Profile Spring 2013

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content s CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION – CALGARY REGION represents professionals in the housing industry. CHBA – Calgary Region has been in existence for over 60 years and is a network of professionals that manages industry issues to provide value to our members.

100-7326 10 St. N.E., Calgary, AB, T2E 8W1 Tel: 403.235.1911; Fax: 403.248.1272 E-mail: info@chbacalgary.com Website: www.chbacalgary.com Donna K. Moore | Chief Executive Officer donna@chbacalgary.com Val Veldhuyzen | Director, Finance and Administration val@chbacalgary.com Amie Blanchette | Director, Government Affairs amie@chbacalgary.com David Bears | Director, Programs david@chbacalgary.com Kathy McCormick | Profile Editor, Director, Communications kathy@chbacalgary.com Habiba Gulnaz-Khalid | Accounting Co-ordinator habiba@chbacalgary.com Kelsey Williams | Event Co-ordinator kelsey@chbacalgary.com Patricia MacKay | Receptionist info@chbacalgary.com Deanna McArthur| Communications Assistant deanna@chbacalgary.com

SPRING 2013 • VOLUME 20 • ISSUE 5

A SSOCIATION INFORMATION 7 Message from the President, CHBA – Calgary Region 9 Message from the CEO, CHBA – Calgary Region 11 Message from the President, CHBA – Alberta 12 It’s an election year 18 Events Calendar 20 New and Cancelled Members A SSOCIATION E VENTS 13 HomExpo another hit 14 Events recap 19 CHBF supports Camp Horizon INDUSTRY NEWS 25 Construction site safety 26 In memorium: John Robert Klassen 28 PHBI celebrates 25th anniversary 29 Accessible housing by design

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FE ATURE 21 Housing sector important to Alberta’s health 22 Calgary’s economy boosts new home market 24 Why buy new?

Published by Source Media Group Corp.

207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W., Calgary, AB T2H 0J9. Tel 403.532.3101, Toll free 1.888.932.3101 Fax 403.532.3109 email: info@sourcemediagroup.ca web: www.sourcemediagroup.ca Associate Publisher | Jim Zang Art Director | Jean Faye Rodriguez Graphic DesignerS | Lama Azhari, Dave Macaulay, Megan Sereda Production Co-ordinator | Colleen Leier Accounting | Donna Roberts Advertising Sales | Steve MacGillivray steve.macgillivray@sourcemediagroup.ca Copyright 2013 by Source Media Group Corp. Material cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the expresssed written permission of the publishers.

Source Media Group agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser without responsibility for claims or misinformation made by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium. Source Media Group reserves the right to refuse any advertising at its sole discretion.

Profile is published quarterly per annum and is distributed to every member of the Canadian Home Builers’ Association – Calgary Region.

COVER PHOTO | Don Molyneaux

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We’d love to hear from you…

Letters to the editor, article suggestions, columns, topics and opinions are all welcome and encouraged! Please nail us a notice, saw us a yarn, measure us a metre of your thoughts. We’ll print the best ones in the next issue.

Contact Kathy McCormick, Director, Communications at 403.730.4255 or kathy@chbacalgary.com

!

Need to change your contact name or address?

Let us know at info@chbacalgary.com

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rce the best We travel the world over to sou finest floors. hardwood to make Calgary’s mount Drive SE or In Calgary, visit us at 6717 Fair nehardwood.com call us at 403-285-2188. divi

COUVER CALGARY • EDMONTON • VAN

President ’s message | association information

By Charron Ungar President, Canadian Home Buiders’ Association – Calgary Region

Have your voice heard Alberta’s economic promise brings with it thousands of people coming to our city every year, carrying with them the dream of claiming their own stake in the New West. It’s for those people that the home building industry exists. Our industry helped build this city one home at a time for families determined to grow roots and plant the seeds of prosperity for themselves and their future generations.

And as Calgary has expanded, the demands of the housing market have changed and the needs and requirements of our growing city have meant that our ability as homebuilders to bring our product to market has been affected.

Home building is a reactive industry.

We build only when the market demands, and our ability to meet that demand has always been a team effort between our civic government and homebuilders. Our industry relies on city hall and city hall relies on us to house our citizens safely, effectively and affordably. It’s the balance between vision and implementation that brings us together.

That, however, doesn’t mean that planning decisions have always gone our way, or that they have moved as quickly as we needed.

Currently, the greatest challenge we face is availability of a reliable and diverse land ready for residential development. While there is a palpable sense of frustration amongst our membership regarding this issue, our association is trying hard to ensure we have a voice where it matters most, in front of these decision makers. Day in and day out.

In achieving this goal, we need to recognize the staff at our association for

their determination to inform, participate and collaborate with city hall and the civic administration. CHBA – Calgary Region is well represented through the work of Kathy McCormick leading our communications department and Amie Blanchette, our government relations expert. Most particularly, Amie’s involvement on key committees like the mayor’s ‘Cut Red Tape’ and the ‘Transforming Planning Project’, has meant that we are at the centre of the decision-making process, ensuring that our side of the debate is well represented.

But the process involved in the creation of policy is long, convoluted, and most times, confusing. At the end of the day our membership has a job to do; our market demands we build more homes. We cannot wait incessantly for the wheels of bureaucracy to slowly turn while affordability dwindles and our land supply disappears.

That is why, apart from the work of our CHBA – CR staff, we need the help of all our members. Here is what you can do: 1. Make Votecalgary.ca your homepage — This is an election year. Make sure you are informed about your alderman’s record on issues that affect our industry. Keep

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informed on other candidates who will be running in your ward. The best way to do that is to visit votecalgary.ca. A quick glance every morning will keep you up-to-date on the latest and greatest happenings at city hall.

2. Commit to having a voice — Articles posted on our website (chbacalgary.com) ask for your comments. Well… comment!!

Consideration to those comments is given by policy makers when they make decisions.

There have been several examples that influenced city hall that found their birth on our website. It works.

3. Membership — We had a goal this year of pushing our membership numbers as high as possible, with the express purpose of ensuring all aspects of our industry are represented. From builders to developers, and trades to professionals, all play a key role and need to have a voice. It is imperative that if you are a member, get a new one to join. If you are not a member, well, what are you waiting for? Join us; we would be happy to have you.

With the new year upon us, I wish our membership much prosperity in 2013, along with good health and happiness.

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ceo’s message | association information

By Donna Moore

CEO, Canadian Home Buiders’ Association – Calgary Region

CHBA – Calgary Region maps out strategic plan for 2013/14 Recently CHBA – Calgary Region board of directors, committee chairmen and staff members spent a day under the tutelage of Valerie Macleod, Global Partner, Haines Centre for Strategic Management, updating our current strategic plan.

There is no question that strategic planning is key to having our voice heard as you will read in our provincial president Dave Hooge’s column, and it is critically important in ensuring our organization is well positioned overall to take on the future.

It’s the responsibility of our leadership to build and execute a strategic plan that articulates our direction, aligns our resources by devising goals and equips for the execution of objectives that will further our mission and achieve our vision.

Thanks to everyone who contributed to this review and I look forward to reporting on the achievements in coming months.

CHBA – Calgary Region Strategic Plan 2013 – 2014 Vision: We are the respected voice shaping the future of the home building industry.

Mission: An engaged membership building our successful future.

Core Values: Professionalism — means, we continually educate, lead by example, meet expected level of performance, are the positive image of the

industry and expect a safe work place.

Success — means, we recognize achievement, good business practices, promote growth and innovation, and reward customer satisfaction.

Membership — means, we foster leadership, encourage, recognize and reward volunteerism, solicit feedback, provide value for membership and provide opportunities to network.

Integrity — means, we do what we say, admit when we make a mistake, correct our mistakes, are fair, and act with honesty.

Relationships — means, we listen, encourage collaboration, lead with our actions, come with solutions, and develop long term relationship strategies.

Respect — means, we appreciate our differences, are considerate of others, open to collaboration, are inclusionary, and hold others in high regard.

Strategic Principles: Professionalism — to foster improved professionalism among CHBA – Calgary Region members.

Issues Management — to effectively manage the issues.

Strategic Alliances — working with partners to achieve a mutually beneficial end.

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Volunteerism — maintaining an environment that enhances membership renewal and healthy new membership.

Public Awareness — foster and improve the public’s perception of the industry and its members.

Ongoing Operation — fostering prudent fiscal management and a work environment that values, supports and acknowledges all staff.

Strategic Goals 2013 – 2014: 1. Fiscal Sustainability — ensure fiscal responsibility.

2. Membership Value & Relations — provide a high standard of brand, tools, opportunities, and services that further member interests and representation.

3. Communication & Marketing — market CHBA – Calgary Region to internal and external stakeholders and facilitate the distribution of information on issues and activities.

4. Advocacy & Research — building relationships to influence policy to benefit industry.

5. Industry Career Awareness — promote, identify and define career opportunities to ensure long term success of the residential construction industry.

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CHBA – alberta | association information

By Dave Hooge

President, Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Alberta

Strategic planning is key to having our voice heard Over the course of the fall and into December, what started as a rather calm legislative session ended both contentious and news-making. This type of session can be distracting at times for Associations such as ours and cause items on the agenda to be rushed, shelved, ignored or otherwise dealt with in an inconsistent manner.

During times like these, it is important that CHBA – Alberta’s efforts remain focused on strategic priorities and relationship building.

It is therefore topical that we held our yearly strategic planning session in November. At this session, CHBA – Alberta Board members, EOs from around the province and staff were able to sit down with facilitator Valerie MacLeod for another productive discussion. We are always working to ensure that CHBA – Alberta is thinking and acting strategically as an organization.

Topics discussed included CHBA – Alberta’s mission and vision, strategic principles and themes, as well as the strategic initiatives we will work on together. This session built on our 2011 strategic session and is part of our continuing effort to think and act in a strategic fashion.

Having this structure in place allows us to respond effectively to issues that either come up suddenly or are identified well in advance. A good example of the former came in October, when CHBA – Alberta was notified by CHBA national of Canada Post’s plan to charge a $200 fee per new house for community mail boxes.

National responded with a strong letter to the Minister responsible for Canada Post, noting that the Crown Corporation did not conduct consultation on the matter despite doing so in the past, and asking the Minister to intervene. CHBA – Alberta then sent a similar letter to Alberta MPs, asking them to speak with the Minister as well and Locals undertook similar action.

Since these efforts began we have received positive correspondence on the issue, the Canadian Taxpayers Federation and some

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municipalities have taken up the cause, and recently it was relayed by National that consultation would take place. This is an excellent example of a coordinated and strategic response to an important issue where proactive resolution was not available.

As for circumstances where being proactive will pay dividends, CHBA – Alberta and our strategic partners are working to ensure that our voices are heard and effective during the review of the Municipal Government Act. We have heard from government speakers, hosted strategic sessions, and are working to form a group that will feed information to the industry representative on the Review’s Advisory Group. Municipal Affairs is hoping that the legislation will be in place prior to the next election, slated for the spring of 2016. This will be a challenge, considering the department’s limited resources, an original suggested timeline of seven years and that this is the largest piece of Government of Alberta legislation. We will be there to ensure that no matter what the timeline ends up being, key themes such as accountability and transparency, consistency, and the one-taxpayer principle are central to the discussion. Along with our partners, we will emphasize that the most important thing is getting this legislation right.

Playing a substantial part in the future of Alberta requires leadership. By thinking and acting strategically as well as addressing the issues we face, Alberta’s home building industry will take its place as one of these leaders.

association information | CHBA – C algary Region

By Amie Blanchette

Director, Government Affairs, CHBA – Calgary Region Project Manager, VoteCalgary

It’s an election year

Visit www.votecalgary.ca and make an informed decision Now that 2013 has arrived and election fever will soon hit, it seems that some folks are expecting VoteCalgary’s “true colours” to be revealed.

Apparently this will likely consist of presenting blistering commentary on some existing aldermen, telling industry members and their companies which election campaigns to support financially, direct our audience on whom to actually vote for come October and generally be the special interest lobby machine with no other goal but to obtain a predetermined election result. Well I’m sorry to disappoint those harbouring such opinions, but that is not in fact what VoteCalgary has in mind.

Although, I would kind of like to thank those who do in fact think we could wield

that kind of power and influence through our website and social media outreach. If I had a mustache, I’d be twirling it!

In all seriousness however, here at VoteCalgary we have always maintained a transparent and open approach. We are proud of the fact this site came about as a joint initiative of CHBA – Calgary Region and UDI in 2010 and have never tried to hide our affiliation. While some companies and/or individuals within the industry may be politically active and hold strong opinions about candidates and their views, that is not the focus for VoteCalgary.

We will continue to centre our attention on issues of interest to the residential construction and land development industry.

We attempt to bridge the gap between what is reported in media regarding city policy and what is of concern to our readers.

The contentious suggestions made above will certainly not be part of our future. In fact, we may do many of the same things we did in 2010: successful events such as Mayoral

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and Aldermanic candidate forums where industry members were able to learn more about the candidates and their priorities. Perhaps we will again speak one-on-one with candidates for our Q&A video series (previous videos are still posted on www.votecalgary.ca ) or maybe we will branch out, keeping the focus on informing and educating our industry and others on key city issues.

What does 2013 hold for VoteCalgary?

You can be certain of three things: 1. VoteCalgary will continue to provide thoughtful and well researched stories supplemented as always by social media to bring different perspectives from various other local and international thought leaders.

2. VoteCalgary will continue as an information resource on policy and land use decisions from the city through our ‘Council Votes’ summary table and VoteCalgary Voice articles.

3. VoteCalgary will encourage our audience to do the very same things in 2013 as we have since our inception — become aware of the issues, be informed, analyse the pros and cons of City Hall decisions and finally, form their own opinions about the impact those decisions may have on them, their family and their city.

2013 promises to be an exciting year. Even without a looming election, the Growth Management Framework, Transforming Planning initiative and various other ongoing policy discussions at the city will ensure we have no shortage of things to talk about.

HOME XPO | association Events

By Kathy McCormick

Director, Communications, CHBA – Calgary Region

HomExpo another hit A great way to start the New Year Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region is proud to present the annual HomExpo home renovation and décor show every January — the first in the season — and this year was no exception.

An enthusiastic crowd turned out for the three days in early January, upbeat with the positive economic news from all angles about our city and our province — and it showed. Exhibitors reported quality traffic and many leads as a result of HomExpo visits. The chairs were full for the keynote presentations by Love It or List It TV personality Hilary Farr and renovation specialist John Sillaots.

The Destination Renovation RenoMark™ booth was well received and reusable CHBA – Calgary Region bags and Consumer Directories were given away to everyone.

Thank-you to all who volunteered a few hours to help us out and hope to see all our booths full again next year.

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association Events

By Kelsey Williams

Event Co-ordinator, CHBA – Calgary Region

Events recap CHBA – CR events celebrated the season

Children’s Christmas Party The fourth annual Children’s Christmas Party, organized by the Young Guns, took place on December 16 at the Heritage Pointe Golf Club. Sixty-seven of our future members enjoyed face painting, unique balloon creations (including a battle axe), and of course, a visit with the guy in red, Santa Claus.

Thank You sponsors!

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association Events

Season’s Greetings Mix & Mingle CHBA – Calgary Region hosted its annual Season’s Greetings Mix & Mingle on December 6, 2012, at the Coast Plaza Hotel. More than 300 members and guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and a beef and turkey carving station as well as musical entertainment by the John de Waal Quartet — which, of course, included a song or two by none other than own member, Peter Mauro.

Thank You sponsors!

(L-R) Erin Johnson, Holly Goulard, Lisa and Jim Stinson

(L-R) Cole Fiddler, Roger Davies, Mike Ostafichuk

(L-R) Pal Shergill, Jim Stinson, Dave Hooge, and Tory Cook (L-R) Jack Rapkowski and Bill Bobyk

(L-R) Donna Moore and Diane Colley-Urquhart

Young Guns Halloween Brew n Bond The Associate Board hosted their first event under their new name, the Young Guns, with great success. The Halloween Brew n Bond brought out all the ghouls and goblins to the Hose & Hound Pub on October 24. The night offered plenty of networking with the association’s up and comers.

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Thank You sponsors!

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Events C ALENDAR

By Kelsey Williams Event Co-ordinator, CHBA – Calgary Region

MARCH 2013*

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Dinner Meeting, Coast Plaza Hotel & Conference Centre

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Builder Breakfast, Glenmore Inn

APRIL 2013*

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26th Annual SAM Awards Gala, Telus Convention Centre

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Builder Breakfast, Glenmore Inn

MAY 2013*

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Dinner Meeting: Student House Awards

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RenoMark Renovation & CHBA – Calgary Region Infill Tour

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Sales Rally, TBA

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TO MAY 31: 27th Annual Fairmont Golf Classic, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, Fairmont, BC

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Builder Breakfast, Glenomore Inn

JUNE 2013*

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Dinner Meeting: Volunteer Awards & Presidential Tribute

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Builder Breakfast, Glenmore Inn

For more information visit www.chbacalgary.com *Subject to change profile

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c algary home builders foundation | Industry Events

By Val Veldhuyzen

Director, Finance and Administration, CHBA – Calgary Region Staff Liaison, CHBF Board of Directors

CHBF supports Camp Horizon Landmark Homes kick-starts campaign The $1,000,000 dormitory replacement project at Camp Horizon has now been tendered and construction is slated to begin in March 2013. Members should have received information packages in the mail in January outlining how you and your company and employees can help CHBF with the project.

President of Calgary Home Builders Foundation, Ann Donald, was pleased to accept a large donation from Landmark Homes (Calgary) Inc. at the January 9th Economic Forecast Dinner Meeting.

Landmark Homes donated a whopping $30,000 towards the Camp Horizon Project. Sam Attia, President, seen in the picture with Ann Donald, issues a challenge to all members to also make a donation.

50/50 Winner A big shout out to all members who support Calgary Home Builders Foundation by purchasing 50/50 tickets at events. Like the big lotteries, if you don’t have a ticket you can’t win. Just ask Marilyn Paxton, office manager at DVS Drywall Contractors Ltd. Marilyn is seen

Photos by Don Molyneaux

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here with her winnings of $965.00 at the last dinner meeting. Left to right are, Ann Donald, President Calgary Home Builders Foundation, Dale Soloski, Director, Calgary Home Builders Foundation, chair of the 50/50 Committee, and Marilyn Paxton, Kudos also to Dale, who is with Century Carpet One Home and Floor, and his staff Lesley Burrows and Tina Ruskowsky, along with Cathy Huth of Hard Rock Developments, whose smiling faces facilitated the 50/50 at the meeting.

We will be providing photos and further updates on the status of this project in future editions of Profile magazine.

association information | members NEW MEMBERS n october 2012 BigSteelBox Corporation Rep: David Lister Moving & Storage

Brighton Homes

Rep: Andrew Zorko Builder ­— Custom Homes

Ceratec Inc.

Rep: Alan Beres Flooring & Carpets

Crystal Waters Plumbing Co. Inc.

McElhanney Consulting Services Ltd.

Global Raymac Surveys

Okotoks Rentals Ltd.

Great Canadian Roofing & Siding (CGY) Ltd.

Rustic Creek Homes

Western Financial Group

Rep: Kirstin Mulholland Engineers & Surveyors & Planning Services Rep: Chris Ridge Equipment Rentals

CANCELLED MEMBERS

BDO Canada LLP

Detailed Home Remodeling

Leyte Blair

n october 2012 Concept Electric Ltd. Harvest Builders Marketplace Events

Rep: Geof Filson Renovations

Rep: Steve Blair Real Estate

Just In Time Heating, AC & Duct Cleaning

Livello Projects Inc.

Rep: Justin Johnston Heating & Ventilation & A/C Trades & Supplies

Rep: Michael Giles Renovations

Magnet Media Inc.

Mouldings Canada Ltd.

Rep: Paul Clarke Advertising & Marketing

Rep: Malcolm Hunter Millwork

Malbec Homes & Renovations Inc.

n december 2012

ManndateSL Interiors

Rep: Ross Fender

n november 2012 Rep: Matt Peron Accounting

REP: Kim Ruff Renovations

Rep: Don Middleton Roofing

Rep: Nicholas Ruigrok Builder – Custom Homes

Rep: John Pomeroy Plumbing Trades & Supplies

n november 2012

Morad Media Inc. Richland Development Group Inc. Terra Banah Builders Terra Sar Developments

n DECEMBER 2012

Four Star Rock Products Ltd. Rep: Jamie Kowalski Building Materials

Rep: Trudy Feeney Home Accessories

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Rep: Steve Gilfoy Market Consulting

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Crestview Homes Ltd. K2 Stone (Calgary) Inc. Montana Rockworks, Inc. Renocreations Ltd. The Granite Shop Zen Living

COVER FEATURE

By Kathy McCormick

Director, Communications, CHBA – Calgary Region

Housing sector important to Alberta’s health Province is “economic driver” of Canada

“We are an economic driver for the country,” Redford said at January’s Economic Forecast Dinner Meeting. “The statistics in respect to the work that you do, in respect to the work that is done around home development and real estate sales, really is a leading indicator in terms of what our success is in this province.”

Redford thanked the industry for “guiding us” and “bringing peace of mind to so many people” through its consultation regarding the mandatory new home warranty legislation that was tabled last year and will come into effect this year.

“By maintaining the highest professional standards, through your commitment to your foundation, providing shelter and support to those in need and vulnerable Albertans ... you do so much and have done so much to make Alberta a wonderful place to live,” Redford told the audience.

“And that is one of the reasons why tens of thousands of people come here each year.

“For many, those dreams include a home of their own in a beautiful community.”

But Alberta’s future isn’t without its challenges, she said. “2013 is going to be a tough year to navigate and it is important for us to know that as we move ahead as a province.”

While the oil and gas sector is the key to our success, “the only way to keep Alberta’s energy output high is to get our oil to new markets.”

Helping develop a Canadian energy strategy is part of that — and a crucial goal of the government of Alberta “to ensure that Canada can continue to be an energy super power,” she said.

“Hundreds of thousands of jobs, hundreds of billions of dollars in revenues and the future of our public services — our very way of life — is what is at stake.

“I will do everything that I can to ensure that Alberta reaches its full potential as a safe, sustainable and reliable energy producer through the Canadian energy strategy.”

“I will do everything that I can to ensure that Alberta reaches its full potential as a safe, sustainable and reliable energy producer through the Canadian energy strategy.”

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Photography by Don Molyneaux

The state of Alberta’s economic health is determined by residential activity, Alberta Premier Alison Redford told close to 675 members of Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region.

Alberta Premier Alison Redford

However, right now, the low oil prices on the world market have meant less revenue for Alberta’s coffers — the biggest challenge facing Alberta today, said Redford. “Energy royalties make up almost 30 per cent of our budget. And this government knows that we will have tough decisions ahead of us when it comes to spending.”

A pragmatic approach to fiscal planning will include “tough calls on short-term spending” and “investing in the long term in Alberta’s future.” Priorities will include education, healthcare, and support for families, communities, and vulnerable people — things that the government heard from Albertans.

cover feature

By Deanna McArthur

Communications Assistant, CHBA – Calgary Region

Calgary economy boosts n CMHC predicts housing starts, prices to increase in 2013 While not a banner year, 2012 housing starts were up significantly from past years, buoyed by our strong economy, the senior market analyst for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation said.

And that should continue this year, Richard Cho told close to 675 members of Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region at its annual Economic Forecast Dinner Meeting in January.

“For 2013 the housing market will benefit from a growing economy,” said Cho. “Employment growth will continue to increase, net migration will be fairly steady, the new home market will see single-family starts remaining comparable to 2012, and the multi-family starts will see a slight decline.”

CMHC reported 5,961 single-family starts in 2012, up about 14 per cent from 2011, and

is expecting 5,900 in 2013. On the multifamily side, 2012 saw 6,880 starts, up 38.8 per cent from 2011 and CMHC is expecting this number to level off at 6,000 in 2013, a 14 per cent decrease.

As a comparison, 2008 had 4,387 singlefamily home starts; 2009 had 4,775; and 2011, 5,084. These numbers are a far cry from the record 10,482 recorded in 2006.

Absorbed price in Calgary has been gradually increasing since 2010. The absorbed price of a single-detached home in 2012 was about $570,000, up close to six per cent from 2011 — largely due to the strength of the luxury home market, he said.

“In 2013 we are forecasting the average price (for single-detached homes) to be about $580,000, which is above the record that was set in 2008.”

Watch for another year of employment growth in Alberta and Calgary, and an economy that is once again expected to be amongst the strongest in the country.

A trend since mid-2010, employment growth in Calgary reached 3.7 per cent last year, which represents 27,000 new jobs.

A number of the new jobs have been in full-time employment, which means good news for the housing market and good news for housing demand. profile

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COVER FEATURE

new home market “A number of the new jobs have been in full-time employment, which means good news for the housing market and good news for housing demand. The labour market in Calgary has been improving, and it has been improving at a faster rate compared to the national average, attracting more people to Calgary.”

Net migration has been very positive, coming in at an estimated 20,000 for last

year and expected to be 18,000 this year – even though slowing slightly, that amount of people continues to increase the demand for housing, Cho said.

The resale market is expected to see some slight increases in 2013. Sales are forecast to total 26,500, up from 21,206 reported by the Calgary Real Estate Board for 2012.

The average price is forecast to rise from $383,850 in 2012 to $422,000, said CMHC.

Strong, slow recovery Calgary shines on economic platform

Did you know we are ranked fifth in the world for quality of life by Numbeo, the world’s largest base of data about cities and countries?

Special thanks to ATCOGas

And, in fact, we’re not alone. Edmonton beat us out at the number three spot. Results are based on seven statistical criteria: purchasing price index; crime; health care; inflation; housing prices; traffic commute times; and pollution.

Alberta will lead North America in economic freedom, according to a recent report from the Fraser Institute, a Canadian public policy think-tank, based on such things as size of government, taxation, rule of law and property rights.

In fact, our province is expected to show economic growth of 4.0 to 4.5 per cent last year (official numbers aren’t in yet), and 3.8 per cent this year, making it “the envy” of the continent, according to Ben Brunnen, chief economist with the Calgary Chamber of Commerce.

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Richard Cho

That translates to the city as well.

Calgary would only be eclipsed by Saskatoon for real GDP Growth expected last year, reaching 3.5 per cent, then up to 4.4 per cent in 2013 and averaging a nation-leading four per cent per year from 2014 to 2016, said another report earlier this year by the Conference Board of Canada. That report, however, was based on “relatively high” energy prices for the period.

The strong economic drivers combine with low interest rates, much higher than expected net-migration and rising wages — and that means housing will remain steady, if not booming (thank heavens!).

Net migration was on track to hit 20,000 last year and 18,000 this year (compared to 11,220 in 2011 and just 9,209 in 2010), says Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s senior market analyst for the Calgary branch, Richard Cho.

feature

By Deanna McArthur

Communications Assistant, CHBA – Calgary Region

Why buy new?

Because it’s new, trendy and customized to you There are some great perks that come with buying a new house, including the newest designs and trends for the year. And a new home means brand new appliances and other products, which means they come along with a warranty.

built-in storage and home organization, says Ed Nordlund, executive VP of product development at Jayman MasterBUILT. And to cosy up your space try the new long and lean fireplaces that are popular with buyers over at Shane Homes, says Kal

Another bonus is being able to personalize your home and customize it to your family’s specific wants or needs. You have a chance to choose from large selections of colours, floor plans, cabinets, flooring, appliances, products, plumbing fixtures, lighting, counter tops, and so much more to really make the house feel like your home.

So what are the hottest trends this year? When it comes to floors, a popular choice today is laminate because of its improved quality and durability, says Shawn Braun, manager of planning and home design at Stepper Custom Homes.

Leather flooring and herringbone 3-D tiles are other hot items being requested.

In the kitchen, grey- and silver-stained cabinets are a hit, says Braun, as well as the all-white kitchen.

If you are looking to make your walls pop, then graphic wallpaper is a must have, says Alex Scott, show home decorator at Homes by Avi. Use bold patterns, texture and colours to your advantage.

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Macdonald, interior designer.

Whichever your preference or taste, buying new gives you the freedom to give your home your own personal touch.

To see even more trends check out our infographic.

cit y of c algary | industry news

By Vanessa Gash

Residential Plans Examiner, Building Regulations Division, City of Calgary

Construction site safety City’s Safety Response Unit issue new guide book, signage requirements Last year we introduced you to the Safety Response Unit (SRU). In addition to their mandate to respond to construction site incidents and conduct investigations where public safety may have been compromised, they also work on the implementation of proactive measures.

All sites requiring security fencing now also require that the owner/contractor post a Construction Site Contact Information Sign.

The ‘Practical Guide for Construction Sites in the city of Calgary’ was produced by the SRU to encourage optimal construction and demolition site management practices.

The principles and practices outlined are intended to help promote public safety and protection of adjacent properties. The guide defines terms, explains the types of governing A copy of the ‘Practical Guide for Construction Sites in the city of Calgary’ will be enclosed in each Single Construction Permit pouch. legislation, clarifies roles/ responsibilities and will discuss best practices. A significant amount requiring security fencing now also of the document is laid out in table format require that the owner/contractor post a to clearly differentiate requirements from Construction Site Contact Information best practices. The requirements column Sign. This sign must clearly identify the references the applicable Alberta Building company name, phone numbers and Code, OH&S, Bylaw or other governing email address of the person in control legislation. The best practices column often of the construction or demolition references City website documents and You- site. Be on the lookout for a bright Tube videos for further information. One pink insert in your permit pouch for such document available electronically on affected projects. Further information the City website is the ‘On-Site Construction is available in the ‘Practical Guide for Safety Best Practices’, Second Edition. This Construction Sites in the City of Calgary.’ initiative between the Calgary Construction Beginning in January we will be enclosAssociation, The City of Calgary and Alberta ing a copy of the ‘Practical Guide for Occupational Health & Safety has also been Construction Sites in the city of Calgary’ endorsed by the Alberta Construction Asbooklet into each Single Construction sociation, Alberta Construction Safety AsPermit pouch with a notice asking you to sociation and the Canadian Home Builders’ review the material prior to construction Association – Calgary Region. It was pubor demolition. Additional booklets may lished for the benefit of all industry stakebe picked up at the third floor permit holders in an effort to promote awareness. counter or downloaded electronically at Another proactive measure implemented www.calgary.ca. If you have any additional by the SRU involves site signage. All sites questions or concerns please contact 3-1-1.

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industry news

In memorium John Robert Klassen Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Calgary Region wishes to extend our sincere condolences to the family of John Klassen, who passed away November 22, 2012.

John was executive officer of CHBA – Calgary Region from 1987 to 1997 and his son, Allan, is a past president of CHBA – Calgary Region and CHBA – Alberta.

Following is an excerpt from the obituary that ran in the Calgary Herald:

KLASSEN, John Robert John Robert Klassen entered the presence of his Savior with family by his side on November 22, 2012 at Bethany Care Center in Calgary after a lengthy struggle

with a number of complex health issues. John was born to Benjamin and Katherine Klassen on November 29, 1932 in Winnipeg, Manitoba. John had a deep love for his Lord and Savior and his faith sustained him through his health struggles. He had a deep appreciation of the outdoors, sports and people. His leadership gifts and his ability to inspire people afforded him many opportunities to better the business, community, and

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church organizations he was privileged to be associated with. Above all, John loved his wife Ruth and his entire family with all his heart. They meant the world to him and knew the depth of his love for them.

They were privileged to share some special and significant times with him during his last days. Those shared experiences have changed their lives. He will be lovingly remembered by Ruth, his faithful and loving wife of 59 years, daughters Beverley (Ken) and Karen (Dave), and sons Allan (Christine) and Michael. He is also survived by his grandchildren Joel (Helen), Carissa (Scott), Tanya (Greg), Chris (Coralee), Dustin, Zachary, Ty, Bella, Mikaela, and Ethan, six great-grandchildren, and sister Betty (David) Koehn. The family would like to express their gratitude to the Staff of Bethany Care Center, SCU — 8th Floor for their care and compassion for John during his time there.

Kids make a house a home A huge thank-you to our members’ children and grandchildren for the wonderful response to our request for art to put on the cover of this year’s Consumer Directory.

We had a wonderful response and many creative, colourful entries. The guidelines were simply to draw and colour a rectangular, vertical picture representing your city, your neighbourhood or your house.

Our winner, whose picture was on the cover, was Scarlett, age 9.

Scarlett’s drawing as it appeared on the cover of this year’s Consumer Directory.

William

Morgan

Sarah

Maverick

Some wonderful drawings by our runners up.

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industry news | PHBI

By Angela Tripathy

Chief Corporate Officer, PHBI

PHBI celebrates 25th anniversary With introduction of new professional designation Efficient and effective construction of durable homes is a challenging proposition. It involves sophisticated project planning, market awareness and technical knowledge.

It requires hard work, attention to detail and a strong knowledge base. Successful home builders include education in their business plans to build capacity, remain current, demonstrate their proficiency (by virtue of educational designations), and to ensure they attract, develop and retain career-minded individuals for their companies.

In Alberta, practical, industry-specific education for residential construction is championed by The Professional Home Builders Institute of Alberta (PHBI).

Individuals pursuing industry education can pursue any of PHBI’s seven designations or take any one of over 25 individual courses developed by the industry, for the industry.

For instance, our industry experts developed PHBI’s flagship educational designation, the Master Home Builder, which is designed for individuals in senior decision-making roles within a home building company. The Master Home Builder education focuses on the business behind building houses and is comprised of courses from PHBI’s three core subject areas, construction, sales and marketing, and business. The success of the program is evident in the 151 active Master Home Builders operating in Alberta today.

To coincide with its 25th anniversary, PHBI launched Canada’s first occupational designation for the residential construction industry — the Residential Construction Site Manager (RCSM). This PHBI initiative raises the bar again, providing a way for

individuals to develop and demonstrate educational competencies in residential construction site management. This allows our graduates to distinguish themselves and earn the confidence of home buyers and regulators with a government accredited educational designation.

The RCSM program is an apprenticeshiptype education where trainees progress through three levels of curriculum while completing related on-the-job work experience where they apply their new knowledge and skills. Upon completion of the program, the trainee is eligible to write the provincial exam issued by Alberta Apprenticeship and Industry Training.

Successful completion of the provincial exam is required in order to earn the RCSM Occupational Designation from the Government of Alberta.

To improve the efficiency and convenience of education, the courses within the RCSM program were created in a blended learning format. With this format, individuals are introduced to the subject matter and explore learning material such as 3D graphics, animation and photography,

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that is suitable to online learning prior to attending the jurisdiction-specific classroom training. This reduces the time away from the jobsite and optimizes classroom learning.

Many of the courses within the RCSM program can also be applied to the Master Builder designation, as well as various other educational designations within the Institute. PHBI is currently in the process of converting all its courses to a blended learning format.

This means that learners in long standing PHBI educational programs benefit from the new blended learning format as well.

In light of CHBA establishing National Educational Benchmarks for Home Builders and Renovators, PHBI designed all applicable RCSM courses to meet or exceed the national education benchmark. With only one course remaining to be redeveloped, we are excited to say that PHBI will be one of the first provinces in Canada to achieve this national standard!

For more information about PHBI and to view our course calendar, please visit us at www.phbia.com.

CMHC | industry news

By Anand Mishra

Senior Territories Senior Research Research Advisor, Advisor, CMHC, CMHC, Praries Prairiesand & Territories

Accessible housing by design Make your living space more livable As we grow up, grow older or welcome new people into our homes, our needs as homeowners can change. A house that is designed, built or renovated according to the principles of universal design can help your home keep pace with changes in your family’s needs, and create a safer and more accessible environment for anyone who lives or visits there, regardless of their age or physical ability.

To help you make sure your home is accessible to everyone, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers the following tips on what you should consider when creating or renovating your living space: • If you’re designing a new home or planning significant renovations, openconcept floor plans are generally more accessible, it’s a good idea to keep the kitchen close to the dining area, and noisy spaces (such as a TV or recreation room) away from quiet spaces (such as bedrooms).

• To make your home easier to access by

people with mobility impairments, install a zero-step entry and make at least one half-bathroom accessible to someone in a wheelchair. You should also consider whether you need doors in all rooms, where they are needed and what type they should be. All main interior doors should have an opening width of at least 810 mm (32 inches).

• For those with mobility challenges, your hallways should be at least 1,220 mm (48 inches) wide, with a turn-around space at all entrance areas, foyers and at the ends of hallways. Ideally, a path at least 915 mm (36 inches) wide should be provided into and through all living spaces.

• When planning shelving or storage units, consider the different reaching abilities of your family members, as well as how those abilities might change over time.

Adjustable shelves can always be changed as needed.

• Lighting can contribute to the ambiance and

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safety of your home. Lighting should be bright and consistent, especially along hallways and stairs. Permanent nightlights next to bedrooms and bathrooms are a good idea.

• The choice of materials and finishes may affect the usability of your home.

For example, contrasting colours and textures in walls may help people with low vision identify primary routes and functional areas.

• Buy furniture pieces that are sturdy and stable. If someone in your family has difficulty getting up from a seated position, consider providing at least one chair with a firm cushion, stable arm rests and a seat height of at least 450 mm (18 inches).

• To improve the acoustic quality of a room and reduce background noises for anyone who is hearing-impaired, you can add “soft” elements to the room. For the visually-impaired, “hard” surfaces such as ceramic flooring or metal paneling can help enhance reflected sounds and assist with orientation needs and make a living area more “acoustically alive.”

For more information on this, get a free copy of the “About Your House” fact sheet Accessible Housing by Design – Living Spaces, or for information on any other aspect of owning, maintaining or buying a home, visit our website at www.cmhc.ca or call CMHC at 1-800-668-2642.

Business Profile

Advertising Feature

Concrete evidence Plumb-Line Residential Services is able to complete projects of any size

N

o job is to big or too small for PlumbLine Residential Services, the newest member of the Plumb-Line Group of Companies.

“We can take care of any concrete needs in the residential industry,” says Chris Day, manager for Plumb-Line Residential. “This includes footings, walls, backfill services, and flat work to include basements, garage slabs, driveways,” he says, and the list on goes on.

They are equipped with the skills and the resources to tackle any project.

“It is being able to take care of the whole package that is really our signature,” says general manager Kevin Kuntz.

Importantly, Plumb-Line Residential can complete jobs that are on a larger scale too, while continuing to maintain their standard of quality service, “there is nothing we can’t do,” adds mobilization superintendent Enzo Sirianni.

One of the largest concrete forming services in the city, Plumb-Line Residential focuses on providing the best service for their customers.

And one of the many benefits is having a premier commercial sister company, CONFORTE, as part of the Plumb-Line Group, which gives them additional resource support, and makes them an ideal choice for their customers.

Hanif Lakha, corporate controller for PlumbLine Group of Companies explains how PlumbLine Residential came to be. “There was a niche in the market that needed a strong player that could sustain itself, and we had the size and the capabilities to provide a quality service.”

Quality service is what they have built their reputation on. “Our customers want a reliable company and an industry leading safety program, that has been around, who will warranty their work and stand behind their product,” says Lakha. Plumb-Line Residential

“We can take care of any concrete needs in the residential industry.”

has its own warranty division he says, “who go out and ensure the quality of work has been done correctly.”

Providing clients with a positive experience is priority one. “The goal is to be personable and in touch,” says Lakha. Maintaining an open dialogue and ensuring their customer knows they contact them directly is key to meeting customers’ needs.

Plumb-Line Residential works on projects both in and outside the city — they’re presently also providing service in Edmonton, Airdrie, and Cochrane — thriving on their ability to take on projects of any magnitude, near or far. “We are open to any sort of scope of work,” emphasizes Kuntz.

A growing Calgary has been keeping this company busy, “the market has been good to us, a lot of new home owners and the immigrant market are impacting our builders, and we are trying to ensure we keep up with all the expansion in the city,” says Lakha.

Even with this growth, Plumb-Line Residential knows that maintaining their superior standard of customer service is the key to their advantage over other competitors.

“We have always been available to anyone by just a phone call, we have an amazingly good response to any questions or concerns, and that is what has led us to our success,” says Lakha.

Quality concrete and impeccable customer service is only a phone call away, or visit www.plumb-line.ca n

From left to right: Chris Day, Enzo Sirianni, Kevin Kuntz, Hanif Lakha