VOLUME 14 ISSUE 154 n OCTOBER 2018
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COVER FEATURE
Fancy villas Swift Creek Villas emerge as the choice for affluent downsizers FOCUS ON
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Game on!
Gaming doesn’t have to be a bad word
Paired excellence
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Star of Yorkville
COMMUNITIES
IN THE CITY
Birthday blitz
How to get started planning for birthday parties
36 Making it right
HGTV Canada and Mike Holmes celebrate 15 years
Efficiency, style mark Cedarglen Homes’ paired homes in Seton Onyx is the darling of the new Mattamy community
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FEATURES
SHOW HOME PROFILE
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22 The best of times
Brookfield has another hit with Chinook Gate
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STYLE
Flex your design muscle Let design creativity reign in flex rooms and bonus rooms PUBLICATIONS AGREEMENT NO. 41072011. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: Source Media Group Corp. 6109 — 6th Street SE, Calgary, Alberta T2H 1L9
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NEWS
2018 BILD Alberta
13 Calgary and area builders win at 2018 BILD Alberta Awards COLUMNS
41 43 46
Around Town Real Estate Insider Hope at Large ITEMS
6 44
Editor’s Message Advertiser Index OCTOBER 2018 NE W HOME LIVING
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editor’s message
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BILD to last
It would just be my luck that the first time I attend the BILD Alberta Awards event in Jasper there would be a terrible snowstorm along the way. Highway 93 near the turnoff from Lake Louise was a blinding, not-quite-undriveable-but-close snowy mess. But with expert driving from my colleagues, Jen Mills and Andrew Best (I wasn’t going to drive under any condition, I was too comfy in the backseat), we still got to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in time for the pyjama party theme night. It may have been cool to share pictures of that, but then again, no. I want to congratulate all the winners and the finalists of the 2018 BILD Alberta Awards (there’s a partial list inside), and a special thank you to the BILD Alberta
PUBLISHER
Source Media Group
info@sourcemediagroup.ca A S S O C I AT E P U B L I S H E R
Jim Zang
jim.zang@sourcemediagroup.ca EDITOR
Pepper Rodriguez
pepper.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca ART DIRECTOR
organizers and everyone I met from the movers
Jean Faye Rodriguez
and shakers of the industry from all over the
jean.rodriguez@sourcemediagroup.ca
province. It was a very enjoyable three days
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Chloe Purcell
although I’m not sure those who joined in the
chloe.purcell@sourcemediagroup.ca
golf tournament enjoyed the weather all that
Vivian Zhang
much. Still, three days of food and drinks and
vivian.zhang@sourcemediagroup.ca
friendship kept everything warm and festive.
P R O D U C T I O N A D M I N I S T R AT O R
Colleen Leier
Among the crew at our table on the first night
colleen.leier@sourcemediagroup.ca
was Homes by Avi CEO, Monte Kendall, who
EDITORIAL CONTRIBUTORS
will be retiring at the end of the year. He is going out on top, having been with the awardwinning home builder for the last 18 years. One
Andrew Best, Jennifer Mills and me at the BILD Alberta Awards
of the latest accomplishments under his purview is Swift Creek Villas, which just so happens to be our cover feature this issue. It’s really a downsizer dream nestled in a nature-rich area just west of Calgary. We also have the latest show homes from Cedarglen Homes and Mattamy Homes featured inside, and those two more than likely will be part of next year’s industry awards nights. We also talk about one of the newest Airdrie communities, Chinook Gate, which is Brookfield Residential’s first foray in this popular city just north of Calgary.
Brandi Holmes, Marty Hope, Mel Ladner, Christina Loc, Mario Toneguzzi PHOTOGRAPHY
Justine McCloy, Kathleen Potts-Kearley ADVERTISING
Andrew Best
andrew.best@sourcemediagroup.ca
Brandi Holmes
brandi.holmes@sourcemediagroup.ca
Jennifer Mills
jennifer.mills@sourcemediagroup.ca ACCOUNTING
accounting@sourcemediagroup.ca DISTRIBUTED BY
Christina Loc has design tips on how to style your flex and bonus rooms, Mel Ladner has some awesome gaming gear we can fill those rooms with in her Focus On,
Gallant Distribution Services, Media Classified, Source Media Group
and Brandi Holmes talks about where parents can take their young kids for birthday
ISSN 1918-4441
parties. We also got to talk to HGTV’s Mike Holmes and Mike Holmes Jr., see what’s
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latest on the dynamic father-and-son TV stars inside. Quite an eventful month for us here at New Home Living, and if you followed us on Twitter or Facebook or go to our www.Calgaryhomeliving.com website, you can see all that we’ve been up to, including some behind-the-scenes pictures from the last BILD Alberta Awards. See you around.
©2018 Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without written permission from 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. New Home Living® is published 12 times per annum and is available free through select distribution points in Calgary and area. New Home Living® accepts editorial submissions by electronic mail only. Please forward any submissions including all personal information to nleditor@sourcemediagroup.ca. Unsolicited submissions will not be returned. Advertising information available only by request. New Home Living® is a registered Trademark the property of SOURCE MEDIA GROUP CORP. Reg. CIPO TMA 693289. Source Media Group, 6109 — 6th Street S.E. Calgary, Alberta T2H 1L9. T: 403.532.3101, F: 403.532.3109, TF: 1.888.932.3101 E: info@sourcemediagroup.ca www.sourcemediagroup.ca
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focus on
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GAME ON!
Gaming doesn’t have to be a bad word
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Mel Ladner
IN THE LAST 30 years gaming has become surrounded in stigma. Most of us think about gaming being video games. Where children (or adults) are zoning out on the couch to play shooting, fighting or battle games mostly online. Yet there are so many traditional, classic and amazing games that don’t require a television, computer or handheld device at all! From the classics of billiards, crokinole and ping-pong to the excitement of pinball, elaborate board games and tabletop hockey; there is no shortage of games with more interpersonal activity. So, grab a few friends and enjoy these games that promote socialization and strategy instead of button mashing. NL
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[ 1 ] Black Zebra Wood Backgammon in Carrying Case, $129.99, at Discovery Hut. [ 2 ] Birmingham Billiards Table Charcoal, $12,999, at SML Entertainment. [ 3 ] Rustik Crokinole Deluxe (2 Games in 1), $69.99, at Castle Toys. [ 4 ] Rustik Flipop, $44.99, at Castle Toys. [ 5 ] Rustik SmasHockey, $44.99, at Castle Toys. [ 6 ] Stern AC/DC Pinball, $8,999, at SML Entertainment. [ 7 ] Merchant Ambassador NHL All-Star Hockey Game, $49.99, at Canadian Tire. [ 8 ] Pandemic Legacy Season 2, $99.99, at Discovery Hut. [ 9 ] Valley-Dynamo Tornado Tournament 3000, $2,599, at SML Entertainment. [ 10 ] Alberta Billiards Coventry with Custom Metal, Hickory, $5,500, at Alberta Billiards Supply Ltd. [ 11 ] Merchant Ambassador 2-in-1 Billiards and Hockey Table, $499.99, at Canadian Tire. [ 12 ] Merchant Ambassador 4-in-1 Combo Games Table, 48-inches, $199.99, at Canadian Tire. CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
Fancy villas Swift Creek Villas emerge
B
as the choice for affluent downsizers
ungalow villas are hot! The boomer generation is simply snapping up everything that comes in the market right now. But even if that’s the case, buyers know there is something special in Homes by Avi’s Swift Creek Villas. The two show homes of these exclusive, upscale bungalow villas — Tamarack and Cascade — are now open and, as expected, have caused quite a stir with their grace
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and polish. They can be seen as an initial volley in Homes by Avi’s 40th Anniversary celebrations that begin this fall. “Even before we opened our two show homes to the public, there were already visitors coming in wanting to see them,” says area manager Sandra Tregarthen. And excitement has only grown since the grand opening on September 8. She explains the popularity of the bungalow villas as baby boomers looking for a new home to fit their new stage in life. “A lot of the baby boomer CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
“Our Swift Creek Villas are attractive to buyers who are looking for the functionality of a bungalow, but desire the luxury of our premium specifications.” generation are looking to simplify their lives and downscale from their acreages and larger homes, and the lifestyle they see that bungalow villas offer is very tempting,” she adds. But what Homes by Avi’s upscale Swift Creek Villas bring is the added luxury of space and peace-of-mind. “Our Swift Creek Villas are attractive to buyers who are looking for the functionality of a bungalow, but desire the luxury of our premium specifications,” she points out. They are perfectly suited for the lock-and-leave lifestyle. “We recognize that a lot of our buyers do a lot of travelling in and out of the country, so these bare-land condos have condo fees of $269 that cover tasks such as yard maintenance, garbage removal, and snow removal, including driveways.”
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There is also the added sheen of exclusivity, as there are only 50 Swift Creek Villas available. Seven have already been sold well before the grand opening celebrations, and demand remains strong with a few more on hold. Sitting on an Avi Land development, the Swift Creek Villas are located just west of Highway 8, near Lott Creek Boulevard. “We’re a short distance to Glenmore Trail and accessible to all the amenities that southwest Calgary offers,” Tregarthen says. “Many of our buyers are coming from in and around the vicinity and it is a nature-rich, amenityfilled area that they already know and don’t really want to leave,” she says. “They see us as the perfect solution to this coming change in their life.” And they can certainly see the comfort and luxury that Swift Creek Villas offer in the 2,547-square-foot Tamarack and 2,657-squarefoot Cascade show homes. The tall ceilings (nine feet on both main floor
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| ADVERTISING COVER FEATURE |
FAST FACTS: BUILDER: Homes by Avi DEVELOPMENT: Swift Creek Villas COMMUNITY: Swift Creek in Elbow Valley corridor DEVELOPER: Avi Land SHOW HOMES: Tamarack (2,547 sq. ft.) and Cascade (2,657 sq. ft) PRICE: From the $762,000 plus GST. ADDRESS: 3 Clear Creek Place DIRECTIONS: Take Glenmore Trail SE to Hwy 8 heading west and turn left at Lott Creek Blvd. HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 to 8 p.m., Saturday, Sunday and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEB: www.homesbyavi.com
and lower level), oversized windows and impeccable finish display many of the characteristics that bungalow villa buyers are accustomed to and are looking for in their new home. The elegant, wide-plank engineered hardwood gives them a stately demeanour and the quartz or granite countertops add to the lustre. “But we pretty much give buyers carte blanche over the kind of finish they want for their home,” Tregarthen says. There are four floor plans at Swift Creek Villas, each with a front-drive double car garage, and a fully landscaped yard, and developed basement. They range from 2,487 to 2,801 square-feet of total living space (main floor and lower level development) and all have a minimum of
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Nestled just minutes west of Calgary, Swift Creek Villas is definitely the choice for upscale living for the downsizer. three bedrooms, with the master bedroom above grade, and two secondary bedrooms in the lower level. Each home also gets a covered deck, the shared driveway is of exposed aggregate, and irrigation is installed in the lawns. “We also offer options to install elevators in the homes,” she adds. Swift Creek Villas start from $762,000 plus GST, but Tregarthen says prices are very lot specific. The Tamarack show home is at $989,900 including GST, and Cascade is at $1.139 million. Nestled just minutes west of Calgary, Swift Creek Villas is definitely the choice for upscale living for the downsizer. Surrounded by wildlife and nature, three golf courses, and unrestricted mountain views, it’s easy to understand why this award winning community is the place to live the life you’ve imagined. Homes by Avi also offers a move-in concierge service that will help make this change in lifestyle less of a burden. They include pre-move, moving day, and settling-in services. n CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
show home profile
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Cedarglen Homes
PAIRED EXCELLENCE Efficiency, style mark Cedarglen Homes’ paired homes in Seton
WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
S E T ON PROM I S E S T O be Calgary’s community of tomorrow, and Cedarglen Homes’ line of paired homes in this vibrant southeast community here promise to be the single-family home of today. Blending smart, efficient design with affordability, Cedarglen’s Seton paired homes allow the first-home buyer or downsizer an opportunity to own their own home in one of the city’s most popular new communities. Equipped with a single front-attached garage, spacious pantry, sizeable closets and a basement that can be developed for future growth, Cedarglen’s Seton paired homes have the recipe for success. “Buyers love that they can own their own home without having to worry about condo fees and having only one shared wall,” says Delaney Gray, Cedarglen Homes’ sales associate for Seton Single-Family Homes. “Having an attached front garage is a big thing for them, and an optional basement development gives families more room to grow if they need it.” Their two show home models here — The Alix and The Brooks — are exclusive to the
community and share not just a wall but singular stylish verve and a single-minded functionality that checks off everything that today’s home buyers are looking for. Cedarglen offers five paired home models in Seton, and with a starting price of $394,000, including GST, it is one of the most affordable options to owning in Seton. “Owners can be part of the exciting growth that is happening in Seton, not only do they have the South Health Campus right in their backyard, but the other already existing amenities, including a MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op), a new high school, the soon to open YMCA and the popular Cineplex VIP theatres. There are already a ton of grocery stores, restaurants, cafes, and other services and shops that residents can already enjoy, and even more to come in the future.”
RIGHT Cedarglen Homes offers both paired homes and single family homes in Seton. Paired homes here start in the $390,000s and single-family homes are starting in the $460,000s. “Seton is continuing to grow and it may be a good idea to own here now because of all the new amenities that are set to come in, such as the future LRT line, the new rec centre, and much more. Home values here can only go up,” Gray says.
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TOP LEFT The kitchen with a big window is one of the most admired features of The Brooks paired home. “It makes everything on the main floor, not just the kitchen, look sunny.” The sliding glass patio door to the side adds to this much desired effect. ABOVE The master ensuite in The Brooks displays Cedarglen’s deep knowledge in what buyers are looking for. “We were able to include the two sinks in the master ensuite and still have a big walk-in closet that buyers — especially young families — are always looking for,” Gray says.
LEFT The open concept main floor of the 1,491-square-foot The Brooks works wonders in providing residents with a great space to entertain. Dressed in an elegant cottage design with lots of soft touches, the show home lets visitors visualize all the possibilities of living here.
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RIGHT Notice the laminate flooring used through most of The Brooks’ main floor and it’s easy to see Cedarglen’s high quality standards. The extended eating ledge on the peninsula island with engineered stone countertops is also standard.
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show home profile n Cedarglen Homes LEFT The Alix is the larger of the two paired home show homes in Seton at 1,524 square-feet, and just like The Brooks, it maximizes the entire space for a comfortable, compelling and just plain practical living. A big mudroom, spacious foyer and roomy pantry are some of its most popular features.
fast facts BUILDER: Cedarglen Homes MODEL: Paired homes COMMUNITY: Seton DEVELOPER: Brookfield Residential SIZE: The Brooks is 1,491 sq. ft., The Alix is 1,524 sq. ft. RIGHT Sustainable, accessible, health-minded, amenity rich and forward thinking, Seton is Calgary’s new south urban district. Once completed, Seton will include over 2.5 million square-feet of office and retail space, a 16-acre Seton Central Park, schools, a movie theater and a large recreational centre. “We’re one of the most affordable opportunities to own a home here now,” Gray says.
PRICE: Paired homes in Seton start from $394,000 including GST ADDRESS: 984 and 988 Seton Circle S.E. DIRECTIONS: South on Deerfoot Tr., exit east on Seton Blvd. and follow the signs HOURS: Monday to Thursday 2 – 8 p.m., weekends and holidays noon to 5 p.m. WEB: www.cedarglenhomes.com
LEFT The Alix show home shows all the potential of the plan, but buyers can choose interior finishings from Cedarglen’s superior standard selections. “With engineered stone countertops laminate flooring, and tile floor to bath and laundry, these are sure to please a wide variety of styles and tastes,” Gray says. NL
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ABOVE Families — especially big families — have fallen in love with the 2,273-squarefoot Onyx split level. The nine-foot ceiling, the huge centre island, the spacious pantry, all speak of the marvelous convenience, style and functionality of the design. Big family gatherings are outright encouraged by its sprawling open concept main floor, you might just have to get used to hosting all your family parties from now on.
RIGHT The semi-circular design of the enormous centre island makes it seem more like a continent rather than an island. The extended ledge makes it a convenient spot for party loungers, or for quick meals for the busy family. Granite and quartz countertops are used liberally throughout the home.
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Mattamy Homes n show home profile
STAR OF YORKVILLE
Onyx is the darling of the new Mattamy community
WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
E V E N I N A N IG H T sky filled with stars there’s always one the shines the brightest. Such is the case of Onyx, Mattamy Homes’ most popular single-family home in their new community of Yorkville. “Our buyers of single-family homes invariably choose Onyx,” says Mattamy Homes’ sales associate, Suzy Flengeris. “There’s just something in how the use of its space attracts buyers. Having two living rooms in this split level is a definite attraction to families,” she adds. The 2,273-square-foot Onyx is one of the five single-family show homes that Mattamy opened this spring to introduce their new community of Yorkville in
southwest Calgary. Mattamy, Yorkville’s land developer and exclusive home builder, has also since introduced Urban Townhomes and Rear Lane Duplex homes on September 15. Onyx may be the most popular single-family model, but the lasting appeal of Yorkville — or all of Mattamy’s communities for that matter — is the cohesive overall design of the whole community. For Yorkville, Mattamy went with a timeless look that uses sturdy and stylish Hardieboard cement fibre exteriors on all the homes. “It creates a better streetscape, not to mention that it is a safer and sturdier material,” Flengeris says. “Very stylish, too.” Homes are designed in Mattamy’s exclusive Brownstone Colonial, and Georgian Colonial inspired architectural styles that create an inspiring, and enduring identity for Yorkville. Mattamy offers 31- and 38-foot wide lots for its single family homes, starting from $424,990. The Onyx, which is on a 38-foot lot, is from $534,990.
LEFT The second living room at the top of the first landing of this split level home is one of its most popular features. “The vaulted ceiling, the second fireplace gives it such a cozy nature,” Flengeris says. “Two separate parties can happen at one time, the kids can be on this second living room, while the adults stay on the main floor.”
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show home profile n Mattamy Homes
RIGHT The luxurious master ensuite is the perfect respite after a hard day. The all glass shower stall, long twin vanities with matching full length mirror, and deep soaker tub brings a spa-like ambience to it.
fast facts BUILDER/DEVELOPER: Mattamy Homes COMMUNITY: Yorkville TYPES OF HOMES: Urban townhomes, duplexes, laned and move-up homes PRICE: Single-family homes with single-car attached garage (31-foot lot) are from $424,990 Single-family homes with double attached garage (38-foot lot) are from $514,990 Semi-detached homes are from $408,990 SALES CENTRE: 19515 Sheriff King St. S.W. HOURS: Monday to Thursday 1 to 8 p.m., Friday 1 to 6 p.m., Saturday, Sunday and holidays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. WEB: www.mattamyhomes.com
LEFT The Onyx is a revised version of Mattamy’s Garnet model, which is the builder’s top-seller in the Calgary area. But the new look was designed to fit Yorkville’s target market. “People buying here love the traditional, classic architecture and all our homes here — including the townhomes and duplexes — reflect those charcteristics.”
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ABOVE The niche bench along the stairway leading to the three-bedroom second floor is a nice touch and adds character in what could have been otherwise dead space. Gun metal grey spindles on the wood stairs with oak post and sawcut cap add more than a touch of glamour. NL
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community profile n Chinook Gate
THE BEST OF TIMES
Brookfield has another hit with Chinook Gate n WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
THERE’S EXCITEMENT IN the air in Chinook Gate, as the first residential
community development in Airdrie by Brookfield Residential welcomes its first residents. That’s quite a ringing endorsement for a community that just held their grand opening to the public in spring. Brookfield Residential will have their first few buyers move into their new homes in Chinook Gate, and that is quite the testament to the vision and promise that the community holds. “We’ve had such an overwhelmingly positive response to the community,” says Justin Castelino, Brookfield’s Marketing Manager. But its warm reception isn’t really a surprise for the multi-awarded land developer and home builder, as Brookfield Residential had poured a considerable amount of its resources and renowned expertise in making their first Airdrie community a success. Chinook Gate backs onto Airdrie’s Chinook Winds Park, and offers the kind of enviable four-season parkside living that families’ dream of. The community also offers a wide selection of townhomes, duplexes, laned
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homes and front-drive homes that can accommodate a wide range of budgets and lifestyles. “There are a number of things that make Chinook Gate attractive to potential new home owners,” says Castelino. “First off, the proximity to Chinook Winds Park — one the of nicest outdoor facilities in Alberta is right there, just a moments’ walk away. Imagine living that close to a splash park, skatepark, baseball diamonds, hockey rink and so much more. You can’t get a better backyard!” Its location in southwest Airdrie is also key. “It’s very easy to get around
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Chinook Gate n community profile
Airdrie and to Calgary. Within minutes, you can reach all your local amenities or the north end of Calgary. It’s very convenient,” he says. “We also have a dedicated school site right inside the community (Calgary Separate School District), which means walking or biking to school, just like the communities so many of us grew up in.” “Chinook Gate will be also a very quiet, exclusive community. It won’t have any (high-density) condos in the area and only 800 residences,” adds Savic. But the homes from their builder group that includes Brookfield
fast facts COMMUNITY: Chinook Gate DEVELOPER: Brookfield Residential BUILDERS: Brookfield Residential, Excel Homes, and McKee Homes STYLE: Brookfield: • Duplexes - from $318,400 • Laned single-family homes - from $386,000 Excel: • Duplexes with attached garages • Front attached • Laned single-family homes McKee Homes: • Move up homes • Laned single-family homes
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Residential, Excel Homes and McKee Homes are new and exciting. “We are all bringing fresh new designs to the community, really geared towards active families who are always on the go,” Castelino says. “Distinct architecture and community vision will help bring a complete look to the community and help preserve the investment people are making in their new home,” he adds. Brookfield will have duplexes starting from $318,400 and laned single-family homes from $368,000. Excel will offer duplexes with attached garages, frontattached and laned single-family homes; McKee Homes will have move up homes. Selling best for Brookfield are the 1,820-square-footy Carlisle II laned single-family home, as well as the 1,596-square-foot Wicklow laned duplex. “The single family is a little more popular because they are on conventional lots (unlike zero lot lines) which gives eight feet of space between neighbours,” Savic says. “Both products have great price points with the Wicklow starting from $332,000 and the Carlisle is from $381,000.” Comparatively low land costs in Airdrie have allowed Brookfield to offer bigger lots here. Savic estimates that a single-family home in Chinook Gate can cost around $18,000 less than a similar home in the big city to the south. But it is Brookfield’s expertise in designing desirable, family-friendly communities that comes through once again in Chinook Gate. Here,
residents will have access to over 55 acres of developed parkland space, three playgrounds, a kid-friendly water park, and over two kilometres of paved pathways. Chinook Gate will also have a Homeowner’s Association. “This ‘HOA’ will help maintain the look of the community for years to come, along with organizing neighbourly events like Movie in the Park and barbecues. All the little things that allow neighbours to come together and create a real sense of community,” Castelino points out. Airdrie has grown to be a vibrant, thriving city that has truly become an ideal community for families to set roots in. “Airdrie offers all the key amenities of Calgary, but it still holds a small town charm that is really appealing to young families,” Castelino says. “There are good schools, lots of activities and easy access to everything, and most of those are within easy reach from Chinook Gate.” Chinook Gate and Airdrie itself reflect Brookfield’s mission in building healthy communities and homes. “Brookfield is all about creating the best places to call home — in both the homes we build and the communities we develop. The park fits so well with our commitments to active living and bringing people together. It is a very fitting location for our first development in the city of Airdrie,” Castelino says. NL
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style
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUPERIOR WALL BEDS
n
FLEX YOUR DESIGN MUSCLE
A Murphy bed made to look like a built-in wall unit allows a room to have multi-purposes.
Let design creativity reign in flex rooms and bonus rooms
P HO TO C OUR T E S Y OF SML EN T ER TA INMEN T
n WRITTEN BY
Christina Loc
I
If space permits, the Centennial table from SML Entertainment has a nice flat surface area on one side and can be flipped over to its gaming side to be used as a poker table.
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t is astonishing to consider the progress humans have made during our time here on earth. Take for example, the house. A house was once a rudimentary shelter that protected us from the heat, rain, wind and cold; it kept us safe from predators. Move forward, we get innovative and convenience sets in with the introduction of a bathroom, kitchen, bedroom, living and dining room. And then, hey, why not add a few more rooms dedicated to specific purposes like a garage, ensuite, walk-in closet (a huge thank you to architects and builders for this), a nook, den, laundry, family, recreational and mudroom? But then, there were too many rooms and the open-concept design came along to amalgamate areas of the home into one cohesive whole. This is where the bonus and flex room come in. As formal living and dining rooms became less needed or seldom used in many households, there came a need for common areas that are more private in nature. I, for one, love bonus and flex rooms. I especially like them when they are not on the main floor or at least enclosed or away from the main living areas in your home. The term bonus and flex define these spaces perfectly. It’s a
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style n
PHOTO COURTESY OF SUPERIOR WALL BEDS
LEFT. Customizable to your needs and space, this hidden bed wall unit by Superior Wall Beds looks like a desk when enclosed and will open up to a bed.
ABOVE. At 4Living, modular furniture makes it easy to piece together the perfect sectional and wall unit for your space. Add a console table for extra work space.
PHOTO COURTE SY OF SOFA L AND
BELOW. The Zuma sofa bed from Sofa Land is a great versatile piece and comes in many configurations.
“bonus” to have the extra space, especially when this room is so much “flex” to do what you want with it. I hear people complain about not knowing what to do with the extra space and more than not, it is left over furniture from the previous home, boxes and junk that gets thrown in to these rooms. My motto, “do it right the first time”. Whether you are in a large home with a huge bonus room on the second floor or in a condo with a flex or spare bedroom, utilizing and maximizing these rooms can give you so much use and enjoyment if done properly. Stylizing these rooms with the right furniture to meet your need — possibly dedicating the room for multi-use — will get you excited to start planning your bonus room right now. Use as a second living room. For some, moving the television out of the main living area is a priority and what other better place than the bonus or flex room to move it to? For others, a place for a secondary television is ideal so that other family members have a place for gaming or watching other programs. A bonus or flex room makes for a great media room. Invest in a comfy sectional or couch to curl up in to on movie night. Having a secondary living room also allows for the primary living room to be kept tidy. Kids, teens, or the kid in you, can spend quality time playing with board games, puzzles and toys. Storage ottomans, chests and built-in wall units or a window seat with storage underneath will keep you organized and clutter-free. A place for office, arts and crafts. Have no space designated for homework or need somewhere to work on hobbies, arts and crafts? In a large bonus room or small flex room, add a built-in work station to your media wall. If space permits, adding a table provides a nice flat surface work area for scrap-booking, colouring and playing games. A console table
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(or two) behind a couch or against the wall is another great way to sneak in some work space. Lounge around on the couch to surf or work on your tablet, knit a blanket, or read a book. Stay fit. Keep a few dumbbells, a stretching rope and yoga mat for morning exercise or evening meditation. Guest room. A sectional along with an ottoman are the perfect furniture pieces for a bonus or flex room. When you’ve got a full house, that sectional and ottoman (being the same height with proper measurements) can be pushed together to make the perfect spare bed. Throw some sheets on top. Here was what I thought was the perfect solution until a client suggested the addition of a thin queen-sized memory foam to be put on top. Brilliant! What a great idea to keep a memory foam rolled up in a closet for guests so they don’t have to sleep over cushion gaps. That is, if you want to make it that much more comfortable for your guests to want to stay longer. This configuration is also great for binge-watching your favourite television show when every seat in the house becomes a lounger. A sofa bed is also a great solution although keep in mind a sofa bed typically sits firmer. For a tight space, like in a condo, think of multi-functional furniture like an all-in-one hidden bed with desk and storage wall unit from Superior Wall Beds. Superior Wall Beds have been manufacturing custom units right here in Calgary since 2006. As you can see, a bonus or flex room can serve as one, some or all of the above purposes. They’re such a great added space to any home. In many a household, this room is the second most used space after the kitchen, so spend some time and money to spruce it up. Add a wet bar for snacks and drinks. Upgrade to hardwood flooring for easy clean, dancing and yoga. Incorporate design features like vaulted ceilings, beams or wall details. Have fun with paint, wallpaper and definitely invest in proper furniture. Before you know it, the bonus room will be the only room you will want to spend all of your time in. NL
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in the city n
Birthday blitz How to get started planning for birthday parties
Brandi Holmes Justine McCloy AND Kathleen Potts-Kearley
n WRITTEN BY n PHOTOS BY
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ith the school year now upon us and all the little ones making new friends — that can only mean parents are in for more children’s birthday parties! Having a young child is hard enough, but having a toddler and trying to plan a fun birthday party for said offspring and five or six of their little friends that will keep them busy for a few hours is nearly impossible. But, don’t worry, New Home Living talked to some of our mom friends and got the low down on how to survive — I mean — plan a party for a human aged 3 and up. Planning a party at home may seem like the easy way out, but wait! Did you consider all the moving parts? What’s the theme? How are you going to decorate? How many kids? What will they eat? What will they do? Do their parents stay? And lastly, who is going to clean your house when they all leave? Having a party at home requires tons of planning, but isn’t that half the fun? On the other hand, there are tons of facilities that specifically cater to children’s birthday parties. They have specialized programs that keep your tots busy, a room to wrangle all the kidlets when it is time to eat and open presents, plus there is added supervision from all the staff that are trained to keep their eyes on your kids. You still have to consider theme, decorations, and food, but at least you don’t have to worry about what sort of activities they will be doing. But, is the additional cost of having a birthday party off-site really worth it? The first step to planning a party according
to one of our mommy friends is picking the location. “Things book up quickly, so it is important to plan ahead. We held Margaux’s second birthday party at our community lake, which I booked two months in advanced to ensure I got the date we wanted — it gets stressful when you leave things to the last minute” explains Justine, Margaux’s mom. There are pros and cons to an at home party or a party at a facility. Justine says “having a party at home is much more stressful and requires more help from whoever is available to assist in the chaos of the day plus, you have to deal with the mess after — a facility is much easier, but less cost effective.” Kathleen agrees, “we have winter babies so having to bring everything in and out including winter gear is usually a full truck
“Having a party at home is much more stressful and requires more help from whoever is available to assist in the chaos of the day plus, you have to deal with the mess after — a facility is much easier, but less cost effective.” 32 | NE W HOME LIVING
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n in the city
load and at least half an hour of prep time.” When choosing a location you have to consider what your child is interested in and what would be safe for them and their little buddies. “You want to make sure that everyone has a good time and enjoys themselves.” Says Justine. Kathleen says “what’s important to me is that no one is left out and that all the kids play great together — I also try to plan activities we can all take part in, sledding is always a hit with Dylan!” Also, invitations for the party are also important to send out in advance so other families can plan around your date. “I typically send out invitations three weeks early,” says Margaux’s mama. Once the location is determined and invitations are sent everything else is quite easy. Having a party off-site is definitely a major undertaking, but is worth it for the older children in our lives. “My kids are two weeks apart,” says Kathleen, “I will continue to try and have a joint party until they won’t let me anymore, and especially with venue parties having two within a few weeks would double the expense.” Justine’s other two children have had hugely
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successful parties off-site. She fondly remembers her son’s fourth and stepdaughter’s sixth birthday extravaganzas at Petland and is excited to hold a future party for Margaux there when she is a little older. “We had such amazing experiences with Petland parties and since Margaux is such an animal lover we plan to do the same for her!” Both moms just want to do what’s best for their kids and family. “We’ve been to great parties at kids venues and beautiful pinterest parties at people’s homes — I think just do what feels right for your kids and your family,” explains Kathleen. There are certainly tons of options when determining where to hold a birthday party, especially for kids who want to learn and explore new places outside of their home. Some facilities even offer “learning experiences” where kids can learn about animals, cooking and even science experiments. In the end, it is really about the child and what they want to do for their birthday, some kids are too young to really decide what they want so parents really have to determine if an at home party or a party off-site is appropriate for the age group. NL
SOME OF OUR FAVOURITE LOCATIONS FOR BIRTHDAY PARTIES • Butterfield Acres • Calgary Zoo • Cineplex • Flying Squirrel Trampoline Park • Granary Road
• Kayben Farms • Laser Tag • Pet Planet • Shaker’s Family Fun Centre • Telus Spark
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feature
n
Making it right HGTV Canada and Mike Holmes celebrate 15 years
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eaching millions of Canadian viewers, and earning his place as one of Canada’s most trusted contractors, HGTV Canada celebrates 15 years of Mike Holmes programming with the return of Holmes + Holmes beginning Sunday, October 7 at 10 p.m. ET. Ranked as one of the Top 20 Canadian entertainment specialty series in its first season, Season 2 of Holmes + Holmes continues Mike’s construction journey with his son Mike Holmes Jr., as they venture into business together and take on their biggest challenge yet: buying, renovating, and selling three houses for profit. “I’m so grateful that homeowners and viewers have welcomed me into their homes for over 15 years,” says Mike Holmes. “At a young age my dad always told me that if you’re going to do something, do it right the first time and I’m proud that HGTV Canada has helped me to spread that message to homeowners. I’m excited to Make it Right ™ for the next 15 years with my son and family by my side.” Since his first television series on HGTV Canada in 2003, Mike has led nine Canadian-original series and specials, including fan-favourite series Holmes on Homes, which had a seven season run, Best of Holmes on Homes, Holmes Inspection, Holmes Makes It Right, and Holmes + Holmes. He has also appeared in HGTV Canada’s Home To Win and Sarah Off The Grid, along with special events including Holmes In New Orleans, Mike Holmes Ultimate Garage, Lien On Me, and Holmes: Behind the Overalls. In every series, Mike lends his eye for detail and expert advice to guide homebuyers, homeowners, friends, and family into doing it right the first time.
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Mike’s commitment to building standards, the promotion of skilled trades, and his adamant belief in making it right has led him to build an iconic empire and achieve impressive accolades from the Gemini Viewer Choice Award for “Favourite TV Personality” to the Queen’s Jubilee Medal. In 2012, Forbes Magazine anointed Mike the third most “Trusted Celebrity” and he was named among the Top 5 “Most Trusted Canadians” by Readers Digest for five years running. Most recently, he was named “Best TV Personality” by the Toronto Sun Readers’ Choice Awards in 2017. Mike is also a best-selling author, continues to give advice at speaking engagements across North America, and gives back through his Make it Right foundation. Holmes + Holmes is produced by Make It Right Productions in association with Corus Entertainment’s HGTV Canada. Series sponsor Wayfair.ca, who provides furnishings featured throughout the season’s three properties. To celebrate the partnership milestone, HGTV Canada’s social and digital platforms will publish a variety of anniversary-themed content, including fun videos of Mike and Mike Jr. competing in skill testing 15- second and 15-minute challenges. Additional photo galleries and articles on everything from special family moments to Holmes’ approved renovation advice and tips will roll out in the coming weeks. Viewers can catch up on Holmes + Holmes Season 1 now on HGTV.ca. Season 2 will be available on HGTV.ca and On Demand with participating service providers after each episode airs. NL
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11 QUESTIONS WITH
Mike Holmes Jr. n WRITTEN BY
Jim Zang
Where were you raised? Where do you call home now? I was raised all over the place. From Markham, to Scarborough, and then Uxbridge, Ontario, I have lived all over the GTA. I now currently live in Toronto.
How many days a year are spent filming the Holmes series? It is always a toss-up but we usually film all year round. This past year we filmed both Holmes and Holmes Season 2, Holmes Next Generation and Home To Win Season 3 at the same time.
How did you originally get into construction/renovation? I got into construction through my Dad. I wanted to be a firefighter for the longest time. At 14 years old my Dad said, “How would you like to make some money this summer?” So I worked for my Dad that summer and never looked back. I fell in love with the trade.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be? Hmmmm, this question gets asked often and I always have a hard time answering! I want to say flying, but super strength would be cool too. Let’s go with flying this time.
What was your favourite TV show or movie growing up and why? My favourite TV show growing up was “The Fresh Prince Of Bel Air” and “The Simpsons”.
What type of music do you listen to? Favourite artist? I listen to all kinds of music! Not so much country but a lot of different genres. From classical, classic rock, alternative, acoustic, electronic, rap, hip hop, you name it! My favourite artist would probably be “The Lumineers”. I could listen to them in any given mood. Music is very powerful to me, so it is very important to me.
If you could have lunch with one deceased person from the past, who would it be?
PHOTO COURTESY HGTV CANADA
I would want to lunch with my wife’s grandfather, John. He was one of the most important people in her life and I only got to meet him once before he passed away. I wish I could have got to know him better.
What’s your favourite sport? I used to play rugby for both school and club, but now you could catch me playing basketball. It is hard to pick my favourite to be honest. I do love hockey!
What are some of your hobbies? My hobbies include exercise, anything outdoors, reading, woodworking.
Outside of your parents, who had the biggest influence on you growing up? I would have to say my sisters. My parents split up at a young age and were very busy trying to provide for our family so my oldest sister Amanda had a big influence on me.
Who’s your favourite hockey player? All-time and current? This may not be the most popular choice but Sidney Crosby is an absolute legend. He is an incredible hockey player and only seems to get better and better. NL
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n news
2018 BILD ALBERTA
13 Calgary and area builders win at 2018 BILD Alberta Awards n WRITTEN BY
Pepper Rodriguez
C
algary and area homebuilders were well-represented among the 2018 BILD Alberta Award winners, as they took home 12 of the 36 awards. The winners were announced during the first annual BILD Alberta Awards presented by The Alberta New Home Warranty Program Group of Companies. The awards were presented on September 14 at BILD Alberta’s Fall Conference, held at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. CHBA – Edmonton Region members won in 18 categories, BILD Calgary Region members claimed 12 awards, BILD – Lethbridge members won in three categories, and two winners belong to BILD – Central Alberta. The Pinnacle Awards were presented to the highest scoring developer, renovator, and home builders in the small-volume, large-volume and multi-family categories. Pinnacle Award winners have demonstrated excellence and leadership in design, safety, volunteerism and customer satisfaction. HERE’S A LIST OF CALGARY WINNERS: Developer Pinnacle Award – Brookfield Residential Calgary Renovator Pinnacle Award – Kon-strux Developments Inc. New Community Development – West Campus Development Trust (University District) Showhome Parade – Brookfield Residential (Livingston) Bathroom/Ensuite Renovation – Ultimate Homes and Renovations (Strathcona Ensuite Transformation) Kitchen Renovations under $100,000 – Kon-strux Developments (Shades of Seafoam Blue) CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
West Campus Development Trust (University District)
Brookfield Residential
Kitchen Renovations over $100,000 – Kon-strux Developments (Spectacular Scullery) Home Renovations over $500,000 – Alair Homes (Grandvalley Poolhouse) Renovators Choice – Diamond Valley Custom Homes (Okotoks – Rocky Mountain Oasis) Multi-Family Apartment Unit under $500,000 – Logel Homes (Atwood-H1) Estate Home $800,000-$1,00,000 – Alair Homes (Colgrove Avenue Infill) Estate Home over $1,000,000 – Calbridge Homes (Lottery Home in Mahogany) NL
Brookfield Residential
For the complete list of winners, go to www.BILDAlberta.ca
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around town n
By Pepper Rodriguez
Brookfield Residential partners with YMCA Calgary BROOKFIELD RESIDENITAL REALIZES the importance of recreational activities for families and has invested $3.5 million with YMCA Calgary to name the new City of Calgary-built recreation facility in Seton. As announced at a naming celebration event in September, the new facility will be called the Brookfield Residential YMCA at Seton in recognition of the renowned land developer and home builder’s belief in community, wellness and belonging. In addition to this naming sponsorship, Brookfield Residential is celebrating its 60th year of operations by subsidizing 60 children to participate as YMCA members for one year, helping them achieve the recommend-
ed 60 minutes a day of Brookfield Residential to bring its heart-pumping exercise transformational gift to life in service every kid needs. of Calgarians, particularly in the southA 330,000-square-foot east,” says Shannon Doram, President facility currently under and CEO of YMCA Calgary. construction, the Brookfield Brookfield Residential is thrilled to Residential YMCA at Seton support health and wellness resources will provide opportunities for families in Calgary’s southeast and for recreation, leisure and in the surrounding communities. “One Trent Edwards and learning through competof Brookfield’s core values is commuShannon Doram itive and family-focused nity. We believe if we can make a posiaquatics, fitness and sports facilities, arts tive contribution to the well-being of community learning and performance spaces as well as members, it will benefit future generations multipurpose areas, a licensed childcare and a and in turn will benefit the communities we full-scale Calgary Public Library. build,” says Trent Edwards, COO for Brookfield “We are tremendously happy to partner with Residential Alberta.
Qualico Communities to unveil new park and final new show home parade in Evanston
Cedarglen Homes begins sales of paired homes in Parks of Harvest Hills
QUALICO COMMUNITIES IS set to unveil the final show home parade in Evanston, even as it gives residents a new top-of-the-line playground that makes it a community to set roots in. The community, which began in 1999, has grown into one of Calgary’s largest communities and is nearing completion. “Evanston has truly grown with the city. Now it’s an established community, people can build a brand new home in. You don’t need to wait for a school to be built, or a grocery store to come to the community. It’s all there in Evanston,” says Laura Field, Marketing Coordinator with Qualico Communities. Four beautiful new front-attached garage homes by Trico Homes, NuVista Homes, Broadview Homes and Sterling Homes open on September 22. This fall, Evanston’s newest park will also open, which has some very unique elements. “The playground will include a bouldering wall and climbing boulders that will mimic the colours of the Rockies, as it’s a hillside park flanking the dry pond,” says Joanne Voll, Development Manager with Qualico Communities. “There will be a custom hill net climber built into the side of the slope and other natural elements of the park will include three large climbing boulders, rounded wood seating benches and many trees and shrubs. There is one large play loft including slide, vegetable/leaf sliders, crawl tunnel, flower/leaf spinners, flower gear panel/counting panel, steps, panels, and mailbox talk tube. You will find musical equipment including ring-a-bell and bongo panels and chimes as well as a swing set and disc swing. Also included is a safety poured-in-place rubberized fall surfacing which is handicap accessible, it’s going to be a really neat park,” says Voll.
CEDARGLEN HOMES IS excited to launch the sales of their brand new paired homes in a new area within The Parks of Harvest Hills that will be known as The Gardens. Located on a charming cul-de-sac within this young northwest community, these new paired homes are being built around a central green-space with convenient access to Harmony Park, beautiful walking paths and nearby shopping and amenities. There will be four new models available — The Orchid, The Blossom, the Peony and the Lotus, and they range in size from 1,788 to 1,993 square-feet. They start from the $450,000s. NL
CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM
For more information visit www.theparksofharvesthills.com
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real estate insider n
By Mario Toneguzzi
LOW RISKS REMAIN IN CALGARY HOUSING MARKET The stress test has done its job to mitigate risks, but rising interest rates may hurt THE IMPACT OF the stress test — tighter mortgage regulations — was felt in housing markets across the country in the first half of the year. There is a sense now that Canada has moved beyond that hurdle which posed a problem for some homebuyers. But now experts believe rising interest rates are the next big test for the housing market. According to RBC Economic Research’s Canadian Housing Health Check report, the probability of a steep and widespread housing downturn over the next 12 months is still low. “The stress test foiled the burgeoning market recovery this year,” says the report about Calgary’s housing market. “Demand-supply conditions have loosened, taking away support for prices in the process. High condo inventories remain an issue, as is slower population growth. On a positive note, stronger oil prices should boost sentiment and pave the way for an eventual market turnaround.” The RBC report, by chief economist Craig Wright and senior economist Rob-
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ert Hogue, looked at the following variables in major markets across the country — affordability, resale market balance, rental market balance, interest rates, labour market, demographics, new home inventory for singles, new home inventory for multiples, homes under construction for singles and homes under construction for multiples. In its monitoring dashboard for Calgary, it described the following areas as being “within historical norms or not posing any immediate threat” — affordability, resale market balance, interest rates, labour market, new home inventory for singles, and homes under construction for singles. The following was described as “significantly outside historical norms and posing much higher risk than usual” — rental market balance, demographics and new home inventory for multiples. The homes under construction for multiples was classified as “modestly outside historical norms and posing moderately higher risk than usual.” The report said that housing affordability in Calgary continues to be a generally constructive factor for the Calgary market despite deteriorating slightly since early 2015. The Calgary market still faces a number of issues, but RBC said affordability is unlikely to be one of them. It says demand-sup-
ply conditions are on the soft side which provides little support for prices. “The mortgage stress test implemented in January foiled a burgeoning recovery in resale activity, causing market conditions to loosen this year . . . Prices are under mild downward pressure,” said RBC, adding that the city’s rental market appears to be over-supplied. “A still-high unemployment rate continues to weigh on Calgary’s housing market though the situation improved noticeably in the past year and a half. Calgary’s labour market turned a corner in 2017 with the unemployment rate falling sharply from a modern-day high of 10.3 per cent at the end of 2016. While the labour market recovery stalled this year, we expect that sustained growth in the provincial economy will bring things back on track going forward. NL
This article was shortened for space considerations. For the full text, visit www.calgaryhomeliving.com
Mario Toneguzzi Based in Calgary, Mario Toneguzzi has 37 years of experience as a daily newspaper writer, columnist and editor. He worked for 35 years at the Calgary Herald covering sports, crime, politics, health, city and breaking news, and business. For 12 years as a business writer, his main beats were commercial and residential real estate, retail, small business and general economic news. He nows works on his own as a freelance writer and consultant in communications and media relations/training. Email mdtoneguzzi@gmail.com
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advertisers index n Anthem United Belmont page 2
Brookfield Residential Moving now page 42
Homes by AVI Swift Creek Villas front cover, pages 10-13
Anthem United Cornerstone page 40
Brookfield Residential Seton page 24
Jayman BUILT Livingston page 21
Anthem United D’ARCY pages 25
Cardel Homes Shawnee Park page 31
Mattamy Homes back cover
Apex Developments Heartland page 3
Cedarglen Homes page 17 Cedarglen Homes The Parks of Harvest Hills page 47
Apex Developments Hillcrest page 45
Genstar Development Savanna page 44
Apex Developments MountainView page 30 Bri-Mor Developments The Rise, page 4 Brookfield Residential Livinston, page 38
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Genesis Land page 26 Homes by AVI Gabriel page 13
NuVista Homes page 34 Qualico Communities Evanston page 35 Qualico Communities Redstone page 29 Outdoor Dental page 34 WestCreek Developments Legacy pages 7
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hope at large n
By Marty Hope
BROOKFIELD RESIDENTIAL ACQUIRES ARTESIA Artesia at Heritage Pointe is now a Brookfield community TWENTY-EIGHT YEARS ago, give or take, land on Dunbow Road was purchased for what would become, a couple of years later, Heritage Pointe golf course — along with big plans for upscale country-residential neighbourhoods to wrap around it. I recall sitting with Carolina Oxtoby, president and CEO of Heritage Pointe Properties, on a summer day in 2017 on the occasion of the development’s 25th anniversary and chatting about its start and the phenomenal success that has come its way. “Back then, lots of people thought we were crazy to build way out in the boonies,” she was saying about the corporate vision for the farmland. “Now, here we are celebrating our 25th and a lot has changed over that time.” But a year and a bit after that afternoon chat came an even bigger change for Oxtoby, her company, and those living or considering buying in the last of four communities — Artesia at Heritage Pointe — making up the Hamlet of Heritage Pointe. In a letter to residents of Artesia, Oxtoby announced that Brookfield Residential had acquired the remaining undeveloped lots in Artesia. Heritage Pointe Properties signed off on the agreement, ending 29 years of design and development. “With their expertise in creating vibrant, master-planned communities, Brookfield will carry out Heritage Pointe’s vision and success in creating a boutique estate community,” she says in the letter. “Your special community will continue and come to full fruition with the sale and construction
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of about 70 homes over the next three to four years.” Brookfield, through its acquisition of Albi Homes in 2015, has had a presence in Heritage Pointe for more than two decades — and what Allan Klassen, Brookfield senior vice-president of housing and formerly president of Albi Homes, describes as a “tremendous relationship.” So, why the decision to buy what remains of the development? “We saw a unique opportunity to create an exclusive way to demonstrate the Brookfield luxury experience, and realized the vision that was created in Artesia over the last few years,” he says. The road to the property acquisition didn’t really take a lot of time. “We started talking about it over a year ago and then got really serious about it in the latter part of 2017 — finalizing our negotiations this past June,” says Klassen. Brookfield will be completing the development of Artesia, Homes by Avi and Augusta Fine Homes will complete work on the lots they currently own. “We see this as a two- or three-year buildout due to the complexity of the product. And it’s our desire to get to an absorption level of two per month as the market continues to recover.
As part of the Artesia portion of the overall development is an island that originally was intended for homes. Klassen, though, would not confirm if plans are still alive for the island’s future. One thing that can be confirmed is that Heritage Pointe Properties will not be completing the development. But, says Oxtoby in her letter to residents: “We are thrilled to collaborate on bringing additional vitality to the community with the ultimate goal of completing the community and bringing new neighbours to Artesia.” NL
Marty Hope. For more than two decades Marty Hope has been reporting on the housing and development industry in Calgary, throughout Alberta, and across Canada. In March, he was presented with the Maple Leaf Award from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association which is given annually to a non-builder member in Canada for contributions to the industry. CALGARYHOMELIVING.COM