine-foot ceilings make the first floor seem much grander than its square footage.

Doiron notes that upgraded floors come as part of the package and homeowners have four professionally designed colour pallets to choose from.

If homeowners desire more space, they have the option of developing the basement as well.

The Pinnacle’s exterior is equally stylish with a handsome craftsman style design and attached garage. “A lot of homes this size don’t include a garage,” Doiron notes.

A tour through the home and it’s clear why the Pinnacle is attracting interest from every demographic. Doiron sums it up, “our designers have done a phenomenal job to use all available space and the views are breathtaking.” n

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Sabal Homes

Style and substance Sabal Homes offers uncommonly stylish lifestyle in Riversong n By Portia Yip

“Verso is a truly open floor plan and decorated in an Outdoor Approach motif.”

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or those looking for a chance to get closer to the natural beauty of southern Alberta’s foothills, Sabal Homes’ uncommonly stylish line of laned homes in Cochrane’s Riversong lets you enjoy this close-to-nature lifestyle. Their Ovation and Verso show homes show why.

The award-winning Ovation model by Sabal Homes offers a comfortable and upscale feel once you step through the front door, along with plenty of style. Featuring an innovative design with every nook and cranny taken into consideration, the Ovation is 1,704 square-feet in size with three bedrooms, two and a half baths and plenty of functional spaces.

Decorated in a Farmhouse Fresh motif, the show home gives potential buyers a glimpse of what makes this home so unique. From a welcoming full-width veranda to a spalike ensuite in the master bedroom, plus the potential for a fourth bedroom and theatre room in the basement, living a modern yet relaxed lifestyle is simple and easy.

“The Ovation has an open floor plan but because of the way the stairs are placed, it feels like there are individual rooms,” says Shelly Osten, Regional Sales Manager for Sabal Homes. “There’s a really lovely lifestyle room at the front, and the gourmet kitchen is also quite spec-

tacular with a large window looking out to the backyard.”

Next door to the Ovation, potential buyers can also check out the Verso show home.

“Verso is a truly open floor plan and decorated in an Outdoor Approach motif,” says Osten. “It really feels like a fresh take on a mountain lodge.”

Residents of the Riversong community can take full advantage of its quiet and secluded location. Surrounded by 100 acres of environmental reserve, Riversong has an abundance of natural green space and pathways that lead to the river and Cochrane’s charming town centre.

As a completely residential community, Riversong has appealed to single parents, young families with or about to have children, and those looking for their final home. Outdoor enthusiasts who relish every breath of fresh air won’t have to travel far to find the rivers, mountains and woodlands—it’s all right outside your doorstep.

The final phase for Sabal Homes in Riversong is currently up for grabs with a wide selection of available lots. For existing and future Sabal homeowners, this is also a special year. Sabal Homes hits an exciting new milestone as they kick off their 20th anniversary in a huge stylebration.

For new homebuyers, there’s a $2,020 gift card promotion to be used towards interior home upgrades, along with a 20-week contest ending with a lucky winner of a $20,000 grand prize. Past homebuyers can take part in the referral program where they’ll receive $2,000 for referring a family member or friend who buys a new Sabal home.

For the home, lot and GST, the Ovation starts at $370,990 and the Verso at $366,500. n

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Heartland by Apex Land

The heart of the matter A

ccessibility has been the biggest attraction in Heartland, and it’s not only because of its terrific location off Highway 1A, but the accessibility that prices of homes here affords buyers.

With a wide range of townhomes and single-family homes from Excel Homes, as well as new condo-style townhomes from Birchwood Properties, Heartland has increasingly become the top choice for young families buying their first home in Cochrane.

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 Apex Senior Development Manager Susan Henderson.

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.

It has all the ingredients to make it a community families can enjoy. 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.

Heartland’s location and affordability are keys to success n By Pepper Rodriguez

Heartland’s architecture and design reaches back in history to honour Cochrane’s heritage.

Senior Area Manager for Excel Homes Nada Elaraj says Heartland’s location is its biggest attribute. “It’s the most accessible new community in Cochrane, as Highway 1A not only gives you direct access to town but takes you straight to Calgary, no other community here has that.”

Excel Homes will be opening new singlefamily show homes later this year, as demand has been pretty strong for their front-attached garage homes, which start from the low $400,000s including lot and GST. “We’re getting a lot of couples and young families from Calgary who still commute to the city, and they like Heartland’s tremendous accessibility, commute times from here to the city are substantially less than in any other new Cochrane neighbourhood,” sales associate Daryl Renneberg says.

Elaraj says Excel’s townhomes offer a lot more space for substantially less money than a similar product in Calgary. They come with backyards and single-car garages.

“Our smallest model is 1,209 square-feet and starts from $269,900,” she says.

Birchwood Properties debuted in Heartland last year with The Range, their three-storey townhomes that start from $199,000. “We are excited to be able to offer these well-designed high quality homes at such an amazing price,” says Birchwood sales and marketing manager, Adele Kerr.

Families moving into Heartland have a lot to look forward to, including more parks and expansive walkways. 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. The accessability of its location is still its most appealing trait. n

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Birchwood Properties

Home on The Range Birchwood offers stylish townhomes for Cochrane’s first-time buyers n By Janine Workman

Gable-pitch roof lines, smart board trim and battens and cultured ledgestone accents will offer excellent curb appeal.

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s the once little town of Cochrane continues to hit the mark with new home buyers, Birchwood Properties offers one more reason to call this friendly town home, with the debut of The Range, a collection of condo-style townhomes in the budding community of Heartland.

“Cochrane is becoming so popular,” says Adele Kerr, sales and marketing manager at Birchwood Properties.

“People love the small-town feel, yet you are only 15 minutes from Calgary.”

Construction is scheduled to break ground this month and units are already being snapped up, homeowners in the first phase are set to be unpacking by late fall.

Starting at $209,900 plus GST, homes are three storeys tall and 1,140 square-feet, with both three-bedroom and dual master suite floor plans.

“We are excited to be able to offer these well-designed high quality homes at such an amazing price,” Kerr says.

“We are definitely the best value in Cochrane.”

Homes are grouped four to a building, with every unit on a corner with a private entrance under a charming front veranda.

Gable-pitch roof lines, smart board trim and battens and cultured ledgestone accents will offer excellent curb appeal.

Main floor plans embrace wide-open living with a spacious great room off the entrance and a kitchen taking up the rear of the home.

Kitchens will feature pot lighting, ceramic tile back splash, a full-height pantry, black or white appliances and the option to extend the counter by adding an eating bar.

“We have very sleek line of kitchen cabinetry in a textured wood grain finish with modern brushed chrome pulls,” says Kerr.

An optional fireplace can be added to keep the great room cosy and four contemporary decor packages are ready to cater to the style that suits you most.

The second and third storey will feature functional, well-designed floor plans that allow buyers to mix-n-match two-and threebedroom options.

“We wanted to offer purchasers the flexibility to choose the floor plan that best suited their needs and lifestyle, whether that is two bedrooms or three or an extra bathroom,” explains Kerr.

As a maintenance-free development, The Range leaves homes owners free from outdoor duties, and will be landscaped with trees and plants.

With a second release of homes set for this spring, Kerr anticipates these new homes to keep up with the already present demand at The Range.

“Heartland is in an excellent location with convenient, easy access to the highway to Calgary for those who commute or right out to the mountains,” she adds. “The master plan of the community includes a host of parks, greenspaces and amenities.” n

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Homes by Avi

Tried, tested, and true M

ultiple-award winner, Homes by Avi has a wellearned reputation as a home builder of the highest order, producing homes of unmatched design and peerless quality. Homes by Avi has now brought their excellence to the beautiful community of Sunset Ridge in Cochrane.

“Most people know our name by seeing other show homes in the city or hearing about us by word of mouth,” says Christopher Millner, Area Sales Manager for Homes

by Avi in Sunset Ridge. “What separates us from a lot of the builders here in Cochrane is our broad knowledge of the building industry. People like to know that not only do we build starter condominiums but estate homes as well, with Homes by Avi, buyers know they are getting not only a better equipped home, but a home of higher quality.”

Homes here include standards like stainless steel appliances, nine-foot main floor ceilings, hardwood and or tile throughout the whole main floor, builders granite or quartz in the kitchen, fireplace, upgraded underlay, and gorgeous four-piece en suite and more starting at around an incredible $409,500.

“That’s what has been attracting a lot of people here,” says Millner. “And that’s the starting price point for the amount of included specifications that you’re actually getting in the homes.” It’s a price point attracting first time buyers, downsizers and everyone in between.

Homes by Avi is a builder buyers trust n By Aaliya Essa

Homes by Avi’s standard package includes stainless steel appliances, nine-foot main floor ceilings, hardwood or tile throughout main floor, builder’s granite or quartz in the kitchen and more.

Homes by Avi has two show homes in Sunset Ridge; the Kelsey, which is 2,148 squarefeet, and the Murphy at 1,747 square-feet. Each show home features three-bedrooms and twoand-a-half bathrooms, front attached garage, and has ample space for families to grow into over the years.

Sunset Ridge is a new community in Cochrane, still growing, geared towards a family-friendly demographic. Residents will be able to enjoy the parks, and the approved K-8 school is also a big attraction. Each phase will include it’s own features to enhance the overall community appeal, convenience and value.

It’s precisely these kinds of community traits that Homes by Avi looks for when selecting where to build their homes. True to their exacting standards, not just any community will do.

But, while they may raise the bar in terms of quality, they don’t in price. In fact, the price point here in Sunset Ridge is a big factor and what you get for that price, in terms of value, it`s definitely noticeable and appreciated.

“People are more educated now and want to know exactly what’s going into the home,” says Millner. “We don’t just build to minimum code, we build above code,” adds Millner. Examples would include an upgraded hot water tank, windows and many other aspects in addition to a lot of green friendly specifications.

“Our homes are inspected by a third party,” says Millner, “and there’s a six-point inspection throughout the build, so it really just shows you that the quality and value you are getting.”

For more information, visit the show homes at 12 & 16 Sunrise View in Cochrane. n

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Innovations by Jayman

In love with Innovation Stylish street towns ready for quick move-ins in Sunset Ridge n By Janine Workman

The 1,293-square-foot Yoho is a beautiful, bright show home with a three-bedroom floor plan further complemented by a developed basement.

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uilt upon a tranquil plateau high above the town of Cochrane, Sunset Ridge offers sweeping mountain vistas and stunning sunsets to match. Here, Innovations by Jayman’s street town homes are a delightful collection of starter-priced homes with excellent quality and value in this prestigious, new community.

“We are getting a good mix of empty nesters, snow birds and young families, which is awesome to see. These homes really suit a lifestyle for everybody,” says Ashley Hebert, area sales manager with Innovations by Jayman.

Homes start at $289,900, including lot and GST, and are pre-built — speeding up the possession process and allowing buyers to choose their home from available or upcoming stock.

Ranging from 1,250 to 1,297 square-feet, these street town homes are packed with personality, with bold siding colours framed by quaint white trim and multi-coloured front doors surrounded by welcoming front porches. Staggered, peak and flat roof lines throughout the development offer each home a sense of individuality.

“They have such nice character. It gives you that warm, inviting feel from the street,” says Hebert.

This, along with little wasted space and impressive value, is where these homes are making their mark with people, she adds.

The 1,293-square-foot Yoho is a beautiful, bright show home with a three-bedroom floor plan further complemented by a developed basement.

“It’s laid out really well for the square-footage. We are less than 1,300 square-feet, but it doesn’t feel like that because all of the space is liveable,” says Hebert.

With front and rear decks, the Yoho is east to west facing — so it’s up to you whether you want to watch the sun rise, set or both.

“You get the morning and the evening sun, with the two decks you can follow the sun around,” Hebert explains.

An open main floor is bright and spacious, with a great room off the entrance and a Ushaped kitchen at the rear of the home connected to a dining area by an eating bar.

Upstairs, there are two equal-sized bedrooms, a bathroom and a master bedroom with a three-piece ensuite. Downstairs, a basement with a bedroom, bathroom and family room offer precious extra space and round-out the Yoho’s possibilities as a fourbedroom home.

“People really like the potential of the basement,” Hebert says.

Homes are move-in ready, fully-landscaped with decks and fences built. Front yards are also hardscaped, to keep maintenance low.

“People love the move-in ready concept, so they don’t have to put in more money after they move in,” Hebert says.

With a high school already built, and a Kindergarten to Grade 8 school in the works, Sunset Ridge is well on its way to becoming a developed community.

“There are lots of amenities here, so people really like that you don’t have to go all the way into town for some things,” Hebert says. n

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Riviera in Riversong

Riviera romance T

he romantic enchantment of riverside living is brought to all its glory in Riviera Riversong, Cochrane’s newest enclave of executive estate homes and luxurious townhomes and villas.

Riviera is a unique extension of Tamani Communities’ Riversong community. It makes the most of its choice location by the banks of the Bow River close to the 100-acre environmental reserve that gives the whole community a rich natural palette.

This upscale enclave features Jayman MasterBUILT’s RiverReach luxury villas and manors starting in the low $500,000s, as well as front drive estate homes starting in the mid $520,000s from Trico Homes and Jayman MasterBUILT. “Riviera is a big hit and serves a niche market that is discovering the charms of riverside living in Cochrane,” says Tamani marketing manager, Nicole Westman.

“We believe the opportunities for eco-friendly, active living in Riviera fit in perfectly with the Cochrane’s emphasis on family, nature and the escape from city chaos,” she adds.

Riversong’s exclusive enclave brings estate appeal to Cochrane n By Pepper Rodriguez

The homes’ architecture was designed expressly for Riviera, featuring Rocky Mountain, Shingle and Urban Arts and Crafts, which complement the natural surroundings.

Homes in Riviera Riversong back onto an escarpment, the river or a pond. “It’s a community rich in natural features,” Westman says.

With plenty of tot lots, parks and four kilometres of walking and biking trails, more than 40 per cent of Riversong’s total 138-hectares comes in the form of green space, with 40 hectares set aside as an environmental preserve.

The pathway system along the river will connect area residents with quick access to Spray Lake Sawmills Family Sports Centre and the Cochrane Golf Club via a pedestrian bridge with and a landscaped storm pond serving as a natural focal point.

A pedestrian bridge connects Riviera Riversong with downtown Cochrane and a pathway system along the Bow in the community will connect with the bridge, providing easy access to the Cochrane regional pathway system.

In addition to the natural surroundings, the community’s eco-friendly presence is strengthened by two wind turbines, which will provide a renewable power source for the community’s exterior lighting. All homes in the community will also be built to BUILTGREEN Gold standards.

The homes’ architecture was designed expressly for Riviera, featuring Rocky Mountain, Shingle and Urban Arts and Crafts, which complement the natural surroundings.

Riversong is located on the south side of the town of Cochrane, approximately a 15-minute drive from the Calgary city limits. “A lot of our buyers like the ease of living and natural ambiance that Riviera offers, as well as its great accessibility as it is still only 15 minutes away from downtown Calgary,” Westman says. n

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For more information visit www.rivieracochrane.com

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The Willows by La Vita Land

Classic appeal W

ith a prime location between the Bow River and Highway 22, The Willows of River Heights was always destined to be a special development, and this is becoming more evident with each passing day.

This location represents the ideal community lifestyle that puts The Willows squarely between the two worlds of nature and modern living.

It is the second development by La Vita Land in Cochrane, following the ultra-successful Fireside just on the other side of the highway. The Willows, though, promises a more intimate setting, says La Vita marketing associate, Theresa Tucci.

“It’s a smaller, more intimate community. It will have more of a boutique feel,” she says. There will only be a total of 450 homes in this 28-hectare community on build out.

Named after the many willow trees found in the area, The Willows is already attracting plenty of attention for the quiet country living lifestyle found here, and the new entrance feature is already up.

Phase One just opened last fall and has 79 laned and front-garage homes from Janssen Homes, Nuvista Homes, and Kingsmith Homes. There will be four phases in total, and townhomes are planned in future phases.

Available now are semi-detached homes from the

La Vita’s The Willows of River Heights offers boutiquestyle living n By Pepper Rodriguez

Phase One just opened last fall and has 79 laned and front-garage homes from Janssen Homes, Nuvista Homes, and Kingsmith Homes.

$280,000s and single-family homes start from the $320,000s.

With the Rockies as its backdrop and the Bow River down the hill, The Willows has an inviting natural environment. The Willows will also feature a preserved wetland and a large central park with interconnecting pathways and a future school site. It is designed to shine a spotlight on its natural beauty, with 25 per cent of the project dedicated to parks and open spaces.

It is also a model for modern living with plenty of conveniences that make life that much easier. There’s easy access to Calgary, downtown Cochrane or the mountains with Highway 22 minutes away.

“There is a future school site for growing families and there is also already an established high school right next door,” Tucci adds.

“Cochrane’s River Heights development plan lays out an ambitious future for this area, and includes building an employment centre and transit hub that will bring it in line with easy, accessible modern living,” Tucci says.

Tucci says it’s clear why people will want to live in The Willows. “It’s escape without the isolation. We’re just 20 minutes from Calgary’s western edge and easy for commuters.

People want the small town lifestyle but still live close to the city.”

Besides, she says your dollar stretches further in buying a home in Cochrane over Calgary. “You get more square footage for your money,” she adds.

“There is lots of growth in Cochrane so that the new-home value of your investment is a sound one. The Willows is the perfect place to put down roots.” n

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ReidBuilt Homes

Hearth of Cochrane E

ReidBuilt’s varied home designs help create a strong sense of community in Fireside n By Jennifer Seamone

Synergy townhomes are set up as a freehold — there are zero condo fees, just a home owners’ association fee that amounts to only $600 for the whole year.

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mbracing the warm, family-inspired design of Fireside, ReidBuilt Homes offers a diverse range of homes to suit a variety of lifestyles and create an even stronger sense of community in Cochrane’s hit new development.

“It is an ideal family community,” says Area Sales Manager Brydon Foote. “From the moment you come in and cross Bulrush Park, which is a beautiful wetland with walking paths, and come down Fireside Gate to Flagstone park and playground, you know you have arrived home”.

ReidBuilt’s award-winning range of townhomes and single-family homes bring a sense of style and craftsmanship that mirrors Fireside’s welcoming ambience and adds to the community’s endearing streetscape. Foote says their range of products will match any budget. “There’s something for everyone.”

Their two single-family detached show homes display just that with their front porches and prairie-inspired architecture that brings out their curb appeal. Their interiors have a contemporary flair that is matched with incomparable functionality.

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The Sage, with its large windows and quaint Farmhouse elevation, sits at 1,425 square-feet and starts at $344,589. The home includes three bedrooms and two and a half baths; and boasts a large gourmet kitchen and entertainment sized living room.

Next door is the Juniper at 1,750 square-feet.

The front flex room is perfect for an office or reading room and the open concept great room includes a stylishly functional kitchen.

Upstairs is a large master suite with a vaulted ceiling, ensuite bath and a generous walk-in closet. An upstairs laundry and two sizable spare bedrooms completes what is most requested in families’ wish lists. The Juniper starts at $365,709.

ReidBuilt also offers front attached moveup homes, all backing onto green space.

The 1,932-square-foot Worchester starts at $419,300 and includes a front flex room, large kitchen, upstairs laundry, bonus room and

generous master suite.

But what looks to be their biggest hit in Fireside is their SAM Award-winning Synergy townhomes. “Synergy did extremely well in Airdrie, and we brought the product here to Fireside,” says Foote. “But we tweaked it so it’s bigger and better than ever.”

Among the Synergy models offered is The Harmony, at 1,537 squarefeet includes a charming front flex room. The spacious main floor, featuring a large kitchen with an expansive island, living room and spacious dining area, faces a private backyard. Each Synergy home includes a double detached garage, full landscaping, and fencing so each home is ready to move in and enjoy.

The thoughtfully designed Unity features a large ‘U’ shaped kitchen with a peninsula eating bar, a private pocket office with an ‘L’ shaped work surface and a family friendly mudroom. The home, at 1,463 square-feet, includes

The Sage, with its large windows and quaint Farmhouse elevation, sits at 1,425 square-feet and starts at $344,589.

The home includes three bedrooms and two and a half baths; and boasts a large gourmet kitchen and entertainment sized living room.

upstairs laundry, three good-sized bedrooms and two and a half baths.

The Synergy townhomes start at $321,843 and include quartz/granite countertops and main floor laminate hardwood as standard.

Synergy townhomes are set up as a freehold, explains Foote, so there are no condo fees. “You own the land it sits on, so there are zero condo fees, just a home owners’ association fee that amounts to only $600 for the whole year.” With only 13 townhomes left in Synergy, it’s sheer popularity speaks volumes to the quality and design of the homes.

ReidBuilt is an exclusive partner of the Air Miles reward program.

A purchaser of a quick possession express home will receive 10,000 air miles, and any new home purchase will earn you 5,000 miles.

Once you’ve discovered the ReidBuilt home of your choice, the magic of Fireside and Cochrane will continue to warm your heart. With sweeping prairie views, easy access to the mountains, and fabulous amenities like McKay’s famous ice cream in downtown Cochrane, there is much to do and see.

Discover Fireside of Cochrane and ReidBuilt Homes, and find the warmth of family, kinship and For more information visit community…find a place to www.rbhcalgary.com call home. n

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