GTA Homes Magazine - March 23, 2024

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March 23–April 20, 2024 INSIDE : HOW TO BUY A HOME ON A SINGLE INCOME 8 TIPS FOR DECORATING A SMALL SPACE Greater Toronto’s Finest NEW HOME GUIDE Greater Toronto Area
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MISSISSAUGA
CONTENTS THE ETHOS OF LIVING – AT JUNIPER GATE IN GEORGETOWN Remington Homes DEPARTMENTS 10 Editor’s Note Spring – and activity – has sprung 11 In the Spotlight GTA new-home buyers remain tentative in January; more news on pages 14, 15, 18 and 19 20 HOMES Online Catch up between issues at nexthome.ca FEATURES 38 Fieldgate Homes Find your dream home in Fieldgate’s signature GTA communities COLUMNS 25 Western View WEHBA celebrates 2024 industry leaders 26 Home Realty Assessing the impact of work-from-home on GTA housing demand 30 Personal Finance 4 tips for buying a home on a single income 32 TRREB Report Get industry insights and trends on TRREB’s Ready to Real Estate podcast 34 Legally Speaking How do your loved ones get ownership of your assets after you die? 36 Real Estate Pro Is it time to think about right-sizing? 50 Industry Report Adjusting HST rebate thresholds would provide relief for newhome buyers INSPIRATION 40 Decor The art of decorating 42 Big Style 8 tips for decorating a small space IN EVERY ISSUE 7 Contributors 44 Maps & Charts for New Home Communities MARCH 23–APRIL 20, 2024 COVER STORY 22 6 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

PERSONAL FINANCE | JESSE ABRAMS

Jesse Abrams is Co-Founder at Homewise, a mortgage advisory and brokerage firm based in Toronto. thinkhomewise.com

WESTERN VIEW | MIKE COLLINS-WILLIAMS

Mike Collins-Williams, RPP, MCIP, is CEO West End Home Builders’ Association. westendhba.ca.

HOME REALTY | DEBBIE COSIC

Debbie Cosic is CEO and founder of In2ition Realty. She has overseen the sale of more than $15 billion worth of real estate. With Debbie at its helm, In2ition has become one of the fastest-growing and most innovative new home and condo sales companies. in2ition.ca

DECOR | LINDA MAZUR

Linda Mazur is an award-winning designer and Principal of Linda Mazur Design Group. With almost two decades of experience this in demand multi-disciplinary design firm is known for creating relaxed, stylish spaces and full-scale design builds throughout the GTA and Canada. lindamazurdesign.com @LindaMazurGroup

STAT CHAT | BEN MYERS

Ben Myers is the President of Bullpen Consulting, a boutique residential real estate advisory firm specializing in condominium and rental apartment market studies, forecasts and valuations for developers, lenders and land owners. Contact him at bullpenconsulting.ca and @benmyers29 on Twitter.

TRREB REPORT | JENNIFER PEARCE

Jennifer Pearce, TRREB President, is a Broker and Owner with ReMax Rouge River Realty Ltd., a family owned and operated brokerage. She is a secondgeneration realtor and has been licensed since 2000. trreb.ca

BIG STYLE | LISA ROGERS

Lisa Rogers is Executive Vice-President of Design for Dunpar Homes. Lisa has shared her style and design expertise on popular television programs such as Canadian Living TV, House & Home TV and The Shopping Channel. Lisa is also a regular guest expert on CityTV’s Cityline. dunparhomes.com.

LEGALLY SPEAKING | JAYSON SCHWARZ

Jayson Schwarz LL.M. is a Toronto real estate lawyer and partner in the law firm Schwarz Law LLP. He can be reached by visiting schwarzlaw.ca or by email at info@schwarzlaw.ca or phone at 416.486.2040.

BILD REPORT | DAVE WILKES

Dave Wilkes is president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), the voice of the home building, land development and professional renovation industry in the GTA. For the latest industry news and new home data, follow BILD on Twitter at @bildgta or visit bildgta.ca

SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT, SALES, NEXTHOME

Hope McLarnon 416.708.7987 hope.mclarnon@nexthome.ca

DIRECTOR OF SALES, ONTARIO, NEXTHOME

Natalie Chin 416.881.4288 natalie.chin@nexthome.ca

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Amanda Bell 416.830.2911 amanda.bell@nexthome.ca

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Amanda Pereira

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – GREATER TORONTO AREA

Wayne Karl wayne.karl@nexthome.ca

CONTRIBUTORS

Jesse Abrams, Mike Collins-Williams, Debbie Cosic, Barbara Lawlor, Linda Mazur, Jason Mercer, Ben Myers, Jennifer Pearce, Lisa Rogers, Jayson Schwarz, Dave Wilkes

EXECUTIVE MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Jacky Hill, Michael Rosset

VICE-PRESIDENT, MARKETING – GTA

Leanne Speers MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES/SERVICE

Marilyn Watling SALES & MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

Gary Chilvers BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Josh Rosset DISTRIBUTION distributionteam@nexthome.ca

ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES accountingteam@nexthome.ca

DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA

Lauren Reid–Sachs

VICE-PRESIDENT, PRODUCTION – GTA

Lisa Kelly

PRODUCTION MANAGER – GTA

Yvonne Poon

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER

Alicesa Pullan

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mike Terentiev

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HAS SPRUNG

WAYNE KARL

EMAIL: wayne.karl@nexthome.ca

TWITTER: @WayneKarl

Spring has sprung – by calendar if not by weather – and activity in the real estate market is also marking the change in seasons.

This time of year is usually “busy season” in real estate, but very little about the last couple years can be considered typical. Housing supply, interest rates, inflation, government policy and other issues have been causes for concern. But as early as February, we could see there was relief on the horizon.

A pause in interest rate hikes from the Bank of Canada (BoC) – more so anticipation of declines as early as spring – and growing pent-up demand signaled that homebuying conditions were becoming more and more favourable.

And sure enough, on March 18, the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA) confirmed that Canadian home prices in February were flat on a month-over-month basis, ending a streak of five declines that began last fall.

“After two years of mostly quiet resale housing activity there’s a feeling that things are about to pick up,” says Larry Cerqua, chair of CREA. “At this point, it’s hard to know whether buyers are going to wait for a signal from the Bank of Canada or whether they’re just waiting for the spring listings to hit the market.”

And more good news came on March 19, when Statistics Canada reported that inflation continues to ease, falling to 2.8 per cent in February – further stoking hopes that interest rate declines are not far off.

CREA’s assessment, however, is mostly on a national level, but as we often remind in HOMES magazine, real estate is not national. There is no one Canadian market. Indeed, conditions can vary by province, region, city, neighbourhood and even street.

More locally, the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) reports GTA home sales and new listings were up on an annual and monthly basis in February 2024, while selling prices also edged upward compared to a year earlier. TRREB cites population growth and a resilient regional economy as key to supporting overall demand for housing.

“We have recently seen a resurgence in sales activity compared to last year,” says TRREB President Jennifer Pearce. “The market assumption is that the Bank of Canada has finished hiking rates. Consumers are now anticipating rate cuts in the near future.”

The next BoC interest rate announcement is April 10, and the next CREA stat report April 12. As we edge further into spring and temperatures and market conditions warm up, a brighter forecast could be just weeks away.

EDITOR’S NOTE
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SPRING – AND ACTIVITY
10 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

GTA NEW HOME SALES SOFT IN JANUARY AS BUYERS REMAIN TENTATIVE

GTA new home sales were expectedly soft in January, down slightly from January 2023 and up marginally from December 2023, the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) reports.

There were 578 new home sales in January, which was down three per cent from January 2023 and 68 per cent below the 10-year average, according to Altus Group, BILD’s official source for new home market intelligence.

“Given interest rates and the expectation of moves by the Bank of Canada later this year, January new home sales were as expected with prospective new home buyers remaining on the sidelines,” says Justin Sherwood, senior vicepresident communications and stakeholder relations at BILD. “With (the recent) report, if you extract housing related costs we are basically at the two-per-cent rate for

inflation. We anticipate that market activity will pick up in the spring with potential rate changes on the horizon. The present inventory levels provide a great degree of selection and choice for new home buyers.”

“Pent up demand continued to accumulate with buyers taking a wait-and-see attitude,” adds Edward Jegg, research manager with Altus Group. “Affordability gains from future interest rate declines will be threatened by price jumps the longer the pool of buyers builds on the sidelines.”

Condominium units, including in low, medium and highrise buildings, stacked townhouses and loft units, accounted for 233 units sold in January, down 44 per cent from January 2023 and 60 per cent below the 10-year average.

There were 345 single-family home sales in January, up 92 per cent from January 2023 and 78 per cent below the 10-year average.

Single-family homes include detached, linked and semi-detached houses and townhouses (excluding stacked townhouses).

Total new home remaining inventory decreased compared to the previous month, to 19,829 units. It included 16,677 condominium apartment units and 3,152 singlefamily dwellings. This represents a combined inventory level of 10.5 months, based on average sales for the last 12 months. This remains one of the highest inventory levels for new homes seen in the last decade. Benchmark prices decreased in January for single-family homes and increased for condominium apartments compared to the previous month. The benchmark price for new condominium apartments was $1.05 million, down seven per cent over the last 12 months. The benchmark price for new single-family homes was $1.57 million, down nine per cent.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT nexthome.ca 11

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CANADIAN HOME PRICES STABILIZE IN ADVANCE OF SPRING MARKET

Canadian home prices as measured by the seasonally adjusted Aggregate Composite MLS Home Price Index (HPI) were flat on a month-overmonth basis in February 2024, ending a streak of five declines that began last fall, according to the latest data from the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA).

“It’s looking like February may end up being the last relatively uneventful month of the year as far as the 2024 housing story goes,” says Shaun Cathcart, CREA’s senior economist. “With so much demand having piled up on the sidelines, the story will likely be less about the exact timing of interest rate cuts and more about how many homes come up for sale this year.”

Home sales activity recorded over Canadian MLS Systems dipped 3.1 per cent between January and February 2024, giving back some of the cumulative 12.7-per-cent increase in activity recorded in December 2023 and January 2024. However, the general trend has been somewhat

higher levels of activity over the last three months compared to a quiet fall market in 2023.

The actual (not seasonally adjusted) number of transactions came in 19.7 per cent above February 2023. Part of that double-digit gain reflects the fact that February 2023 sales were one of the lowest for that month in the past two decades, but it also reflects the fact that current activity has climbed back to only about five per cent below the 10-year average.

The number of newly listed homes edged up 1.6 per cent on a monthover-month basis in February. Gains may rise in the months ahead depending on how many owners are preparing to list their properties for sale this spring.

“After two years of mostly quiet resale housing activity there’s a feeling that things are about to pick up,” says Larry Cerqua, chair of CREA. “At this point, it’s hard to know whether buyers are going to wait for a signal from the Bank of Canada or whether they’re just waiting for the

spring listings to hit the market. Either way, neither of those are likely too far off, so if you’re hoping to buy or sell a property in 2024, contact a realtor in your area today.”

With sales edging down and new listings inching up in February, the national sales-to-new listings ratio eased a bit to 55.6 per cent. The long-term average for the national sales-to-new listings ratio is 55 per cent. A sales-to-new listings ratio between 45 per cent and 65 per cent is generally consistent with balanced housing market conditions, with readings above and below this range indicating sellers’ and buyers’ markets respectively.

There were 3.8 months of inventory on a national basis at the end of February 2024, up a touch from 3.7 months at the end of January. The long-term average is about five months of inventory.

The actual (not seasonally adjusted) national average home price was $685,809 in February 2024, up 3.5 per cent from February 2023.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT
14 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

BUYERS RE-ENTER THE GTA HOUSING MARKET IN FEBRUARY: TRREB

GTA home sales and new listings were up on an annual and monthly basis in February 2024, while selling prices also edged upward compared to a year earlier, according to the latest data from the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB). Population growth and a resilient regional economy continued to support the overall demand for housing, while higher borrowing costs kept home sales below the February sales record reached in 2021.

“We have recently seen a resurgence in sales activity compared to last year,” says TRREB President Jennifer Pearce. “The market assumption is that the Bank of Canada has finished hiking rates. Consumers are now anticipating rate cuts in the near future. A growing number of homebuyers have also come to terms with elevated mortgage rates over the past two years. To minimize higher monthly payments, some buyers have likely saved up a larger down payment, chosen to purchase a lessexpensive home type and/or looked to a different location in the GTA.”

Realtors reported 5,607 GTA home sales through TRREB’s MLS system in February 2024 – an increase of 17.9 per cent compared to February 2023. Even after accounting for the leap year effect, sales were up by 12.3 per cent year-over-year. New listings were up by an even greater annual rate than sales in February, pointing to increased choice for buyers. On a seasonally adjusted month-over-month basis, February sales were lower following two consecutive monthly increases while new listings were flat. Monthly figures can be somewhat volatile, especially when the market is approaching a transition point.

Home selling prices in February 2024 remained similar to February 2023. The MLS Home Price Index Composite benchmark edged up by 0.4 per cent. The average selling

price of $1.10 million increased by a modest 1.1 per cent. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, both the MLS HPI Composite and the average selling price edged upward.

“As we move through 2024, an increasing number of buyers will re-enter the market with adjusted housing preferences to account for higher borrowing costs,” says TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer. “In the second half of the year, lower interest rates will further boost demand for ownership housing. First-time buying activity will also be a contributing factor, as many renters look to trade high monthly rents for a long-term investment in which they can live and build equity.”

“Population growth has been at a record pace and with the

anticipated lower borrowing costs, the demand for housing – both ownership and rental – will also increase over the next two years,” says TRREB CEO John DiMichele. “Unaffordable housing not only has a financial impact but also a social impact. Recent research conducted for TRREB by CANCEA in our 2024 Market Outlook and Year in Review report underscores the negative impact of unaffordable housing on peoples’ mental health and life satisfaction. It’s comforting to see that there has been some real building happening in the GTA and that the provincial government is rewarding those municipalities that are working to eliminate the red tape and meet those homeownership needs.”

IN THE SPOTLIGHT
GTA RESALE AVERAGE PRICES, FEBRUARY 2024 (YR/YR % CHANGE) Market 416 905 Total Detached $1.65M (-3.5) $1.38M (1.7) $1.44M (0.2) Semi-detached $1.31M (2.8) $998,103 (5.2) $1.12M (5.0) Townhome $970,967 (-3.4) $925,686 (0.9) $934,154 (-0.1) Condo $726,608 (-0.4) $639,924 (-3.4) $695,345 (-1.5) SOURCE: TRREB nexthome.ca 15

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YOUNG CANADIANS EXPLORING ALTERNATIVE WAYS TO PURCHASE A HOME: REMAX

Economic factors, including the high cost of living, high interest rates and the price of housing, are prompting one-third of Canadians (32 per cent) to explore alternative ways of entering the housing market, according to a Leger survey commissioned by ReMax Canada.

A new ReMax report titled Alternative Home Ownership Models: Trends in the Canadian Housing Market examined 22 cities across Canada and assessed trends in non-traditional homeownership models, including co-ownership with friends and family, rent-to-own scenarios and purchasing homes with additional units or suites for income potential, as opposed to more traditional avenues.

“Canadians from coast to coast are grappling with affordability challenges, but at the same time, their desire to achieve homeownership remains strong,” says Christopher Alexander, president of ReMax Canada. “This is prompting many to seriously consider alternative ways to get their foot in the door, where it might not be feasible under the traditional ownership model of a single person or couple purchasing with between five and 20 per cent down.”

According to Leger research commissioned by ReMax in late 2023, the majority of Canadians believe homeownership is the best investment they can make (73 per cent). This sentiment has remained consistent with a 2022 survey, indicating that despite economic turbulence, Canadians still see value in homeownership.

“With high interest rates plateauing, and potentially lowering in the latter half of 2024, now may be a good time to consider getting into the market, especially for those who have been taking a ‘wait-and-see’

approach,” says Benjamin Tal, deputy chief economist of CIBC World Markets Inc. “Despite some interest rate reprieve in 2024, Canada is still dealing with an affordability crisis due to a lack of inventory and increasing demand, which will persist until the country addresses the problem adequately. Considering this, creative solutions like co-ownership may be an option for many Canadian homebuyers looking to achieve the dream of homeownership.”

Non-traditional homeownership models are also emblematic of a new, modernized chapter in what it means to be a “homeowner,” an identifier more often associated with an individual or a couple. “But creativity in the homebuying process is a workaround, not a solution to Canada’s affordability crisis. Like modern, innovative homebuyers, our governments must be more strategic and visionary in how we can use existing lands and real estate to drive our housing supply to allow for a greater diversity of housing for all Canadians,” says Alexander. “Despite ongoing affordability and supply crises, Canadians still dream of homeownership, and as they wait for governments to come together to create a cohesive, national housing strategy, they’ve become innovative and resourceful in achieving this dream.”

According to the survey, 48 per cent of Canadians would consider purchasing a home using an alternative model. Among Canadians, 22 per cent would purchase under a rent-to-own scenario; 21 per cent would consider co- ownership with a family member that isn’t a spouse or partner; and 17 per cent would consider purchasing a home intending to be the primary tenant and renting out a part of the home to someone else.

TIPS FOR BUYERS

1. Research, research, research: Research realtors, lenders, lawyers and mortgages brokers with experience in nontraditional homeownership agreements. Get informed on the benefits and drawbacks of non-traditional homeownership models before you begin your buying journey.

2. Understand the tax implications: Non-traditional homeownership models often include different tax impacts and benefits. Consult a tax professional and weigh the taxes you may or may not be subjected to prior to entering into any non-traditional models of homeownership.

3. Choose the right form of homeownership for you: For anyone looking at rent-to-own, structure the agreement and the monthly payments such that the lender will accept it to fund a mortgage utilizing that as your down payment in the future. This is the most common way that rental buyers lose their money, sometimes negligently by the seller or landlord, and sometimes intentionally setting them up to fail to keep their cash.

4. No one-size-fits-all: While demand for secondary suites has seen an increase in many Canadian regions, and does offer potential income benefits, buyers should take caution that these suites come with barriers to entry, specifically timing. It may take owners a while to break even on the income potential of secondary suites.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT
18 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

BUILDERS CALL ON FEDERAL GOVERNMENT TO HELP FIRST-TIME BUYERS

The Residential Construction Council of Ontario (RESCON) is recommending that the federal government rebate the HST to first-time buyers who purchase a new home and bring back initiatives from years ago to encourage reinvestment by builders.

“Immediate action is needed as we are in a crisis that is likely to get worse. First-time buyers are leaving our cities in droves because they’ve been priced out of the market,” says RESCON President Richard Lyall. “The measures we are suggesting would boost supply and help homebuilders construct housing that is financially viable and affordable. We cannot simply sit on our hands and hope for the best as the challenge facing our industry is formidable.”

RESCON’s suggestions were made in a 2024 federal budget submission to Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland. The submission outlined three specific practical measures the federal

government can take to address housing supply and affordability.

To support the creation of new housing stock, RESCON is recommending that the government implement an immediate and full rebate of the HST on new home purchases for first-time buyers and also re-introduce measures such as limited dividend programs and tax deferral policies from the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s that encouraged reinvestment by builders.

“First-time homebuyers have been disproportionately affected by the housing situation,” says Lyall. “High interest rates and increased material and labour costs, along with exorbitant taxes, fees and levies have pushed up home prices and are preventing them from entering the housing market. Major policy changes are needed in the budget to help firsttime buyers.”

RESCON is also suggesting that the feds activate surplus crown and

crown agency land for residential housing and support the ability of municipalities to build the infrastructure required to encourage more housing construction. Meanwhile, with many construction workers set to retire, RESCON wants the government to further reform the immigration system and increase targets for workers with the specialized skill sets to build homes and condos.

“These are desperate times as sales of new homes have literally ground to a halt, yet our population continues to increase,” adds Lyall. “The practical measures we are suggesting would help boost housing supply and contribute to ensuring affordability issues are addressed.”

In related news, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. confirmed on March 1 that it was discontinuing the First-Time Home Buyer Incentive program.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT
nexthome.ca 19

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ANALYSIS

Location, location, location an international phenomenon

The phrase “location, location, location” is a popular mantra in the new home real estate market. For most people who are looking to purchase a new home or condominium, a location that fits their needs is uppermost in their musthave list. Whether it is to live close to work, family, friends or local amenities, where a home or condo is situated affects their lives dramatically.

OUTLOOK 2024

Why this could be the year of the rebound

Last year might not exactly have been a walk in the proverbial park for the housing market, but 2024 is shaping up to be something altogether different, with relief – and belief – in sight on most issues.

HOMEBUYING

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INSIGHT

The GTA real estate recovery may already be underway

There are early signs that 2024 is shaping up to be a much better year than its predecessor. Housing supply, interest rates, inflation, government policy and other issues were a cause for concern last year, but there may already be relief on the horizon.

Visit nexthome.ca

GTA LOWRISE HOMES

Find your dream home in Fieldgate’s signature GTA communities

Fieldgate Homes is now open for purchasing by virtual sales appointments across the GTA. Connect by phone, video chat or email for a secure and convenient homebuying experience. Explore these featured communities and contact Fieldgate today.

PERSONAL FINANCE

3 things prospective homebuyers can look forward to in 2024

Canadians have several reasons to be cautiously optimistic about 2024, given the shifting economic landscape. With rates held relatively steady since July 2023, there is a sense that rate increases could finally be easing, with the potential for modest declines on the horizon.

or check us out on @HOMESMagazineON @HOMESMagazine.Ontario @homesmagazine
20 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

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•Pickleball, golf, trails and conservation areas just minutes away

•Prime southwestern Ontario location: 10 minutes to the 401 and 20 minutes to Stratford

•So much more to come in Phase II — launching in spring 2025

Only three quick closings available! Book your private appointment today.

Nick Pope Sales Representative

REVEL Realty Inc., Brokerage nickpope@revelrealty.ca

m519-807-1757 |o519-206-9555

YT
NG T HE V IL LAGE F AR M HAS TO OFF ER! THE VILLAGE FAR M EC O MOD E RN C OUN TR Y L IVIN G
DIS CO VE R EVE R
HI
LONDON MAP NOT TO SCALE WOODSTOCK EMBRO KITCHENER STRATFORD
Information correct at press time. Pricing and availability subject to change without notice. Image above depicts the interior of our Passive House model home. Brokers protected. E. & O. E. February 2024 Visit our model home today at 94 Elgin St. S. Embro

THE ETHOS OF LIVING

Remington Homes is thrilled to make a return to Georgetown, embodying the ethos of the community with its latest development – Juniper Gate. Nestled in the quaint town, this enclave of newly designed bungalows, bungalofts and townhomes will seamlessly blend high-end style with the idyllic, natural surroundings of the Niagara Escarpment. From new families looking for their perfect first home, to empty nesters looking for a quieter pace of living, Juniper Gate has something for everyone, at every stage of life.

LIFE AS IT WAS MEANT TO BE

The impeccably designed elevations of Juniper Gate’s bungalows, bungalofts and townhomes showcase the superior construction that sets Remington Homes apart

from the competition. With stunning exterior finishes that include stucco, stone, brick and other distinctive accents, along with ample windows and French or sliding doors that fill interior spaces with warmth and sunshine, these elevated exteriors are designed to impress.

Walking through the front door of each elegant home, homeowners will be met with luxurious finishes that create an oasis-like retreat. From nine-ft. ceilings to oak stairs and a variety of flooring options, every detail is tailored to your personal style thanks to a professional team of consultants at The Design Studio. Chefinspired kitchens feature modern and contemporary cabinetry, stone countertops and designer backsplashes, while lavish ensuites offer glass showers, freestanding tubs and opulent stone countertops.

In essence, these homes personify upscale living with their superior craftsmanship and finishes, catering to those with exquisite taste. From the architectural design to the interior details, these bungalows, bungalofts and townhomes offer a lifestyle of luxury and comfort for those who appreciate the best in quality and elegance. At Juniper Gate, you’re sure to find the perfect layout and design suited to your family’s lifestyle, allowing you to make memories for years to come.

At Remington Homes, superior construction, thoughtful exterior elevations, and distinguished interior finishes have continued to make the company a trusted leader in homebuilding in southern Ontario and have allowed it to evolve into one of Canada’s largest land developers and most established homebuilders. With more than 75

COVER STORY
22 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

years of experience developing dynamic neighbourhoods, Remington Homes’ communitydriven building philosophy and forward-thinking plans ensure each project is second to none in quality and durability.

A CITY BEAMING WITH VERVE

Nestled along the banks of the Credit River and surrounded by picturesque hills, valleys and creeks, Georgetown is a hidden gem within the GTA – here you will find the perfect balance of liveliness and relaxation – where bustling small-town energy and tranquil country disposition melds in perfect harmony. Known for its quality of life and consistently ranking highly in comparisons of Canadian communities based on livability, affordability, amenities, environment and the economy, Georgetown attracts families at all stages of life. Additionally, its proximity to Toronto, coupled with a conveniently situated GO Station, makes commuting in any direction a breeze. For those looking to settle down in an area rich with history, well-equipped with modern amenities and brimming with charm, Juniper Gate is a highly desirable

community and an excellent choice for people looking to live a balanced lifestyle without sacrificing city conveniences – where residents can simultaneously enjoy the inspiring beauty of the Niagara Escarpment and the peaceful ambience of a small town, with only a short drive or train ride into the GTA.

WELLNESS-INSPIRED LIVING IN GEORGETOWN

Perfectly situated in the Niagara Escarpment, Juniper Gate is surrounded by breathtaking, scenic countryside and its residents have quick and easy access to a variety of outdoor activities and

natural attractions that make the neighbourhood a perfect locale for outdoor fun and relaxation. Cedarvale Park is a fantastic place for leisurely walks, picnics and enjoying the beauty of the outdoors while nearby, Dominion Gardens Park, boasts stunning garden displays and a greenhouse for visitors to explore. The Bruce Trail offers scenic hiking opportunities through Halton Hills and beyond and the Georgetown Fairgrounds hosts a variety of community events, including fairs and farmers’ markets. For those who enjoy hiking, bird watching and exploring the outdoors, Silver Creek Conservation

23

Area is the ideal spot. Whether you’re walking, hiking or cycling, Juniper Gate allows residents to truly embraces the beauty and nature that surrounds it.

LOCAL CHARM AT EVERY CORNER

Downtown Georgetown is renowned for its beauty and boasts one of the prettiest main streets in the GTA. Here, brimming with activity every Saturday morning from June to October, you’ll find a bounty of local fruits and vegetables, as well as hand-crafted condiments, meats and cheeses at the Georgetown Farmers’ Market. Inside the quaint, historic brick buildings that line Main Street, you’ll be treated to a variety of restaurants, specialty shops, beauty salons and spas, and other hidden treasures. The attractive downtown area is also a vibrant, cultural hub that houses art studios, galleries, a theatre and library – all of which actively participate in a multitude of festivals and events all year round. Outside the downtown core, you’ll find big box stores, shopping centres and sports and recreation facilities –

with so much to discover at Juniper Gate, creating lasting memories with friends, neighbours and loved ones is as easy as stepping through your front door.

Whether you’re out enjoying the area’s ample trails and greenspaces, commemorated heritage sites or lively arts and cultural venues, you’ll be sure to find the perfect spot for your favourite indoor and outdoor activities and, with such a wide variety of beautifully designed homes to choose from,

Juniper Gate is the ideal place to unwind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its wonderful sense of warmth and community, and fantastic small-town charm, life at Juniper Gate will have you appreciating your surroundings and the peace that comes along with wellness-inspired living.

Embody the ethos of living at Juniper Gate. Coming spring 2024 to Georgetown. Visit remingtonhomes.com to register for more information.

24 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

WEHBA CELEBRATES

2024 INDUSTRY LEADERS AT LUNCHEON

The West End Home Builders’ Association (WEHBA) recently held its Annual Industry Luncheon in Hamilton, bringing together more than 320 leaders from the residential construction and renovation industries, to recognize distinguished members and celebrate the bold steps the association has made towards increasing housing affordability and choice in southern Ontario.

Distinguished guests and speakers included Hamilton Mayor Andrea Horwath, Burlington Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, and Dan Muys, MP, Flamborough-Glanbrook. Mayor Horwath spoke about the positives steps Hamilton has made over the past year towards addressing the housing crisis and improving housing affordability. The City of Hamilton has launched a new division called the Housing Secretariat building on her election campaign Action Plan on Housing commitment, has secured more than $97 million through the federal Housing Accelerator Fund and has signed a provincial housing pledge for the City of Hamilton to support the construction of 47,000 new homes over the coming decade.

The association’s 2024 President John Anthony Losani addressed the assembly and spoke from the heart, about his family’s humble beginnings, his experience growing up in the residential construction Industry and the life lessons he received on work ethic and true passion from his role models. “I remember being full to the brim with pride with the work that our

family did. I understood from a young age that being trusted by people and their families to deliver them a home for them to raise their families in was not to be taken lightly.”

The WEHBA president also talked about the current lack of affordability and choice, noting that “homeownership is tougher than it has been in 60 years.” He noted that we need to focus on innovation and adapt new technologies that increase productivity across the whole Industry. “We as an industry have an extraordinary opportunity to help create and execute the solutions that the people of Ontario so desperately need. And to our partners in government, we need you to be part of the solution as well. The time for talk has passed, and the time for action has come. The only way we can implement meaningful change for the good people of our city and province is if we work together.”

At the event, WEHBA also honoured 2024 Hall of Fame inductee, WEHBA Past President – and first WEHBA female president – Bernice Flegg. “As a new board member or serving as president, the support, the seasoned board members and staff provided was very instrumental. As I reflect on my various association involvements over a 30-year span, being part of West End Home Builders’ Association is one that stands out as particularly special, in large part, because of the sense of community afforded me. I’m sure this continues to be true today for current members.”

The event closed with an informative panel discussion on the supply of entry level market housing to meet Hamilton’s housing pledge of 47,000 new units over the next decade. The WEHBA luncheon presents a showcase of

the industry’s strong relationship with our local partners in government and emphasizes the importance of increased communication and collaboration between the development industry and the municipal sector, in finding housing solutions and making our cities welcoming and affordable.

“Canadian cities – especially southcentral Ontario are in the midst of a housing crisis that is impacting all segments of the housing continuum, young people, new Canadians and increasingly all residents from all walks of life,” says Mike Collins-Williams, WEHBA CEO. “We all need to work together to solve this problem – all three levels of government, the nonprofit sector and the private sector, and I believe we are all up to the challenge.”

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca ADVICE | WESTERN VIEW
Mike Collins-Williams, RPP, MCIP, is CEO West End Home Builders’ Association. westendhba.ca. WEHBA President John Anthony Losani
nexthome.ca 25

ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF WORK-FROM-HOME ON GTA PRE-CONSTRUCTION HOUSING DEMAND

DEBBIE

COSIC

As the world navigates through unprecedented shifts in work dynamics, the GTA housing market finds itself at the epicentre of a significant transformation. The rise of remote work, accelerated by global events, has fundamentally altered traditional notions of the workplace and, consequently, the demand for housing. This article examines the evolving relationship between workfrom-home (WFH) arrangements and the demand for pre-construction housing in the GTA.

The GTA, renowned for its bustling urban landscape and robust job market, has historically attracted droves of professionals seeking career opportunities. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic triggered a seismic shift as employers swiftly embraced remote work models to ensure business continuity. This transition liberated workers from geographic constraints, prompting many to reassess their living preferences and seek properties that enhance their quality of life, productivity and overall well-being.

One of the most notable repercussions of the WFH revolution is the heightened demand for

suburban and exurban housing. With commuters no longer tethered to city-centre offices, individuals and families are increasingly gravitating towards spacious, affordable properties outside the urban core. This trend has translated into a surge in interest in pre-construction developments in suburban enclaves across the GTA.

Moreover, the newfound flexibility afforded by remote work has spurred a revaluation of housing priorities. Homebuyers now prioritize features such as dedicated home offices, outdoor spaces and proximity to recreational amenities over traditional urban conveniences such as proximity to the workplace.

ADVICE | HOME REALTY
26 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

Developers are swiftly adapting to meet these changing preferences by incorporating versatile living spaces and modern amenities into their preconstruction projects.

However, while WFH has fueled demand for suburban housing, its impact on urban markets is more nuanced. While some professionals relish the convenience and vibrancy of urban living, others are rethinking their allegiance to city life in favour of more spacious and affordable suburban locales. Consequently, developers are recalibrating their urban projects to cater to changing preferences, emphasizing proximity to greenspaces and recreational facilities.

Additionally, the WFH phenomenon has engendered a paradigm shift in housing design and urban planning. With remote work poised to become a permanent fixture in the professional landscape, municipalities and developers are exploring innovative approaches to create live-work communities that seamlessly integrate residential, commercial and recreational spaces.

The proliferation of remote work has catalyzed a seismic shift in GTA housing dynamics, redefining the demand for pre-construction properties. While suburban markets experience unprecedented growth fueled by newfound flexibility and changing preferences, urban centres

are undergoing a metamorphosis to adapt to evolving lifestyle trends. As the WFH revolution continues to unfold, the GTA housing market stands at the cusp of a transformative era characterized by innovation and adaptability.

Debbie Cosic is CEO and founder of In2ition Realty. She has overseen the sale of more than $15 billion worth of real estate. With Debbie at its helm, In2ition has become one of the fastest-growing and most innovative new home and condo sales companies. in2ition.ca

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nexthome.ca 27

building small town canada.

We start with location. We let the land decide what our communities should look like. We create simple yet remarkable amenities to bring families together. That sense of place helps to determine the design and character of each community’s Master Plan.

Ask yourself if what you’re looking for is a place to live – or a place to Live Remarkably.

BLUE MOUNTAIN | COLLINGWOOD |
|
HORSESHOE VALLEY
georgiancommunities.ca

4 TIPS FOR BUYING A HOME

ON A SINGLE INCOME

In today’s market, with high interest rates and volatile inflation, the mere thought of making a home purchase on your own might seem out of reach. However, with home prices dropping, rates holding steady since July, and fixed rates lowering, the path ahead is looking a lot brighter for homebuyers, especially those entering the market for the first time. If you are planning on purchasing a home this year on a single income, there are four key things you can do to be prepared, in spite of this economic backdrop.

1. GET A MORTGAGE PRE-APPROVAL

Understanding what you can afford before starting your home search is one of the most important steps you can take, especially if you’re buying on a single income. A mortgage pre-approval, which is less formal than securing an actual mortgage, is when a lender assesses your financial situation to determine how much you can borrow and an estimate of what your monthly payments will be. If granted, the lender will commit to loaning you a specific amount of money over a 120-day period. However, this is not 100-per-cent set in stone and may not convert to an approval when you’re ready to buy. While a pre-approval is not mandatory, it offers several advantages to prospective

homebuyers. It ensures financial preparedness, it offers meaningful insights into your affordability so that you can set a realistic budget to guide your home search, and it eases the stress of the process. If you’re making this investment on your own, extra steps like a pre-approval can help you to understand your finances better as well as where you might need to improve to make your home purchase with confidence.

2. MINIMIZE YOUR DEBT TO IMPROVE YOUR CREDIT

Before making any sudden moves, it’s crucial to get your finances in order, starting with any outstanding debt you may have. Your debt-to-income ratio, which is the comparison of your monthly debt payments to

ADVICE | PERSONAL FINANCE
JESSE ABRAMS
30 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

your monthly gross income, is a significant factor lenders look at when reviewing your mortgage application. By clearing your credit card debt and paying down loans, whether they’re student loans, auto loans or other types, you not only improve your chances of getting approved for a mortgage but ensure your financial stability to manage the additional expenses that come with homeownership.

It’s also essential to avoid taking on any large purchases or additional debt before you’re approved for a mortgage. This can significantly impact your debt-to-income ratio and credit score, potentially affecting your loan terms or your ability to qualify for a mortgage at all.

3. DON’T SPEND ALL YOUR MONEY ON A DOWN PAYMENT

When it comes to making a home purchase on your own, a down payment can feel like one of the biggest financial hurdles to overcome. And while it is important and can help to reduce your monthly mortgage payments, it’s one of the many costs associated with buying a home. In addition to your down payment, homebuyers on a single income also need to budget for closing costs, property taxes, maintenance, the cost of furnishing the home and CMHC home insurance if you make a down

payment that is less than 20 per cent. A well-thought-out budget will ensure you’re not stretching yourself too thin so that you can enjoy your new home without financial stress.

4. SHOP AROUND FOR A MORTGAGE

When shopping for a mortgage, many Canadians typically default to their home bank without exploring other options. However, when making such a significant financial commitment, it’s important to shop around and understand what’s available in the marketplace before making a decision. At Homewise, we work with more than 30 banks and lenders, including credit unions and monoline lenders, which often provide more competitive rates and features than traditional banks. Given that everyone’s financial situation and goals vary, finding a mortgage that aligns with your unique needs and goals is crucial. This includes understanding the specifics of prepayment privileges and penalties, which are essential for adapting to life’s changes.

For instance, if you’re buying a home on a single income and later enter into a relationship with the desire to make a lump sum payment on your mortgage, your ability to do so is dependent on the terms of your mortgage contract. This underscores the importance of reading the fine

” It’s also essential to avoid taking on any large purchases or additional debt before you’re approved for a mortgage.

print and fully understanding the details of your mortgage agreement to ensure it not only fits your current needs but also potential future scenarios.

Regardless of the economic environment we’re in, buying a home on your own is possible and a goal within reach if you are financially prepared, leverage the proper tools available to you, and seek advice from mortgage professionals such as those on our team at Homewise.

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Jesse Abrams is Co-Founder at Homewise, a mortgage advisory and brokerage firm. thinkhomewise.com
nexthome.ca 31

GET INDUSTRY INSIGHTS AND TRENDS

ON TRREB’S READY TO REAL ESTATE PODCAST

The real estate market is constantly evolving in a bustling metropolis such as the GTA. Staying ahead of the curve is crucial for both seasoned real estate professionals and prospective homebuyers and sellers alike. With the release of TRREB’s Market Outlook and Year in Review Report, there is no better time to explore the current housing market trends.

Enrich your understanding of the new homes and resale real estate market and tune into insights straight from the experts on TRREB’s Ready to Real Estate podcast.

Hosted by Jason Mercer, TRREB’s chief market analyst, Ready to Real

Estate delves into pressing topics and showcases compelling conversations with changemakers, trailblazers and thought leaders. Each episode allows you to access valuable knowledge to better inform your real estate decisions. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, rent or simply stay informed, our podcast is your go-to resource for all things real estate in the GTA.

On a recent episode, Sean Simpson, vice-president of Ipsos Public Affairs, talked about consumer buying and selling intentions. He shared the shifts in buying intentions to the impact of mortgage rates on market conditions. On the same episode, Mercer was joined by Ray Wong, vice-president of data operations at Altus Group, to explore the pre-construction residential housing market in the GTA. With more than 30 years of experience in the sector, Wong offered a deep dive

into market activity, housing types, and the effect of interest rate cuts on the new homes market.

Looking for more? You can also check out our monthly Market Watch. We break down home prices, sales, and new listings each month with an easy to glance report. Visit trreb. ca to explore the latest look into the housing market. Plus, connect with a TRREB member realtor and search listings in real-time on any device.

Jennifer Pearce, TRREB President, is a Broker and Owner with ReMax Rouge River Realty Ltd., a family owned and operated brokerage. She is a secondgeneration realtor and has been licensed since 2000. trreb.ca

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ADVICE | TRREB REPORT
32 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

Perfect for downsizers and families alike, these 2 exceptional communities showcase Mason Homes’ commitment to construction excellence and award-winning Green For Life design innovation.

LAKESIDE VILLAGE – PORT HOPE

With the release of Phase 5 you can be among the first to experience our fabulous new bungalow, bungalow+loft and 2-storey exterior designs and fabulous floorplans at Port Hope’s most popular address!

KINGSWOOD – COBOURG

Now under construction, these spectacular townhomes feature an outstanding portfolio of 2, 3 and 4 bedroom floorplans that take full advantage of Cobourg’s small-town charm and renowned waterfront.

MASONHOMES.CA porthope@masonhomes.ca 905-885-6565 *Walk-ins welcome, however we recommend contacting our sales office to book a personal appointment. Sizes, prices and specifications are correct at press time and subject to change without notice. E. & O. E. May 2023 FROM THE MID $800’S SALES CENTRE* Mon - Thurs: 11:00 am - 5:00 pm Wknd: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed on Fridays 325 Ridout St. Port Hope, On L1A 0E3 877-880-6565
WE’RE READY WHEN YOU ARE WITH QUICK CLOSINGS AVAILABLE IN PORT HOPE AND COBOURG! FROM THE MID $900’S
Waddell Model
The

HOW DO YOUR LOVED ONES GET OWNERSHIP

OF YOUR ASSETS AFTER YOU DIE?

When you die, how does ownership of your assets transfer to your beneficiaries?

With or without a Will, if you own certain types of assets in your name

alone (such as real estate or a bank account), your beneficiaries (the ones you want to get your assets) will have to prove that they should legally be able to give instructions to the proper authority about that asset. In Ontario, this proof is a court order called a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee (CAET). Many people may be familiar with this court order under one of its older names – a grant of

probate or letters of administration. These types of assets are said to “trigger probate” because without the CAET court order, you can’t change the legal title to these assets.

For example, imagine Barbie is only person with her name on a bank account when she passes away. Ken goes to the bank with Barbie’s Will and says “Look, Barbie gave me this bank account.” The bank will say

ADVICE | LEGALLY SPEAKING
34 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

“Why should I give you information about this account or pay any of Barbie’s bills or transfer any money to you? You aren’t Barbie and I can only do what Barbie says because she’s legally the only owner and because of privacy legislation.” This can create a huge problem with matters such as bills and funeral expenses.

In this case, Barbie took care of things and had a Will naming Ken as her estate trustee, as well as the only heir to her estate – that is to say, Ken is both the estate trustee named in the Will and the sole beneficiary of Barbie’s estate. Ken can then take the will to a lawyer, who will help him apply to court to get a CAET. Ken can then take this CAET to the bank to show that he legally stands in Barbie’s shoes and he is entitled

to the money in the account. The bank will say “We recognize you as Barbie’s legal representative and now we’ll follow your instructions as though you are Barbie.”

This example illustrates why you often need a CAET and how to get one. A lawyer can assist you with filing an application for CAET either with or without a Will. Where there is no Will naming an estate trustee, provincial law determines who in the deceased’s family has the right to apply for a CAET, and in what order of priority. Unfortunately, under this scenario, the person who ends up being the estate trustee (the legal representative of the deceased) or gets the assets may not be someone the deceased would have chosen.

The point is – prepare your will now. It’s too late when you are dead.

A large part of the application is reporting the total fair market value (TFMV) of the estate. Estate Administration Tax (formerly probate fees) is calculated on the TFMV using a formula. The estate trustee is personally financially responsible for reporting the total value of the estate accurately. And filing an Estate Information Return. This return can be audited by the ministry of finance, and errors or omissions are subject to late fees, penalties and a prison term

of up to two years for truly fraudulent reporting, so it is imperative to have your lawyer or accountant help you.

In summary, a CAET is the proof required to sell, transfer or otherwise deal with certain types of assets. These assets are usually things that are registered and regulated by government, such as bank accounts and ownership of real estate, but not always. If you would like to make it possible for your loved one(s) of choice to administer your estate and transfer your property after you die, getting a professionally prepared Will is an important planning step. Hiring a lawyer who has experience in filing court applications for CAET is an equally important decision made by your selected estate trustee, since the applications are very detailed and legal advice is crucial.

Jayson Schwarz LLM is the managing partner of Schwarz Law Partners LLP; Robin Hammond is a lawyer operating the firm’s wills and estates department. Visit online at schwarzlaw.ca or email info@schwarzlaw.ca with your questions, concerns, critiques and quandaries.

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IS IT TIME TO THINK ABOUT

RIGHT-SIZING?

Over the past few years, we have experienced unprecedented challenges in the new construction real estate industry. The pandemic, supply chain issues and interest rate

increases have all taken their toll, not only through potential purchasers waiting for rates to settle and the market to pick up, but also through owners of large single-detached homes doing the same. If you own a large, detached home and have been sitting on the sidelines when you might have otherwise sold and moved into more suitable accommodations, now is a great time to assess your situation and act on your decision.

Right-sizing after spending decades in a large lowrise home is a big decision, but also a freeing one. You might find yourself an empty nester or senior rambling around in a home that is just too big for your needs. Maybe you prefer to move into a smaller detached home, or even a townhome or semi, so you still have a yard for gardening. For a lot of mature buyers, taking care of a yard and garden are important pastimes. You could look for a

ADVICE | REAL ESTATE PRO
36 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

bungalow for easier one-level living in a community located close to amenities, perhaps even some within walking distance.

Then again, you may be ready for a condominium lifestyle for the benefits of having a vertical community that fits your needs. Again, one-level living is easier to maneuver, plus you enjoy having exterior and common area maintenance handled for you. If you are able to finally travel the way you have dreamed, locking your suite door and leaving is a breeze, feeling confident that your home is being looked after while you are away. Today’s condos are built close to local amenities, and many even have some retail spaces in the lobby. Gardeners take note: You may even find a condo that offers rooftop gardening spots. Many right-sizers choose boutique condominiums that are more intimate than highrise towers. It’s all a matter of preference.

Whichever lifestyle is your cup of tea, remember that buying new brings with it numerous perks, including Tarion warranty coverage. This adds a level of confidence that brings welcome peace of mind to mature buyers. So, how can you prepare for your move? First start decluttering your decades worth of “stuff.” Remember that today’s adult children do not want the same number of knickknacks their parents and grandparents likely own. Spring is around the corner and is the perfect time to hold a yard sale or use consignment stores for more valuable items. Your cast-offs may be someone else’s treasures.

Then consider carefully where and how to shop for a new home or condo. Location, location, location is first on most people’s lists. Perhaps you can move farther away from an urban area, or maybe you live on a rural property and want to relocate

to a place where you can walk to amenities. Either way, you can find houses or condominiums that will appeal.

One thing we have all learned is that we do not know what the future will hold. Right now, you can start making plans to right-size. The resale market needs your lowrise home. You will know when the timing is right to realize your new housing dream.

Barbara Lawlor is CEO of Baker Real Estate Inc. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of new home and condominium developments in the GTA, Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal, and internationally in Shanghai. baker-re.com

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FIND YOUR DREAM HOME IN

FIELDGATE’S

SIGNATURE GTA COMMUNITIES

Fieldgate Homes has been shaping the southern Ontario landscape for more than 65 years, with awardwinning master-planned communities and residences families have cherished for generations. Superior construction, innovative designs, unmatched attention to detail and attentive customer service are all hallmarks of their excellence. Every home is designed to reflect the contemporary needs and wants of the homebuyer through consistent community engagement – and the assurance that when you own a Fieldgate home, you are family.

Fieldgate Homes is now open for purchasing by virtual sales appointments across the GTA. Connect by phone, video chat or email for a secure and convenient homebuying experience. Sales teams are waiting to help you find your perfect Fieldgate home. Explore these featured communities and contact the company today.

AJAX: ATOWNS

Final release –urban townhomes

The final release of stunning urban townhomes at the aTowns Park Collection in Ajax is now open. At Bayly Street and Salem Road, discover

new family-sized residences backing onto open greenspace, a series of parkettes, sports court and more, all connected by winding walking trails weaved throughout. Better still, live surrounded by modern amenities and mere moments to Lake Ontario. Get the most out of Ajax’s bustling downtown area and enjoy great shopping, tasteful dining, convenient GO Transit, easy access to Hwy. 401 and much more all nearby. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

UNIONVLLE: UNIONVILLE’S

UPPER EAST SIDE

New community coming soon –freehold townhomes, 26- and 31-ft. city singles with double-car garages, 38-, 45- and 70-ft. estate singles

Reach the height of elegance in one of Unionville’s most desired neighbourhoods with the masterplanned community of Unionville’s Upper East Side. A collection of freehold townhomes, 26- and 31-ft. city singles with double car garages, and 38-, 45- and 70-ft. estate singles backing onto Berczy Creek and open greenspaces, while connected to Unionville’s finest amenities and renowned schools. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

SHELBURNE: EMERALD CROSSING

Final release – 36- and 40-ft. singles

The final release at Emerald Crossing is now open, discover a beautiful country landscape surrounded by every modern convenience imaginable in Shelburne’s most anticipated new home community. Enjoy a collection of 36- and 40-ft. singles available now just minutes from big brand outlets, remarkable restaurants, breathtaking greenspaces, ski hills, golf courses and much more. Shelburne has been Canada’s second-fastest growing municipality, so there’s no better time to get in on its best new home opportunity. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

MILTON: VALLEYLANDS OF SIXTEEN MILE CREEK

Coming soon – executive 30-, 36and 43-ft. detached singles

Introducing executive riverside living in a natural enclave setting with Valleylands of Sixteen Mile Creek in Milton. Take advantage of your rare opportunity to own 30-, 36- and 43ft. detached riverside residences with lots backing onto Sixteen Mile Creek. Moments to southern Ontario’s most acclaimed golf courses and

BUILDER PROFILE 38 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

protected greenspaces, retail and restaurants, schools, services and access to the most convenient transit options, embrace a lifestyle unlike any other in Milton. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com for exclusive updates and priority purchase opportunities on Valleylands of Sixteen Mile Creek.

BRAMPTON: THE CRESCENTS

Coming soon – freehold townhomes and singles

Experience a master-planned community that surrounds you with Brampton’s finest at The Crescents. A collection of 30-, 38- and 45-ft. singles and freehold townhomes – on mostly crescent streets – just steps from Conservation Drive Park and Heart Lake Conservation Park. Immerse yourself in the city’s unmatched urban amenities, schools and services. Forge new connections with the convenience of Ontario’s fastest transit network, or stroll through the incredible greenspace with woodlands, parks and trails. Find the perfect place for your growing family in the city, against a vibrant backdrop of culture and energy. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

STOUFFVILLE: CITYSIDE

Coming soon – grand opening of 36and 40-ft. singles

Make your dream home come true in an incredible community setting just moments from Stouffville’s best amenities. Featuring a new release of 36- and 40-ft. singles, embrace city sophistication and country charm from an ideal neighbourhood located close to Markham, Hwys. 404 and 407, and the Stouffville GO Station. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

NORTH OSHAWA: DREAMSCAPE

Coming soon – 30-, 36- and 42-ft. detached singles

Enjoy affordable living in north Oshawa with the incredible residences of Dreamscape now open. This highly anticipated new home community offers a superb mix of expertly designed and crafted 30-, 36- and 42-ft. singles moments to

the best modern amenities Durham has to offer. Big box stores, bespoke boutiques, delicious dining, great schools, trails and conservation areas await those who call Dreamscape “home.” Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

PICKERING: SEATON

Coming soon – freehold townhomes, semis, 30- and 36-ft. singles

Enter a serene natural landscape that merges with the convenience of big city amenities at Pickering’s awaited Seaton community. Live at the nexus of classic and contemporary with a remarkable collection of freehold townhomes, semis, 30- and 36-ft. singles in a skillfully designed community setting. This new community truly has something for everyone with Pickering Town Centre, beautiful Lake Ontario, shopping, greenspaces, restaurants, Toronto’s eastern border and so much more just minutes away. Be first to own by registering now at fieldgatehomes.com.

PICKERING: SEATONVILLE

Coming soon – freehold townhomes 30-, 35-, 36- and 43-ft. singles

The newest sprawling masterplanned community carefully designed to reimagine Pickering’s landscape. This landmark community boasts a spectacular array of distinctive freehold townhomes, 30-, 35-, 36- and 43-ft. singles mere moments from downtown Pickering’s finest modern amenities and protected greenspaces. Quick and easy access to crucial transit options, Hwys. 407, 412 and 401 connect you to the whole of Durham and Toronto. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

KLEINBURG: NEW KLEINBURG

Phase 1 has sold out. Register now for Phase 2 – one- and two-car garage freehold townhomes, semis and 30ft. singles

New Kleinburg is a community of inspired family residences in a beautiful setting just moments from the heart of historic Kleinburg. With the Hwy. 427 extension just

minutes away, a new community school and excellent urban amenities close at hand, life in Kleinburg has never been more convenient. Discover a remarkable collection of expansive one- and two-car freehold townhomes in this beautiful masterplanned community. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

WEST WHITBY: WHITBY MEADOWS

Coming soon – new release of freehold townhomes, semis and singles

A new release is coming soon with the Grand Opening of Whitby Meadows Phase 3. Take advantage of spectacular residences in one of the GTA’s most popular communities with all-new townhomes, semis and 36and 42-ft. detached designs. Find a master-planned community offering west Whitby’s best lifestyle near shopping, restaurants, Iroquois Park Sports Centre, Whitby GO Station, Heber Down conservation area, excellent schools and more. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

nexthome.ca 39

decorating THE ART OF…

Art is often thought of as part of the finishing touches of your decor, a last-minute addition to the space. But is this really the case? Art is more than just a decoration. When it is well curated, it can transform and elevate any room. It can set the tone of the space while also adding to the overall design aesthetic. Art can express your personality, add visual interest, evoke emotion or simply calmly complement the surroundings.

Understanding the role art plays in your space is important. A vibrant abstract can create energy, a subtle landscape can be calm and peaceful. The colours, textures and forms found in your artwork can be complementary to the surroundings of the room, adding not only visual interest but also depth to the design. It can create a focal point in the space, or just add a subtle nuance to a small little corner of a room. It can be the starting point when designing, or it could be that extra layer needed when creating a well-curated room.

INSPIRATION | decor
40 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

Many feel that great artwork should stand alone and really have nothing to do with the finished decor of your space. However, when working with clients, I often find that art always will have a greater impact and look better within the space when the decor supports the pieces in questions.

Whether you are working with original art, prints you fell in love with, photography from your travels or some great vintage pieces you found while thrifting, you need to decide the role these pieces will have within your space. Is art to be used as the inspiration for your designs, a focal point within the space or simply be a piece that accompanies and completes the overall design?

However you decide to incorporate these pieces, know that they will certainly add dimension, richness and interest to the area.

So, the question remains: How do you design a space to highlight your art? One of the more classic and easiest ways to coordinate your art selections within your living spaces is drawing on colour. This is not about having your art “match” everything in the space, but rather developing a palette of colour and texture throughout that will help enhance

the pieces. This could be a simple repetition of some of the colours found within the piece through paint, fabric and accessories which will help to strengthen the visual impact of the art. A coordination and balance of colour, pattern and texture within your decor will draw you into the room and visually highlight the art.

For a more modern approach, the design of a room can be a little more restrained, both in colour and composition, allowing the art to become more of an impactful focal point. With the use of strategically placed directional lighting you can add another element to highlighting your art and truly make it the centre of attention.

When working with impactful or large scaled pieces of art, put some thought in to how you’d like to display these pieces and make the design or decor of your space complement them, instead of just making the art exist. If you are selecting fresh pieces of art for your room, select wisely, both in size and composition. Look to creating groupings, or collages, with some pieces to avoid simply hanging a single piece per wall. While art is subjective and personal, it does need

to vibe with the space it will be in to truly shine.

Art can elevate your interior space. But in the end, artwork should simply make you happy. Make a bold statement with your art selections or create a calm and relaxing environment, whichever suits your personality and style best. Be creative with your selections, and don’t be afraid to play with scale as well. A large piece on a smaller wall can really make an impact in a space, and the same goes for the reverse. Your selection of art is a reflection of you, your life, your history, your travels… have fun with it and don’t be shy to show your true self.

Linda Mazur is an award-winning, nationally publicized designer and Principal of Linda Mazur Design Group. With almost two decades of experience this in demand multi-disciplinary design firm is known for creating relaxed, stylish spaces and full-scale design builds within Toronto, the GTA and throughout Canada. lindamazurdesign.com @LindaMazurGroup

nexthome.ca 41

TIPS FOR DECORATING A SMALL SPACE

Decorating a small space isn’t really that different from decorating a large one – it just requires some ingenuity and understanding what works in the space and what doesn’t. While your focus will be different when you’re working with less square footage, the basic rules of design are very much the same.

Whether you’re looking to update a rental apartment, condominium or small home, give some thought to these eight tips to optimize your space.

FIND THE RIGHT LIGHT

First, if you have plenty of natural light, let it shine through. Keep window treatments airy with sheer fabrics so light can come through easily, and you’re not weighing down your space with heavy curtains or blinds. Add additional lighting throughout your space but avoid any big floor or table lamps – they just add “bulk” – and opt for wall sconces, pendant lights or string lights that don’t take up too much real estate.

MIRROR, MIRROR ON THE WALL

If you aren’t blessed with a lot of natural light in a room, mirrors can

add additional light and the feeling of additional space by reflecting back any natural and non-natural lighting you do have. It will give the illusion of more square footage, so think about using one large mirror in your room or arrange a few smaller ones throughout.

AVOID HEAVY FURNITURE

When dressing a small space, your furniture has to look light. For example, instead of investing in a sturdy, block of a coffee table, opt for a piece that has legs on it. Why? It helps carry the eye in and around your space, which gives the impression of a bigger room.

USE FURNITURE THAT IS MULTI-PURPOSE

I often picked pieces that are multipurpose, such as a high-top table that I put in the kitchen area that acts as a workstation as well as an eating area. You can get creative with storage options, too: Ottomans that can store your linens, or built-in cabinetry under your bed. Nowadays there are so many chic storage options that work double-duty as a piece of decor.

TRY ‘FLOATING’ PIECES

Shelves and nightstands that are built into the walls keep your floor clear of any obstacles and free up some extra space as well.

8 INSPIRATION | big style 42 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024

THE BIGGER THE RUG, THE BETTER

Believe it or not, you don’t want to skimp on size with your rug. A tiny rug just makes the room feel equally as small, so pick a floor covering that’s large enough so most of the furniture will sit on it or go wall-to-wall.

KEEP COLOURS NEUTRAL

This feels fairly obvious, but lighter walls give the illusion of a bigger space, where darker walls do the opposite. My favourite hues are

from Benjamin Moore: CC40 or Chantilly Lace. I often use them both in design.

ADD SOME COLOUR

Yes, you can. Use colour for your pillows, bedding, artwork or carpets, but I always caution about going too overboard with really bold patterns of palettes. You want to minimize the “noise,” as it were, so my advice is to add your colour, but keep it fresh, light and harmonious.

Lisa Rogers is Executive Vice-President of Design for Dunpar Homes (dunparhomes.com). Lisa has shared her style and design expertise on popular television programs such as Canadian Living TV, House & Home TV and as a regular guest expert for fashion and image, health and wellness and design on CityTV’s Cityline. Follow Lisa’s blog at craftedbylisa.ca

nexthome.ca 43

AJAX

1. A Towns Bayly St. E. & Salem Rd. S. fieldgatehomes.com

AURORA

2. Queen’s Grove Collection Yonge St. & Bloomington Rd. northstarhomes.com

3. Allegro 36 Klees Cres. geranium.com

BRAMPTON

4. DUO Condos 245 Steeles Ave. W. duocondos.ca

5. Spring Valley Village Bovaird Drive W. & Elbern Markell Drive ballantryspringvalley.com

6. Three Rivers Claireville Goreway Dr. & Humberwest Pkwy nationalhomes.com

7. Queens Lane Townhomes Mississauga Rd. & Queen St. branthavenbrampton.com

BRANTFORD

8. Brant West 501 Shellard Lane losanihomes.com

CALEDON

9. Palgrave Estates Mount Pleasant Rd. & Hunsden Rd. flatogroup.com

10. Pathways Caledon East Old Church Rd. & Innis Lake Rd. flatogroup.com

11. Highlands Caledon East 22 McKee Drive, Caledon dunsire.com

CLAIREMONT

12. Cresthaven Estates Brock Rd & Central Street

ETOBICOKE

13. Lake & Town Islington Ave. & Lake Shore Blvd menkes.com

14. Boutique Towns 80 Thirtieth St. dunparhomes.com

15. The 900 Condo Signature Residences 900 The East Mall 9hundredcondo.ca

KLEINBURG

16. New Impressions Hwy. 27 & Major McKenzie Dr. W. fieldgatehomes.com

MARKHAM/ UNIONVILLE

17. Cornell Markham Bur Oak Ave. & Hwy 7 ballantryhomes.com

18. Upper East Side Unionvillle

Major Mackenzie & Woodbine fieldgatehomes.com

19. Riverwalk Meadows

Ninth Line & 14th Ave. flatogroup.com

20. Angus Glen South Village

9980 Kennedy Rd., #200. kylemorecommunities.com

21. Kennedy Manors 4500 Major Mackenzie Dr East. kylemorecommunities.com OSHAWA

22.

23.

Dreamscape
Rd.
Rd. fieldgatehomes.com
Conlin
& Harmony
Park Ridge Conlin & Townline Rds. tributecommunities.com PICKERING 24. Seaton 1075 Taunton Rd. fieldgatehomes.com RICHMOND HILL 25. Richlands Leslie St. & Elgin Mills Rd. fieldgatehomes.com 26. Millbrook Park Elgin Mills & Leslie St. northstarhomesinc.com 27. Park Lane Place Elgin Mills & Leslie St. northstarhomesinc.com
Observatory Hill Bayview Ave. & 16th Ave. myobservatoryhill.ca
King East Estates King Rd. & Toscanini Rd. pureplaza.com SCARBOROUGH 30. 670 Progress Ave. Progress Ave. & Grangeway Ave. fieldgateurban.com 4 5 6 15 7 10 9 11 16 8 HOT PROPERTIES | GTA
latest properties in the Greater Toronto Area to keep your eye on FIND YOUR NEXT HOME 44 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024
28.
29.
The

BUILDERS IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO INCLUDE YOUR PREVIEW REGISTRATION, NEW RELEASE OR SITE OPENING IN THIS FEATURE, JUST EMAIL THE DETAILS TO

CARTOGRAPHY: MARKETMAPS.COM 1 2 13 14 32 30 33 21 20 18 19 17 34 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 36 35 31 TORONTO
Lambtown Towns 2650 St. Clair West dunparhomes.com 32. 2650 St. Clair Ave W. 2650 St. Clair Ave W dunparhomes.com
Citylux Towns at Thornhill Woods Dufferin St. & Rutherford Rd. fieldgatehomes.com
34. Country Lane Taunton Rd. & Country Lane countrylanewhitby.com WHITECHURCH/ STOUFFVILLE 35. Blue Sky 9th Line & Millard St. fieldgatehomes.com 36. Cityside Stouffville 10th Line & Main St. Stouffville fieldgatehomes.com
31.
THORNHILL 33.
WHITBY
+ 3 12 nexthome.ca 45
EDITORIAL@NEXTHOME.CA

The

BURLINGTON/ WATERDOWN

1. Northshore Condo 484-490 Plains Rd. E. nationalhomes.com

2. Tyandaga Heights Burlington nationalhomes.com

GEORGETOWN

3. Juniper Gate 10130 10 Line, Norval remingtonhomes.com

GRIMSBY

4. Grimsby Waterfront 398 N Service Rd. losanihomes.com

HAMILTONWENTWORTH

5. Soho Homes at Barton & Glover Barton St. & Glover Rd. losanihomes.com

6. Highland Park &Central Park: Midtown & Soho Upper Red Hill Valley Pkwy & Rymal Rd. losanihomes.com

KITCHENER/ WATERLOO

7. Wallaceton Huron Rd. & Fischer-Hallman heathwood.com

LONDON

8. Victoria On The River Sheffield Blvd. & Commissioners Rd. E. sifton.com

9. Caverhill Clarke Rd. & Kilallay Rd. sifton.com

10. Hudson Park Colonel Talbot Rd. & Pack Rd. sifton.com

11. Liberty Crossing Wonderland Rd. S. & Hamlyn St. sifton.com

12. Middleton Wharncliffe Rd. & Exeter Rd. sifton.com

13. RiverBend Golf Community 2200 Jack Nash Dr. sifton.com

14. Rosewood Nissouri Rd. & Thorndale Rd. sifton.com

MILTON

15. The Valleylands Mayfield Rd. & Chinguacousy fieldgatehomes.com

16. Hawthorne Park Oakwood Dr. & Byron Ave. sifton.com

17. Thompson Towers Thompson Rd. S & Drew Centre thompsontowers.ca

MISSISSAUGA

18. Whitehorn Woods 1240 Britannia Rd. W. nationalhomes.com

19. Streetsville Centre Mill St. & Queen St. S. dunparhomes.com

NIAGARA

REGION

20. Portview Estates Simcoe St. & Canal St. silvergatehomes.com

21. Luna Hwy. 406 & 56, Thorold silvergatehomes.com

22. Harbourtown Village Fort Erie silvergatehomes.com

23. Hazelwood on the Grand Hardy Rd. sifton.com

24. Joy Towns Niagra branthaven.com

25. Bench Mark Ontario St. & Drake Losanihomes.com

OAKVILLE

26. The Greenwich at Oakvillage

Trafalgar Rd. & Dundas St. East branthaven.com

27. Bronte Meadows Bridge Rd & Warminster Dr. flatogroup.com

28. Upper West Side Condos 2 351 Dundas St. East branthaven.com

29. Trafalgar Ridge River Oaks Blvd. & Namron Gate dunparhomes.com

30. The Villages of Oak Park Trafalgar Rd. & Dundas st. E. ballantryhomes.com

31. West & Post 2714 Westoak Trails Blvd. branthavenoakville.com

PARIS

32. Riverbank Estates Nirh River losanihomes.com

ST. CATHARINES

33. Lincoln Estates Lincoln Ave. & King St. losanihomes.com

34. Lusso Urban Towns Martindale Rd. & Grapeview Dr, St. Catharines lucchettahomes.com

35. Merritton Mills St. Catharines silvergatehomes.com

36. Benchmark at Vista Ridge 4008 Mountain St., Beamsville losanihomes.com

37. Bromley Gardens 20 Bromley Drive, St. Catharines Dunsire.com

ST. THOMAS

38. Harvest Run Centennial Parkway & Elm Street dougtarryhomes.com

STONEY CREEK

39. Maplewood Park Upper Creswood maplewoodstoneycreek. com

40. Sweetberry Barton & Glover sweetberrytowns.ca

WELLAND

41. Davis Heights 1535 Haist St, Pelham lucchettahomes.com

42. The Residences at Hunters Pointe 71 Kyntre Trail lucchettahomes.com

43. Edgewater Trails Daimler Pkwy & Magnolia Ln, ballantryhomes.com

44. Village on the Twelve

21 Willow Bank Common St. silvergatehomes.com

45. Riverside at Hunter’s Point 300 Daimler Pkwy., Welland lucchettahomes.com

46.Shelter Cove

15 Cricklewood Cres., Nanticoke sheltercove.ca

47.

52.

53.

54.

55.

WEST REGION
St. George
Concession 2 & Woodhill Rd. losanihomes.com
Brant West 562 Shellard Ln losanihomes.com
Magnolia Trails Modeland Rd. & Michigan Lane sifton.com 50. Soleil St. Clair Corunna sifton.com 51. Expressions & Riverbank Estates 1021 Rest Acres Rd., Paris losanihomes.com
Village
48.
49.
Knightsbridge Graff Ave. & Mornington St. sifton.com
Cottonwood
Dingle St. sifton.com
Edgewood
270 Hagan Street East,
Suites
Dundalk flato.com
Discoverie Condos 7 Central Ave Fort Erie DiscoverieCondos.ca HOT PROPERTIES | SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO AREA Guelph Waterloo Kitchener Cambridge Brantford KITCHENER–WATERLOO 7 51 48 47 52 6 46 54
Southwestern
YOUR NEXT
22 38 46 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024
latest properties in the
Ontario Area to keep your eye on FIND
HOME
Niagara Falls Welland St Catharines Hamilton Burlington Oakville Mississauga Milton 15 17 27 28 29 31 18 3 19 1 2 25 33 36 5 39 34 21 32 37 32 34 20 21 4 42 45 23 44 41 6 London LONDON 8 9 43 53 14 11 10 12 50 13 49 16 35 26 30 31 40 55 nexthome.ca 47

DUNDALK

11. Edgewood Greens Hwy. 10 & Main St. East flatogroup.com

12. Edgewood Suites 270 Hagan St. E., Dundalk edgewoodsuites.ca

HORSESHOE

VALLEY

13. Craighurst Horseshoe Valley Rd. & Hwy. 93 georgianinternational.com

14. Braestone Horseshoe Valley 3246 Line 9 North georgianinternational.com

LINDSAY

15. Grace & Grand flatogroup.com

NEWCASTLE

16. Belmont treasurehill.com

OWEN SOUND

17. Greystone Village 1800 2nd Ave. E. flatogroup.com

PETERBOROUGH

18. Parklands & The Condo Arbour Villas 1224 Chemong Rd. masonhomes.ca PORT HOPE/ COBOURG

19. Port Hope Lakeside Village 415 Lakeshore Rd. masonhomes.ca

20. Kingswood Cobourg 425 King St. E. masonhomes.ca

21. Meadow Heights 82 Hillcrest Road, Port Colborne dunsire.com

SHELBURNE

22. Emerald Crossing Hwy. 89 & Hurontario St. fieldgatehomes.com

A W A b W D D D D M C D M MQuayB d S m oe S t S O ar o St ven n Rd N La k e Drwy W G bbon S t S mervil e S PhlipMu ayAve Wlmot T AtholSt E QueenSt h ckson Rd S R o ge S David S Wa D r Q ue nS M HarwoodAv N Manve / u gog Town ne Rd NMonagha Pky V e ru am Rd N ScugogLine2 Coa esRdW Ch ndle D B Rd Mas odRd Pal sineRd L nd nValeyRd Rams yRd RamseyRd K l arn y B a Rd R e Rd B yduffRd H aw h a L ne L ndsa y S t S Scugog S A n ge i ne S t S ConcessionStE King E ConcessionRoad8 Verulam R WoodvilleRd ConlinRdE ThunderBridgeRd EdgertonRd Sun g Ha bourRd Holt Rd Bethesd a Rd Marsh Rd Hamilton Rd 7thLine k ColumbusRdW HowdenRdE Solanum Way MtPleasantRd OakHill Rd BethelGroveRd PaudashSt StewartLine LarmerLine EnnisRd T araRd Tara Rd BaseLine CavanRd Hol t Rd Fleetwood Rd LiffordRd TelecomRd PeaceRd MeadowviewRd 8thLine 7thLine Sherbrooke St LansdowneStW ParkhillRdW Park S t N Olive Ave AdelaideAve E Ri tson Rd S Ar m o u r R d Che Rd A n derson S t Wi l son Rd N Garden S t on Rd Garrard Rd ConcessionRoad 6 Peterborough Byps Count r yL n Dundas St E R a nevscrof t Rd Brock S t S GibbSt Young s PointRd HilliardSt A n geline S t N Baldwi n S N Brock S t N ConcessionRoad 7 Mai n S t C oncession Road4 S a e m Rd ColborneSt W Baseline Rd Tru l s Rd OldScugogRd h Townline Rd N W aver y R d Robinson Rd Fif e s B a y Rd Ashburnh am D r TransCanada Hwy Victoria St W Courtice Rd Frank Hill Rd Bensfort Rd KingSt Concession Road 10 Joh n S M ll St S Concession Road 1 Matchett L ne T e ev sion Rd Long Beach R d Golf Course Rd C e n lert ne Rd 6thLine Ontari o S t KingSt McGill Dr ConcessionRoad3 Ward St La k e e ld Rd ncession 4-brock CraggRd MyrtleRdW M a pl e Grove Rd Janetvi l l e R d Cedar G l en Rd Emi y Park Rd T a pl e y Quarter L i ne dEenberryLine Concession Road5 VimyRidgeRd Old NorwoodRd TelephoneRd oncession 3-brock TownLine Rd BrawleyRdW MacDonald-cartier Fwy Trans Canad a Hwy Trans CanadaHwy S i mcoe S t S m c o e S S i mcoe S t S i mcoe S t S cm o e St N GanaraskaRd King St E R tson Rd N Taunton Rd Lakeridge Rd ge Rd Thornton Rd N L i bert y S t N Pigeon LakeRd ElmTree Rd E l m Tree Rd DaleRd DaleRd Lakeshore Rd E l don Rd Eldon Rd Little Britain Rd H e gh t s Rd Hei gh t s Rd O l d S i mco e R d Harmony Rd N Old ScugogRd OakRidgesDr Nash Rd YankeeLine B ru n ham S t N WallacePointRd CambrayRd Sturgeon Rd GlenarmRd Salem Rd Ashb urn Rd 5th L ne dnals R d BloorSt Ski H i l l Rd Porter Rd 4thLine Buckhorn Rd White Rock Rd BoundaryRd Mt Horeb Rd 7thLine Drummond Line LornevilleRd S e wy n Rd Peniel Rd O pmar Rd Post Rd DivisionRd Keene Rd 401 115 35 35 7 7 7 7 7A 7A 12 2 2 2 35 36 28 28 46 7 7 7 Dunsford Pontypool Newcastle Sunderland Nestleton Station Ennismore Courtice Blackstock Bethany Hiawatha First Nation 36 Seagrave Janetville Bailieboro Cannington Mississauga's Of Scugog Island Lakefield Douro-Dummer Ashburn Newtonville Lindsay Omemee Fraserville Cavan-Millbrook-North Monaghan Brooklin Kendal Douro Bridgenorth Curve Lake Curve Lake First Nation 35 Cavan Caesarea Cameron Gores Landing Woodville Millbrook Port Perry Sturgeon Point Cambray Hampton Campbellcroft Manilla Reaboro Youngs Point Bewdley Bowmanville Greenwood Haydon Orono Oakwood Little Britain Greenbank Hamilton Twp Smith-Ennismore-Lakefield Port Hope Scugog Brock Peterborough Ajax Clarington Kawartha Lakes Oshawa Whitby HOT PROPERTIES | OUT OF TOWN The latest properties in the Out of Town Area to keep your eye on FIND YOUR NEXT HOME CARTOGRAPHY: MARKETMAPS.COM 7 BARRIE 1. FOUR10 Yonge 410 Yonge Street masonhomes.ca 2. Midhurst Valley 1296 Carson Rd. geranium.com 3. Heartland Hwy 89 & Yonge St., Baxter brookfieldhomes.ca 4. Midhurst Hwy 26 & Bayfield Rd. Brookfieldhomes.ca BEETON
GreenRidge & Beeton Village 41 Main St. W. flatogroup.com BETHANY 6. Bethany Village Ski Hill Road, North of HWY 7A BethanyVillage.ca CAMBELLFORD 7. Haven on the Trent Forest Hill Rd. & Riverside Trail sifton.com COLLINGWOOD 8. Mountain House at Windfall Mountain Rd. & Crosswinds Blvd. georgianinternational.com 9. Collingwood Maple & Sixth Street georgianinternational.ca COURTICE
The Vale Prestonvale Rd. & Bloor St. nationalhomes.com
5.
10.
PARRY SOUND/ MUSKOKA/ HUNTSVILLE EAST 17 11 22 12 8 9 5 13 m 15 6 ngR18 10 16 19 20 21 14 2 1 3 4 48 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024
NORTH

DEDICATED TO EXCELLENCE

THESE BUILDERS ARE PROUD OF THEIR COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENT CUSTOMER SERVICE AND CREATING GREAT COMMUNITIES.

| FEATURED BUILDERS + DEVELOPERS
SPOTLIGHT
nexthome.ca 49

ADJUSTING HST REBATE THRESHOLDS

WOULD PROVIDE RELIEF FOR NEW-HOME BUYERS

In September 2023, the federal government announced it will remove the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the construction of new rental housing. The same day, the Ontario government announced it will work with the federal government to remove the province’s portion of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) from purposebuilt rentals. These commendable changes significantly improve the financial feasibility of building new homes for rent. Already we have seen announcements of projects with thousands of new units in this much-needed category. Given the significant impact that taxation can have on Canadians’ ability to attain housing, the federal government should now focus on keeping a 32-year-old promise to adjust the price thresholds for the GST/HST new housing rebate program.

The GST on new homes was introduced in 1991, replacing the previous tax regime. To compensate homebuyers for the tax increase, the federal government introduced a rebate program that would reimburse the difference between the GST and the old tax. The government said that about 95 per cent of new homes would be eligible for the rebate. To maintain housing affordability, it made an important pledge: To review and adjust the

rebate thresholds at least every two years to reflect changes in house prices. Unfortunately, no review has taken place in the 32 years that have passed, and no adjustments have been undertaken.

In 2010, the HST was introduced on new homes, replacing the GST and the Provincial Sales Tax (PST), but the federal rebate program and its thresholds remain the same. The promise to Canadians to ensure that the tax does not affect housing affordability remains unfulfilled.

Since 1991, the price of an average home in the GTA has increased from $250,000 to about $1.2 million, which means the federal government’s tax revenue has increased from about $12,500 per unit to nearly $60,000 per unit. That’s tens of thousands of dollars in taxes added to the cost of a new home, in addition to all the other government fees, taxes and charges that are passed on to new-home buyers as part of the purchase price. Added up, these can constitute as much as 25 per cent of the cost of a

new home in the GTA, contributing to the affordability crisis.

The federal government has demonstrated it understands the impact of taxation on housing attainability. It should follow up its laudable efforts in encouraging rental construction with an adjustment to the thresholds for the GST/HST new housing rebate. It would put tens of thousands of dollars back in the pockets of new-home buyers and would honour the original intent of the rebate – to help preserve housing affordability for all Canadians.

Dave Wilkes is President and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), the voice of the homebuilding, land development and professional renovation industry in the GTA. For the latest industry news and new home data, follow BILD on Twitter, @bildgta or visit bildgta.ca.

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca ADVICE | INDUSTRY REPORT
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50 HOMES Magazine | March 23–April 20, 2024
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