GTA Homes Magazine - June 15, 2024

The Village Farm in Embro

An exceptional building standard you won’t find elsewhere

THIS IS WHERE YOUR DREAM LIFESTYLE AWAITS.

Reverie Luxury Townhomes exude timeless elegance with a classic design that will captivate you. Nestled in a luxurious location that many dream to call home, Reverie offers both a relaxing and adventurous lifestyle for those ready to make their dreams come true.

ENJOY COUNTRY LIFE WITH A UNIQUELY URBAN FEEL

Endearing and timeless, whimsical and modern, historical and evolved – this is Stratford. A captivating community that draws visitors and tourists who instantly fall in love. Discover Poet & Perth, where you can choose from an outstanding collection of bungalow and three-storey townhomes.

Be part of a masterfully designed community surrounded by all that Guelph has to offer. Spacious, bright and modern stacked and rearlane townhome designs in the heart of it all with easy access to everything most loved about Guelph.

STARTING FROM THE $600s FOR INFORMATION: argylevillage.ca

choose from a collection of stacked and rear-lane urban and sophisticated

The Townhomes at Lackner Ridge are designed with luxurious modern finishes offering walk-up and walk-out plans that maximize indoor and outdoor living space. The sophisticated community is set in one of Kitchener’s most desirable neighbourhoods with natural landscapes, picturesque trails, ample amenities, countless parks, breathtaking views and more. STARTING FROM THE $800s

At Reid’s Heritage Homes, we don’t just build communities, we are one. When you purchase a home from Reid’s Heritage Homes you can feel assured that we will deliver the very highest level of design, construction and customer service. This has been demonstrated throughout our 45-year history and underlines what the word “heritage” means to us – treating customers with kindness, respect and compassion throughout the entire home purchase and building process.

700 Jamieson Parkway, Unit 103 Cambridge, ON N3C 4N6

519.658.6656 | reidsheritagehomes.com

KITCHENER

STRATFORD

COBBLE BEACH

TICK TOCK, TICK TOCK, RATES HAVE DROPPED.

Interest rates have dropped and relief is on the way. Pent up demand will drive prices up. That’s why NOW is a perfect time to buy at National Homes.

LIMITED TIME OFFERS

Incredible Incentive Offerings now on at all of our communities

COURTICE - THE VALE

Freehold Towns from the $700s

MISSISSAUGA - WHITEHORN WOODS

Freehold Towns from $1.1M

BURLINGTON - TYANDAGA HEIGHTS

Freehold Towns and Semis from the $1Ms

BURLINGTON - NORTHSHORE CONDOS

1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Condos from the $500s Towns Coming Soon from $799k

BRAMPTON - DUO CONDOS

1, 2 Bed + Flex Condos & Towns from the $500s Tower 2 Coming Soon - Condos from the $400s Register | DuoCondos.ca

Now at

Launching in 2024, Birch Condos and Towns at Lakeview Village is waterfront living at its best. Discover design forward, one-to-three bedroom condo residences with private balconies, hotel-inspired amenities and the included Fresh Thinking™ features and finishes Branthaven is renowned for. Step out and enjoy the vast lakeside playground of Mississauga’s most transformative waterfront community.

Langlois Eco Homes

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

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, 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 & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR Hannah Yarkony

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Mike Terentiev

Published by nexthome.ca

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FINALLY, A BREAK

WAYNE KARL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

HOMES Magazine

EMAIL: wayne.karl@nexthome.ca

TWITTER: @WayneKarl

For the first time in four years – since the pandemic, in fact – the Bank of Canada on June 5 finally made the long-awaited decision to reduce its target for the overnight rate to 4.75 per cent.

While not a large reduction, it’s the move that prospective homebuyers, homebuilders – and even homeowners with mortgage renewal on the horizon – have been waiting for. The hope is that it’s just the beginning of a succession of rate cuts, spurring activity in homebuying and building.

“With the rate cut, while not a big one, and not close to the four-percent increase over the last two years, the market may see one thing and one thing only, a changed sentiment,” says Jesse Abrams, co-founder and CEO of Homewise, a Toronto-based mortgage brokerage. “News articles, public opinion and market expectation will be that rates are lowering. Most Canadians don’t fully grasp how large the increase was to the policy rate over the last couple of years.

“It could lead those sitting on the sidelines to wake up and call their realtors, mortgage brokers and get back to thinking about home searching. It is a small decrease and the first of what should be more to come in the coming quarters. We should see the buyers start to trickle back in; the sellers, who have already been listing condos like crazy, start to consider selling now as well. Overall, this could be a jolt to the exceptionally slow real estate market.”

Phil Soper, president and CEO of Royal LePage, adds, “Our research indicates that half of sidelined homebuyers in Canada plan to resume their home search plans once the bank rate begins to drop. This will no doubt spark activity and put upward pressure on home prices in the second half of the year.”

And from Ron McMillan, president of Reid’s Heritage Homes (see page 30), “With the announcement on June 5 of BoC’s rate cut, we’re optimistic that buyers will be confident that the market has nowhere to go but up, but we don’t anticipate a buying frenzy just yet.”

BoC’s next rate announcement is July 24.

2024 BILD AWARDS CELEBRATE HOMEBUILDING EXCELLENCE IN GTA

The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) recently recognized excellence in the design, construction, marketing and sales of new homes in the GTA at its 2024 BILD Awards.

BILD presented 49 awards in the categories of architecture, design, marketing, people and sales, and in the prestigious Pinnacle categories. A group of 40 expert judges from across North America determined the winners from over 930 submitted entries.

“The BILD Awards is one of the largest and most prestigious awards programs of its kind in North America,” says Dave Wilkes, BILD president and CEO. “This year’s finalists and winners exemplify outstanding innovation and showcase the excellence of the building industry in the Greater Toronto Area.”

Alan Menkes, president HighRise Development for Menkes Developments, received BILD’s Lifetime Achievement Award. It is the highest honour BILD can present to a member, recognizing those who have dedicated a lifetime to the association and the industry and demonstrated significant leadership and commitment to the greater good.

Menkes joined Menkes Development in 1976 and very quickly established himself as a respected, trusted and innovative member of the GTA development and homebuilding community. During Menkes’ tenure, Menkes Development has completed more than 40,000 condominium units and the company is highly regarded today as one of the most trusted builders in Toronto. A philanthropic leader, he serves on the board of the University Health Network Foundation and is a member of the World Presidents’ Organization (WPO).

Brixen Developments was named Homebuilder of the Year, Mid/ Highrise, while OPUS Homes received

the title of Homebuilder of the Year, Lowrise. The Homebuilder of the Year categories recognize builders that set the standard for the rest of the industry through their professionalism and dedication to excellence. A key component of the judging process is a customer satisfaction survey, which ensures that the end user’s experience is factored into the award criteria.

The winners of the additional Pinnacle Award categories include:

• Best Advertising Campaign, Paid Media: Freed Hotel & Residences by Freed Developments and Gladstone Media Inc.

• Best Best Midrise Building Design: Lily at Crosstown by Aspen Ridge Homes

• Best Community, Built: The Well by RioCan Living and Tridel

• Best Highrise Building Design and Best New Community, Planned/ Under Development: Elm & Ledbury by Fitzrovia

• Best International Project of the Year: Marylebone Square (London, UK) by Concord Adex/Pacific

• Best Overall Marketing Campaign: Strata by Pureblink

• Best Purpose-Built Rental: FourFifty The Well by RioCan Living

• Green Builder of the Year, Lowrise: Minto Communities

• Green Builder of the Year, Mid/ Highrise: Tridel

• Project of the Year, Lowrise: The Heights of Harmony, Phase II by Minto Communities

• Project of the Year, Mid/Highrise: FourFifty The Well by RioCan Living

In addition, Elm & Ledbury by Fitzrovia received the People’s Choice Award, which is voted by the public.

For a full list of BILD Awards winners, including the winners of the Marketing, People & Sales, and Architectural & Design awards, visit bildawards.com.

BILD President and CEO Dave Wilkes

Next-level building quality and style meet the beauty and convenience of southwestern Ontario

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

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BEST ATTACHED LOW-RISE HOME OVER 1800 SQ.FT.

HOMEBUYERS EXPERIENCE LESS COMPETITION IN MAY: TRREB

May home sales continued at low levels, especially in comparison to last spring’s short-lived pick-up in market activity, as homebuyers continued to wait for relief on the mortgage rate front. Existing homeowners are anticipating an uptick in demand, as evidenced by a year-over-year increase in new listings. With more choice compared to a year ago, buyers benefitted from more negotiating room on prices.

“Recent polling from Ipsos indicates that homebuyers are waiting for clear signs of declining mortgage rates,” says Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) President Jennifer Pearce. “As borrowing costs decrease over the next 18 months, more buyers are expected to enter the market, including many first-time buyers. This will open up much needed space in a relatively tight rental market.”

Greater Toronto Area realtors reported 7,013 home sales through TRREB’s MLS system in May 2024 – a 21.7 per cent decline compared to 8,960 sales reported in May 2023. New listings entered into the MLS system amounted to 18,612 – up by 21.1 per cent year-over- year.

The MLS Home Price Index Composite benchmark was down 3.5 per cent on a year-over-year basis in May 2024. The average selling price of $1.16 million was down by 2.5 per cent over the May 2023 result of $1.19 million. On a seasonally adjusted monthly basis, the average selling price edged up slightly compared to April 2024.

“While interest rates remained high in May, homebuyers did continue to benefit from slightly lower selling prices compared to last year,” says TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer. “We have seen selling prices adjust to mitigate

the impact of higher mortgage rates. Affordability is expected to improve further as borrowing costs trend lower. However, as demand picks up, we will likely see renewed upward pressure on home prices as competition between buyers increases.”

“In order to have an affordable and livable region over the long term, we need to see a coordinated effort from all levels of government to alleviate our current housing deficit and to provide housing for new population moving forward,” adds TRREB CEO John DiMichele. “On top of this, governments need to ensure the delivery of infrastructure to support our growing population. The economic health and liveability of our region depends on the timely completion of public transit projects including better transparency and clear timelines on the completion of the Eglinton Crosstown LRT.”

BUILDERS URGE MUNICIPALITIES TO EXERCISE RESTRAINT WITH CHARGES ON NEW HOMES

With the passing of Bill 185, the Cutting Red Tape to Build More Homes Act, 2024, the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) urges GTA municipalities to not raise development charges (DCs) on new homes in the midst of a housing crisis.

“If municipal politicians want to contribute to solving the GTA’s housing supply and affordability issues, they should exercise extreme restraint and not increase development charges on new homes,” says Dave Wikes, president and CEO of BILD. “Across the province, municipal (upper and lower tier) DCs are the highest fee, tax or charge added by any level of government to the cost of new homes. Increasing DC rates is inflationary to the cost of a new home and can also undermine

project viability, preventing projects (and therefore new supply) from coming to the market.”

Development charges are fees added to the cost of a new home by a municipal and regional government. They are intended to offset the costs of growth-related housing supportive infrastructure, transit and services. Over the last two decades, DCs in the GTA have escalated rapidly, rising between 250 and 900 per cent – far in excess of property tax increases.

In many GTA municipalities, these charges average about $100,000 for a single-family home, and in some they approach $150,000.

“There is a growing recognition that the current system of funding growth related costs places too much burden on the backs of new homebuyers, contributing to making homeownership impossible

for many in the GTA,” says Wilkes. “Existing residents also benefit from new and renewed infrastructure and services and there needs to be a frank conversation between all levels of government on a new, fair and equitable system to support growth related costs. Until that can happen, we are calling on all GTA municipalities to hold or indeed lower their DC levels in recognition that we are in the midst of a housing crisis, and now is not the time to be adding more costs to housing.”

Development charges are one of the fees levied on new homes by municipal governments, other fees such as Community Benefit Charges and Parkland Cash-in-lieu fees are also levied. Fees, taxes and charges from all levels of government account for approximately 25 per cent of the cost of a new home in the GTA, BILD says.

BURLINGTON ENDORSES CITY-WIDE DEVELOPMENT CHARGE REDUCTIONS

The City of Burlington’s Committee of the Whole has unanimously endorsed a city-wide development charge reduction. In an unprecedented move across Ontario, Burlington brought forward an approximately $1,500 reduction to the City’s per unit development charge rate (taxes levied on the construction of new housing). This move demonstrates a clear recognition that to address the housing crisis, all levels of government need to reduce taxation and other costs to build new homes.

“The cost of development charges has a significant impact on housing affordability as these taxes are passed onto people buying or renting homes,” says West End HBA (WEHBA) CEO Mike Collins-Williams. “Typically, municipalities increase their development charge rates every five years, however Burlington is showing leadership in a housing crisis and has decided to do the exact opposite.

“City staff sharpened their pencils looking carefully at their budgets and given the housing crisis

deferred collecting development charges on some projects that are unlikely to be built within the next 10 years. Burlington is one of the only municipalities in Ontario that has made this bold and pragmatic decision to lower development charges in an effort to spur new home cconstruction.”

Burlington has adopted a housing pledge of building 29,000 units over the next 10 years. The proposed development charge reduction signifies Burlington is taking the housing crisis seriously and working in partnership with industry to ensure Burlington is a place where everyone is welcome, WEHBA says.

TRREB APPLAUDS TORONTO’S MOVE TO FACILIATE MORE LOWRISE HOUSING

The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB) continues to champion the Expanding Housing Options in Neighbourhoods (EHON) initiative aimed at building more lowrise housing in residential neighbourhoods to meet the needs of our growing city.

“The recent decision by Toronto City Council to allow townhomes and small six-storey residential units with a maximum of 60 units to be built along major roads as-of-right is a

big win for housing affordability, says Jennifer Pearce, TRREB president. “Council’s decision builds on a less ambitious original plan to only allow townhomes and small residential units to a maximum of 30 units on the ‘edges of neighbourhoods’ and along some major roads. The expansion of the original plan to build more homes is a momentous decision that will benefit generations of Torontonians.”

This change will also make Toronto a more equitable and inclusive city by

reversing decades of zoning policy that was historically used to prevent the building of more units in existing neighbourhoods, TRREB says.

“For too long, Toronto’s planning policies forced working families and individuals to live on the edges of the city and endure long commutes,” says Pearce. “Council’s decision will help generate more affordable units in every neighbourhood so that people can live closer to where they work and play.”

NEW COMMUNITY

Riverbank Estates – Losani Homes’ latest crown jewel in Paris Riverbank Estates is the latest master-planned community proudly presented by Losani Homes. Nestled in the heart of southern Ontario, Riverbank will be the brightest jewel in Paris’ crown, exuding charm and allure at every corner.

INSIGHT

Health, safety and convenience for luxury homeowners

Luxury homes in the GTA are renowned for their fusion of elegance and functionality, setting the standard for opulent living. From sprawling estates in Oakville to sleek penthouses in downtown Toronto, the area offers a diverse array of architectural styles and design features for those with discerning tastes.

LEGAL ADVICE

The importance of preparing a Will Many people think that they don’t need a Will because they own their assets jointly, or because they don’t have much. But a Will is not just about financial transactions, it is also about how you leave your affairs for your loved ones to manage without family conflict.

Q&A In Conversation With... Andrea Kelly, Vice-President, Land Development, Geranium

New home construction is no easy business – especially these days. That’s why GTA new-home builder Geranium, with a vision to create communities that are well planned and executed, also focuses on land acquisition, planning, engineering, servicing, design and construction. We spoke with Andrea Kelly to learn more about Geranium’s vision, and how, ultimately, it delivers.

Kylemore breaks ground at Angus Glen South Village in Unionville

To celebrate the start of construction of hundreds of new homes at Angus Glen South Village in Unionville, Kylemore recently held an official ground-breaking celebration.

COVER STORY

NATIONAL AWARDS FOR HOUSING EXCELLENCE FINALIST

Set aside any preconceptions you may have about small towns. At The Village Farm in Embro (population 1,000), Langlois Eco Homes is doing what other builders only dream of. Six new townhomes have been engineered, built and certified to the Passive

House standard – the world’s highest standard for energy efficiency, comfort and health. This level of quality is usually offered only by specialized custom builders.

Designed for families who value sophistication as well as next-level

building quality, these freehold townhomes convey a message of innovation and distinction. An iconic house shape is complemented by a geometric pattern of windows and exterior elements for a thoroughly modern look, while the standing-

“

These warm, elegant and spacious townhomes offer what every good home should: Places to gather and places to retreat.

”

seam steel roof is a timeless signifier of quality.

The interior – containing three bedrooms and three full baths over 2,200 sq. ft. – showcases a natural palette of bleached-oak floors, solidoak staircase, quartz countertops and custom cabinetry. Large windows, in soaring spaces, suffuse every room with gentle light. Indoor-outdoor

living comes naturally with a spacious main-floor deck and lower-level walkout to the back yard. An extra 1,600 sq. ft. on the lower level is waiting to be customized to your family’s needs.

These warm, elegant and spacious townhomes offer what every good home should: Places to gather and places to retreat.

ACTIVE LIVING AT THE CENTRE OF EVERYTHING

Playgrounds, soccer fields, splash pad, arena (home to an acclaimed figure-skating club and established hockey leagues), pickleball courts, golf course, baseball diamond and conservation areas are just steps from The Village Farm. Community theatre and a branch of the Oxford County Library offer opportunities to get involved in the best of small-town

life. Local shops serve many of your needs, while Stratford, Woodstock and Ingersoll are each just 20 short minutes away. A 40-minute drive takes you to Waterloo Region, and the nearest on-ramp to Hwy. 401 is only 11 minutes away.

Future plans for The Village Farm will bring urban and rural together. Naturalized shared-use trails, community gardens and the option to micro-farm on our certified organic

farmland are just a few of the features that will lay the groundwork for a holistic, regenerative place to live and grow.

Only two of these award-nominated townhomes remain. Book your private appointment today, by contacting Nick Pope, sales representative, REVEL Realty Inc., Brokerage, at nickpope@revelrealty.ca, 519.807.1757 or 519.206.9555.

A DYNAMIC SHIFT LOOMING

IN GTA’S RENTAL MARKET SUPPLY AND DEMAND

JENNIFER PEARCE

The GTA rental market is changing.

The Toronto Regional Real Estate Board’s (TRREB) latest Rental Market Report uncovers the number of rental transactions and new listings, and reveals the outlook for both renters and landlords alike.

In the first quarter of 2024, rental transactions reported through TRREB’s MLS System increased by over 19 per cent compared to the same period last year, totaling 12,541. This surge reflects the growing demand for rental housing in the GTA, driven by an expanding population and evolving housing needs.

Over the same time period, rental listings rose 51 per cent year-overyear. This substantial growth in inventory is providing renters with more options, leading to a more balanced market and stabilizing rental prices. The average rent for a one-bedroom condo dipped slightly to $2,441, while the average two-bedroom rent remained steady at $3,139.

While the condo rental market has been better supplied recently, the record pace of population growth expected for the foreseeable future in the GTA will require a sustained pipeline of new rental supply. This new supply will need to be a combination of new purpose-built rental stock and individual investorowned units.

Looking forward, TRREB is expecting to see an increasing number of renters making the move into homeownership over the next year as borrowing costs start to trend lower. Recent polling from Ipsos for TRREB supports this view.

For both landlords and renters, understanding these trends is vital for making informed decisions about pricing and managing rental properties. The rental market has certainly been in flux over the past year, and this will continue moving forward with changes in borrowing costs and strong population growth.

For more detailed insights, read TRREB’s full Rental Market Report.

You can also check out our monthly Market Watch. We break down prices, sales and new listings each month with an easy-to-glance report. Visit trreb.ca for the latest look into the housing market and to connect with a TRREB member realtor.

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

BARBARA LAWLOR

GENERATION GAP

IN CANADIAN HOUSING MARKET

Let’s face it – people shop differently depending on their ages. This goes for new home and resale real estate as well. Last year, The Mustel Group marketing firm and Sotheby’s International Realty Canada conducted a study called 2023 Canadian Real Estate Market Sentiment: Generational Trends Report. This report measured the confidence levels of 2,000 Canadians between the ages of 18 and 77. Realize, this covers Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials and Generation Z in the Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal Census Metropolitan Areas. As different as their home purchasing attitudes may be, they showed confidence in the real estate market overall.

BABY BOOMERS

This term is used to represent people from the ages of 59 to 77 years of age (59 to 68 are young boomers; 69 to 77 older boomers). Their major goals in purchasing homes and condos were to right-size from larger dwellings to something more compact, and to be closer to family and friends after retirement. All boomers were more likely to purchase in small towns, while younger boomers often preferred rural locations. Younger boomers planned to own their homes for about 20 years, and older boomers bought the newest homes on average. All boomers planned to move a median of about 50 miles.

GENERATION X

This category includes those of ages 44 to 58. The highest-earning purchasers, they bought the secondlargest homes on average. Over half of Generation X members are married, so have two incomes. Many purchased because of a job relocation. Gen X is the most racially and ethnically diverse of home buyers.

MILLENNIALS

Aged 25 to 33 (younger) and 34 to 43 (older), millennials represent the largest share of homebuyers. Seventy-five per cent of younger millennials were first-time purchasers. Older millennials had the highest share of married couples at 66 per cent. Young millennials are the most educated, with 80 per cent holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average age of a firsttime home buyer in Canada is 36 years – understandable, as saving for today’s down payments can take years. Millennials of all ages placed convenience to their jobs and commuting costs the most important considerations in a new home or condo.

GENERATION Z

In 2023, Generation Z (ages 18 to 24) made up only three per cent of buyers and two per cent of sellers. These people have the lowest household incomes, so entering the market is challenging. These buyers tend to purchase older homes for attainable price points. A more recent study published in May of this year by credit reporting agency TransUnion shows that young members of Generation Z are struggling more nowadays than millennials did at their age 10 years ago. Financial pressures

brought on by inflation has caused their credit usage to be higher, especially with credit cards. They may also be the group most likely to turn to the “bank of mom and pop” for financial help.

Regardless of ages, trends and economic cycles, one thing remains consistent among generations: Homeownership is a dream worth pursuing in Canada.

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

NEW BUYER EXPECTATIONS IN PRE-CONSTRUCTION MARKET

DEBBIE COSIC

The GTA pre-construction real estate market is a dynamic sector, continually shaped by evolving buyer preferences. As demographics shift, technology advances and lifestyle trends change, we must stay agile and responsive to meet the demands of modern buyers.

UNDERSTANDING THE NEW DEMOGRAPHICS

The demographic landscape of the GTA is changing, with a significant influx of young professionals, immigrants and retirees. These groups bring diverse preferences and expectations to the pre-construction market. Young professionals often seek affordable, centrally located units with access to public transportation and amenities. Immigrants may prioritize community-oriented developments with multicultural amenities, while retirees typically look for quieter, more suburban settings with healthcare facilities nearby.

TECHNOLOGY AND SMART HOMES

Incorporating advanced technology into pre-construction projects is no longer a luxury but a necessity. Buyers today expect smart home features that offer convenience, security and energy efficiency. This includes automated lighting, smart thermostats and integrated security systems. Developers are also exploring sustainable building practices, including energy-efficient appliances and materials to cater to the environmentally conscious buyer.

EMPHASIS ON COMMUNITY AND LIFESTYLE

Modern buyers are increasingly interested in the overall lifestyle a property can offer. This has led to a rise in mixed-use developments that combine residential units with retail spaces, restaurants and recreational facilities such as Parkside Village by Amacon in Mississauga, and Universal City in Pickering by Chestnut Hill Developments. The concept of creating a community within a development is appealing to many buyers who value convenience and a sense of belonging. Amenities such as fitness centres, co-working spaces and communal gardens are becoming standard in new projects.

FLEXIBILITY AND CUSTOMIZATION

Today’s buyers appreciate flexibility and the ability to customize their living spaces. Developers are responding by offering a variety of floorplans and the option to modify unit layouts to better suit individual needs. This trend is particularly evident in the demand for multifunctional spaces that can serve as home offices, gyms or guest rooms, reflecting the growing trend of remote work and the desire for versatile living environments. Kylemore just introduced its WellGen collection at Angus Glen in Markham featuring plans with a private attached coach house perfect for aging parents or to generate rental income to help offset mortgages costs.

AFFORDABILITY AND FINANCIAL INCENTIVES

Affordability remains a critical factor in the GTA pre-construction market. With rising property prices, developers are finding creative ways to make

units more affordable. This includes offering smaller units, developing in less expensive areas and providing attractive financing options. Some developers are also offering incentives such as rent-to-own programs or covering closing costs to make their projects more appealing.

STAYING AHEAD OF TRENDS

To stay competitive, it is imperative that we keep a pulse on emerging trends and buyer preferences. This involves conducting market research surveys and engaging with potential buyers through social media and being willing to adapt quickly. Building a strong brand reputation for quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction is essential in attracting and retaining buyers in the competitive GTA market. Adapting to changing buyer preferences in the GTA preconstruction sector requires a multifaceted approach that blends demographic insights, technological integration, community-focused amenities, flexibility and affordability. Developers who embrace these changes and anticipate future trends will be well-positioned to meet the demands of the modern buyer, ensuring the sustained growth and success of their projects in every market.

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

Meet The Hersh Realty Group,

“If you don’t do anything erent, nothing di erent is going to happen.”

Meet The Hersh Realty Group,

“If you don’t do anything di erent, nothing di erent is going to happen.”

As the 2023 BiLD Best High-Rise Sales Team, Hersh Realty Group is the premier choice for developers looking to achieve significant sales milestones. Partnering with Hersh Realty means working with experts dedicated to delivering exceptional results and providing builders with new revenue opportunities and a comprehensive range of resources.

As the 2023 BiLD Best High-Rise Sales Team, Hersh Realty Group is the premier choice for developers looking to achieve significant sales milestones. Partnering with Hersh Realty means working with experts dedicated to delivering exceptional results and providing builders with new revenue opportunities and a comprehensive range of resources.

From collaborating with architects to create suites that are both stunning and functional to offering full in-house mortgage services for easy pre-approvals, Hersh Realty covers every aspect. They provide video pre and post production studios, making marketing efficient and cost-effective for developers further enhancing the convenience of working with the Hersh Team.

From collaborating with architects to create suites that are both stunning and functional to offering full in-house mortgage services for easy pre-approvals, Hersh Realty covers every aspect. They provide video pre and post production studios, making marketing efficient and cost-effective for developers further enhancing the convenience of working with the Hersh Team.

Hersh Realty takes the lead in experiential marketing. With two fully equipped in-house broadcast studios and the GTA’s largest immersive presentation theatre, agents and buyers are treated to a one-of-a-kind, captivating experience when they enter this brokerage. Their professional in-house marketing team produces high-quality content and marketing materials quickly and efficiently. This capability sets Hersh Realty apart, providing developers and buyers with an unmatched one-stop-shop experience.

Hersh Realty takes the lead in experiential marketing. With two fully equipped in-house broadcast studios and the GTA’s largest immersive presentation theatre, agents and buyers are treated to a one-of-a-kind, captivating experience when they enter this brokerage. Their professional in-house marketing team produces high-quality content and marketing materials quickly and efficiently. This capability sets Hersh Realty apart, providing developers and buyers with an unmatched one-stop-shop experience.

Hersh Realty Group continues to revolutionize the real estate industry. Their innovative marketing strategies, comprehensive services, and advanced technology consistently raise the industry standard on how pre-construction is

Hersh Realty Group continues to revolutionize the real estate industry. Their innovative marketing strategies, comprehensive services, and advanced technology consistently raise the industry standard on how pre-construction is sold in today’s challenging market.

HERSH REALTY GROUP JASON GARLAND SUSAN KURTA, HERSH LITVACK, KELLY LITVACK, JODY LITVACK,

HERSH REALTY GROUP

JASON GARLAND SUSAN KURTA, HERSH LITVACK, KELLY LITVACK, JODY LITVACK,

RON MCMILLAN PRESIDENT

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES

by WAYNE KARL

After 45 years in business, Reid’s Heritage Homes recently undertook a brand revitalization to reflect its tradition of innovation, quality and commitment to customer satisfaction.

The move also involves repositioning its construction arm – Reid’s Heritage Construction – to expand

its focus on building midrise residential projects on behalf of other developers, as well as midrise communities internally.

We spoke with Reid’s President Ron McMillan for his insight on this decision, and what else the company has on the horizon.

Let’s start with an easy one: What’s your assessment of the housing market these days? There seems to be more signs of things heating up, with many hoping for the Bank of Canada to drop interest rates, which would help spur activity…

There has been an uneasiness over the past six to eight weeks as homebuyers and investors await some positive news from the Bank of Canada and our politicians. With the announcement on June 5 of BoC’s rate cut, we’re optimistic that buyers will be confident that the market has nowhere to go but up, but we don’t anticipate a buying frenzy just yet.

A lot of your development is in the Greater Golden Horseshoe… how are markets in this area doing these days, compared to those in the GTA or more closely associated with Toronto?

In general, we are seeing the same slowdown as the GTA. As with all real estate, a good location at the right price is still selling but at a much slower pace.

What opportunities exist in the GGH that might not in the GTA, such as more space, bigger lots, mature buyers, more bungalows…?

We are still able to purchase infill acreage, that allows us to build affordable (less than $600,000) medium density townhomes with above-ground parking. With increased development charges and longer approval times, this is getting harder to do in the GGH now, too.

How does the typical buyer profile differ?

Our medium density product is still very popular to the GTA investor in the larger centres such as Guelph, Kitchener and Cambridge. In the smaller centres such as Stratford and Atwood, the buyer tends to be retirees or families with adults working from home.

Reid’s Heritage Homes recently announced a brand refresh after 45 years in business. What’s the genesis, reasoning and opportunity with this, besides the anniversary?

Reid’s Heritage Homes has been a leading homebuilder in the Greater Golden Horseshoe Region for more than 45 years. With the merger of RHC (our construction management division) and Sherwood Homes (northern homebuilder), the time was right to introduce a fresh logo and branding that reflected our continued commitment to innovation and quality.

What does it all entail?

Merging three companies and three leadership teams in less than 12 months was quite an accomplishment. On Jan. 2 of this year, we were able to bring everyone together into our new state-of-the-art 27,000-sq.-ft. head office located in Cambridge, Ont. The synergies between our teams since January has been great and the official rebrand announcement afterwards was the icing on the cake.

Reid’s Heritage Construction will effectively operate as a builder or service provider for other developers… Why did you choose to go down this road?

Reid’s Heritage Construction (RHC) has been operating as a successful construction management division and firm for more than 20 years, and has completed numerous projects for other developers and REITS over the years. The only change now is that RHC will operate as a construction management company under the Reid’s Heritage Homes brand. This effectively gives our construction management team more resources and expertise to draw upon.

on a personal note

Building, supplies, costs, trades availability… these are some of the issues in new home construction these days. How does your new construction unit, or Reid’s itself for that matter, navigate these challenges?

Reid’s Heritage Homes has always believed in building lasting relationships with trades and suppliers and this loyalty has definitely helped us navigate and control some of the uncertainty related to costs and trade availability over the past few years. We are still using some of the trades that our founder, Orin Reid, helped get into business more than 40 years ago.

If you could advise the province, or even Ottawa, on housing policy, what would suggest they do, both now and over the longer term?

Remove development charges (this is an unfair tax for new-home buyers); increase funding to municipalities for infrastructure improvements and upgrades; provide financial incentives (paid work terms) for high school and college students to get into the trades.

What’s next for Reid’s Heritage Homes… what will the company look like at your 50th anniversary?

Our goal is to continue to add more new homes to the Greater Golden Horseshoe market and be a big part of the solution to the current housing shortage in our region. We are very fortunate to have a team of individuals who not only care about what we build but are also extremely passionate about continually moving the needle on building efficiencies and sustainability.

How do you spend your time away from the office?

I spend most of my time with my family – a wonderful wife, a five-year-old daughter and 10-year-old son. The winter is spent in hockey arenas with my son, and dance with my daughter, while the summers are spent in the backyard.

What or who inspires you most?

Most of my inspiration comes from watching the Reid’s Heritage Homes team in action – they really are a fun and engaging group to be around. Watching them grow and excel is the best part of my job.

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?

Convincing my wife to marry me and having two wonderful children will always be my greatest accomplishments. A close second would be helping to build and assemble the award-winning team here at Reid’s Heritage Homes over the past five years.

What’s on your reading list these days?

Good to Great, by Jim Collins Bluefishing, by Steve Sims

Let my People Go Surfing, by Yvon Chouinard The Power of Conflict, by Jon Taffer

BURLINGTON SHOWS LEADERSHIP

ON DEVELOPMENT CHARGES

On May 21, Burlington City Council took a positive, unprecedented step when it voted to approve reductions to the City’s Development Charge rate. Development Charges (DCs) are a fee charged on new housing by cities and it is used to pay for new infrastructure to support population growth, including transport systems, sewer systems, recreation centres, community spaces and more. However, in practice, this tax on new housing adds tens of thousands of dollars on to the cost of new homes at a time when housing affordability is at its worst. By adding more fees onto the already high home construction costs, builders are forced to raise their prices or are unable to complete their projects – something that negatively impacts home inventory and aggravates the housing crisis.

The City of Burlington, after taking into consideration the housing crisis and feedback from the homebuilding industry, re-examined projects that were included in the DC bylaw, removing those that are unlikely to be built in the next 10 years. By reducing the DC rate, Burlington has signaled its commitment to meeting its Housing Pledge target of facilitating 29,000 housing units by 2031. Burlington has shown leadership and proactiveness. The City’s willingness to partner with the development

industry to create more housing opportunities makes Burlington welcoming and forward-thinking.

Neighbouring cities such as Hamilton, while not reducing rates, have acknowledged the impact of DCs on housing supply and affordability by maintaining programs that provide exemptions for DCs in certain areas of the city, namely downtown districts. The federal government recently made announcements regarding potential additional funding for large cities that freeze DCs to create more housing opportunities. These decisions demonstrate the recognition at all levels of government that new housing supply will significantly help alleviate our housing crisis. Bold steps such as reducing taxes on new homes must be taken to incentivize new construction and increase affordability.

Recent reports from Urbanation identify that the market for new condo construction is the worst it

has been since the Great Recession in 2009. This decision indicates a willingness on behalf of the City of Burlington to go above and beyond, while doing its part to relieve the housing crisis. Additionally, the decision to lower DCs will position Burlington to receive federal and provincial funding that is tied to the number of new homes built.

The housing crisis is at a critical point. All levels of government, as well as the private and non-profit sectors need to break the status quo and collaborate on solutions. We must take bold actions to ensure that more homes can be built, and everyone is able to afford a home.

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

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MIKE COLLINS-WILLIAMS

HOW SELF-EMPLOYED CANADIANS

CAN QUALIFY FOR A MORTGAGE

JESSE ABRAMS

If you’re Canadian and you own and operate a business, you might be wondering if it’s possible for you to

get a mortgage. While many selfemployed people believe this is out of reach, the answer is yes. However, there are some additional details that you need to know to make this process as seamless as possible.

Most traditional banks are harder on self-employed individuals because they do not understand the

unique needs of these borrowers. Our team at Homewise specifically collaborates with more than 30 banks and lenders so we are able to serve all Canadians, regardless of their circumstances, including those who are entrepreneurs, run their own businesses, or are just self-employed in the industry they work within.

Despite common misconceptions, there are a set of things selfemployed Canadians can do to make qualifying for a mortgage a seamless, stress-free process.

1. GET YOUR DOCUMENTS IN ORDER

If you’re self-employed, being organized and prepared is crucial to proving your eligibility for a mortgage. All mortgage applicants need to provide basic documentation, such as proof of ID, a T1 General, T4, Notice of Assessment, pay stubs and their credit report. However, if you’re self-employed, some additional documents are necessary to demonstrate the legitimacy of your business and that your income

is stable. Having these documents ready can streamline the mortgage approval process and improve your overall chances of getting approved. Having these documents in order will help streamline the process and demonstrate to lenders that you are a reliable borrower.

• Proof of self-employment: Provide your business registration and/or articles of incorporation to establish the legal status of your business.

• Additional tax documents: If applicable, provide T4A slips that show income earned and any deductions for the year.

• Business and financial statements: Prepare profit and loss statements, income statements, and balance sheets for the past two years.

• Bank statements: Submit recent personal and business bank statements to showcase cash flow and account balances.

• Client contracts and invoices: Include contracts with clients and recent invoices to demonstrate ongoing or future income.

2. VERIFY YOUR INCOME FOR A MINIMUM OF TWO YEARS

One of the biggest challenges for self-employed individuals is proving to lenders that they have a stable source of income. Typically, lenders require at least two to three years of tax and income documents outlined above and will often assess your eligibility based on the lowest income year if they notice that your income fluctuates from one year to the next. If your earnings vary from year to year, this can significantly limit borrowing potential. At Homewise, our dedicated mortgage advisors work with lenders who offer “stated income” programs, helping borrowers apply for a mortgage without traditional income verification methods to maximize their home affordability.

3. KEEP A STRONG CREDIT SCORE

When you’re self-employed, lenders often have higher expectations

since self-employed income is often perceived as less predictable. To meet and exceed these expectations, it’s crucial for self-employed borrowers to maintain a strong credit score by keeping debt low and making any and all payments on time. It is also advisable to regularly monitor your credit report for errors and address any discrepancies promptly to improve your creditworthiness. Keeping a strong credit score can help mitigate some of the uncertainties associated with fluctuating income and enhance your eligibility in the eyes of lenders.

4. SHOP AROUND

Many self-employed Canadians get discouraged if they get turned down by their bank and don’t meet their lending criteria, which often leads them to believing they will never qualify for a mortgage. Shopping around with brokers, or a company such as ours at Homewise that works with multiple lenders, is a great way to not only determine which lenders will approve you, but also what your best options are for rates and features.

If you’re self-employed, there is no reason to be discouraged from applying for a mortgage and buying your dream home. With the right preparation, documentation and team of dedicated mortgage advisors such as ours at Homewise, you can be well-positioned to navigate the mortgage approval process and get the best mortgage that fits your circumstances.

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

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THE LEGAL AND PRACTICAL OPTIONS

FOR RENOVATING YOUR HOME

JAYSON SCHWARZ, LLM & KELLY WONG, BA

You’ve emerged from a treacherous battle – buying a home in Toronto’s real estate market – not quite unscathed, but definitely victorious. Congratulations.

Perhaps you’ve bought the perfect starter house and you’re ready to convert it into your dream home. Or you landed on a property after years of saving and building a business plan and want a quick “fix and flip” for your burgeoning real estate empire. Maybe, it’s finally time for a refresh after living in the same space for 10 years.

Whether this is your first or 15th home, there are certain things to

keep in mind before reflecting on which shade of emerald tiles will line the shower, the fine marble that will sit atop the kitchen counter tops, or the particular Hygge & West wallpaper that will take the spotlight in the study. Before starting any renovation project, you should know the professionals you will need to contact to do the work for you and the different structures they operate under.

The key players in your project will include:

a) Design professional: This is a licensed architect or engineer who will create detailed design specifications for your renovation.

b) Consultant: They determine the amount of work that will be performed by the general contractor. The design professional can be and often is also the consultant on a project.

c) General contractor: The general contractor is responsible for overseeing the construction and ensuring the project is done in accordance with the design. They decide the means and methods of construction and manage

your subcontractors, including the people supplying your materials and the specialists who need to be hired to do your plumbing and windows.

The type of project delivery model you choose will decide the kind of contract these key players enter with you and each other, and ultimately how much risk each of you will take on. A general overview of common options for residential renovations includes:

1. Retaining a separate design professional and consultant:. In this structure, you, the owner, retain a design professional to produce detailed designs according to your specifications. Once happy with the design plans, you will find a general contractor to execute them in accordance with the design. This allows you to retain complete control over the designs. The general contractor accepts the risks and responsibilities associated with the construction of the project, but not faults in the inherent designs (those are the responsibility of the design professional). You will retain a significant amount of responsibility for the success and failure of the project. And because the design professional and consultant do not have contracts with each other, all claims between the general contractor and designer against each other in the case something goes wrong in the construction process, such as a delay or deficiency, will go through you. Ensure your design professional and consultant indemnify you against claims by the general contractor arising from their negligence.

2. Hiring a designer-builder: In this option, you remove the middleman and retain an entity that does the design and construction (a combination of the designer and general contractor). This model lessens the amount of control you retain over the design, and still requires a consultant (if they are not the same person as your designer) to determine your project requirements. However, because the designer and contractor are one and the same, there is cost efficiency from fewer disputes and changes, as well as the ability to fast-track the project by starting construction before the design is finished. This model limits your risk as an owner to a single point of contact, the designer-builder, as well as shifts most of the risk onto them. However, it may be difficult to accurately project the total cost of the project before completion.

Both models offer a range of advantages and disadvantages. Based on your goals, it is important to fully weigh the costs and benefits of each before embarking on your renovation journey.

It is essential that you retain a lawyer who understands this process and can help guide you through and ensure you are protected in the best way possible.

Jayson Schwarz, LLM, is senior managing partner of Schwarz Law Partners LLP, and Kelly Wong is a second-year summer student attending Osgoode Hall Law School. Email info@schwarzlaw.ca or visit schwarzlaw.ca.

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 award-winning 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 the company’s 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 us today.

UNIONVLLE: UNIONVILLE’S UPPER EAST SIDE

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

Now open – move-in homes event of 36- and 40-ft. singles with one- to six-month closings

Don’t miss your chance to own in Shelburne’s beloved Emerald

Crossing community with a new Move-In Homes Event coming soon. Enjoy new 36- and 40ft. singles in a beautiful country landscape surrounded by every modern convenience imaginable in Shelburne – Canada’s secondfastest growing municipality. Live minutes from big brand outlets, remarkable restaurants, breathtaking greenspaces, ski hills, golf courses and so much more. There’s no better time to get in on Shelburne’s best new home opportunity. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

PICKERING: SEATON

Now open – freehold townhomes, semis, 30- and 36-ft. singles

After much anticipation, Pickering’s master-planned Seaton community is now open. Live at the intersection of classic and contemporary with a remarkable collection of freehold townhomes, semis, 30- and 36ft. singles in an expertly designed

community amidst a serene natural landscape. Seaton has something for families and individuals alike, with Pickering Town Centre, beautiful Lake Ontario, shopping, dining, greenspaces and Toronto’s eastern border just minutes away. Own now by registering at fieldgatehomes.com.

STOUFFVILLE: CITYSIDE

Now open – new release of move-in ready 36- and 40-ft. singles – one- to six-month closings

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

WEST WHITBY: WHITBY MEADOWS

Now open – Move-In Ready Homes Event of freehold townhomes, semis, 30-, 36- and 42-ft. singles – one- to six-month month closings

The Move-In Ready Homes Event at Whitby Meadows is on now and offers closing dates from one to six months, making this your best opportunity to tour a selection of brand new townhomes, semis and singles offering West Whitby’s best lifestyle –near shopping, dining, Iroquois Park Sports Centre, Whitby GO Station, Heber Down conservation area, excellent schools and more. Visit fieldgatehomes.com to own.

PICKERING: SEATONVILLE

Now open – freehold townhomes 30-, 35-, 36- and 43-ft. singles

Pickering’s landmark new masterplanned community is now open, offering 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.

MILTON: VALLEYLANDS OF SIXTEEN MILE CREEK

Now open – executive 30-, 36- and 43-ft. detached singles

Milton’s anticipated riverside community is now open. Take advantage of your rare opportunity to own 30-, 36- and 43-ft. detached riverside residences at Valleylands of Sixteen Mile Creek, with lots backing onto the creek itself. Moments to southern Ontario’s acclaimed golf courses and protected greenspaces, retail and restaurants, schools, services and access to the most convenient transit options, this is your chance to embrace a lifestyle unlike any other in Milton. Visit fieldgatehomes.com or contact us today to purchase at Valleylands of Sixteen Mile Creek.

AJAX: ATOWNS

Now open – Move-In Homes Event of urban townhomes

Take advantage of your chance to own a pristine urban townhome with the Move-In Homes Event –on now at aTowns in Ajax. Enjoy an elevated family lifestyle with superb townhomes backing onto open greenspace within a masterplanned community complete with winding walking trails, beautiful parkettes, a sports court and more at Bayly Street and Salem Road. Better still, live surrounded by modern amenities and make the most of Lake Ontario moments away. Explore tasteful dining and great shopping in downtown Ajax, convenient GO Transit, easy access to Hwy. 401, and much more so close to home at aTowns. Register now at Fieldgatehomes.com.

NORTH OSHAWA: DREAMSCAPE

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

Find affordable living in north Oshawa’s Dreamscape community coming soon. This community

showcases a superb mix of expertly designed and crafted 30-, 36and 42-ft. detached residences moments from the best modern amenities Durham has to offer. Big box stores, bespoke boutiques, delicious dining, great schools, trails and conservation areas await those who make their home at Dreamscape. Learn more at fieldgatehomes.com or contact us today.

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.

KLEINBURG: NEW KLEINBURG

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

INSPIRATION | decor

A WHITE KITCHEN OR NOT A WHITE KITCHEN...

by LINDA MAZUR

Colourful kitchens are definitely a trend we are seeing everywhere. Rich deep blues, earthy greens and bold reds are prominent in kitchen design, as are warm toned woods and even fun-filled pastels.

So, does this mean that white kitchens have waned in popularity?

On the contrary. The white kitchen is like a string of pearl… it’s a classic and goes with everything. Whichever way the current trends lead us, white kitchens are still a much soughtafter mainstay that will never go out of style. The bright, fresh look and feel of white kitchen cabinetry never really loses its appeal, and for many is the goal for their kitchen renovation.

However, just as appealing as a white kitchen can be, it can equally be stark, cold and lacking personality. Kitchens are undoubtedly the heart of a home; however, they have morphed from simple utilitarian spaces to rooms that are multifunctional not only reflecting personal style but the way we live. They have become cosier, warmer and far more central to day-to-day life as well as entertaining. White cabinets are timeless, there’s just no arguing that. They are an easy commitment that will offer you a lot of flexibility when it comes to the final aesthetics of your kitchen. However, moving beyond an all-white kitchen

can open you up to a world of finishes, colours and inspirations that can see a bit of the current kitchen trends introduced into your space.

White kitchens are always desired, because of their classic, timeless, simplistic approach. They are easy to elevate as they provide us with a blank canvass. Whether you are drawn to the warmer more earthy whites, or cooler, more modern whites, there is undoubtedly an abundant variety to select from for your cabinetry which can set the tone for your space.

Add dimension to your kitchen with a patterned backsplash tile or use a bold marble, quartz or porcelain for your countertop, then continue it on your backsplash to really make a statement in your home. A great impactful floor, whether tile or wood, can be a wonderful asset in the space, as can the introduction of mixed metals and hardware.

Adding strategic touches of colour or wood accents to your cabinetry can also enhance and elevate the aesthetics of your kitchen. And let’s not forget accessorizing your space with great colourful artwork, furniture or greenery to add some life to those white cabinets.

The great thing about adding colour by accessorizing your kitchen is the ease with which it can be altered if you have tired of the latest trend colour… the blank canvass of a

white kitchen will remain for the next creative inspiration you may have. Kitchen renovations are an expensive endeavour, while revamping some accessories can prove to be far more palatable.

Today, the movement is more towards a streamlined look that highlights simplicity, functionality and style. Though the whiteon-white kitchen has waned in popularity, white cabinetry has not and will always be a favourable option in kitchen design. Instead of dreaming of an “all white kitchen” think about shaking it up a bit with the addition of colour, statement lighting or maybe a great wallpaper or fabric for a window treatment.

When looking for inspiration for your kitchen renovation, look to see how you can introduce a mix of colours, textures and finishes that will create a kitchen space that keeps you moving forward trendwise, while still giving you the white kitchen you desire.

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

7TIPS

TO HELP YOU your STEP OUTSIDE DECOR BOX

by LISA ROGERS

Most homeowners are a little nervous to stretch their design muscles, so they tend to play it safe and predictable when decorating their homes. That ends up looking cookie-cutter boring, and it’s also not how most of us live.

To avoid that bland department store look, I’ve always felt it’s important to inject your home with your personality, and that means layering in the things which you have collected and which hold meaning for you. It requires keeping a spirit of adventure and an open mind about what goes with what, banishing the notion that things need to match and aiming for consistency instead.

What you should know before layering in an eclectic mix of styles and eras:

1| Every room needs a focal point. I like my rooms to have an 85-15 mix – 85 per cent of your preferred style whether that’s modern, transitional, art deco or traditional and 15 per cent of a different style or era. The contrast adds interest but also a focal point for each room. My own decor is contemporary, but I have a large French armoire in the kitchen, an Art Deco coffee table in the living room, and a pair of 1940s armchairs in the den. The pieces work because there’s similar scale and proportion. Small rooms can take one focal point, larger rooms possibly two, but the more focal points a room has, the less impact each piece will have.

2| Because this style requires blending strong pieces, keep the canvas – walls, floors, windows – simple. And when you’re working with such strong statement pieces, you need to create breathing space with simple, classic furnishings.

3| Make connections between pieces using scale (the size of a piece) and proportion (how chunky or delicate). So, a massive 19th century dining table will work better with equally substantial chairs something like midcentury modern rather than tiny gilt chairs from the same era. Before bringing a piece into the room, consider how it relates to the space, whether it will be overwhelming or overwhelmed.

4| Colour, pattern and texture are good ways to make connections between disparate pieces. But rather than a single colour scheme – all red or all blue for example – choose complementary schemes, such as red and orange or blue and purple, or contrast schemes such as bright tangy colours with softer pastels. Exercise some restraint though – no more than three or four colours in one space.

5|Texture provides depth to any room, but it’s especially effective in an eclectic space. I often try layers – an oriental carpet layered over seagrass, chenille jacquard upholstery against whispery thin silk drapes, a Quebec pine cupboard with a Lucite coffee table.

6|Another way to connect items is to repeat patterns and shapes throughout a room – such as a circular motif that shows up on the curtains, night tables and carpet. For high contrast, I sometimes pair bold stripes with modern stylized florals and large I-kat patterns but balance with breathing space and a few understated classics. Once the anchor pieces are in place, I think about what aspect about them can be repeated.

7|Contrast is a good thing, as long as you create commonality between the pieces in some manner. I start with the larger anchor pieces, then experiment with the rest. It helps to take a picture of the space as it evolves and remove or add as you see fit. If some of your pieces are shiny, incorporate some in matte finish – metal contrasts with wood, silk with denim.

Finally, if you’re nervous about this blending process, and reluctant to invest in pieces that may not go together, I suggest doing a story board. For inspiration, check out eclectic rooms on Pinterest and see what blends and what doesn’t. Or do it the old-fashioned way – cut and paste elements from magazines to create a picture of your room, add fabric samples and paint chips, and line drawings of furniture.

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

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME

The latest properties in the Greater Toronto Area to keep your eye on

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

COURTICE

13. Courtice Glen Bloor & Trulls Rd. mytribute.ca

ETOBICOKE

14. Lake & Town Islington Ave. & Lake Shore Blvd menkes.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. Dreamscape Conlin Rd. & Harmony Rd. fieldgatehomes.com

23. 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

28. Observatory Hill Bayview Ave. & 16th Ave. myobservatoryhill.ca

29. King East Estates King Rd. & Toscanini Rd. pureplaza.com

30. 670 Progress Ave. Progress Ave. & Grangeway Ave. fieldgateurban.com

TORONTO

31. Lambtown Towns 2650 St. Clair West dunparhomes.com

32. 2650 St. Clair Ave W. 2650 St. Clair Ave W dunparhomes.com

THORNHILL

33. Citylux Towns at Thornhill Woods Dufferin St. & Rutherford Rd. fieldgatehomes.com WHITBY

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

BURLINGTON/ WATERDOWN

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

2. Tyandaga Heights Burlington nationalhomes.com

CAMBRIDGE

3. Modal at Main 840 Main St, Cambridge modalatmain.ca

EMBRO

4. The Village Farm 519-807-1757

GEORGETOWN

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

GRIMSBY

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

GUELPH

7. Argyle Village Lowes Rd E & Gordon Street argylevillage.ca

HAMILTONWENTWORTH

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

9. Highland Park &Central Park: Midtown & Soho

Upper Red Hill Valley Pkwy & Rymal Rd. losanihomes.com

KITCHENER/ WATERLOO

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

11. Lackner Ridge Lackner Blvd & Ottawa St N lacknerridgetowns.ca

LONDON

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

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

14. RiverBend Golf Community

2200 Jack Nash Dr. 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

ST. THOMAS

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

STRATFORD

38. Poet & Perth Quinlan Rd & O’Loane Ave, Stratford. poetperth.ca

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

WEST REGION

47. St. George Village Concession 2 & Woodhill Rd. losanihomes.com

48. Brant West 562 Shellard Ln losanihomes.com

49. 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

52. Knightsbridge Graff Ave. & Mornington St. sifton.com

NORTH

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

5. 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

10. Reverie 391 First St, Collingwood reverietowns.com

COURTICE

11. The Vale Prestonvale Rd. & Bloor St. nationalhomes.com

DUNDALK

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

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

HORSESHOE VALLEY

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

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

LINDSAY

16. Grace & Grand flatogroup.com

NEWCASTLE

17. Belmont treasurehill.com

OWEN SOUND

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

PETERBOROUGH

19. Parklands & The Condo Arbour Villas 1224 Chemong Rd. masonhomes.ca

PORT HOPE/ COBOURG

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

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

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

SHELBURNE

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

DEDICATED TO EXCELLENCE

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

SUPPLY, AFFORDABILITY AND SUSTAINABILITY

ALL FACTOR INTO NEW HOMES BEING BUILT IN THE GTA

As we build the 1.5 million homes needed to address the shortage of supply, we must recognize that the homes we build today will help form the backbone of our housing stock for many decades to come. Adding supply presents us with an opportunity to tackle two other critical issues: Sustainability and accessibility while meeting the needs of prospective home buyers. By making purposeful choices, it is possible to address the pressing needs of housing supply, affordability, accessibility and sustainability.

Climate change is the single greatest threat of our time. Housing, like all other aspects of our society and economy, must also adapt and change to meet this threat. Over the past 50 years, advancements in technology, building science and materials have significantly enhanced the energy efficiency of new homes. New homes built today are significantly more energy efficient than those built even 15 or 20 years ago. However, there is more to be done. By addressing the housing supply shortage, we have the ability to not only continually enhance the operational efficiency of homes, but also to mitigate the embodied carbon footprint of the structures themselves. This entails minimizing the carbon dioxide associated with the materials, energy and processes involved in

construction, thereby reducing the overall environmental impact of each new housing unit.

Simultaneously, as we confront climate change and factor it into how we build our homes, we should also build homes that meet the complex needs of all Canadians. According to Statistics Canada (2017), one in five Canadians identify as having one or more disabilities, with more than half reporting physical disabilities. Among them, nearly half require accessibility aids or features within their homes, including ramps, a walk-in bath or shower, a lift device or elevator, lowered counters or automatic doors.

As Canada’s population ages, the challenges of accessibility within the built environment of communities and homes will only continue to get more difficult.

Fortunately, these challenges are increasingly being recognized by the development and building industry. Initiatives like the Accelerating Accessibility Coalition underscore a

growing recognition that integrating accessibility features into new homes, if considered at the design phase, can be accomplished at minimal additional cost. Plus, building with an accessible approach in the first place is far more cost-effective than retrofitting post-construction.

As we lay the groundwork for the future of housing in Ontario, we cannot lose sight of the fact that we are building not just homes, but communities that must be inclusive, resilient and sustainable.

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.

DAVE WILKES