GTA Homes Magazine - November 18, 2023 by NextHome

Greater Toronto’s Finest NEW HOME GUIDE

Greater Toronto Area Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

Final Release In this exclusive active adult community

INSIDE:

CREATIVE STORAGE SOLUTIONS FOR SMALL SPACE CHALLENGES

HOW TO NAVIGATE A MORTGAGE REFINANCING

IN YOUR DREAMS That’s where we find inspiration for National’s designs. We start with listening to your hopes and aspirations through focus groups, surveys and face-to-face at our Blueprint Workshops. Then we make those dreams a reality, in a place you will want to call home, with experiences and amenities that will make your life more complete. It’s a different, and better way of building. Because at National, you are the blueprint.

NORTHSHORE CONDOS NOW OPEN IN BURLINGTON 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Condos from the $500s DUO CONDOS NEW RELEASE IN BRAMPTON Condos and Towns from the $500s WHITEHORN WOODS NEW RELEASE IN MISSISSAUGA Newly Designed Towns from $1.1m TYANDAGA HEIGHTS NEW RELEASE IN BURLINGTON Traditional Freehold Towns Coming Soon

Register Now nationalhomes.com C ELEB R AT I NG 3 0 Y E A R S Prices, specifications and information is subject to change without notice. E. & O. E.

Surrounded by nature and convenience.

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edgewoodsuites.ca

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RIVERBANK ESTATES NITH RIVER, PARIS

a GRAND RIVER

NITH RIVER

DOWNTOWN LIONS PARK

PREMIUM RAVINE LOTS & URBAN TOWNS IN PARIS

MODERN FARMHOUSE TOWNHOMES IN BEAMSVILLE

Life on the Riverbank is timelessly and elegant. Wrapped by the woods and the Nith River, this extraordinary setting will be home to a collection of detached homes on 46’-50’ lots, urban townhomes, and a rare and very desirable offering of Losani Premium statement homes.

Nestled within Vista Ridge in Beamsville, Ontario, Benchmark stands as a testament to modern farmhouse living at its finest. This community not only captures the essence of rural charm but also offers a host of key features that make it a truly unique and coveted place to call home.

RIVERBANKESTATES.COM

LOSANIHOMES.COM/COMMUNITIES

LIVE. LIFE. BETTER

CUSTOM PREMIUM HOMES IN THE HEART OF WINE COUNTRY

FARMHOUSE & STACKED TOWNS IN STONEY CREEK

The court lots at Woodview offer spacious, private settings that are perfect for custom homes. These lots are complimented by 46’ and 50’ lots. The result is a community that combines the exclusivity of court living with the beauty of a natural backdrop.

SweetBerry a new community located in Lower Stoney Creek at Barton and Glover, minutes from the QEW. This vibrant community offers escarpment views from its modern farmhouse and stacked townhomes, providing a variety of housing options for families and individuals.

LOSANIHOMES.COM/COMMUNITIES

SWEETBERRYTOWNS.CA

VISIT US ONLINE AT

LOSANIHOMES.COM

NOV. 18–DEC. 16, 2023

CONTENTS COVER STORY

LUCCHETTA HOMES CRAFTING DREAM HOMES AND COMMUNITIES IN NIAGARA

DEPARTMENTS

Editor’s Note

In the Spotlight

What do you want? In the Spotlight: GTA new home market returns in September; more news on pages 14, 15 and 18 Catch up between issues at nexthome.ca

24 Focus on Niagara

Niagara – where it’s about a lot more than the Falls

In Conversation With

Stephanie Lane, Director, Sales and Marketing, Geranium

36 Silvergate Homes

A new condo coming soon to Hastings and Glendale in St. Catharines

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

Fieldgate Homes

Find your dream home in one of Fieldgate’s signature GTA communities

34 Personal Finance

Navigating a mortgage refinance in an unpredictable economy

50 Industry Report

Adjusting HST rebate thresholds would provide relief for newhome buyers

COLUMNS

Legally Speaking

Four things to look for in your new home contract

INSPIRATION

Home Realty

40 Decor

Western View

Real Estate Pro

HOMES Online

FEATURES

Here’s your homework ‘assignment’ for this month

Cosying up by the fire

42 Big Style

Creative storage solutions for small space challenges

Building a diverse future for the residential construction industry

IN EVERY ISSUE

Holiday season takes on special meaning in Canada

TRREB Report

44 Maps & Charts for New Home Communities

Addressing housing affordability in the GTA

Contributors

CONTRIBUTORS

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

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

WESTERN VIEW | MIKE COLLINS-WILLIAMS Mike Collins-Williams, RPP, MCIP, is CEO West End Home Builders’ Association. westendhba.ca.

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Amanda Pereira EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – GREATER TORONTO AREA

Wayne Karl wayne.karl@nexthome.ca CONTRIBUTORS

TRREB REPORT | PAUL BARON Paul Baron is President of TRREB, and a career real estate executive with more than 30 years of experience. He is the Broker of Record for Century 21 Leading Edge Realty Inc., which he founded in 1993. trreb.ca

Jesse Abrams, Mike Collins-Williams, Debbie Cosic, Sara Duck, Barbara Lawlor, Linda Mazur, Jason Mercer, Ben Myers, Lisa Rogers, Jayson Schwarz, Dave Wilkes EXECUTIVE MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Jacky Hill, Michael Rosset VICE-PRESIDENT, MARKETING – GTA

Leanne Speers

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

MANAGER, CLIENT RELATIONS

Sonia Presotto

MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES/SERVICE

Marilyn Watling

SALES & MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

Gary Chilvers

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Josh Rosset

REAL ESTATE PRO | BARBARA LAWLOR Barbara Lawlor is President and CEO of Baker Real Estate Inc., and an indemand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, Barbara oversees the marketing and sale of condo developments in Canada and overseas. baker-re.com

DISTRIBUTION

distributionteam@nexthome.ca ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES

accountingteam@nexthome.ca DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA

Lauren Reid–Sachs

VICE-PRESIDENT, PRODUCTION – GTA

Lisa Kelly

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

PRODUCTION MANAGER – GTA

Yvonne Poon

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER

Alicesa Pullan

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mike Terentiev

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.

Published by

nexthome.ca

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



HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

Advertising Call 1.866.532.2588 ext. 1 for rates and information. Fax: 1.888.861.5038 Circulation Highly targeted, free distribution network aimed at real estate buyers using street level boxes, racking and Toronto Star in-home delivery. Canadian subscriptions 1 year = 13 issues – $70 (inc. HST). Canada Post – Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement 40065416. Copyright 2023 All rights reserved. All copyright and other intellectual property rights in the contents hereof are the property of NextHome, and not that of the individual client. The customer has purchased the right of reproduction in NextHome and does not have the right to reproduce the ad or photo in any other place or publication without the previous written consent of NextHome. Editorial Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the editor at editorial@nexthome.ca. Terms and Indemnification Advertisers and contributors: NextHome is not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes, or misprints. By approving your content and/ or submitting content for circulation, advertisers and contributors agree to indemnify and hold harmless NextHome and its parent company from any claims, liabilities, losses, and expenses (including legal fees) arising out of or in connection with the content provided, including but not limited to any claims of copyright infringement, unauthorized reproduction, or inaccuracies in the content. Advertisers acknowledge that they have the necessary rights, permissions, and licenses to provide the content for circulation, and they bear full responsibility for the content’s accuracy, legality, and compliance with applicable laws upon approval. Contributors acknowledge NextHome reserves the right to omit and modify their submissions at the publisher’s discretion.

EDITOR’S NOTE

WHAT DO

YOU WANT?

WAYNE KARL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF HOMES Magazine

EMAIL: wayne.karl@nexthome.ca TWITTER: @WayneKarl

+ get social 10

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

Buying a home is a major decision – always has been, always will be. But as we approach 2024, with the pandemic largely in the rear-view mirror but other challenging issues an almost daily concern, homebuyers today are more discerning and demanding than ever. And who can blame them? With prices and interest rates what they are, and housing supply, the economy, inflation and other matters greater considerations than they’ve ever been, it behooves buyers to be as diligent and thorough as they can be. This means their demands are also changing. At least for Gen Zs (those born in the late 1990s to the early 2010s), today’s life challenges mean they are prioritizing mental health, financial stability and work/life balance, according to Point2Homes, and online real estate resource. And this means they could shift their focus from the fast-paced, high-priced big city life, bringing smaller urban locations into the limelight. The company’s 2023 City Readiness Index for Gen Z indicates that smaller cities appeal to young adults, scoring higher in affordable housing, cost of living, work/life balance and perceived mental health, among other factors. Aside from Montreal, none of Canada’s large business hubs even make the top 10, the survey says. Indeed, St. John’s, Nfld. ranks the highest in the 35 categories that embody the ideal lifestyle for a Gen Z-er (which raises questions about whether they have actually visited the city in winter, not to mention how realistic their desires are, in a wider context). Still, consumer demands are changing, in pretty much all homebuyer categories and demographics. “There are new-home buyers in the market, and they are taking time to evaluate their options, contacting our sales teams with questions while doing their due diligence before deciding,” says Stephanie Lane, director of sales and marketing for Geranium, in our In Conversation With feature on page 28. “As a result, those who are purchasing are very qualified and confident in their decision. Homebuyers are acclimatizing to current interest rates, which are not unreasonable when you look at rates over the past 30 years.” Focusing on lowrise homes, many in the luxury or even estate category, Geranium, too, is noting how homebuyer wants and needs are changing, be it for flexible spaces or Green home features, Lane says. So… what do you want? What really matters to you? Take your time and do your research and due diligence as you map out your homebuying future. Consider, for example, some of the many new home offerings in Niagara, as we explore on page 24. And yes, be discerning and demanding, but also be realistic.

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

GTA NEW HOME MARKET RETURNS IN SEPTEMBER The GTA new home market returned in September, reversing three months of decline, the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) reports. There were 1,885 new home sales in September, which was up 303 per cent from September 2022 and 32 per cent below the 10-year average, according to Altus Group, BILD’s official source for new home market intelligence. “September sales surged as pentup demand pulled buyers from the sidelines,” says Edward Jegg, research manager with Altus Group. “Purchasers were lured by lower prices, rising inventory and easing concerns around future interest rate hikes.” Condominium apartments, including units in low-, mediumand highrise buildings, stacked townhouses and loft units, accounted for 1,290 units sold in September, up 207 per cent from September 2022 and 29 per cent below the 10-year average. There were 595 single-family home sales in September, up 1,140 per cent from September 2022 and 37 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 increased, compared to the previous month, to 19,141 units. It included 16,342 condominium apartment units and 2,779 singlefamily lots. This is the first time since 2019 that inventory levels have exceeded the 10-year average and represents a combined inventory level of almost seven months, based on average sales for the last 12 months. A balanced market has nine to 12 months of inventory. Remaining inventory includes units in preconstruction projects, in projects

currently under construction and in completed buildings. “While we are starting to see a resurgence in the market, one month does not make a trend,” says Justin Sherwood, senior vice-president of communications and stakeholder relations at BILD. “Now is the time for stability. Stability in government housing policy ensures the industry operates in a predictable market to bring the housing supply to this rapidly growing region it desperately

needs and stability in interest rate policy will allow new home buyers to purchase with confidence.” Benchmark prices decreased slightly in September compared to the previous month. The benchmark price for new condominium apartments was $1.03 million, down 10.5 per cent over the last 12 months. The benchmark price for new single-family homes was $1.56 million, down 15.6 per cent over the last 12 months.

SEPTEMBER NEW HOME SALES BY MUNICIPALITY HIGHRISE

LOWRISE

TOTAL

REGION

2023

2022

2021

2023

2022

2021

2023

2022

2021

Durham

526

246

110

304

636

550

Halton

222

185

228

273

Peel

207

176

250

242

457

Toronto

538

241

1,481

539

241

1,551

York

117

412

123

430

240

842

GTA

1,290

420

2,568

595

1,106

1,885

468

3,674

SOURCE: ALTUS GROUP

nexthome.ca 11

WELCOME TO

FINAL RELEASE AT H U N T E R S P O I N T E

SINGLES

TOW N S

CANAL & RIVERSIDE LOT S AVA I L A B L E

Last chance to own in this prestigious,

award winning community!

W H E R E E V E RY D AY I S A N A DV E N T U R E WA I T I N G TO U N F O L D. Live your best life at WaterCrest in Hunters Pointe active adult community in Welland. Enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with hiking trails, tennis, community centre, nearby golf, amenities and so much more. Lucchetta Homes’ open-concept designs define luxury. Don’t miss your last chance to own in this incredible canalside community.

LucchettaHomes.com/watercrest Renderings are artist’s concepts are subject to change and may vary slightly from the final product. E.&O.E.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

BORROWING COSTS STILL CAUSING SOME BUYER HESITATION: TRREB Lack of affordability and uncertainty remained issues for many would-be homebuyers in the GTA in October 2023, according to the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB). As a result, sales edged lower compared to last year. However, selling prices remained higher than last year’s levels. “Record population growth and a relatively resilient GTA economy have kept the overall demand for housing strong,” says TRREB President Paul Baron. “However, more of that demand has been pointed at the rental market, as high borrowing costs and uncertainty on the direction of interest rates has seen many would-be homebuyers remain on the sidelines in the short term. When mortgage rates start trending lower, home sales will pick up quickly.” Realtors reported 4,646 GTA home sales through TRREB’s MLS system in October 2023 – down 5.8 per cent compared to October 2022. On a month-over-month seasonally adjusted basis, sales were also down in comparison to September. The October 2023 MLS Home Price Index Composite benchmark and the average selling price were both up on year-over-year basis, by 1.4 per cent and 3.5 per cent, respectively. On a seasonally adjusted basis, the MLS HPI Composite benchmark edged lower compared to September 2023 while the average selling price remained at a similar level. Both the MLS HPI Composite benchmark and average price remained above the cyclical lows experienced at the beginning of 2023. “Competition between buyers remained strong enough to keep the average selling price above last year’s level in October and above the cyclical lows experienced in the 14

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

first quarter of this year,” says TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer. “The Bank of Canada also noted this resilience in its October statement. However, home prices remain wellbelow their record peak reached at the beginning of 2022, so lower home prices have mitigated the impact of higher borrowing costs to a certain degree.” “In the current environment of extremely high borrowing costs, it is disappointing to see that there has been no relief for uninsured

mortgage holders reaching the end of their current term,” adds TRREB CEO John DiMichele. “If these borrowers want to shop around for a more competitive rate, they are still forced to unrealistically qualify at rates approaching eight per cent. Following their most recent round of consultations, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions should have eliminated this qualification rule for those renewing their mortgages with a different institution.”

GTA RESALE AVERAGE PRICES, OCTOBER 2023 (YR/YR % CHANGE) 416

905

Total

Detached

$1.71M (8.2)

$1.35M (4.7)

$1.45M (6.1)

Semi-detached

$1.27M (4.7)

$957,117 (0.6)

$1.10M (2.1)

Townhome

$1.01M (1.1)

$905,222 (1.1)

$930,185 (1.1)

$729,160 (1.7)

$665,208 (0.4)

$708,780 (1.2)

Condo

SOURCE: TRREB

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

BUILDING INDUSTRY CONCERNED OVER RECENT ONTARIO GOVERNMENT DECISION The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) says it is “extremely disappointed” with the recent announcement by Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Paul Calandra, and calls it a setback for the Greater Toronto Area’s GTA future housing and employment spaces supply. “It can take a decade or more to bring new housing supply to the market,” says Dave Wilkes, BILD president and CEO. “(This) announcement to introduce legislation that, if approved, will rescind regional official plans and reverse urban boundary expansions in the regions of York, Peel and Halton. It will make the objective of building 1.5 million homes in the province by 2031 impossible.” The housing affordability crisis in the GTA has been driven by the lack of housing supply in the face of perennially strong demand, BILD says. The official plans for York, Peel and

Halton made additional land supply available through urban boundary expansions to enable the addition of housing and employment spaces with a mix and density consistent with what the market is looking for. Repealing these official plans will put regional and municipal decisionmaking relative to new development into a state of confusion, uncertainty and paralysis. The repercussions of this unfortunate decision will effectively delay the addition of new housing and employment spaces throughout the next decade. “It is our understanding that the provincially approved official plans were subject to an extensive and exhaustive transparent public and stakeholder consultation process, which included postings to the Environmental Registry of Ontario,” says Wilkes. “Any adjustment made to the approved plans by the government were done to uphold the provinces’ own objectives for

increased housing supply, choice and balanced growth. Given the precedent of these decisions and the variability of government decisionmaking, why would any business choose to invest in the province?” As much as five years or more of work and millions of taxpayers’ dollars went into the development of the regional official plans through the municipal comprehensive review process, BILD says. The recent announcement sets the addition of housing and employment spaces supply in Peel, Halton and York back decades and the forwardlooking impacts of this will be felt by prospective new-home owners for the rest of the decade. BILD says its members remain committed to working with all levels of government to achieve the provincial objective of building the 1.5 million homes this province needs to accommodate present and future growth. nexthome.ca 15

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Branthaven.com All renderings are artist’s concept. Prices, sizes and specifications are subject to change. E.&O.E.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MORE CANADIANS CONSIDERING EXTENDING AMORTIZATION PERIODS, SWITCHING LENDERS Seventy-four per cent of Canadians with a residential mortgage set to renew within the next 18 months say they are concerned about the renewal in light of recent interest rate hikes, according to a Royal LePage survey conducted by Nanos. Thirty-one per cent of all mortgagees in Canada say their lending agreement is set to renew within the next year and a half (16 per cent within 12 months and 15 per cent in 12 to 18 months). That means 3.4 million Canadians have a mortgage that is set to renew by March of 2025. “Some Canadians with variable-rate mortgages have seen their monthly payments double or even triple over the last year and half, due to the Bank of Canada’s aggressive interest rate hike campaign aimed at tamp-ing down high inflation,” says Karen Yolevski, chief operating officer, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd. “Those locked in to a fixed-rate mortgage, which most are, have been protected from those increases, at least for a short time.

While the central bank’s key lending rate is expected to come down in the medium term, the likelihood that we will return to rock-bottom rates of less than one per cent is very low. Upon renewal, fixed-rate mortgage holders will be faced with a new reality – higher monthly payments.” ONTARIO INSIGHTS

In the province of Ontario, 35 per cent of residential mortgage holders will be renewing their lending agreement within the next year and a half (21 per cent within 12 months and 15 per cent in 12 to 18 months). Of them, 74 per cent say they are concerned about their renewal. “Many homeowners are concerned about their upcoming mortgage renewal,” says Shawn Ramautor, sales representative, Royal LePage Wolle Realty. “Banks are aware of this apprehension, and are preparing for many Canadians to shorten their next mortgage term or negotiate other changes. Homeowners are

considering all options on the table, including lengthening their amortization period in order to lower their monthly payments.” According to the survey, 81 per cent of mortgagees in Ontario obtained their mortgage from a prime lender; 73 per cent have a fixed-rate mortgage (open or closed); and 21 per cent have a variable-rate mortgage (open or closed). “Homeowners in Ontario with a fixed-rate mortgage have been lucky enough to dodge the interest rate increases of the last year and a half, but most understand that the time will come when they will renew their mortgage in a very different borrowing environment – a more expensive one,” adds Ramautor. “Mortgage holders are preparing in advance for this inevitable increase, shopping around for the best rate and weighing all their options. Many buyers are still waiting on the sidelines, and will likely re-enter the market in late 2024, when rates are expected to start decreasing.”

NATIONAL HOMES AND BRIXEN DONATE $500,000 TO BRAMPTON HOSPITAL National Homes and Brixen Developments have joined to contribute $100,000 annually for the next five years, totaling a $500,000 donation towards the construction of Brampton’s new hospital for the William Osler Health System. With a shared vision for a healthier and stronger Brampton, National Homes and Brixen Developments have committed to provide vital support to the city’s healthcare infrastructure. Their donation will play a role in the transformation of health care in Brampton and Etobicoke. Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness 18 HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

(Peel Memorial) will include a new multi-storey patient tower, new and enhanced outpatient services and day programs and the expansion of the existing Urgent Care Centre to 24/7 operations – enhancing healthcare services, improving patient care, and ensuring that the local community receives excellent state-of-the-art medical treatment. “We can think of half a million reasons why we love Brampton,” says Jason Pantalone, president and CEO managing partner of National Homes. “We’ve developed thousands of acres in Brampton and built roughly 6,000 homes there since 1992,” expressing

the company’s commitment to the city’s future.

Catch up between issues at nexthome.ca and enjoy these popular stories

BUILDER PROFILE

Find your dream home in Fieldgate’s signature GTA communities Fieldgate Homes is now open for purchasing by virtual sales appointments across the GTA. You can 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.

OHBA AWARDS

OHBA names winners of 2023 Awards of Distinction The Ontario Home Builders’ Association has announced the winners of the 2023 OHBA Awards of Distinction, recognizing the creativity, innovation and excellence of builders, renovators, developers and service professionals within Ontario’s residential construction industry.

Q&A

In Conversation With... Mariam Aboutaam Director Sales, Marketing, Interior Design, Kylemore Homebuyers today don’t just want a quality-built home, they also want all those little extras that help them enjoy their new abode. In short, it’s about wellness, and one company excelling at it is Kylemore. Mariam Aboutaam, director of sales and marketing, interior design, explains how.

ANALYSIS

INSIGHT

How we can keep the homeownership dream alive The world of housing is changing, but we all deserve a roof over our heads – one that offers us comfort, security and a sustainable way of life. And there are many creative ways to do it.

Governments play a major role in new homes bottleneck No wonder the hottest topic on everyone’s mind today when it comes to new home real estate is the fact that supply is lagging. Recently, the federal government announced removing GST on purpose-built rental housing, but how much will that help in the long run?

Visit nexthome.ca or check us out on

@HOMESMagazineON

@HOMESMagazine.Ontario

@homesmagazine nexthome.ca 19

COVER STORY

LUCCHETTA HOMES

CRAFTING DREAM HOMES AND COMMUNITIES IN NIAGARA The Niagara Region is one of the fastest growing areas of Ontario, and it’s no surprise why. Outside of the hustle and bustle of the GTA, yet still offering a wealth of amenities and modern conveniences, Niagara combines easy access to Toronto and Buffalo, all the while surrounded by nature. For new-home buyers seeking a better lifestyle in Niagara, many look to well-established homegrown builders with longstanding track records developing communities here. With their strong local reputations, these builders – often with deep family-based business roots – have excellent insight into hidden gem locations, the most dependable regional trades, and 20 HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

what homebuyers in Niagara are looking for. Lucchetta Homes stands out as one of the most respected local homebuilders in this category. Since its humble beginnings in 1960, Lucchetta Homes has remained dedicated to the craft of building beautiful homes that families cherish. Rooted in the Niagara Region, the family-run business has consistently held fast to its core principles, which revolve around delivering outstanding customer experiences and constructing innovative, quality homes in prime locations. WATERCREST AT HUNTERS POINTE

Well before the post-pandemic housing boom, Lucchetta Homes

had been actively building at Hunter’s Pointe, a truly unique community at the confluence of the Welland Canal and the Welland River (which actually flows under the canal through an ingenious aqueduct). The Welland Recreational Waterway, popular with rowers, kayakers and paddleboarders, runs alongside the river, separated by Merritt Island and some of the city’s best trails. Lucchetta’s newest – and final – phase, WaterCrest at Hunters Pointe, incorporates some of the most stunning views in the community. Nestled along a picturesque and serene promontory, WaterCrest is destined to become a magnet for new-home buyers seeking an exclusive place to call home.

“We’re extremely excited to launch WaterCrest,” says Rob Lucchetta, the second-generation principal of Lucchetta Homes. “There’s simply no location like this. And we certainly aim to craft outstanding homes that complement their exceptional surroundings.” THE IDEAL ACTIVE ADULT LIFESTYLE

Designed with active adults in mind, the homes at WaterCrest feature single-family homes on large 40- or 46-ft. lots, along with townhome offerings. Waterfront lots will be available, from where homeowners can watch as Great Lake ships glide quietly along the waters of the canal. Excellent trails are close by, including the lake-to-lake Welland Canal Parkway Trail, one of Hunters Pointe’s many charms for homeowners seeking to engage in an active lifestyle. The community is also rich with on-site activities and amenities, ideal for independent retired adults who value a vibrant social and physically active lifestyle. An impressive 14,000sq. ft. amenity-filled community centre offers a fully equipped gym

with a personal trainer, registered massage therapist, fitness classes, library and more.

ensure that you know what to expect throughout the process, from next steps to the overall timeline.

THE LUCCHETTA DIFFERENCE

QUALITY HOMES WITH ELEVATED BUILDING STANDARDS

The WaterCrest location is unique, and Lucchetta Homes brings its design proficiency to the table to enhance the overall Hunters Pointe experience. Design is at the heart of the Lucchetta difference. “We don’t design for us. We design for you,” says Ed Lucchetta, Rob’s brother and company co-principal. “We’ve been a customer-centric business for over 60 years, and take great pride in this, our father Ugo’s most important legacy.” This customer focus is evident in Lucchetta’s model homes and floorplans, which feature the latest trends in home design. Each square foot in the company’s homes serves a purpose, and every design element enhances functionality and livability. Lucchetta design centre specialists play a crucial role in helping homeowners choose finishes and options that align with their dreams and budgets. They

Lucchetta Homes has always aspired to build homes company principals would live in themselves. This dedication to quality led the Lucchettas to commit to higher building standards to provide homeowners with confidence and lasting value. From foundation to rooftop, every element of a Lucchetta home is designed to be solid, sound and energy efficient. Long-time partnerships with the best trades in the region ensure that quality workmanship and attention to fine detail are instilled throughout the construction process. A Lucchetta home exceeds building code in too many ways to list. As a result, the company has high regard in the homebuilder industry, winning two recent provincial honours through the OHBA Awards of Distinction, and three at the 2023 Niagara Home Builders’ Association Awards of Excellence.

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ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND INNOVATION

An EnerQuality Energy Star-certified builder, Lucchetta Homes takes Green building seriously. Not only has the company received several energyefficiency building awards, it was actually recognized by a CHBA pilot program for building the first netzero-ready home in the country. For those looking for the home of tomorrow today, Lucchetta is one of only two qualified builders in Niagara to offer net-zero construction. State-of-the-art building materials and components, along with the latest construction techniques, underscore Lucchetta’s commitment to innovation. A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

Whether it’s WaterCrest at Hunters Pointe or any of its other communities, Lucchetta Homes continues to set the standard for quality, innovation and customer satisfaction. Among its other current communities is LUSSO in west St. Catharines, a hip, new community featuring two-storey urban towns designed with high-end, modern features and finishes, open-concept layouts and ample living space. With only a few towns left, this community is selling fast. The final units in this community will be released soon. Saffron Estates is a limited collection of elegant bungalows and two-storey homes in Fonthill, one of Niagara’s most prestigious towns. Saffron Estates delivers a small-town feeling where parks, trails, greenspaces and walkable neighbourhoods are all within proximity, along with countless amenities including dining, shopping, golf, schools and more. An early spring release is planned. Lucchetta Homes creates more than just houses; it builds homes filled with memories, dreams and the promise of a brighter future. To learn more, visit lucchettahomes.com. 22 HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

ADVICE | LEGALLY SPEAKING

FOUR THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN YOUR NEW HOME CONTRACT

JAYSON SCHWARZ, LLM

The length of a pre-construction contract will leave you reminiscing about the complications in Lord of the Rings. Schedules, addendums and page-long paragraphs can leave any reader feeling overwhelmed. Here’s a guide to four important things to watch out for and make sure you understand. 1. IS IT ASSIGNABLE?

Your closing date will likely be years away, so consider that circumstances change, unforeseen events occur, and your position in life might change so much that as closing approaches, you may not wish – nor be able – to close. An assignable contract will help you sleep better at night, because if life throws you a curveball, you can hit it right back by assigning your contract to a new buyer who can step into your shoes. If the market is anything like the last few years, you might even end up with some profit from the assignment. If your contract is not assignable, you may have no choice but to close – and that will mean closing costs, builder’s adjustments, occupancy fees and mortgage approvals, and more cash down. Review the assignment clause in your agreement. Not all assignment clauses are the same; some may require builder consent and approval, some may require that a significant

fee is paid, and some may have other restrictions attached.

to understand your rights as well as the builder’s.

2. EARLY TERMINATION CONDITIONS

4. COOLING OFF PERIODS

We’ve all heard the stories about projects being cancelled, and buyers facing the choice of having to pay more for their new home, or have their deposits returned. Builders cannot cancel your contract for any reason, but they may do so if they cannot meet certain listed conditions in your contract, such as meeting a sales threshold or obtaining their own financing for construction. Being informed may not prevent your contract from being cancelled, but you will be aware of important deadlines and the reasons for which your builder can cancel the project. Most of this information is contained in the Tarion Addendum that is attached to your agreement. It is important that you read this and understand all your rights. 3. DELAYED CLOSING TIMELINE

Your closing is scheduled for, let’s say, 2025. It’s worth it, you tell yourself as you think about the next few years. COVID slowed everything. What if your closing is delayed to 2026, 2028 or 2030? Highrise projects can be delayed a long time. Construction can be complicated, and your contract may allow your builder to delay the closing for several years to deal with those complexities. In lowrise construction, there may be material shortages or other legitimate reasons for delay. Again, refer to your Tarion Addendum

New home purchase contracts are exceptionally long and complicated. Condominium contracts come complete with a Disclosure Statement that can be extremely complex. You want to ensure that you are protected and informed, so taking it to an experienced lawyer for their review should be your next step. Reread articles, such as the ones on our website, speak to others who have purchased both types of products, and listen to focus on the things that are important. Condominiums have a 10-day cooling off period that provides you a right in law to rescind the contract, if your expectations are not met. Freehold purchases, on the other hand, are firm when you sign and you must close – unless you insert a conditional clause. The best advice we can give you is to invest in a review with a knowledgeable professional to advise you. It may be the best investment you ever made. Remember, you are spending a large amount of money. Do not scrimp in ensuring it is the right investment.

Jayson Schwarz, LLM, is managing partner of Schwarz Law Partners LLP. schwarzlaw.ca, info@schwarzlaw.ca

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FOCUS ON NIAGARA

NIAGARA REGION

WHERE IT’S ABOUT A LOT MORE THAN THE FALLS by WAYNE KARL Niagara Region often inspires thoughts of mostly the Falls themselves, those natural wonders to which a visit never grows old. But beyond the awe-inspiring beauty and power of the Falls and the Niagara River, Niagara Region offers a lot more that’s worthy of just a weekend getaway. Encompassing towns such as Grimsby, Lincoln, Niagara-onthe- Lake, St. Catharines, Thorold and Welland, the Niagara Region is blessed with a great natural location. It occupies most of the Niagara Peninsula, bounded by the U.S. to the south and on the north by Lake Ontario, and of course the Niagara Escarpment – all of which offers strong potential for business and lifestyle choices. These natural landscapes and climate make the Niagara Region perfect for agri-businesses such as winemaking – a key economic sector. The Niagara Wine Route, for example, connects dozens of wineries 24

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Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

and is a growing tourism draw, complementing cultural events such as the Shaw Festival. Indeed, a visit to the area can involve a stop at the Falls, winery tours, the quaint town of Niagaraon-the-Lake, the Botanical Gardens, with its Floral Clock and Butterfly Conservatory, several championship golf courses and a growing casino industry in downtown Niagara Falls. But this is all for play. To live and work in the region is another matter. ECONOMIC GROWTH

Again, a blessing of location, Niagara is within 800 km of two provinces, nine states and 130 million people on both sides of the border. This means opportunities for business. The trade that flows across Niagara’s borders totals more than $100 billion annually, and supports hundreds of thousands of jobs across Canada and the U.S. The infrastructure network to support this trade activity comprises five international bridges, multiple

railways and the Welland Canal, linking Lake Erie into the St. Lawrence Seaway system. All of this is conducive to growth potential for the region’s manufacturing and transportation and logistics sectors, to complement the historical strength in agriculture and tourism. Niagara’s economy has shown steady growth in a number of areas, particularly in job creation and new investment, but still lags slightly behind Ontario averages. The Niagara economic development department confirms the area still has challenges in higher unemployment, lower participation rate and lower household income per capita. NEW HOME DEVELOPMENT

As the economy grows and affords people more opportunity to live and work in Niagara – or close by – newhome development is following. Much of the housing growth is in the lowrise category, as buyers

MEDIAN HOME PRICES Q3 2023, NIAGARA-ST. CATHARINES SINGLE-DETACHED HOMES Q3 2022

Q2 2023

Q3 2023

$672,100

$699,100

$664,400 -0.7%

STANDARD CONDO

Q/Q % Y/Y % -1.1%

Q3 2022

Q2 2023

Q3 2023

Q/Q %

$397,200

$388,200

$394,000 1.5%

AGGREGATE Y/Y %

Q3 2022

Q2 2023

-0.8%

$641,000 $639,100

Q3 2023

Q/Q % Y/Y %

$635,900 -0.5%

-0.8%

Source: Royal LePage

from the GTA find the lot sizes and price points far more appealing and affordable. But that, too, is changing, as some consumers prefer the condo lifestyle, even in a nature-rich area such as Niagara. Developers are responding in kind, with several new condo projects, many of them midrise or boutique condominiums. Silvergate Homes, for example, is launching a new condominium, Merritton Mills on Hastings, near Glendale, in St. Catharines’ popular Merritton area. With its long-standing roots in the neighbourhood, Merritton is rapidly becoming a highly desirable place to live. Its proximity to South St. Catharines and its many amenities makes it ideal for families, singles and retirees. It is also conveniently located close to the Pen Centre, downtown

core, hiking and biking trails, Brock University and Niagara College. In the first phase of Merritton Mills, Silvergate will build a 71-suite midrise condominium, comprising one- and two-bedroom suites ranging from 800 to 1,200 sq. ft. And Lucchetta Homes, another well-established builder in the area, is launching the final phase at its Hunters Pointe development – WaterCrest. Hunters Pointe is located at the confluence of the Welland Canal and the Welland River (which flows under the canal through an aqueduct). Incorporating some of the most stunning views in the community, and nestled along a picturesque and serene promontory, WaterCrest is sure to appeal to new-home buyers looking for an exclusive place to call home.

Part of the appeal for homebuyers in Niagara – besides lifestyle and proximity to some of Ontario’s great natural attractions – is affordability relative to other parts of the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. “The housing market in NiagaraSt. Catharines has become more balanced this quarter,” says Brad Johnstone, broker of record, Royal LePage NRC Realty. “After an extended period of low inventory levels, the region is seeing an increase in available properties. This has resulted in a more relaxed environment for buyers who do not feel the sense of urgency to transact right away, and are able to add conditions to their offers. At the same time, sellers will benefit from stable prices which continue to sit at historically high levels.”

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LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

A regional municipality in Southern Ontario comprising 12 municipalities such as Grimsby, Lincoln, Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Catharines, Thorold and Welland; 130 kms from Toronto; 86 kms from Hamilton..

KEY LANDMARKS

Johnstone notes that the region is seeing more traditional market conditions in comparison to the last few years, and there is a mixed demographic of buyers and sellers driving the market. “Many buyers find the Niagara region attractive compared to areas like the GTA and other regions in southern Ontario,” he says. “We are seeing buyers from all demographics take advantage of more manageable housing prices in the region, namely first-time buyers. Move-up buyers from the GTA who have sold their homes can either come to Niagara and live mortgage free with a more affordable property, or they can upgrade to a larger home.” Johnstone adds that Niagara’s housing market has experienced rapid growth and a subsequent correction in recent years. Going forward, he expects a more gradual increase in housing prices without major price fluctuations. “The key to achieving market stability relies on a steady increase of inventory,” Johnstone says. “Government initiatives aimed at curbing inflation with interest rates and increasing housing availability are expected to impact the market positively.” 26

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Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

• Botanical Gardens • Casino Niagara • Clifton Hill • Fallsview Casino • Legends on the Niagara Golf Course • Lundy’s Lane • Niagara Falls • Niagara Wine Route • Skylon Tower • Welland Canal • Whirlpool Golf Course

LUNA By Silvergate Homes silvergatehomes.com Lusso Urban Towns By Lucchetta Homes lucchettahomes.com Meadow Heights By Dunsire Developments dunsire.com Merritton Mills By Silvergate Homes merrittonmills.com On the Ridge By DeSantis Homes centurycondos.ca One Fonthill Condominiums By Mountainview Homes mountainview.com Park Lane Place By Park Lane Home Builders parklanehomebuilders.com Riverside at Hunters Pointe By Lucchetta Homes lucchettahomes.com Saffron Estates By Lucchetta Homes lucchettahomes.com Settlers Landing By Blythwood Homes blythwoodhomes.ca

SELECT HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS

Shelter Cove By Shelter Cove sheltercove.ca

Arbour Vale By Pinewood Home Builders pinewoodhomes.ca

Splendour By Pinewood Home Builders pinewoodhomes.ca

Benchmark By Losani Homes losanihomes.com

Sweetberry By Losani Homes losanihomes.com

Bromley Gardens By Dunsire Developments dunsire.com

The Oaks at Six Mile Creek By Blythwood Homes blythwoodhomes.ca

Century Condos By DeSantis Homes centurycondos.ca

Village Creek By Park Lane Home Builders parklanehomebuilders.com

Coveteur By Pinewood Home Builders pinewoodhomes.ca

Village on the Twelve By Silvergate Homes silvergatehomes.com

Grimsby Waterfront By Losani Homes losanihomes.com

Vista Ridge By Losani Homes losanihomes.com

Harbourtown Village By Silvergate Homes silvergatehomes.com

WaterCrest at Hunters Pointe By Lucchetta Homes lucchettahomes.com

ADVICE | HOME REALTY

YOUR HOMEWORK ‘ASSIGNMENT’ FOR THIS MONTH

DEBBIE COSIC This generation of new-home buyers is reassessing an outdated homebuying blueprint, and considering unique alternatives when it comes to entering the housing market. In previous columns, I’ve talked about creative ways to come up with an auxiliary income, like dividing a larger house into smaller units, or adding an additional dwelling or a lane house on an existing property. I’ve also explored the need to revise rules and regulations as it relates to down payments and amortization. Another possibility to consider is an Assignment. As it relates to real estate, the assignee assumes the rights and obligations of a property from an assignor. This Assignment, or reassignment, of a property can happen before the original purchaser takes possession. As a result, an Assignment can provide a way to profit from a real estate transaction, before you’ve become the owner of the property. AGREEMENTS OF PURCHASE AND SALE

With ever-climbing housing prices, combined with financial stresses, along with the uncertainty that was generated as a result of the pandemic, select condominium buyers may be reconsidering their acquisition. Depending upon their strategy, some purchasers might have always intended to exercise a plan to assign their Agreements of Purchase

and Sale (APS) to a third party. Others, who had planned to lease, or reside in, their condo may also be looking at assigning their APS. In some cases, a builder will promote this as an added bonus, or a fee may be charged. Stipulations would be outlined in the APS. If a purchaser wanted to exercise this option, they would need written permission from the builder, and it might depend upon the stage of construction. If the building is close to completion, the likelihood of the builder agreeing is much higher. As with all real estate transactions, I recommend that you find a good real estate agent. An Assignment offers you options, and with the right representation this amendment should be included in your agreement so that you have a choice at the time of closing. There are also realtor platforms approved by builders that enhance the visibility of Assignments, such as AssignMate (onrios.com/ assignmate). None of us can predict what the future holds. That’s why it’s so important to ensure that your investment is protected, and that safeguards are in place to do so.

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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ASSIGNMENT BENEFITS • Assignments can be a lifesaver when a purchaser finds themselves in an unforeseen situation, such as a job loss, unexpected expenditures or the need to move to larger unit as a result of a growing family. On the rare occasion when the purchaser has passed away, it may be necessary to plug into a life insurance program. • In especially difficult circumstances, an Assignment might be your only option to ensure that you don’t lose your investment. And, quite possibly, benefit on a financial level. • For those who can’t, or don’t want to, qualify for a mortgage, an Assignment is a great way to invest as you don’t have to close on the unit, or transfer the title. • You can avoid dealing with tenants, while capitalizing on a real estate investment. • You can also capitalize on real estate inflation, without having to pay a mortgage, maintenance fees or utilities. • Assignments also provide purchasers with an opportunity to acquire indemand floorplans. • Despite their financial uncertainty, younger homebuyers are investing in Assignments within emerging neighborhoods to seize potential price advantages and potentially leverage any transferable perks associated with the Assignment acquisition.

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IN CONVERSATION WITH...

STEPHANIE LANE DIRECTOR, SALES AND MARKETING GERANIUM by WAYNE KARL

If you’re looking for a new lowrise home in the GTA, better yet a luxury new lowrise home in an established neighbourhood, Geranium might well be on your list of prospective homebuilders. With expertise in land acquisition, planning and process, engineering, servicing, design and construction, this fully integrated land development and building company has built more than 9,000 homes and completed many master-planned communities across southern Ontario. With a focus on designing neighbourhoods best suited to the features of the area, with the intent to improve homebuyers’ quality of life and add value to the community, Geranium presents a pretty compelling scenario. We sat down with Stephanie Lane, director of sales and marketing, to learn more about this company’s approach, and why community support is a central part of its mission. Let’s start with a general topic… how do you view the market these days? There are new-home buyers in the market, and they are taking time to 28 HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

evaluate their options, contacting our sales teams with questions while doing their due diligence before deciding. As a result, those who are purchasing are very qualified and confident in their decision. Homebuyers are acclimatizing to current interest rates, which are not unreasonable when you look at rates over the past 30 years. Great options remain for all, even with lower inventory levels in both the new and resale markets. Geranium recently launched three communities – Allegro in Aurora, Clarehaven Estates in Claremont, and Springwater near Barrie. How are things coming along in each? At the time they opened for sale, Allegro in Aurora and Midhurst Valley in Springwater both received great market reception, with excited homebuyers wanting to belong to these two different communities. Because of this interest, our construction sites are very active today and we’ve been welcoming new families into these neighbourhoods all year. Clarehaven Estates, which launched mid-October, has been a tremendous success and is already

60 per cent sold. There was pent-up demand for large estate homes on lots of up to one acre, situated in Claremont, Durham. We continue to receive interest in this desirable community and will be starting construction of the homes next year. What is it about each of these projects that sets them apart from others in the area? Clarehaven Estates is a stand-alone community of 70 large lots with bungalows, bungalows with loft and two-storey detached homes, offering a lot of choice for families. The site is very well located for convenient commuting, daily living and recreational options. Allegro is an infill setting in the heart of downtown Aurora, with homes and streets woven into an existing community of mature trees and large residences. Homeowners have the benefit of a brand-new home built to today’s building code and design preferences in a neighbourhood that is already established. Midhurst Valley is a four-season community that is surrounded by nature. It is highly suited for outdoor activities and only 10 minutes from

the conveniences in Barrie. Families purchasing here can set down roots in an up-and-coming area. A commitment to quality construction and workmanship seems to be a key focus of what Geranium does. How has this evolved over the years? For example, growing consumer demand for Green features… In the early 2000s, we developed our Geranium Green Plus program, which incorporated enhanced building materials that exceeded Ontario Building Code at the time. With enhancements to the Code, this has evolved into a stringent behind-the-walls construction program focusing a great deal of planning, design and cost into less visible elements of the home, such as the structure, HVAC and insulation. This is coupled with an internal quality assurance process that results in a home of truly lasting value. Our client care team undertakes a walk-through of each home, prior to the homeowner’s pre-delivery inspection, to ensure the finished home meets our own exacting standards. And what about design, the growing need for flexible and work-from-home spaces… how much of that are you seeing in your customer demands? Geranium’s homeowners are looking for an assortment of different

amenities. Flexible spaces such as media rooms and home offices are available in many of our designs, not just our larger estate homes. As well, for many years in our larger layouts, we’ve offered optional elevator plans, affording additional convenience, whether needed right away or in future. In some models, we also offer main floor guest suites or future in-law suites. We invest time, carefully identifying a new community’s prospective homeowners and designing layouts that offer optionality and meet the needs of our future buyers.

What are you sensing from prospective buyers these days? There’s so much discussion about supply, interest rates and other issues… Or does Geranium’s focus as more of a boutique builder of luxury lowrise homes provide you a unique position in the marketplace? We have built many luxury home communities and continue to offer homes in this category, but we are a versatile land development and building company with a varied portfolio, from 20-ft. semi-detached to 100-ft.-wide estate lots, and everything in between. However, some of our communities are attracting buyers who are downsizing in house size and/or acreage, and who have accrued considerable equity in their existing home that is being used to purchase a new one. This is the case, for example, for some in Courts of Canterbury in Port Perry, where we offered an adultlifestyle community of bungalows and bungalows with loft designs. However, that is not always the situation, and anyone needing a mortgage of any amount is taking the higher interest rates into account when considering a new home purchase. nexthome.ca 29

What is it about Geranium that you would like prospective homebuyers to know? As a vertically integrated land developer and homebuilder, we have the opportunity and the responsibility to design new planned communities that respect, complement and enhance the existing area. This may include additional greenspace, park infrastructure not currently offered, trail and pathway connections, or creating lot and home sizes that are compatible with those in the surrounding neighbourhood. Courts of Canterbury in Port Perry is a great example where the existing homes are bungalows, and we added approximately 100 new bungalows and bungalows with lofts. We also expanded and renovated the community clubhouse to accommodate all residents. In Aurora this past summer, we celebrated the opening of a new town park of approximately 21.3 acres. Situated in the centre of Allegro, the park design offers something for all ages, has multiple access points from the older neighbourhood, and is the result of a collaboration among Town staff, Geranium and residents.

Community support seems to be an important part of Geranium. What is the genesis of this, and what are you focusing on these days? Giving back to the communities we build in has been an important philosophy since the company’s inception in 1977. We look at different ways to support local businesses, charitable entities, sports groups, schools and more, not only through sponsorships but by also creating opportunities for face-to-face engagements where we can connect with local residents. An example of this is our annual sponsorship of Aurora’s Mayor’s Celebration of Youth Arts, where

we’re heading into our seventh year as the lead sponsor. Each year, we look forward to attending the exhibit and speaking with the students whose artwork will be on display. They can follow our social media channels for other community updates and keep an eye out for our bright red Geranium tents at events. Come and say hello… we’d love to meet you. What’s next for Geranium? We are heading west of the GTA to the outskirts of Fergus. In 2024, we’ll be launching a new neighbourhood of estate homes on half-acre lots. geranum.com

on a personal note How do you spend time away from the office? As a city dweller, I like to unwind by heading north and getting outdoors into a nature-filled environment, so I make that a priority. What or who inspires you to do what you do? In this line of work, I have the incredible opportunity to help create legacy, not just for the company but for buyers who place immense trust in us to build their new home. Knowing that I’ve directly or indirectly helped someone through their homebuying journey and seeing them living and thriving in their home with their family is incredibly rewarding and continually inspiring. Even more rewarding is that Geranium has many repeat homebuyers. When someone buys a second, third or even fourth home from us, we know we’re doing something very right. What’s on your reading list or TV binge-watch list these days? I am a big Toronto sports fan and enjoy watching the Leafs, Raptors and Blue Jays primarily. If there’s a game on, I’m usually watching. As a supporter of positive mental wellness, I enjoy listening to podcasts about psychology and mental health. TED Health is one that I often tune into.

30 HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

ADVICE | WESTERN VIEW

BUILDING A DIVERSE FUTURE

FOR THE RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

MIKE COLLINS-WILLIAMS

The West End Home Builders’ Association Women in Industry (WIN) Committee aims to support, educate, connect and empower women in industry and to inspire girls and women of all ages to follow their dreams in any industry. Historically, women have been underrepresented in the residential construction, skilled trades and STEM industries due to societal and cultural stereotypes, as well as barriers related to gender bias. The WIN committee partners with local organizations to create a platform where women professionals can collaborate, create and transfer knowledge. Through networking and educational events, the committee brings individuals, companies and organizations together to provide education, advance gender diversity, increase workplace inclusion and celebrate the successes and contributions of women in the industry. For a second consecutive year, the West End Home Builders’ Association partnered with Mohawk College and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) for the WEBUILD educational showcase that took place on Oct. 11 at Mohawk College, Stoney Creek Campus of Skilled Trades. The event offered 100 young women and gender diverse individuals in Grades 7 and 8 the opportunity to learn about

the rewarding career possibilities in the residential construction, skilled trades and STEM industries. The showcase consisted of a full day of interactive workshop sessions, tours of Mohawk Campus and an inspiring session with MP Lisa Hepfner and YORK 1 Business Development Director Christina Murray. “We are honoured we have the opportunity to educate young women about the rewarding career opportunities within the industry, and we are thankful for the continuous support we receive from our members and community partners,” says Terri Johns, WEHBA president. “The WEHBA Women in Industry (WIN) Committee will continue to advocate for positive, cultural change and gender diversity in the residential construction industry.” The purpose of the WEBUILD Showcase is to inform young women in Grades 7 and 8 in the Hamilton District School Boards about the career opportunities in residential construction, and the academic pathways to get them started. During the event, students had the opportunity to visit different booths hosted by community partners and WEHBA members of different trades and fields. The booths included hands-on activities in renovation (Heartwood Renovations), builder scheduling (Cachet Homes), HVAC (Dynamic Heating & Cooling), heavy-duty rraining and power tool demonstration (Milwaukee Tool), structural engineering (Mohawk College), millwork (Riverside Millwork Group), excavation simulation

(YORK1), plumbing (Guest Plumbing & Heating), electrical (OYAP) and equipment demonstration (YWCA). The students participated in friendly competitions, workshops and had the opportunity to talk to professionals from the different trades and specialties. The event was made possible by the hard work and dedication of the WEHBA Women in Industry Committee, as well as the gracious support of WEHBA sponsors T. Johns Consulting, Starward Homes and Marz Homes. All proceeds from the event will go to a Mohawk College scholarship for women and gender diverse individuals in skilled trades. Mike Collins-Williams, RPP, MCIP, is CEO West End Home Builders’ Association. westendhba.ca.

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ADVICE | REAL ESTATE PRO

THANKSGIVINGHOLIDAY SEASON TAKES ON SPECIAL MEANING IN CANADA

BARBARA LAWLOR

With our Canadian Thanksgiving over and a much-anticipated holiday season just around the corner, it seems like the perfect time to reflect on what we have to be thankful for. With so many areas of the world in turmoil, it is gratifying to live in a country where we can get up in the morning without worrying about bombs dropping on us and evacuation orders. Yes, our economy has been challenging, but as with everything, cycles go up and down. Recently, Statistics Canada reported that our country’s inflation rate decelerated to 3.9 per cent in September, which was down from four per cent in August. This was lower than many economists predicted. If you need convincing about what a great country Canada is, just look at our immigration numbers. We have one of the highest rates per population of any country in the world. This year, we anticipate our numbers will surpass those of 2022, when we welcomed more than one million newcomers, including international students and foreign workers with qualified Visas. And remember that about 45 per cent of these newcomers will come to Toronto and the GTA. They come for our high quality of life. They come for our relative safety, work opportunities and the world-class amenities they find here. And yes, they come for our 32

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

Bellwoods House Townhouses, by Republic

top-quality education facilities. In 2022, Canada welcomed a record 551,405 international students. That led to an end-of-year total of 807,750 international students holding valid study permits in Canada. Our country is well on track to welcome 900,000 international students this year. This is great news for investors, especially now in this atmosphere when we are not allowed to sell to foreign buyers. Yes, there is an exemption on that ban but only up to 500,000. These students are guaranteed renters for investors. Rents have continued to rise, going as high as $7 per sq. ft. in the best downtown Toronto neighbourhoods, and as high as $5 per sq. ft. in the west end of Toronto. The recent news from the federal government that construction of new rental apartments no longer requires the payment of GST will help, but more steps are required. Until then, condos are filling in that gap. Canada is fortunate to have one of the most substantial and attainable real estate markets in the world, which is another reason why

so many immigrants settle here. Our new-home buyers have more elaborate standard features and options than most other countries, including the U.S. And for a major cosmopolitan city, Toronto is still relatively affordable when compared with others around the globe. No matter what the economy does, in Canada, real estate has proven to be one of the best financial and lifestyle investments over the years. So, as we approach yet another new year, let us be thankful for the wonderful and peaceful opportunities we have here, and for the immigrants who add so much to our rich tapestry of life. 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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ADVICE | TRREB REPORT

ADDRESSING HOUSING AFFORDABILITY

IN THE GTA

PAUL BARON

Toronto is facing heightened housing affordability challenges, and people looking to rent or buy need a mix of housing types that addresses the lack of affordable supply. One of the ways the City of Toronto plans to address housing affordability is with the Expanding Housing Options in Neighbourhoods (EHON) initiative. The proposal promises to build more lowrise housing in residential neighbourhoods to meet the needs of our growing city. It also allows for a more balanced mix of housing types, such as townhouses, as well as building six-storey apartments along major streets.

This initiative has the potential to offer lower-cost housing types on residential land that was previously zoned strictly for higher-cost singlefamily homes. When looking at other jurisdictions, such as Montreal, Portland and Minneapolis, they have all successfully implemented initiatives, just like EHON, to allow for more midrise residential buildings. TRREB recommends that the City of Toronto take a progressive and flexible approach to neighbourhood character considerations when setting as-of-right parameters for multiplexes throughout the city, particularly in the more suburban areas. TRREB is recommending that the EHON initiatives be exempt from development charges, to encourage uptake, keep costs low and allow for these units to remain relatively affordable.

The federal and provincial Housing Accelerator Funds can also used to implement process improvements and shore up staffing needs. Once in force, the City must undertake a public education campaign to put a spotlight on this and other EHON initiatives, highlighting the benefits to homeowners, neighbourhoods and the city overall.

Paul Baron is President of TRREB, and a career real estate executive with more than 30 years of experience. He is the Broker of Record for Century 21 Leading Edge Realty Inc., which he founded in 1993. trreb.ca

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ADVICE | PERSONAL FINANCE

NAVIGATING A MORTGAGE REFINANCE IN AN UNPREDICTABLE ECONOMY incurring an interest rate differential (IRD) if you decide to break your mortgage. Overall, rates are much higher than they were two years ago, however, fixed rates are currently quite a bit lower than variable.

JESSE ABRAMS In an environment of rising rates and inflationary pressures, there are many Canadian homeowners contemplating the decision to refinance. As inflation drives up the cost of living, property values are increasing too. Refinancing presents a strategic opportunity for homeowners to potentially tap into their home’s equity, increase their amortization to decrease monthly payments or switch their mortgage to fit the current state of the market. Regardless of which option you choose, this is a long-term decision that needs to be weighed carefully against your long-term financial goals. FIXED OR VARIABLE RATE?

Fixed-rate mortgages: A predictable choice Choosing a fixed-rate mortgage means locking in the current interest rate for the duration of your mortgage term. It’s stable, predictable and there will be no surprises when it comes to your monthly payments. For some, this can feel like a luxury given the record number of rate hikes since the start of 2020. However, there is a tradeoff. While stability is a pro, this type of mortgage comes at a premium. Plus, switching to a variable rate down the line might be a challenge, and there’s always the possibility of 34 HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

Variable-rate mortgages: A bit of a gamble Variable rates can sometimes be tempting to homeowners because they often start lower than fixed rates. However, in the current environment, variable rates are upwards of one per cent higher than fixed rates. A major factor to consider is that variable rates change based on the Bank of Canada’s decisions. As the economy goes up and down, your rate might, too. And if you’re someone that likes to budget and plan, these rate changes can definitely throw a wrench in your monthly budget. It’s important to keep in mind that you are able to switch to a fixed rate or break the mortgage at a lower cost than a fixed – but this will depend on the terms and conditions of your mortgage contract as this could incur penalties. In the current environment, very few of our clients have been choosing a variable rate mortgage over the last six to 12 months. Which path to choose? With volatile inflation and increasing rates, many Canadians’ mortgage payments have skyrocketed. As a result, most are leaning toward fixedrate mortgages for peace of mind. However, this doesn’t rule out the

flexibility and potential savings that once came with variable rates as rates come down in the future. If you value stability, especially as a first-time homebuyer or if you’re being cautious given the current situation, a fixed rate might be right for you. On the other hand, if you’re a seasoned homeowner and can navigate changing rates, a variable-rate option could be more aligned. Rate changes could even provide more opportunities to save. All that aside, the outlook for the rest of 2023 tells us that inflation isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. That’s why our team at Homewise advises homeowners to do their research, consult with professionals such as those on our team and ensure their finances can withstand all market conditions before making any decisions. We have actually seen many Canadians go for a two- and three-year fixed rate mortgage recently (rather than most who choose a five-year) as there is an expectation among most industry professionals that rates will come down over the next two years. So, getting a full picture of your options is the best way to make a smart decision both in the short and long term. Jesse Abrams is Co-Founder at Homewise, a mortgage advisory and brokerage firm. thinkhomewise.com

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SPOTLIGHT | FEATURED BUILDERS + DEVELOPERS

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

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BUILDER PROFILE | ST. CATHARINES

A NEW CONDO

COMING SOON

TO HASTINGS AND GLENDALE IN ST. CATHARINES Silvergate Homes’ new condominium, Merritton Mills on Hastings, located in St. Catharines’ Merritton neighbourhood near Glendale, presents a unique opportunity to be a part of the evolving landscape of a thriving community. As Merritton continues to establish itself as a sought-after place to live, its proximity to south St. Catharines and a multitude of amenities makes it an attractive option for families, individuals and retirees alike. Moreover, the strategic location of Merritton Mills in relation to the Pen Centre, downtown core, hiking and biking trails, Brock U, and Niagara College provides an advantageous investment opportunity. Embarking on the first phase of this exciting development, Silvergate plans to construct a midrise condominium 36

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

featuring 71 suites. These wellappointed suites, comprised of oneand two-bedrooms, are notable for their generous size, ranging from 800 to 1,200 sq. ft. Designed by Jason Pizzicarola Design Architects Inc. and boasting interior design by BE Burgess and Leslie Landolt Designs, the Residences of Merritton Mills epitomize contemporary living. Its exceptional location in Merritton ensures easy access to local dining establishments, shops, Hwy. 406, and the Pen Centre, while remaining conveniently accessible via public transportation. The condominium offers residents a comprehensive selection of amenities, including underground parking, storage lockers, co-working spaces, a communal area/lounge, rooftop lounge with barbecues, pet

washing station, fitness centre, party room with a kitchenette, bike storage and a parcel room. With prices beginning in the $500,000s, Merritton Mills presents a compelling value proposition for those seeking a modern and vibrant community to call home. MERRITTON – A GREAT HOMETOWN WITHIN A GREAT HOMETOWN

Merritton, a quaint hamlet that merged with St. Catharines in 1961, boasts a rich heritage rooted in its flourishing mills and industrial success. The community played a vital role in the early formation of the Welland Canal. Today, while the historic mills have been repurposed into charming hospitality establishments, Merritton still retains its distinctive identity within the

larger city of St. Catharines. With its proximity to major shopping and a quick drive to Niagara, Merritton offers its own enchanting appeal. Catering to those who appreciate the allure of the past while embracing the present, the Residences of Merritton Mills promises a lifestyle that captures the essence of the community. Situated amidst picturesque wineries, Merritton Mills acts as a gateway to the enticing attractions of Niagara, while also providing convenient access to the nearby amenities and the urban luxuries of St. Catharines. For those seeking a contemporary condominium in a vibrant, walkable neighborhood, Merritton Mills stands as the perfect location. In a manner similar to St. Catharines’ transformation into a haven of trendy cafes and restaurants, Merritton is gracefully undergoing a metamorphosis to offer residents a

distinctively urban living experience. Residents can enjoy great restaurants such as The Keg, Johnny Rocco’s (right next door), Boston Pizza, Kelsey’s, Chile & Agave, Pur & Simple, and many others. Merritton Mills, a development by Silvergate Homes, exemplifies the company’s long-standing commitment to exceptional quality and customer service. With more than 35 years of experience in building and renovating homes in the Niagara region and beyond, the Passero family – founders of Silvergate Homes – have instilled a shared passion and pride for their family business in all their endeavors. Renowned for its excellence in construction, design, marketing and environmental stewardship, Silvergate Homes has received more than 40 builder awards. As a Tarion Warranty Corp. builder and RenoMark contractor, the company

ensures its homes meet the highest industry standards. Notably, in April, Silvergate Homes was honored with the Niagara Home Builders’ Association (NHBA) Award of Excellence for its condo/townhome project, Village on the Twelve, affectionately known as Eclectic Dream. Most recently, Silvergate Homes captured the OHBA (2023) award for Best New Home Kitchen (New Lowrise Up to 2,500 sq. ft.) at the Legends on the Green, Niagara Falls. This recognition is a testament to Silvergate Homes’ unwavering commitment to innovation, creativity and excellence in the realm of residential construction. Merritton Mills’ sales office is opening soon at 271 Merritt St. If you are interested in this exciting new residence, you are invited to register to receive information and updates. Visit merrittonmills.com to register.

nexthome.ca 37

BUILDER PROFILE

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. You can 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 38 HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

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 so much more all nearby. 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 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. PICKERING: SEATON

Coming soon – semis, 30- and 36-ft. singles, coming soon Enter a serene natural landscape that merges with the convenience of big city amenities at Pickering’s awaited Seaton community, coming soon. Live at the nexus of classic and contemporary with a remarkable collection of 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-, 36and 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. 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-, 45- and 50-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. 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, coming soon to Milton. Take advantage of your rare opportunity to own 30-, 36- and 43-ft. detached riverside residences with lots backing onto Sixteen Mile Creek. Moments to southern Ontario’s most acclaimed golf courses and 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.

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. 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 master-planned 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 36- and 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. 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. UNIONVLLE: UNIONVILLE’S UPPER EAST SIDE

New community coming soon – freehold townhomes, 26- and 31-ft. two-car urban singles, 38-, 45- and 70-ft. estate singles Reach the height of elegance in one of Unionville’s most desired neighbourhoods with the master planned community of Unionville’s Upper East Side. A collection of freehold townhomes, 26- and 31-ft. urban singles with two car garages, and 38-, 45- and 70-ft. estate singles backing onto Berzcy Creek and open greenspaces, while connected to Unionville’s finest amenities. Register now at fieldgatehomes.com.

nexthome.ca 39

INSPIRATION |

decor

COSYING UP BY THE FIRE by LINDA MAZUR

As the seasons change and the cooler days and nights are upon us, it’s the perfect time for cosying up by the fire. Fireplaces have a certain appeal in a home – they add a warm and inviting aesthetic, even when not in use, and are the perfect complement to any decor style. If you reside in a house, adding a fireplace to your home can be a done with relative ease. However, condo-dwellers may encounter a few challenges from space to accessibility, ventilation, to even finding an electric fireplace that looks like a real fire. These days, condos and lofts are often outfitted with gas or even 40

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

wood burning fireplaces. If your home is not this fortunate, however, all is not lost, as there are many different possibilities that will still give you the beautiful ambiance a fireplace creates while facilitating any structural or venting limitations you may be facing. Electric fireplaces have come a long way since they first entered the market. Today, electric fireplace feature designs that use revolutionary ultrasonic technology to create true-to-life looking flames as well as smoke effects simulating a real wood-burning fire. Advancements in technology have also created the three-dimensional flame, which

is a fabulous and realistic design for an electric fireplace. The “open flame” electric fireplace insert is another great option that enables you to design with electric inserts at an entirely different level; creating stunning fireplaces from a traditional to modern aesthetic. Choosing the right design and function for your fireplace is key to maximizing the usage and enjoyment of your investment. As space can sometimes be limited, the addition of a fireplace to your condo should be well planned. But adding a fireplace to your home is not simply about function. Let’s face it, a fireplace can be a stunning focal point in a space, and definitely sets the mood for that room. A fireplace can be a wonderful complement to a well-designed wall unit that offers you added storage as well as the fireplace feature. A twoway fireplace can be a great addition to a room dividing wall. Or it can be an amazing stand-alone focal point in a space as well. Are you looking

to create drama in your home by using a stunning piece of marble for your fireplace façade; or perhaps a more traditional approach works best for you with a warm wood mantel. Whichever way you choose to incorporate a fire feature in your home rest assured the choices are seemingly endless when designing the facade of your fireplace. From fun paneled wall details to amazing dimensional and textured wall tiles, to concrete, wood, marble and so much more have fun with your design selections to create a wonderful new feature in your home.

We are fortunate to have a multitude of electric fireplace and woodstove options available to us today that no longer restrict condodwellers from enjoying the seasonal charms and comforts of a roaring fire. Whether your tastes veer to the more traditional, or whether you’re out to make a bold statement, you undoubtedly have an abundance of options and design inspirations to draw on. With the seasons changing and the colder days fast approaching it’s time to create for yourself an inviting, relaxed space for those chilly nights ahead.

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

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INSPIRATION |

big style

CREATIVE STORAGE SOLUTIONS TO SOLVE SMALL SPACE CHALLENGES by LISA ROGERS

Moving into a smaller space doesn’t mean you have to eliminate those essentials that can make your home feel functional and comfortable. A big part of that is how you can still meet your storage needs when you have less room to play with. With the right strategies, living in a smaller space and storing well is easy. Here, I will show you how to organize your home correctly with creative storage ideas for small spaces. 42

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

RETROFIT YOUR CLOSET SPACE

One of the biggest challenges in smaller homes is that they often need more closet space, particularly regarding entryway storage. Where to drop off your coats, jackets, shoes and more? Instead of renovating the space to build a fully-formed, walk-in closet, retrofit a portion of your wall space with hooks and open shelves to create a customized closet space that can work for you and your family.

Avoid the look of clutter by using baskets or bins on the shelves to organize (and hide) your belongings. HIDE YOUR STORAGE

When you live in a smaller home, you want to avoid disorder and mess. (It can make your space feel even smaller.) To ensure a cleaner, clutterfree look, use furniture that can work double-duty and utilize hidden storage. A bedroom storage bench,

a stylish multipurpose credenza or a lift-top coffee table can keep all your items out of sight but still accessible. DON’T FORGET YOUR NOOKS

Shelves don’t need to take up a lot of real estate to be impactful. In small spaces, a shorter length of open shelves can help with your storage stash needs, providing much-needed room to house your dishware, glassware or any cooking utensils you use most often. OPTIMIZE VERTICAL SPACES

Vertical space can be found anywhere, regardless of your home size. Behindthe-door storage is an excellent (and often overlooked) space. Put it to good use with hanging wire baskets lining the back of the door to store small items you would otherwise have scattered elsewhere. MAXIMIZE YOUR WALL SPACE

Install an entire wall of cabinets and drawers on one wall in your home, which would otherwise be an empty space. When it comes to small space organization, you must be clever about repurposing blank, unusable spaces.

BUY A PEGBOARD

A pegboard can be used to hang almost anything, and they are instrumental in the kitchen to hang your pots and kitchen tools or in your home office for organizational needs. Not only are they affordable and easy to install, but they will also free up a lot of space in your cabinets you would otherwise devout to these items. INVEST IN NEW BEDSIDE TABLES

Traditional nightstands typically have a shelf and one small drawer in them. While that still offers some storage, it’s not always enough. Rethink

the space and use actual built-in shelving as your bedside table: Yes, it takes up more square footage, but the return on investment is worth it, offering plenty more room to store bedroom items. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR BED’S STORAGE POTENTIAL

Most beds are wide and long enough to utilize the space underneath them. Whether you get a custom-made platform bed or try a bed frame with under-bed drawers, each option gives you ample space that’s out of the way and out of sight.

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

HOT PROPERTIES | GTA

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME

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

CALEDON

1. A Towns

9. Palgrave Estates

MARKHAM/ UNIONVILLE

Bayly St. E. & Salem Rd. S. fieldgatehomes.com

Mount Pleasant Rd. & Hunsden Rd. flatogroup.com

Bur Oak Ave. & Hwy 7 ballantryhomes.com

AURORA

10. Pathways Caledon East

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

Old Church Rd. & Innis Lake Rd. flatogroup.com

3. Allegro

CLAIREMONT

36 Klees Cres. geranium.com

11. Cresthaven Estates Brock Rd & Central Street

BRAMPTON

ETOBICOKE

4. DUO Condos

12. Lake & Town

245 Steeles Ave. W. duocondos.ca

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

6. Three Rivers Claireville

Islington Ave. & Lake Shore Blvd menkes.com

13. Boutique Towns 80 Thirtieth St. dunparhomes.com

14. The 900 Condo Signature Residences

Goreway Dr. & Humberwest Pkwy nationalhomes.com

900 The East Mall 9hundredcondo.ca

7. Queens Lane Townhomes

KLEINBURG

Mississauga Rd. & Queen St. branthavenbrampton.com

Hwy. 27 & Major McKenzie Dr. W. fieldgatehomes.com

BRANTFORD

15. New Impressions

8. Brant West 501 Shellard Lane losanihomes.com

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

16. Cornell Markham

17. Upper East Side Unionvillle Major Mackenzie & Woodbine fieldgatehomes.com

18. Riverwalk Meadows Ninth Line & 14th Ave. flatogroup.com

19. Angus Glen South Village

9980 Kennedy Rd., #200. kylemorecommunities.com

20. Kennedy Manors 4500 Major Mackenzie Dr East. kylemorecommunities.com

OSHAWA 21. Dreamscape

Conlin Rd. & Harmony Rd. fieldgatehomes.com

22. Park Ridge Conlin & Townline Rds. tributecommunities.com

RICHMOND HILL

PICKERING

24. Richlands

23. Seaton 1075 Taunton Rd. fieldgatehomes.com

Leslie St. & Elgin Mills Rd. fieldgatehomes.com

25. Millbrook Park Elgin Mills & Leslie St. northstarhomesinc.com

26. Park Lane Place Elgin Mills & Leslie St. northstarhomesinc.com

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

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

SCARBOROUGH 29. 670 Progress Ave. Progress Ave. & Grangeway Ave. fieldgateurban.com

11 3 34 2

21 22

24 20

25 26

33 23

CARTOGRAPHY: MARKETMAPS.COM

13 12

TORONTO

THORNHILL

30. Lambtown Towns

32. Citylux Towns at Thornhill Woods

2650 St. Clair West dunparhomes.com

31. 2650 St. Clair Ave W. 2650 St. Clair Ave W dunparhomes.com

WHITECHURCH/ STOUFFVILLE 34. Blue Sky

Dufferin St. & Rutherford Rd. fieldgatehomes.com

9th Line & Millard St. fieldgatehomes.com

WHITBY

35. Cityside Stouffville

33. Country Lane Taunton Rd. & Country Lane countrylanewhitby.com

10th Line & Main St. Stouffville fieldgatehomes.com

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

nexthome.ca 45

HOT PROPERTIES | SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO AREA

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME 1. Northshore Condo 484-490 Plains Rd. E. nationalhomes.com

2. Tyandaga Heights Burlington nationalhomes.com

11. Liberty Crossing

24. Joy Towns

Wonderland Rd. S. & Hamlyn St. sifton.com

Niagra branthaven.com

12. Middleton

Ontario St. & Drake Losanihomes.com

Wharncliffe Rd. & Exeter Rd. sifton.com

13. RiverBend Golf Community

GRIMSBY 3. Grimsby Waterfront 398 N Service Rd. losanihomes.com

2200 Jack Nash Dr. sifton.com

14. Rosewood

HAMILTONWENTWORTH 4. Soho Homes at Barton & Glover

Nissouri Rd. & Thorndale Rd. sifton.com

MILTON 15. The Valleylands

Barton St. & Glover Rd. losanihomes.com

Mayfield Rd. & Chinguacousy fieldgatehomes.com

16. Hawthorne Park 5. Highland Park Oakwood Dr. & Byron Ave. &Central Park: Midtown sifton.com & Soho Upper Red Hill Valley Pkwy & 17. Thompson Towers Thompson Rd. S & Drew Centre thompsontowers.ca

Rymal Rd. losanihomes.com

INGERSOL

MISSISSAUGA

6. HarrisView

18. Whitehorn Woods

34 Hollingshead Rd. sifton.com

KITCHENER/ WATERLOO 7. Wallaceton Huron Rd. & Fischer-Hallman heathwood.com

LONDON

1240 Britannia Rd. W. nationalhomes.com

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

NIAGARA REGION

20. Portview Estates 8. Victoria On The River Simcoe St. & Canal St. Sheffield Blvd. & Commissioners Rd. E. sifton.com

silvergatehomes.com

21. Luna

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

10. Hudson Park

Hwy. 406 & 56, Thorold silvergatehomes.com

22. Harbourtown Village

Fort Erie Colonel Talbot Rd. & Pack Rd. silvergatehomes.com sifton.com

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

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

Guelph

Waterloo Kitc7hener

The latest properties in the Southwestern Ontario Area to keep your eye on BURLINGTON/ WATERDOWN

KITCHENER–WATERLOO

Cambridge

25. Bench Mark

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

36. Merritton Mills St. Catharines silvergatehomes.com

37. Woodview at Vista Ridge 4008 Mountain St., Beamsville losanihomes.com

ST. THOMAS

2714 Westoak Trails Blvd. branthavenoakville.com

38. Harvest Run

32. Boulder Creek Cleaver Rd. & King Edward St. sifton.com

33. Riverbank Estates Nirh River losanihomes.com

ST. CATHERINES 34. Lincoln Estates Lincoln Ave. & King St. losanihomes.com

31. West & Post

PARIS

Brantford

Centennial Parkway & Elm Street dougtarryhomes.com

43. Village on the Twelve 21 Willow Bank Common St. silvergatehomes.com

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

45.Shelter Cove 15 Cricklewood Cres., Nanticoke sheltercove.ca

WEST REGION

STONEY CREEK 45. St. George Village 39. Sweetberry Barton & Glover sweetberrytowns.ca

WELLAND 40. Davis Heights 1535 Haist St, Pelham. lucchettahomes.com

36. Lusso Urban Towns

41. The Residences at Hunters Pointe

Martindale Rd. & Grapeview Dr, St. Catharines. lucchettahomes.com

42. Edgewater Trails

71 Kyntre Trail lucchettahomes.com Daimler Pkwy & Magnolia Ln, ballantryhomes.com

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

52. Cottonwood Dingle St. sifton.com

53. Edgewood Suites 270 Hagan Street East, Dundalk flato.com

54. Discoverie Condos 7 Central Ave Fort. Erie DiscoverieCondos.ca

Concession 2 & Woodhill Rd. losanihomes.com

47. Brant West 562 Shellard Ln losanihomes.com

48. Magnolia Trails Modeland Rd. & Michigan Lane sifton.com

49. Soleil St. Clair Corunna sifton.com

50. Expressions & Riverbank Estates 1021 Rest Acres Rd., Paris losanihomes.com

LONDON

Milton

CARTOGRAPHY: MARKETMAPS.COM

Mississauga

9 26 30

15 17

29 31

Oakville

London

8 12 49

11 10

Burlington 1

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25 34

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21 23 43

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nexthome.ca 47

HOT PROPERTIES | OUT OF TOWN Youngs Point

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415 Lakeshore Rd. masonhomes.ca

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3246 Line 9 North georgianinternational.com

HOMES Magazine |

13. Braestone Horseshoe Valley

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41 Main St. W. flatogroup.com

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COURTICE

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COLLINGWOOD 11. Edgewood Suites

5. GreenRidge & Beeton 9. The Vale Village Prestonvale Rd. & Bloor St.

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BEETON

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Forest Hill Rd. & Riverside Trail Hwy. 10 & Main St. East sifton.com flatogroup.com

Maple & Sixth Street georgianinternational.ca

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410 Yonge Street masonhomes.ca

Horseshoe Valley Rd. & Hwy. 93 georgianinternational.com

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nexthome.ca 49

ADVICE | INDUSTRY REPORT

ADJUSTING HST REBATE THRESHOLDS WOULD PROVIDE RELIEF FOR NEW-HOME BUYERS

DAVE WILKES

In September, 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 purpose-built 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 50

HOMES Magazine |

Nov. 18–Dec. 16, 2023

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.

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