Renters Guide Calgary

Calgary Edition

December 07 - 21, 2012 Volume 23 Issue 25

The Best Reasons to

Rent

realstar management We really care where you live!

Calgary Place Apartments • Downtown 1 & 2 bedroom suites • Garden Terrace with pool & tennis court • Fitness facility • Games Room • One block to LRT • Utilities included • Close to bike trails, paths, shopping and restaurants

www.calgaryplace.com

609 8 th Street SW, Calgary, AB

Tel: 403-261-7024

Glenmore Heights

• Bachelor, 1 & 2 bedroom suites • Fitness facility • Social room with full kitchen & library area • Utilities included www.glenmoreheights.com • One block to Chinook Centre • Parking available • Close to C-Train

620 - 67th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB

Tel: 403-301-3677

Beacon Heights Apartments • Open concept kitchens feature granite coutertops, tile backsplashes and black appliances • Fridge, self-cleaning oven, over the range microwave and dishwasher • Ceramic tile in kitchen, bathroom & foyer • Carpet in main living areas • Window blinds • In-suite Laundry

1540 Sherwood Blvd NW, Calgary, AB Tel: 403-514-6016

For more information www.realstar.ca

realstar management We really care where you live!

Glenmore Gardens • Bright, spacious suites with balconies/ patios and awe-inspiring views.

• On 30 acres of beautifully landscaped ground, and across from Glenmore Park Reservoir and Heritage Park • On-site aesthetics and hair salon www.glenmoregardens.com • Indoor Swimming pool and sauna • Fully equipped social room with a pool and full size kitchen.

• Wide range of shopping, restaurants and services at nearby Glenmore Landing.

2105 90th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB

Tel: 403-281-1404

Rouleau • Sleek, contemporary apartments with floor-toceiling windows, large balconies, and spectacular views of downtown & the Elbow River • In historic Mission district, and near the Elbow River and scenic pathways • Minutes from popular shops and restaurants on www.rentrouleau.ca trendy 4th Street • Walking distance to the Talisman Sports Center and the LRT • Quick and easy commute into the downtown core • Fully equipped fitness room

100, 124-26th Ave. SW, Calgary, AB

Tel: 403-244-1003

The Mansions • Spacious suites with contemporary flair, modern conveniences and gorgeous views • One- and two-bedroom suite options • On the Elbow River • Quiet residential neighbourhood • Superior laundry facilities • Secure underground parking • Each quality suite is equipped with a private balcony • Carpeted & ceramic flooring and a dishwasher • Security

104-26th Avenue SW, Calgary, AB

www.rentrouleau.ca

Tel: 403-244-1003

For more information www.realstar.ca

Dorsett Square Apartments

• Spacious 1 and 2 bedrooms • Adult building; seniors welcome • Heated undrgrnd parking incl.

• 3 appliances & on-site laundry • Amenities include fitness room and sauna

• Close to downtown shops & restaurants • On-site management • Heat and water included • Secured building w/balconies • SORRY, NO PETS!

Randal House Apartments

• Spacious 1 & 2 bedroom suites • Underground/outdoor parking • Adult building; seniors welcome • 10 Minute walk to downtown • Saunas, fitness room and games room

• Secured building • ALL utilities included!

• Smart card laundry facility • 3 appliances + balconies • On-site management • SORRY, NO PETS!

1339 - 15th Avenue S.W.

309 - 15th Avenue S.W.

Beddington Court Apartments

Village Vale Townhomes

403.245.5253

• Spacious 1 and 2 bedroom suites • Minutes away from airport • Electric fireplaces • Games room and laundry facility

• 3 appliances • Parking and heat included • Adult building; seniors welcome • Some suites with balconies • On-site management • SORRY, NO PETS!

230 Huntington Close N.E.

403.295.3809

Professionally Managed by:

403.228.3909

• Spacious 2 & 3 bedroom bungalows & 2 lvl townhomes • 2 full size bathrooms & walk-in closets • On-site management • 1 Parking stall included

• Electric fireplaces • Adult buildings • 5 appliances • Easy access to downtown • Ensuite storage • SORRY, NO PETS!

47 Glamis Drive S.W.

403.249.0643

Calgary Edition

December 07 - 21, 2012 Volume 23 Issue 25

FROnT COvER

FEATuRE

Vice-President, Wall2Wall Media Jacqueline Hill editor in chief, real estate Susan Legge national account Manager, MediatiVe Paul Slizys director of sales, Western canada Josh Heppner

The Best Reasons to

Media consultant Carolyn Porteous

Rent

editor Elisa Krovblit

12 renters’ help The best reasons to rent

by Jane herman

contriButors Jane Herman, Leslie Styles, senior Production Manager Gnanapandithan Bala Production Manager Nikki Yarwood

SECTIOnS 11 Calgary Marketplace

Production coordinator Bala Menon art director Lee Cobham design & Production Mike Terentiev, Swinder Jodhka

EDITORIAL FEATuRES

circulation Bill White (587) 226-1439

RENTERS GUIDE is published every two weeks. To submit articles or advertising, call Carolyn Porteous on: Tel. 780-688-3570 The magazine is free to the public.

Proud MeMber:

Published by

Copyright covers the contents of this publication and prevents reproduction in whole or in part; offenders will be prosecuted. We may reserve the right to refuse any advertising, to make changes or edit advertising as necessary. Care will be taken to ensure copy accuracy but no warranty is implied or given by the publisher.

The publication, the publisher and the printers shall not be responsible for any typographical errors, mistakes, misprints, spot colouring or any information or lack of information furnished by the advertisers. © 2012 Wall2Wall Media™ Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada homeTRADER and The homeTRADER & Design are trade-marks of Apax Partners LLP, used under license Disclaimer: The views expressed by the columnists in this publication are not necessarily those of the publication.

10

20

trendspotting 10 Bringing home the gold! by elisa Krovblit

scrumpdillyicious 20 Gingerbread apple upside-down cake by leslie styles

EDITORS’ NOTES

w

here are you at in your search for the perfect rental suite?

Whether you’ve just started looking or are almost ready to sign on the dotted line, we know you’ll find this publication helpful.

Using our information and ads, all the latest in rental accommodations, news and advice is at your fingertips.

Over the last few months, we’ve added more in the way of getting more details on rental communities and more tips on renting, design, recipes, expert advice and ways to make your space your very own.

Leasing a rental property is a serious decision and a significant commitment, so it is imperative that you do your homework and research the marketplace to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.

Let us know what you think of this issue. We love hearing from you!

Susan Legge EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, homeTRADER susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge

w

ho’s in holiday mode? Or should I ask who isn’t?

The halls of every mall are decked and Christmas music is floating through the air in nearly every restaurant and store.

Many apartment buildings get into the spirit of the season with some decorations – some communities even arrange for tenant gatherings and festivities. For some it’s a deeply religious time of year, for others it’s not. But it’s not just about Christmas, it’s about community.

If you want to decorate, just find out what your building permits. Some management companies will encourage you to add your own personal touches to decorative installations in common areas. Some reserve the common area decorations to company-approved and owned items. Some buildings allow you to put a wreath on your door while others prefer you limit your festive decorations to the inside of your suite.

This time of year isn’t just Christmas, it’s Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Winter Solstice, Festivus or something else. Some buildings recognize and decorate by sticking with a winter theme, others incorporate different traditions. There is no reason you can’t approach the property management and ask whether you can share your traditions too.

For me, this time of year isn’t about a specific holiday, it’s about enjoying, sharing, recognizing all that’s happened in the year that’s coming to a close.

Whatever your traditions are, make it a time of sharing and warmth, and include those in your community.

It’s a great time of year to find that new apartment. We’re here to help.

With Renters Guide in hand you’ll find the perfect place. Our magazine and website, homeTRADER.ca, offer the best selection of available apartments as well as informative articles and advice, making it easy to make your move!

Elisa Krovblit EDITOR elisa.krovblit@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/ElisaKrovblit Like us on Facebook Renters Guide

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renters’help

The Best Reasons to

Rent

By Jane Herman

W

ould you rather spend your free time seeing the latest movies or grouting your bathroom tile?

Would you prefer to spend your extra money each month on unexpected furnace repairs or sock it away in mutual funds?

For reasons such as these, more and more time-pressed individuals, empty nesters, single parents and young professionals are choosing to rent. Here’s why: Hassle-Free living When you rent, you’ll never have to call a plumber, electrician or handyman again! Renting frees you from the cost and hassle of all home maintenance and repairs.

Empty-nesters can happily shed house-related chores and move closer to entertainment, restaurants and shopping, while young professionals can enjoy a simpler lifestyle and shorter commute. aFFordability By renting, you’ll be able to afford to live in an area that might otherwise be out of your price range. And, unless you’re planning on staying in a house for more than five years, you risk losing money if you buy a home. Mortgages are amortized so you’re paying mostly interest in the first few years. Add in property tax, insurance, maintenance costs and the fees associated with selling the house and five years of renting can be significantly less than owning. tHe rewards oF renting Renting gives you the freedom to invest your savings in stocks, mutual funds, a small business, your education, or a vacation, instead of a home. lock in Utility costs In most cases, you will not have to incur bills when you rent.

In many apartments the cost of utilities are included in your rent. Because of fluctuating market prices, utility rates can rise dramatically. As a renter, you will not have to bear these cost increases directly. apartment living oFFers services When you lock yourself out of your apartment, the property manager can always let you in. Likewise, you can often count on someone being there to receive a parcel when you’re at work or away from your home.

Some apartment communities include concierge services that offer everything from babysitting to housekeeping, pet care, and grocery shopping. Now that’s for me! sUperior amenities packages Apartments have evolved, and many now offer a package of amenities and services that cannot be easily or affordably replicated in a single family home, like onsite fitness centres, swimming pools, tennis and squash courts, business centres, movie screening rooms and party facilities. never be lonely!

When you rent, you’ll enjoy the benefits of living in a community with friends and neighbours all around you. renting oFFers a myriad oF liFestyles As a renter you can sample life in an urban loft, midtown highrise, or restored coach house.

baby in tow Choose your apartment based on the neighbourhood school, park, library or day care services that are best suited to your particular needs. park UndergroUnd If your building includes underground parking, you’ll never have to deal with the dash to your car on cold, wet mornings! proFessional management Many of today’s owners are large public and private firms who have invested for the long term. You’ll reap such benefits as: convenient on-line leasing and maintenance requests; 60-day no risk trial periods; 24 hour maintenance guarantees; resident chat facilities and rent-to-own programs! tHere is sUre to be a coFFee sHop witHin tHrowing distance Wherever you choose to rent, you’ll be able to wake up and smell the coffee – now that’s the best reason of all!

Jane Herman is a communications consultant who has worked in the rental property industry.

Jane provides communications solutions for a diverse range of clients and has written about food, fashion, apartment living and personal finance for several publications.

trendspotting

The next time you say “You’re worth your weight in gold,” keep in mind that gold is currently worth over $25,000 a pound.

BRINGING HOME THE

It’s been chrome, chrome an chrome for the past few years d more and now the trend is shifting to a mo re refined and sophisticated accent metal.

Time to bring home the gold.

1

gold!

by EL ISA KR OV BL IT

2 3

6 4 5

1 Thomasville Lighting Elysian Collection Golden Brandy four-light chandelier $381.53. VISIT HOMEDEPOT.CA 2 Cocktail sideboard $1,299.99. VISIT HOMESENSE.CA 3 Printed Boucle pillow cover $51.19. VISIT WESTELM.COM 4 Moroccan pouf $275. VISIT JONATHANADLER.COM 5 Essex bedside table $392.94. VISIT POTTERYBARN.COM 6 Winslow mirror $399. VISIT BOMBAY.CA.

central | NE | NW | SE | SW | marketplace | rental classifieds

Here’s what you can do to Recycle, Renew and Reuse • Keep your car in good working order. Tune-ups and filter changes cut down on exhaust emissions, and you’ll get better gas mileage. When you change your oil, take your used motor oil to a recycling centre.

• Use available transit alternatives.

• Separate your garbage. Glass, aluminum, paper and even plastic can be recycled. If a recycling program is not directly available to you contact your municipal sanitation department.

• Donate reusable clothing and linens to charity.

Most pick-up regularly in your area.

• Become environmentally active in your community.

KEEP IT CLEAN Please!

NOW IS THE TIME TO ACT!

You can make the world a better place to live... now and for future generations.

403-259-0029

Tell Them You Saw It In The “Renters Guide” • 11

Scrumpdillyicious

LesLie styLes, foodie & traveL aficionado, shares some deLicious dishes found on her traveLs around the worLd.

GinGerbread appLe upside-down cake

directions

Preheat the oven to 325°F. Grease a 10-inch cake pan. To make the topping, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan. Add the brown sugar and simmer over medium heat, stirring for five minutes, then swirl in the salt. Remove the saucepan from the heat and pour the mixture into the cake pan, spreading with a spatula to distribute evenly. Make circles of overlapping apple slices on top of the brown sugar. Chop any remaining slices and place them in the gaps.

For the batter, blend 1/2 cup butter and 1/2 cup sugar in a standing mixer set on medium-low, then increase the speed to high and cream until the batter becomes light and fluffy.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the egg, molasses, honey, buttermilk and vanilla. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, ginger, cinnamon and nutmeg.

Alternate adding the egg mixture and the flour mixture to the creamed butter-sugar mixture, then pour the batter into the cake pan.

Bake at least 45 to 50 minutes or until a tester inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let cool on a wire rack for 10 to 15 minutes. Run a small knife around the edges of pan to loosen the cake, then place a serving platter over the cake and invert onto the platter.

t

his delectably moist gingerbread-spiced caramelized apple upsidedown cake is the perfect dessert for the chilly autumn and winter months. Dark, coppery and intensely flavoured, this delicious cake is made with dark molasses, honey, buttermilk and a trio of fragrant spices, and goes perfectly with a dollop of pillowy soft Calvados Whipped Cream or tangy creme fraiche. As tempting as it may be, don’t use a springform pan with a removable bottom, as the syrup will leak out and that would be very messy as well as being enormously tragic. ingredients serves 12 Topping: › 4 tbsp butter, plus extra for greasing pan › 1/2 cup dark brown sugar › Pinch of salt › 4 large Golden Delicious apples, peeled, cored and cut into 1/4-inch wedges Batter: › 1/2 cup butter, at room temperature

› › › › › › › › › › ›

1/2 cup sugar 1 large egg 1/3 cup dark molasses 1/3 cup honey 1 cup buttermilk 1 tsp vanilla 2 1/4 cups flour 1 tsp baking soda 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp cinnamon

› 1/2 tsp freshly ground nutmeg Calvados whipped cream: › 1/2 cup whipping cream, chilled › 1 tsp maple syrup › 1 tsp Calvados

Serve warm or at room temperature with very softly whipped Calvados Whipped Cream, made by whisking the cream with the syrup and Calvados in an electric mixer until cream holds soft peaks.

Leslie Styles is president of Styles Design Inc., a Toronto-based branding and communications agency, and author of Scrumpdillyicious, a food & travel blog dedicated to all things delicious. She can be reached at stylesdesign.net and scrumpdillyicious.blogspot.com

Village Vale Townhomes

Every unit includes: Parking, fridge, stove, dishwasher, washer, dryer, balcony or yard, electric fireplace, window coverings, very spacious with plenty of storage room Other: On-site management, pet-free, professionally landscaped, adult buildings Located in the Glamorgan community, 5 minute walk from many amenities including outlet stores, grocery stores, banks, churches, etc., bordering on the corner of Sarcee and Glenmore Trails, providing great access to those who work in southwest or downtown areas of Calgary.

• 2 storey suites feature a second four piece bath and walk-in closet off the master bedroom • Many units have been recently renovated, including new ceramic tiles and new kitchens

• Close to public transit, signal hills, park and trails • Bungalows are 980 sq/ft • 2 bedroom 2 storey 1322 sq/ft • 2 bedroom + den 1385 sq/ft

47 Glamis Drive S.W. • Professionally Managed by:

403.249.0643

Visit us at: www.scpl.com Email: scpl-mtn@shawbiz.ca

s e i l i m a F elcome W

CEDARS OF CALGARY

215 - 86 Avenue SE

• 1, 2 & 3 bedrooms available • Wood burning fireplace • DW, fridge, stove & garburator • In-suite & outdoor storage • Heat, water + 1 prkg stall incl CA L L US TODAY • Squash & tennis courts to book an appoint ment to v iew • Min. to LRT & Heritage Ph: 403-252-7310 Station Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 to 5:00 After hours appointments readily accommodated

MEADOWBROOK

13531 Deer Run Blvd SE

• 1 & 2 bedrooms • Fireplace • Fridge, stove & dishwasher • Insuite & outdoor storage • Squash & tennis courts • Heat, water & sewer included • Bus to Canyon Meadows CA L L US TODAY to book an appoint ment to v iew LRT

Ph: 403-278-6676 Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 to 5:00 Saturday 10:00 to 4:00

After hours appointments readily accommodated

Visit us at: www.scpl.com Email: scpl-mtn@shawbiz.ca

s e i l i m a F elcome W

SILVER HEIGHTS R !

U O VE I UT NT O E AB NC I SK A SE A LE

101 Silverthorn Road NW

• 1, 2 & 3 bedrooms • Fridge, stove, dishwasher • Heat & hot water • Fireplace • In-suite & Outdoor storage • Squash & tennis courts • Easy access to LRT and Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 to 5:00 bus routes • Close to Bow River Ph: 403-288-6515

After hours appointments readily accommodated

DALGETTY VILLAGE

102d - 5735 Dalgetty Drive NW

• 1 & 2 bedrooms • Two level, 2 BR suites • Electricity, heat & hot water • Fridge, stove, dishwasher • Bus routes steps away, close to LRT • Blocks away from excellent shopping centers Hours: Mon-Fri 9:00 to 5:00 Ph: 403-288-6311 • Close to U of C

After hours appointments readily accommodated

Visit a Community Recycling Depot

calgary.ca/recycling Or find a private recycler 2012-1683

recyclinghotline.ca

calgary.ca | call 3-1-1

Onward/ By 2020, per capita waste sent to City of Calgary landfills is reduced from 2007 levels by 80 per cent.