contents J u ly 2 014
Condo Profile
Two uncommonly stylish Sabal stunners are luring homebuyers in Edmonton’s north
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volume 6 issue 52
8 Dynamic duo
cover Feature
10 Look up, way up
Edmonton’s 10 tallest condo high-rises
Alternative energy sources play role in town’s growth
Community Profile
14 Devon delights
8
Features
16 There’s building green...
10
And then there’s Effect Home Builder green
21 The survey says...
Avid Ratings based on actual customer satisfaction
What’s New?
14
23 Show home parades Tales from the condo zone
30 No cats allowed items
6 Editor’s Message 25 Around Town 26 Maps
21 23
16
J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 5
editor’s message
P U B LISHER
Power to the people
Source Media Group
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In the immortal words of Captain James Tiberius Kirk: “More power Scotty!” And more power is just what you get when you build with Effect Home Builders, one of the Captial Region’s most environmentally friendly new home builders. From green building materials and methods, to things like water use, heat and electricity, we take a closer look at how they do it. From these grass roots look up, way up, and you’ll see some of the new condominium projects that are rapidly changing Edmonton’s skyline forever. How tall do you think the tallest condo high-rise in Edmonton is? What are the ten tallest? Find out on page 10. In a different world, although just a short drive away, we dig into what’s happening on the home building scene in the town of Devon. As it turns out, right now, not so much. But, say our sources, including the mayor, don’t look away because things may be about to change just over the next horizon. One of Edmonton’s, and Alberta’s, most uncommonly stylish home builders is Sabal Homes, a division of Hopewell Residential. Sabal’s reputation for paying attention to detail in both form and function is further proven by their show homes in VITA at Crystallina Nera. Check out the article on page 8 and their ad on page 7. Still on the topic of new homes, Joy Van Marck got out to a couple show home parade grand openings last month, while I had a chat with Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation market analyst Christina Butchart to gather the latest housing start data. I got my Sociology degree before I became a writer/editor, and I still love to look at stats! Also, you’ve seen their ad in the magazine, but what is Avid Ratings really all about? We explain it in more detail as well as name a few local award winners. It’s a customer satisfaction award, so it’s one both builders and buyers take seriously. Finally, on the lighter side, check out my Condo Tales column, which I guess could have been fittingly renamed Condo Tails this month. Does a condo which doesn’t allow cats really exist? Does it make sense? Read the column for the answers to these and other of life’s great mysteries. Next month join me as we travel to downtown Chicago for a game of golf in the Windy City.
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Colleen Leier
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca Editorial
Stephanie Dubois, Rusti Lehay, Dave Shepherd, Ann Sutherland, Joy Van Marck, Shelley Williamson Photography
Rusti Lehay, Clifton Lofthaug, Merle Prosofsky d i r e c t o r o f SALES
Norma Robertson
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Cover photo courtesy City of Edmonton
@EdmHomeandCondo 6 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J u ly 2 01 4
EdmontonHomeandCondoLiving
Canadian Home Builders’ Association
Condo profile
Dynamic duo Two uncommonly stylish Sabal stunners are luring homebuyers in Edmonton’s north
A
pair of show homes by Sabal Homes by Hopewell is winning the hearts of buyers in VITA at Crystallina Nera, and it only takes a tour of the jewel box addresses to appreciate their appeal from curb to cabinetry. Beginning with the Insight, a 1,667-square-foot gem and frontrunner for Sabal since opening in January, home shoppers have been drawn to the laned home in droves. “It’s got everything today’s homeowners desire,” says Nicole McLaws, Sabal’s marketing manager, of the two-storey beauty. After entering the home via a charming front porch reminiscent of simpler times, the grand foyer looks onto a convenient main floor den at left, while ahead, the kitchen and dining room boast an open plan at the back of the home, each sporting a Farmhouse Freshinspired décor. And since no farmhouse would be complete without a country kitchen, the home serves up that main ingredient, too. “We’re showcasing an absolutely beautiful kitchen in this show home, with warm grey Fusion cabinetry, a U-shaped workspace and a lengthy peninsula island complete with a flush breakfast bar overlooking the sunny dining room,” McLaws says. “The dining 8 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J u ly 2 01 4
By Shelley Williamson
room is extremely generous in size, and is ideal for family dinners or entertaining. Overlooking the backyard is the welcoming great room, where we’re showing a tile-detailed fireplace and a large window that lets sunlight in.” Upstairs, the Insight features three spacious bedrooms, a large full bath and well-appointed laundry room sure to be a welcome feature on wash day. Meanwhile, the master retreat showcases vaulted ceilings, plenty of windows, and a five-piece ensuite sure to impress visitors and homeowners alike. “Chock full of character and craftsmanship, our ‘Farmhouse Fresh’ style embraces the era of farmhouse living and equips it with modern functionality,” McLaws notes. “The design is purposeful and comfortable, where one-of-a-kind light fixtures, repurposed furniture and industrial undercurrents create a home that feels charming, lived-in and fresh.”
Condo profile Left and bottom photos are of Insight show home.
Fast Facts Community: VITA at Crystallina Nera Builder: Sabal Homes Project: The Insight and Xeno Size: 1,667 square-feet (Insight) and 1,280 square-feet (Xeno) Price: Sabal’s VITA homes start in the $350,000s Location: 7719 and 7723 181 Ave. Hours: Monday to Thursday from 2 to 8 p.m., weekends and holidays, noon to 5 p.m. Web: www.sabalhomes.com
Meanwhile, next door the Xeno is turning heads with its careful blend of modern and Moroccan flair. “The Xeno is a winner, with its open-concept design and clever use of space,” says McLaws of the 1,280 squarefoot gem. Inside, the family-friendly home is bright and sunny, with an L-shaped front kitchen featuring built-in pantry cabinetry, plenty of storage space and a peninsula island with a flush breakfast bar poised to house the whole crew at meal time. The centre of the main floor is dedicated to the dining room, while the comfy lifestyle room overlooks the backyard — ideal for keeping a watch over wee ones at play. On its second level, three bedrooms are welcoming spaces for all household members, while a three-piece ensuite and dual closets complete the home’s elegant master retreat and offer some built-in pampering and privacy. Helping fuel the attraction is the Xeno’s décor, says McLaws. “A play on colours and patterns elevates this style from simple to simply extraordinary — colours evoke paprika, curry, tamarind, saffron and cinnamon,
“...we’re offering a fantastic price point and an unparalleled line-up of homes...”
while patterns are intricate and eye-catching, conjuring images of a Marrakesh bazaar,” she explains. But for those whose home style is milder than Moroccan, Sabal buyers can personalize their digs — whether it be the Xeno, the Insight, or one of the other uncommonly stylish available floor plans from 1,033 to 1,700 square-feet — with a trip to Sabal’s designSense studio. “All of our homebuyers get the opportunity to work with a professional designer to select their home’s finishing items; in addition to that, we’re celebrating our 20th anniversary with perks and prizes for all homebuyers — which means a $2,020 gift card towards upgrades for everyone,” McLaws says. Sabal has welcomed a mix of buyers to VITA at Crystallina Nera, but especially those looking to dig in roots in a master-planned community, says McLaws. Positioned in Edmonton’s thriving north, the community offers indoor and outdoor recreation opportunities, nearby shopping and dining, and an easy commute throughout Edmonton via nearby Anthony Henday Drive. “We’re finding this community — and these homes — are resonating with a lot of young couples and young families — this is a wonderful north Edmonton community that’s close to all the amenities, which is a huge benefit,” McLaws says. “Plus, we’re offering a fantastic price point and an unparalleled line-up of homes that means there truly is something for everyone.” n
Xeno show home
J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 9
COVER feature
Look up, way up I By Ann Sutherland
t seems that the sky’s the limit when it comes to the new generation of condo high-rises being built in our city. Tall, sleek and elegant, not only are they changing the city’s downtown skyline, they are attracting a lot of buzz as Edmonton transforms its downtown core. Part of the trend in taller high-rises is due to a number of factors including the closure of the City Centre Airport which meant height restrictions due to flight paths could be relaxed. Along with the optimism surrounding our downtown revitalization, our higher than average income, a rapidly growing population, and younger buyers opting for the downtown high-rise lifestyle, condo developers are rising to the occasion with lofty ambition. If you want to live the high life, here is a list of Edmonton’s ten tallest condo high-rises:
The Pearl
Icon Towers
The Pearl
The Pearl currently tops the list as Edmonton’s tallest residential tower. The 36-storey structure on downtown’s western edge at 119 Street and Jasper Avenue is considered the jewel in Edmonton’s skyline. Curving glass walls and a sleek modern design, the Pearl offers luxurious condo living. The 128 luxury residences range from one to three-bedroom as well as 2,000-plus square-foot penthouses. 10 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J u ly 2 01 4
Ultima
Edmonton’s 10 tallest condo high-rises Fox Towers
Fox Towers
These two towers rise to 28 and 33 storeys. Located on 102 Avenue and 104 Street, the Fox Towers have a strong angular look with striking white and glass exteriors. Construction on the 28-floor Fox I is currently under construction while construction on Fox II is underway. The second tower will have 169 condo units with one to three bedroom plans ranging in size from 654 to 2,400 square-feet.
Icon Towers
These two curved glass-fronted towers, located downtown on trendy 104 Street just north of Jasper Avenue, come in at 30 and 35 storeys. Modern, spacious and elegant, residents have sweeping views of the city, while below is the bustling 104 Street promenade, home to the popular downtown farmers market, boutiques, cafes and wine bars.
Ultima
Just a block away from the new arena district on 102 Avenue west of 103 Street, the 33-storey Ultima Tower brings a chic vibe to downtown. Its exterior gleams with floor-to-ceiling windows and glass curtain walls while the ultra-modern interior includes high-end finishes. The 191 residential units are a combination of live-work lofts, larger villa suites, apartment suites, and penthouses.
Encore Tower
Just half a block south of the Ultima is the Encore, which when complete will top out at 40 storeys. Presales start in September and construction will begin next year and is expected to take four to five years to complete. Modern and sophisticated, high-end finishes include granite countertops, hardwood floor, and gourmet appliances.
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J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 11
feature Bellamy Hill Tower Symphony
Edgewater Towers
Jasper House
Symphony
Edgewater Towers
Currently under construction, the Edgewater Towers will have 26 and 30 storeys. Located just east of downtown on 85 Street off Jasper Avenue, the condo high rises are part of a larger adult-only complex. Floorplans include one and two-bedroom units that range from 650 to 1,000 square-feet.
Bellamy Hill Tower
A number of high-rises flow down the south-sloping bank of Bellamy Hill, but they were all built prior to 1980. A new development, Bellamy Hill Tower, a 34-floor high-rise, will tower above the others. The modern steel and glass structure with granite accents will have 100 units ranging from 1,500-square-foot two bedroom units to 3,500-square-foot, two-storey penthouses.
12 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J u ly 2 01 4
Designed for active professionals, the Symphony’s 27 floors include apartment condos, townhouses and penthouses. Located at 106 Street and 97 Avenue, the Symphony is within walking distance to the Alberta Legislature and Edmonton’s downtown hotspots. Touted as boutique living, the elegantly designed and commanding structure has floor-to-ceiling curtain glass walls for panoramic views of downtown and the river valley.
Jasper House
Currently in the preconstruction stage, Jasper House will be 36 storeys when complete. Located on 106 Street and Jasper Avenue, the condo tower promises “high design elevated living.” In total there will be 245 units ranging from one bedroom, one bedroom plus den as well as two and three bedrooms and sky penthouses.
North
Soaring to 45 storeys, North will be the tallest condo high-rise when complete. It’s being built on the northeast corner of 106 Street and 103 Avenue, a block from Grant MacEwan University. Details for the project, which is in the pre-planning stage, are not yet available. Just keep your eyes open and look way up for what will become Edmonton’s tallest condo high-rise. n
COMMUNITY PROFILE
Devon delights Alternative energy sources play role in town’s growth Story and photos by Rusti Lehay
D
evon lightens the work-life balance all while it is busy gathering light. Negotiating a legacy project with Imperial Oil, the town hopes to turn the brownfields from a former gas plant into a solar energy park. “Once this solar project is off the ground, Devon will truly be off the grid. It will dramatically impact people’s power bills,” says Mayor Stephen Lindop. Working with provincial and federal governments, as well as educational institutions and industry leaders, the plan is to transform Devon into a solar energy leader. They will be the first in Alberta to harness solar powered energy to take their town off the grid. The municipality owns the water and wastewater utilities and is a member of a gas co-op and this means Devon residents benefit from the lowest utility rates in the region. Lower utility bills and more than 30 annual fun-filled events all create your ticket to less work and more play. Saving your funds and the earth, Devon, home to the federal Devon Research Centre, is exploring alternative energy solutions and partnerships. Some of the world’s
top scientists work and collaborate on the development of cleaner fossil fuels and energy technologies. New ideas lead to new business. Committed to helping businesses thrive, Devon businesses are tax-exempt. Nestled on the banks of the scenic North Saskatchewan River, just 25 minutes southwest of Edmonton and strategically located minutes from the Edmonton International Airport, Nisku and Acheson business parks, the town offers many attractions. Amenities like a boat launch, campground, an extensive trail system and a mountain bike skills park beckon. Local resident, Katrina Neiman, literally lights up when talking about Devon. “I love it here. I love that it’s a bike town. I love that people come from all over to bike here.” Mayor Stephen Lindop
COMMUNITY PROFILE
As proof of Neiman’s statement, Brian Sveinson, from Leduc, tested out the bike skills park one morning. He returned after school that same day with his daughter Madison to test their skills together on the challenging course. Just below the skills park, guiding outfits offer canoe trips. Jet boating companies offer river enjoyment at higher speeds. Catch and release fishing guides take people fishing on the river, while other fishing folks congregate in the hot spot under the bridge. A twostorey conference centre and clubhouse, overlooks the river valley and the 18 hole public golf course. It is hard to fathom downtown is only two minutes away. People will forget all about work and life stresses with the unbelievable multi-use River Valley Alliance (RVA) trail system. Sharon Bzdel of Bzdel Enterprises Ltd., a custom home builder, says, “When finished, it will be like living in a hidden secret resort.” Devon’s trails form the western anchor of the RVA trails, North America’s longest metropolitan park system. Part of a $90 million capital project, the trails will enhance access to the North Saskatchewan River valley. “The plans are under way to finish the paved trails all the way from Devon to Fort Saskatchewan.” Devon has contributed $2,800,000 to the project. Viewing property along the river, Lindop says, “Every time I’m here, I have seen deer and other wildlife.” Above the river, a few lots in the Ravines of Devon remain. Additional lots in the new housing development named South Ravines will border Michigan Street and Highway 19. This will be open to small family homes to estate homes. Developers and builders are eager to move in and create your dream home. The town is requesting the transfer of a small section of Leduc County land. Devon is considering this annexation to promote residential development to the east and to continue a natural progression of the proposed South Ravines development. Some areas downtown are zoned for commercial with above ground
“We are making sure that Devon will not lose its small town character and grow in a responsible, wellplanned thought out way. We will remain an energy community going in the right direction ... we will be leaders in the field.” level residential. One developer who owns riverbank land, may build a medium density property aimed at seniors living. This development is one of the measures Devon is taking to help eliminate sprawl. Devon’s number one priority is to focus on wellthought-out and planned growth. “We are making sure that Devon will not lose its small town character and grow in a responsible, well-planned thought out way,” says Lindop. “We will remain an energy community going in the right direction, and as with our history, we will be leaders in the field.” “In a way, it’s a good thing, that the cost prohibitive removal of dead pipeline slows down development.” Bzdel says, “I just talked to someone who says we have the best schools and teachers.” In the three public, one Catholic and one Christian school, “teachers know the families, the history and the stories. Growing the population slowly, will enable us to hold onto that small town feel. For now, we have everything we need.” More is on the way. n
Community
Developer
Builder (s)
Home Type
Size Range
Price Range
Ravines of Devon
Qualico
Bzdel
Bungalow, Bi-level, Two-storey
1,700 – 2,400 sq. ft.
$450,000 – $800,000
Fairfax Lane
Aldritt Homes
Adritt Homes
Four-plex row homes
958 – 1,400 sq. ft.
$250,000 – $400,000
J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 15
Feature
There’s building And then there’s Effect Home Builder green By Stephanie Dubois
I
n a market where there’s a huge demand from people looking for homes with environment-friendly products and energyefficient home alternatives, Effect Home Builders rises to the top as the greenest of the green. “One of our defining goals is to build refined, energy efficient homes and do this with a long-term vision in mind,” says Effect’s Les Wold. The company’s vision for an energy-efficient home starts from the ground up — literally. As part of the building envelope, the builders start by using extra insulation under the basement slab to prevent heat loss. The builders also focus on materials that provide extra protection against mould, fires, loud noise and other concerns homeowners might have. The attic spaces are insulated using cellulose made from recycled materials and air locked entrances help reduce cold air from getting inside. Solar heating and lighting is a huge component to many of their homes, as are south facing windows and natural lighting, whenever possible. Solar panels to heat domestic water is also a feature on many of their homes. Wold says the benefits show up on the monthly utility bill. “When you look at your utility bills and they’re half of what your neighbours are — sometimes even less with the Net Zero Energy utility homes — your utility bills are virtually down to nothing,” he says. Allowing homeowners to have the proper setup for solar panels should they want them in the future is also available, explains Wold.
“The value behind energy efficiency is really what’s driving our business. Not every home reaches the Net Zero level but they’re all approaching that.” 16 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J u ly 2 01 4
This in turn allows many homeowners to not only save money, but in some cases, also sell power back to the power company. “The value behind energy efficiency is really what’s driving our business. Not every home reaches the Net Zero level but they’re all approaching that,” says Wold. Dual flush toilets, waterless urinals and restricted shower heads and faucets all contribute to managing a more efficient home for clients. Many of the energy efficient homes built in Edmonton by Effect Home Builders are being constructed in the mature neighbourhoods as infill homes, with many of their clients wanting close proximity to amenities as they are typically not as car dependent as other Edmontonians. “The homes are really tailored to the needs of the homeowners,” says Wold.
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Feature
green...
Effect Home Builders’ energy efficient home.
Les Wold, photo by Clifton Lofthaug.
J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 17
Feature
Today’s clients are well-versed in saving money when it comes to home efficiency. Some of those homes include the company’s three Net Zero Energy Homes in the Belgravia neighbourhood, which all produce as much energy as they consume. Different heating systems in each of the Net Zero homes, solar electricity and triple paned windows all adds to the value of the homes. Today’s clients, says Wold, are well-versed in saving money when it comes to home efficiency, and have embraced living a more eco-friendly lifestyle. “We absolutely love what we’re doing and it’s really rewarding to see these families move in and the impacts on the neighbourhoods,” enthuses Wold. Although the cost of building an energy-efficient home might be more expensive up front, Wold says the value comes long-term in reduced utility costs over the years due to the efficiency of the home’s many features. “The homes are so much more comfortable than a standard home because it is so well-insulated and more natural light. It’s just livability.” n All home photos by Merle Prosofsky.
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Feature
The survey says… Avid Ratings based on actual customer satisfaction By Dave Shepherd
A
vid Ratings CEO and Founder Paul A. Cardis envisions a different world for home buyers. “We want to bring the home building industry to a place where builders can’t compete unless they’re being transparent. If they don’t offer reviews, customers are going to ask where they are.” Transparency is the driving force behind Avid Ratings, a customer satisfaction and reputation management firm that works with 2800 builders throughout the United States and Canada. “We’re the industry’s only 100 per cent disclosure company,” Cardis says. “If the client allows us to publish their results, we publish all of them — not just the ones from happy home owners.” The comprehensive approach to rating home builders is what separates Avid Ratings from its competitors. First, home builders submit their list of closures to Avid on a monthly basis. Avid verifies those closures randomly, then surveys customers via email, mail, or telephone, with the surveys being available in six different languages. The survey covers three core areas of the home building process: the service provided by the home builder, the materials used, and the quality of the workmanship. The combined score of those three areas leads to the builder’s rating. “We’re not in and out with just a sample,” Cardis says. “We aim for depth. We want to fully understand the home quality from a service perspective.” However, not all builders are rated, something Cardis hopes
will change in the future. “Reviews and ratings are an excellent way for the industry to improve itself. We try to cultivate builders to join the system to improve the quality of their service. There’s also a number of warranty companies who have begun mandating that their clients join the Avid program.” Paul A. Cardis Once reviews of a home builder go live, there’s no turning back — but that doesn’t mean the builder is left at the mercy of the public. Avid Ratings offer builders a 60 day buffer zone to work with the buyer to solve any problems. If that fails, or the builder feels the review is unfair, they may comment on reviews using post backs. This gives future home buyers insight into what went wrong from the builder’s perspective, and how the issue can be prevented when building future homes. Avid Ratings also gives awards to home builders who excel. The award system was revamped in 2012, with only three winners being selected from each province. Previously, Avid offered awards for both superior performance and the number of closings. Now, it’s all about satisfying the home buyer. n
Avid Award Winners 2014
2013
2012
Avid Gold Award: Highest Customer Ratings in Province
Brookfield Residential - Edmonton Multi-Family Division (Edmonton)
Brookfield Homes Calgary MF (Calgary)
Galko Homes (Lethbridge)
Avid Benchmark Award: Customer Ratings Top 25% Nationwide (limited to two winners per province)
Galko Homes (Lethbridge) Brookfield Residential - Calgary Multi-Family Division (Calgary)
Brookfield Homes Calgary - SF (Calgary) Jayman Innovations Calgary (Calgary) Homes by Avi Urban (Calgary)
Mattamy Homes Calgary (Calgary) Brookfield Homes Calgary - SF (Calgary)
J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 21
what’s new? with Joy Van Marck
Dream Days at Maple Crest On Saturday, May 31, Dream Development (formerly Dundee Developments) celebrated Dream Days in the Park at Maple Crest with a barbecue and 17 show homes to view. More than 400 people enjoyed hot dogs, hamburgers, and tasty East Indian treats along with fun activities for the kids such as face painting, balloon artists, bounce castle and giveaway kites and frisbees. Golf carts shuttled people around Fulton Marsh, through the ravine and to the show homes in Stage 1 and 2. Show homes include the just opened single-family front attached garage home by Bedrock Homes, while Coventry Homes and Crystal Creek Homes also offer single-family front attached garage homes. Singlefamily laned homes by Homes by Avi and Landmark Homes, with rear detached garages, are also available. Homes by Avi also features duplex homes with rear detached garage and there are duplex homes with front attached garages by Bedrock Homes, Crystal Creek Homes, Coventry Homes, and Landmark Homes with a variety of floor plans to choose from. Maple Crest has more space where families can
experience nature and enjoy a healthier lifestyle. Take pleasure in the walking trails beside the Fulton Marsh wetland and green space, a 75-acre natural reserve, as well as pathways through the lush tree stands along the ravine. Maple Crest is close to all amenities; including Rio Can Shopping Centre, and the Meadows Community Recreation Centre and Library. Easy access to the Whitemud and Anthony Henday makes getting where you want to go conveniently easy. You may have missed the party but the celebration continues with to suit every family’s lifestyle. Just go south on 17 Street from Whitemud, left on Maple Road and follow the signs.
New show homes open in Walker Summit On June 14 Walker Summit, a United community, celebrated the opening of three new walkout show homes. Landmark Homes, Montorio Homes and Morrison Homes presents single-family homes with front attached double garages starting in the low $400,000s with walkouts overlooking the storm pond and green space. New lots have just been released and they are going
quickly. Along with the single-family homes, duplex homes with front attached garage or rear detached garages are also available. Landmark Homes presents the Madrid, a 2,386-squarefoot, four-bedroom home. With 14 solar panels, it generates enough power for most of your electrical needs. Montorio Homes offers the Messina I, an open concept design with 2,018 square-feet of living space. A roomy front entry, main floor flex room and a triple car garage, along with an upper floor laundry (with sink), are just some of this home’s highlights. The Everett, by Morrison Homes, with a 2,489-squarefoot floor plan, has a spacious front entry open to the flex room and a handy walk-through pantry. To find Walker Summit go south of Ellerslie Road on Watt Blvd. turn right on Watt Promenade and follow the signs. n
Joy Van Marck has been a fixture on the local new housing scene for more than 25 years, working for both industry publications and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Edmonton Region. When it comes to knowing who is developing or building what, and where, nobody knows more than Joy.
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J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 2 3
AROUND TOWN By Jim Zang
Albertans rank Brookfield #1 For the second year in a row, Albertans have ranked Brookfield Residential the best builder in the province for overall customer experience, earning the company two prestigious 2014 Avid Awards. Brookfield Residential’s Edmonton Multi-family Division is the winner of the 2014 Avid Gold Award Alberta. This is the highest award given on a provincial level to Canadian homebuilders who provide the best customer experience. The company’s Calgary’s Multi-Family Division is the proud recipient of the 2014 Avid Benchmark Award, which is awarded to builders that are ranked among the top 25 per cent nationwide in the customer surveys. “We feel honoured to have received such fantastic feedIan Nash back from our homeowners,” says Ian Nash, Vice President of Alberta Homes at Brookfield Residential. “As a team, we strive to provide the best experience possible for our customers. Feedback from our homeowners helps us understand what we did well, and more importantly, lets us know where and how we can improve. We consider it a privilege to build Albertans their dream homes, and thank our customers for choosing to build with us. These AVID awards are truly a testament of our employees’ desire to create the best places for Albertans to call home.”
Sterling staying busy Sterling homes has been busy this spring with the opening of a couple new show homes. They launched the Tyndall B, at 1361 Westerra Drive, in Stony Plain, on May 24th. Prices on this three-bedroom, 1,948-square-foot, two-storey home start around $425,000. Meanwhile, just a day later, out in Ambleside, they opened their newest laned home show home, the Eastwood B, located at 7218 Armour Crescent N.W. For information on these and other Sterling Homes products visit sterlingedmonton.com
Market trends Housing starts in the Edmonton Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) were trending at 12,824 units in May compared to 12,623 in April, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC). The trend is a six month moving average of the monthly seasonally adjusted annual rates (SAAR) of total housing starts. In other words, it’s an educated guess at approximate year-end totals based on what’s happened in 2014 so far.
“The trend in total housing starts moved slightly higher in May as a declining trend in single-detached starts was countered by an increased pace of multi-family units. The trend has been relatively stable in the first five months of 2014, but is down from the elevated levels reached in mid-2013,” said Christina Butchart, CMHC’s Senior Market Analyst for Edmonton. As for last month itself, CMHC reports 504 single-family starts in the month of
May 2013
May 2014
January – May 2013
January – May 2014
526
504
2,211
2,357
Multi-family, other
1,338
712
4,005
2,429
Total
1,864
1,216
6,216
4,786
Single-family
May, down just slightly from 526 in May 2013 and from 560 in April. Multi-family and other (duplex, apartment) accounted for most of the month’s activity, with 712 starts, although that was still down significantly from last year’s total of 1,338. That puts total May starts down nearly 35 per cent, from 1,864 in 2013 to 1,216 this year. Year-to-date, single-family is outpacing last year’s numbers by 146 homes (2,357 so far in 2014), while multi-family (where a couple of big condo projects can make a huge difference in the numbers) is lagging behind last year’s totals by more than 1,500 units — 4,005 in 2013 compared to 2,429 this year. That number accounts for most of the difference, 1,430 total starts, between the first four months of each year. n J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 25
CITY OF EDMONTON MAP
HOME PROPERTIES 1. Ambleside in Windermere 2. Langdale in Windermere 3. Glenridding 4. Upper Windermere 5. Keswick on the River 6. Windermere Ridge 7. Windermere Grande 8. Creekwood Chapelle 9. Windermere South 10. Chappelle Gardens 11. One at Windermere 12. Ambleside South 13. Ellerslie Heights 14. Lake Summerside 15. Callaghan 16. Rutherford Heights 17. Walker Lakes North 18. Willow Haven 19. Walker Lakes Station 20. Allard 21. Ravines of Richford 22. Callaghan in Heritage Valley 23. The Orchards at Ellerslie 24. Royal Oaks 25. Charlesworth 26. Mapleridge & Oakridge 27. Tamarack 28. Laurel 29. Laurel Crossing 30. Maple Crest 31. Willow Haven 32. Tamarack Common 33. Lakeview 34. McConachie 35. McConachie Landing 36. Cy Becker 37. Village at Schonsee 38. College Woods at Lakeview 39. Terraces at Schonsee 40. Vita Crystallina Nera 41. Manning Village 42. Fraser River Park 43. Castlebrook 44. Hawks Ridge at Big Lake 45. Village at Griesbach 46. Trumpeter by Big Lake 47. Newcastle 48. Morningside 49. Tuscany Hills 50. Palisades 51. Legacy Pointe 52. Starling at Big Lake 53. Hudson Park 54. Woodhaven-Edgemont 55. Wedgewood 56. Properties of Donsdale 57. River Pointe at Cameron Heights 58. Hampton Terrace 59. Edgemont 60. Copperwood 61. Cameron Heights 62. Hampton Pointe 63. Granville 64. Secord
2 6 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J u ly 2 01 4
CONDO PROPERTIES 1. Elements Glenridding 2. Ion in Ambleside 3. Village at Langdale 4. L’attitude Studios 5. The Signature 6. Windermere Mansions/Waters 7. Elements at Windermere 8. The Leger 9. South Terwillegar 10. Ravine Point at Mactaggart Ridge 11. Magrath Green 12. Waterstone in Mactaggart Mains 13. Sparrow Landing at Larch Park 14. Rutherford Landing 15. Callaghan Ravines 16. South Callaghan Townhomes 17. Creekwood Chappelle/Landing 18. Callaghan Landing 19. Elan 20. E’scapes 21. Regency at Windermere 22. Charlesworth 23. Southwinds 24. Walker Lake Landing 25. Elements Hamptons 26. Elements at Laurel Crossing 27. Trails of Millcreek Estates 28. Urban Village on Whyte 29. Aspen Meadows 30. Southern Springs 31. The Edge in Ellerslie 32. Mirra 33. Shorewinds 34. Station Pointe 35. Northshore 36. Brintnell Summit 37. Clareview Vistas 38. The Avenue at Hermitage 39. Air Harbour 40. Lakeview Terrace 41. Elements at McConachie 42. Elements at Hermitage 43. Village at Griesbach
44. Albany Trails 45. Aviva 46. Victory Lane/Point/Park 47. Upper Carlton 48. Bellwether Park 49. Silhouette at Carlton 50. McCrae Estates 51. Village at Trumpeter 52. Legacy Pointe 53. Starling at Big Lake 54. Elements at Albany 55. Caernarvon Keep 56. Juno 57. Californian Parkland 58. Jasper Gates 59. Secord Corner 60. South Hamptons 61. Jade 62. Glastonbury Estates 63. The Vanier 64. Glenora Skyline 65. Stafford Greens 66. Mill Creek Park 67. Bentley 68. Urban Village 69. The University Brownstones 70. Studio off Whyte 71. Vistas Estates 72. Fox 73. Symphony 74. Alta Vista 75. Icon 76. Encore 77. Serenity 78. Studio ED 79. Meridian Plaza 80. Pearl 81. Quest 82. High Street District Properties 83. Edmontonian Sky Garden 84. Ultima 85. Jasper House 86. Azure
46 51
53 52
44 48
59 64
61
57 63 65 62 58 59 62 60
60
55
54 82
78 81 77 80
76 72 84 75
74 79
83
85
86 73 5
INNER CITY
CITY OF EDMONTON MAP 49 43
51 52
40 38
44
54 45
40 33
37
35 39
47
71
41 39 34
35
36
36
50 47 49
41 37
50 45 56 46 43
55 53
42
48
42 38
64
58 63
67
66 70
68
69 26 56 57 27 30
5 61
32 28
11 7
29 6
4 2
9
12
1 3
13 31 25 18
21 10 8
15 16 22 20
14 17 23
19 24 J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 27
EDMONTON AND AREA MAP
1
4
5
8
NEW HOMES 6
1. Regency Heights Estates in Kingswood 2. Lacombe Park Estates 3. North Ridge 4. Erin Ridge 5. Upper Manor Pointe 6. The Club & Residences of River’s Gate 7. Tuscany Hills/Upper Tuscany 8. Pinnacle Ridge Estates
2 3
3 2 1
7
4
1
CONDOS 1. Sage Gardens 2. Citadel Village 3. Botanica 4. Tenor on the River
1 ST. ALBERT
CONDOS 1. Maple Brooke Villas
2 MORINVILLE 4
8
3
9 10
11
2 1
12 7
3
5 6 1
1. Hilldowns 2. Vanderbuilt Common 3. Spruce Village 4. Parkland Village 5. Hawthrone at Heatherglen 6. Springate at Sprice Ridge 7. Greenbury 8. Hills of Twin Lakes 9. Deer Park Estates 10. Kenton Village 11. The Woods at Kenton 12. Prescott
2
1
NEW HOMES
5 7
CONDOS
2
1. Windsor Estates 2. King Street on Park 3. Century Gates
5 SPRUCE GROVE 7
8
8
NEW HOMES
5 4
1
1 6
3
7 STONY PLAIN 2 8 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J u ly 2 01 4
2 3
4
3
1
4
CONDOS 1. Barth & Gosset Manor 2. Willows End 3. Westerra Manor
9 2
2
1. The Brickyard at Old Town 2. Genesis on the Lakes 3. Lake Westerra 4. Silverstone 5. Spring Lake Ranch 6. Southcreek 7. The Estates at Waters Edge 8. Hills of Twin Lakes 9. Willows End
5
3
6
8 LEDUC
EDMONTON AND AREA MAP 6
NEW HOMES 1. Southpointe 2. Southfort Ridge 3. Southfort Meadows 4. Southfort Estates 5. Forest Ridge in West Park 6. West Woodlands 7. Sienna
CONDOS
1
1. Walnut Grove
1
CONDOS
1
1. Riverside Point
3 GIBBONS
7
4
5 2
3
4 FORT SASKATCHEWAN
3
NEW HOMES
4
8 1
1 6
5
1. Aspen Trails/Emerald Hills 2. Foxboro 3. Ardrosson Heights 4. Lakeland Ridge 5. Summerwood
10 7 3 2
4
4 9
3
6 2
8
6 SHERWOOD PARK
9 NEW HOMES 1. Meadowview 2. Tribute 3. Windrose 4. Suntree 5. Southfork 6. Robinson
CONDOS
6 2
CONDOS 1. Princeton Court 2. Creekside Village in Summerwood 3. Element Lofts & Flats 4. Lakeland Ridge 5. Centre in the Park 6. Evolve Lakeland Ridge 7. Elements Summerwood Park 8. Eton Park Villas 9. Windsor Park 10. Estates at Sunview Lane
5
1
1. Windrose 2. The Springs at Bridgeport 3. Royal West Homes 4. Suntree Pointe 5. The Rushes of Southfork 6. Southfork Street Towns
NEW HOMES
6
1
1. Coloniale Estates 2. Place Chaleureuse 3. Triomphe Estates 4. Dansereau Meadows 5. Ruisseau 6. Royal Oaks
4
5
CONDOS
1 3 2
1. Goudreau Heights 2. Montrose Estates
2
5
9 BEAUMONT J u ly 2 01 4 NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G • 2 9
Feature | Tales from the condo zone
No cats allowed Story by Jim Zang Illustration by Lama Azhari
W
hen I first read the story about the new downtown Calgary high-rise condo that wasn’t going to allow cats I was mildly curious. “Why discriminate against cats?”, I thought, myself an admitted life-long cat person. “No mention in the press release about dogs, birds, fish or, God forbid, snakes.” It’s Calgary, so they probably allow horses, but not cats. The group developing the project says their target is the ‘sort of young homeowner, an urban explorer, who may covet a downtown suite without room for a cat.’ They don’t own a cat and they don’t mind paying less for a suite because of it. It’s estimated the cost of having a single cat can add from $10,000-$20,000 to the price of a condominium. Many of today’s youth, though, say the developers, have learned how to live without cats. They’ve relied on friends with cats. They want to live active big city social lives like the gang on Friends or Seinfeld and Big Bang Theory. Plus, it’s an affordable way to have a downtown address. A similar project in Toronto sold 80 per cent of its units in its
3 0 • NE W H O ME & C O ND O L I V IN G J u ly 2 01 4
first week of sales, with 318 units and designated spots for only nine cats. A play on the old ‘nine lives’ thing, perhaps? Most of the buyers were young professional singles and couples. Many with jobs nearby downtown and little need of a cat on a daily basis. People seem to want this kind of cat-free option, and it saves them money. Nearby residents in semi-suburban areas bordering downtown are worried about condo owners leaving their cats in their neighbourhoods, with friends presumably, and then coming out on the weekend to get them. They don’t like having too many cats in their neighbourhoods. So there’s arguments to and for literally constructing buildings to be cat free. Really, though, if a group of like-minded, cat-free adults want to live in a cat-free building, who am I to judge? After all, I’d live in a dog-free building in a second. What? Oh. I’m told it was a typo. It’s supposed to say car. Everywhere I said ‘cat’ is supposed to say ‘car’. A car-free condominium? Now THAT makes more sense! I mean, who doesn’t like cats? n