Jayman BUILT

What are the biggest challenges facing the industry in 2022 in Edmonton? And how does Jayman BUILT plan to cope with them? Affordability will continue to be one of the biggest challenges for the industry faces in 2022 in Edmonton. With the continuing supply chain disruptions, labor shortages, inflationary pressures and interest rate increases there will be continued upward pressure on retail pricing. In 2022, Jayman plans to leverage all of our systems and process to mitigate those disruptions and ultimately keep our homes affordable, while introducing new models and floorplan options to meet the needs of our customers.

2020 and 2021 seemed to have been a boon for the new home market contrary to predictions. Was there anything that surprised you on how those lockdown years went for you? Any insights that you can give readers on how the market behaved? What is the big takeaway from events of last year? We were surprised by just how high the demand for new homes was in Edmonton and surrounding areas actually was. Edmonton house prices continue to be seen as the most affordable of any large city in Canada, and as such, demand has remained strong. Very high demand in the first half of the year was challenging to navigate, as the industry was also impacted by rapid price escalations, labor shortages and product shortages. The biggest takeaway from 2021 was just how unpredictable the market was coming out of the lockdowns and how important a stable supply chain and labor base has

Charles Fay

Vice-President, Edmonton Jayman BUILT

become as we continue to navigate these issues going into 2022.

Do you see any new design trends in homes this year? Is the multi-generational design trend of homes going to continue? Are you seeing any new design trends like more emphasis on study areas and home offices? How about for townhomes, duplexes and other multi-family models? We are definitely seeing the multi-generational design trend continue to be strong. Main floor bedroom spaces and main floor offices are in high demand for all product types. There is an increased demand for basement suites as affordability becomes a greater concern. Many customers are either adding the complete suite or asking for side entrances so that they can develop the suites at a later date. Energy efficient options will also become far more important in 2022 as inflation continues and operational costs increase.

What would be your advice to prospective new home buyers in these times? What should new homebuyers be aware of or expect? My advice to prospective new home buyers in these times is to do your homework. Look at the total package and not just the price. Make sure you compare in detail the specifications and floor plans with a focus on how you are planning to live in the house. You will be dealing with your builder for several years throughout the build and into the warranty and service time period so you will want to make sure you compare the entire offering and not just the price. Compare the builders levels of service, communication and customer experience prior to making your purchase. Be prepared for possible delays in the construction schedule as well as possible product shortages. Trust your builder and their process and procedures as they construct your home.

Where do you see growth in the market? Why do you think so? Growth in the market will be in all product types. With the economy improving, affordability becoming an even greater challenge in other parts of Canada and therefore driving people out of those markets and house prices in Edmonton continuing to be seen as the most affordable of any large city in Canada, demand for all product types should remain strong.