Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2018 by NextHome

2018 | nexthome.ca METRO VANCOUVER EDITION

THE BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL

Discover Edmonton’s builders, developers & new communities one story at a time

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21 5 Street ead owh Yell Trail

CONTENTS E TUR FEA ORY T S

40 FEATURES

40 Economy

It’s official, Edmonton – the recovery is on! BY WAYNE KARL

56 Q&A

With Carmen Wyton, CEO, Building Industry and Land Development Alberta Association

TRENDING

10 Recreation

9 things to do in Edmonton that won’t break the bank

30 Dining

Hotel restaurants that are worthy destinations by themselves

46 Home Care

Homeowner in Alberta? You might need one of these

50 Homebuying

5 things to look for when you’re buying a home

ADVICE

52 Mortgage Intel

How will the new mortgage rules affect you? BY ALYSSA FURTADO

4 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

INSPIRATION

14 Style File

Creative closet customization with Drew and Jonathan Scott

VICE-PRESIDENT & CHIEF PUBLISHING OFFICER

Caroline Andrews PUBLISHER & GENERAL MANAGER

BY ELISA KROVBLIT KEAY

Shawn Woodford

16 Design Secrets

DIRECTOR OF CONTENT & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

How to prepare for your ever-changing kids’ rooms

Jennifer Reynolds

BY JANE LOCKHART

Nora Wallace

DIRECTOR, MULTIMEDIA SOLUTIONS MANAGING EDITOR

EDITOR’S NOTE

Wayne Karl

6 Homebuying

ART DIRECTOR

Tammy Leung

Why now is a perfect time to buy a home in Edmonton

SALES MANAGER, MULTIMEDIA SOLUTIONS

Jared Holland 403.462.7781 ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

Nancy Chemait 780.619.3241 Shelby Biggs 587.357.7402

Q&A

SENIOR MANAGER, DISTRIBUTION

Dwayne Rutherford NATIONAL CIRCULATION MANAGER

John Jenkins PRODUCTION MANAGER

Anthony Majetic PRODUCTION CO-ORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

56 Builders, Developers and New Communities 7

eaverbrook B Communities

11 Coventry Homes 17 Alldritt Land Corp. 21 Lang Built Homes 24 White Eagle Homes

27 Qualico Communities

31 Novesta Construction 34 Interiors by Design 37 Christenson Developments

43 Creekwood / Creekwood Collections

47 Pompei Homes 53 Reliance

Miguel Cea Sandra Hanak-Vujnovic Dennis Ng Mike Terentiev Greg Van Sluytman Hannah Yarkony

Published by

A brand of Yellow Pages Homes Ltd. Edmonton’s Builder and Developer Annual is published once a year. PO Box 458 Station Main Edmonton, AB T5J 2K1 NATIONAL ADVERTISING: Call 416.626.4200 for advertising rates and information. CIRCULATION: Highly targeted, free distribution system aimed at real estate buyers using street level boxes and racking, plus door-to-door insertions in key audience segments. Call 1-855-826-4200 to discuss distribution opportunities. COPYRIGHT 2017-18 All rights reserved by Yellow Pages Homes Limited. Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Contents of this publication are covered by copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law. TERMS Advertisers, Editorial Content and 2018 Builder and Developer Annual are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All prices are correct as of press time and are subject to change without notice. E. & O. E. NextHome.ca 5

EDITOR’S NOTE

WHY NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO BUY A HOME

WAYNE KARL MANAGING EDITOR NextHome

Good news, Edmonton. You’ve not only survived the difficult times of the last few years, but the strength of your geographic location, increasingly diverse economy and other characteristics have the city poised to lead the recovery in the province. Alberta, for that matter, was on pace to finish 2017 with the fastest growing economy. For Edmonton, specifically, important signposts such as growth in GDP, employment and wages are all trending up. Interest rates, while forecast to rise slightly over the next two years, are expected to remain favourable. And homeownership affordability, according to the latest measures, is still among the best in Canada. While there may be some discussion over where precisely in the recovery process Edmonton is, there’s little debate that the worst is over, and the best – or the next round of the best – is yet to come. Combine these positive trends with encouraging citybuilding initiatives, from neighbourhood development to infrastructure projects to the continuing rejuvenation of the downtown core... All of this points to opportunity for prospective homebuyers in the city, and a great time to be looking forward to your future in Edmonton.

EMAIL: Wayne.Karl@nexthome.ca TWITTER: @WayneKarl

ROAD TO RECOVERY It’s been a tough few years, Edmonton, but you’re back. Page 40

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6 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

Beaverbrook Communities is committed to offering you flourishing and vibrant communities, in the best neighbourhoods. Spruce Grove

South West Edmonton

Sturgeon Valley

South East Edmonton

Leduc

Fort McMurray

Visit beaverbrook.ca to learn more. 7

• Homes starting from the $310’s • Townhomes, Duplex and Single-Family Homes • Location: East of Jubilee Park • Features: Greener living in timeless New York brownstone architecturestyled homes www.greenbury.ca SPRUCE GROVE

• Homes starting from the $300’s • Duplex and Single-Family Homes

• Location: East of Jubilee Park off Pioneer Road • Features: K–9 Prescott Learning Centre, Beaverbrook Wellness Center offering a YMCA child care facility and Parent Link Centre www.liveinprescott.ca SPRUCE GROVE

• Estate lots starting from the low $200’s • Buy a lot directly from Beaverbrook and choose your own builder • Single-Family Estate Lots

• Location: North of Vanderbilt Common off Century Road • Features: The conveniences of modern living in estate homes with many architecturally diverse products www.woodsatkenton.ca SPRUCE GROVE

• Homes starting from the $350’s • Duplex and Single-Family Homes • Location: South of Highway 16 along Century Road • Features: Westwind Commercial Centre, two distinct architectural styles: Prairie Modern and Contemporary Modern www.kentonvillage.ca SPRUCE GROVE

• Homes starting from the $330’s • Townhomes, Duplex and Single-Family Homes • Location: Along Ellerslie Road, East of 50th Street • Features: Mixed streetscapes, Sustainability Plaza, Solar Playground, 200m Ice Skating Ribbon and Disc Golf Course www.hillsatcharlesworth.ca SOUTH EAST EDMONTON

• Lots starting from the $620’s • Buy a lot directly from Beaverbrook and choose your own builder • Beautiful estate lots located on the coveted Windermere Drive www.thedriveinwindermere.ca

SOUTH WEST EDMONTON

• Lots starting from the $299’s

• Location: Situated on the banks of the Sturgeon River, next to the Sturgeon Valley Golf and Country Club • Features: Sturgeon Valley’s only gated cul-de-sac, bordered by nature, only two minutes from St. Albert amenities www.riversgate.ca STURGEON VALLEY

• Homes starting from the $300’s

• Homes starting from the low $300’s

• Detached Duplex, Front-Attached Duplex and Single-Family Homes • Location: Southeast Leduc • Features: A central park and playground, toboggan hill, walking paths and outdoor skating rink www.liveinrobinson.ca

• Townhomes, Duplex, Urban and Premier Homes • Location: Southwest Edmonton • Features: Contemporary Modern and Prairie Modern architecture, two school sites www.oneatkeswick.ca

LEDUC

SOUTH WEST EDMONTON

• Single-Family lots starting from the $200’s • Buy a lot directly from Beaverbrook and choose your own builder • Location: Sits on the edge of lush ravines along the Athabasca River basin • Features: Networks of trails, forested areas, parks and commercial amenities www.stonecreekinftmac.com FORT MCMURR AY

• Lots starting from the $150’s • Buy a lot directly from Beaverbrook and choose your own builder • Location: Nestled in the boreal forests of the Athabasca River basin • Features: Affordable lots in a family-friendly community www.liveinparsonscreek.ca FORT MCMURR AY

TRENDING

9 THINGS TO DO IN EDMONTON ON A BUDGET by GENE KOSOWAN

4 | Reel Family Cinema Going to a movieplex these days isn’t cheap, and there’s always a chance you’ll see a box office dud. Thankfully, there’s a way to ensure you catch a classic flick with the family at a cheaper rate. The Metro Cinema (formerly Garneau Theatre) brings back the old Saturday matinee with classic family films so you can experience high-calibre cinema in a historic movie theatre.

3 | Free Festival Fun

9 Edmonton entertainment options to keep you amused – that won’t break the bank

9 | Art Gallery of Alberta The biggest gallery in town is home to about 6,000 collections, with three floors of exhibition space. If the admission is out of your price range, take heart. The AGA lets patrons in for free on the last Thursday of the month, from 6 to 9 p.m. – proof that culture doesn’t cost a lot of coin.

8 | Oil Kings at Rogers Place Feeling priced out of NHL Edmonton Oilers games at Rogers Place, with tickets as high as $350? Consider checking out the Western Hockey League’s Edmonton Oil Kings for a much more reasonable $20 to $35 a seat. 7 | Pasta Frenzy at Chianti Café It’s almost mandatory to dine at Chianti, housed in the historic post office building, to get into the boho 10 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

vibe of Old Strathcona. And for families, on Mondays and Tuesdays, prices on more than 30 pasta dishes drop to $9.99.

6 | Live theatre on Tuesday Can’t hang with the see-and-be-seen crowd on opening night of a muchtalked-about theatrical production? See the same show on Tuesday, when most mid-size theatre companies offer pay-what-you-can incentives.

5 | Po’ Boys at DaDeO Fans of Cajun-style cuisine frequent this retro-style Whyte Avenue eatery and swear by the $12 sandwich deal offered Mondays and Tuesdays, which saves you at least 20 per cent on each order. Choose from blackened chicken, Philly cheese steak or all-veggie from more than a dozen options available.

Don’t let an empty wallet stop you from enjoying Festival City. Some festivals won’t cost you a cent to attend, such as the Kaleido Family Arts Festival, the Deep Freeze Festival, and The Works Art & Design Festival, with free art venues and live entertainment on Sir Winston Churchill Square. That’s also where the Edmonton International Street Performers Festival trots out its free attractions.

2 | River Valley Take advantage of the fresh air and natural scenery of Edmonton’s River Valley, where at some points you don’t even realize you’re in the city. At your disposal are 160 kilometres of hiking and bike trails, 20 parks for picnics and get-togethers, and facilities for golf, skating and skiing. 1 | Pizza at Branches Branches Fresh Food Experience in Sherwood Park uses only ingredients that reflect its moniker and on Tuesdays, it offers two pizzas for only $25. From YP.ca. More YP travel tips and city guides at yp.ca/tips

PHOTO: ART GALLERY OF ALBERTA

Art Gallery of Alberta

Coventry Homes

Discover the freedom of flexible home designs FOR OVER 40 YEARS, Coventry Homes

has been leading the home building industry with their exemplary commitment to offering clients superior quality and outstanding service. Producing exceptionally built single and multi-family homes; this award-winning builder continuously delivers innovative designs and unique features that provide customers with a product that is unlike others in the new home market. Coventry Homes’ CEO, Henri Rodier, founded the company based on values that are still leading his team today. Rodier’s vision is focused on “building confidence and creating peace of mind” for their customers. Coventry’s unwavering commitment to customer service ensures all clients receive a first-rate experience and are interacting with a team that is genuine, ethical, and devoted to delivering a product that enriches their lives. One of Coventry’s most distinguished features is their

expertly designed Lifestyle Packages. These Lifestyle Packages bring a fantastic personalized component to the home building process, and allow homebuyers to customize their home to suit their individual needs. Homebuyers have the opportunity to choose from a variety packages, like The Executive Chef, which features a huge 36” gas stove and a Kitchenaid® stainless steel French door fridge. Coventry has gone the extra mile to ensure they offer flexibility to their customers by presenting homebuyers the ability to customize any of their floor plans. There are two different specifications available to choose from - the Pinnacle, their standard model, and the more price-conscious Prestige. Once a customer chooses the floor plan that is their best fit, they have the opportunity to work with one of Coventry’s expert in-house design consultants to decide on their home’s colour palette, flooring style and finishings. 11

Part of what sets Coventry Homes apart from other homebuilders is their top-quality “standard” finishings package, which includes granite, hardwood, and tile! This is essential to the Coventry Homes brand, as Marketing Manager, Tara Van Horn, explains; “We believe that it’s important to showcase our most popular options up front to our clients so that they aren’t faced with unexpected hidden costs later in their home buying journey. Our team prides themselves on the fact that our customers don’t have to spend extra money on upgrades to have a great home – we have already created a stunning base product for them!” Offering a wide range of home styles to choose from including bungalows, two-storeys, duplexes, townhomes and streetscape homes, homebuyers can currently find Coventry in some of Edmonton’s most coveted communities. Prospective buyers can explore Coventry Homes throughout the city and surrounding area, including Aurora, Cy Becker, College Woods Secord, Glenridding Heights, Laurel Crossing, Maple Crest, Newcastle, Paisley, The Village at Griesbach, Aspen Trails in Sherwood Park, Lake Westerra in Stony Plain, Riverside in St. Albert, and their newest additions - Crystallina Nera and The Uplands at Riverview! 2018 will see Coventry expanding into even more communities, so stay tuned for details on both single & multi family Coventry options in Copper Haven (Spruce Grove), West Secord (Edmonton), and Woodbend (Leduc). Numerous new Coventry showhomes were unveiled in this last year, each offering fresh new designs and floor plans. Three of their newest showhomes opened in the highly anticipated new community of the Uplands at Riverview - the Devra, a streetscape home boasting eyecatching contemporary style; the Kalliope, a breathtaking 2,500 sq.ft. two-storey home; and the Mira, which presents Coventry’s newest Oilers Fan Cave Lifestyle Package. Expect to see multiple new showhomes opening throughout several communities in the coming year! 12

As the Preferred Builder of the Edmonton Oilers, Coventry Homes is proud to align with one of the largest and most recognized franchises in the Edmonton marketplace. Working with the Edmonton Oilers has given Coventry Homes the exclusive opportunity to offer a popular Oilers Fan Cave Lifestyle Package. Another fantastic Oilers collaboration is their Game Day event that marks the official launch of their new Oilers familyfocused Fan Cave that features a mini rink! Mark your calendars for January 23rd – the 2018 Oilers Game Day event is a not-to-be missed event filled with fun and plenty of prizes. Giving back to the organizations within our city is important to the entire team at Coventry Homes. The past decade has seen Rodier and his Coventry team devote their fundraising efforts towards the Edmonton Humane Society. Through their annual Coventry Homes Paws and Claws Gala and other EHS initiatives, Coventry is able to raise funds that help care for neglected, abused and homeless animals. Celebrating the 10th annual Gala on March 10, 2018, Coventry is expecting to hit the incredible mark of $1,000,000 raised! These amazing efforts were recognized last year as Coventry Homes was honored with an AFP Edmonton & Area Chapter National Philanthropy Day Award! Nominated by the EHS, the Coventry team brought home the well-deserved award for 2017 Social Services. The future for Coventry Homes is bright and the company is proud to be celebrating their success in Edmonton. As Rodier describes “Our team is committed to staying focused on delivering quality craftsmanship and great customer experience to all our clients. We are dedicated to helping communities in the Edmonton area grow, and look forward to more positive opportunities within the city that our company is proudly rooted in.”

To lean more about Coventry Homes, or for a list of showhomes, visit coventry-homes.com or call 780-453-5100. 13

INSPIRATION | STYLE FILE

Organization

transformation

On HGTV’s Brother vs. Brother, The Property Brothers Jonathan and Drew Scott fix poorly used storage with some creative closet customization by ELISA KROVBLIT KEAY Jonathan and Drew Scott are widely recognized as The Property Brothers, the hit HGTV show now in its sixth season. Their other show, Brother vs. Brother, now five seasons in, has proven to be just as entertaining. The Scott’s combined realtor and renovator skills, personalities and real estate savvy make for some spectacular TV. In one episode of Brother vs. Brother, Drew and Scott waged the Beachfront Battle, and though both properties were beautiful, The Galveston Beach House was a solid win for Drew. Even the closets are gorgeous! 14 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

While the Scott brothers aren’t likely to pay you a visit, you can share in the secret to customized closets and bring the beauty, organization and function into your own home. In Beachfront Battle, Drew used modularclosets.com to transform the closets in the Galveston Beach

Drew & Jonathan Scott Brother vs. Brother Season 5

BEFORE

House. No mere crossbar and top shelf, the spaces featured on Brother vs. Brother showcased how to maximize storage in these basic closets. There are many options for customizing a closet and maximizing functional storage. These range from do-it-yourself solutions that can be bought off the rack at a local hardware store, to fully custom-built spaces that cater to a homeowner’s every need. In today’s new home and condo market, where real estate is at a premium and storage is slim, it makes sense to get the most mileage out of any storage space. There are seemingly endless choices when it comes to custom closets. Zev Lapides, director of online sales at modularclosets.com,

says, “Choosing closet parts is like anything else. The more you add, the more it will cost, but the more you will enjoy your closet.” One of the benefits of a well organized closet is that it reduces the demand for furnishings. In a small bedroom, this can mean the difference between comfortable and cramped. Eliminate the need for a highboy dresser and a chest of drawers, and now you’ve got ample floorspace for a roomier, more minimalist feel without sacrificing storage. “Many people opt for a wellequipped closet instead of furniture,” says Lapides. “This gives you the ability to keep the bedroom clean and neat, leaving all your clothes in a closed closet.” And if you’re sharing closet space

AFTER

with a significant other, Lapides says, “We usually try to keep his and hers separate. It makes it much easier to keep organized and neat.” You already know who the neat one is in your relationship, so imagine what a well-organized closet may mean for you. With inspiration from the gorgeous examples on Brother vs. Brother, some smart closet design and a few functional and fashionable accessories, you, too, can have an organization transformation in your closets. For more of Jonathan and Drew Scott, visit thescottbrothers.com and check out Brother vs. Brother, The Property Brothers and other shows on HGTV. You can also dive into their newest book release, It Takes Two. NextHome.ca 15

INSPIRATION | DESIGN SECRETS

HOW TO

PREPARE

for your (ever-changing) kids' rooms by JANE LOCKHART When it comes to kids’ rooms and decor, I have one rule of advice: Let your child participate in the decisions. It’s their room and they know best what they prefer for colours. Now, that rule also carries with it a caveat – these decisions will be temporary. Children grow, change and then change some more and so do their tastes. I’m certainly not advocating that we indulge in their every whim and fantasy – unless you’re okay with that, but at least let them take an active part in the decision regarding colour. Paint is one of the least expensive decorating products and it can transform a space relatively quickly. Think about it. Did your parents let you choose the wall colour of your room when you were a child? My mother chose it for me so my childhood room was gold and brown. They were contemporary choices “back in the day” but I wouldn’t have picked them for myself. 16 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

Babies’ rooms are (relatively) easier to decorate because you get to choose how the room will look. You get to indulge your tastes… for a while. As soon as your child can talk, he or she will develop opinions. From then on the countdown is on ‘til they tell you what they want in their room. I usually give it five years. You’ve been warned. There will come a day when they will outgrow that adorable space and insist on decorating their own space. …continued on page 20

GET S

GR A N DER

ver the past eight years, Granville has enjoyed a tremendous amount of success in each stage of development with little indication of this slowing down despite a pause in some economic sectors. In fact, recently developed lots in Stage 12 are already 98% sold. With this incredible popularity, coupled with the convenience of a great location adjacent a new K-9 public school, it doesn’t take long to see why Granville is West Edmonton’s premiere neighbourhood. This charming Craftsman inspired community takes it up a notch with their estate section, which brings to the community its second enhanced water feature as well as a large park, mature trees and walking trails. “We wanted to create a community that has something for everyone. Residents can buy their first Granville home and then move up or down to a different housing product as their lifestyles change”, says David Benjestorf, Legal Counsel and Director of Land Development for Alldritt Land Corporation. “More importantly, however, we wanted to create a community that would carry on Alldritt’s legacy of excellence, ingenuity, hard work and customer satisfaction.”

THE LEGACY AND INSPIRATION Stan Alldritt Sr’s vigorous work ethic, ingenuity and distaste for mediocrity continues to inspire the Alldritt Group to this day. The story of how the Alldritt Group began is not only interesting but also inspirational. Born in 1909 in a small town north of Dublin, Ireland, Stan Alldritt Sr. sought to stake his own claim in the new world. With a sense of adventure and a great work ethic instilled upon him by his family, Stan Sr. came to Canada in the early 1930’s. Upon arrival, Stan Sr. obtained a teaching degree from the University of Saskatchewan, followed thereafter by a degree in Geotechnical Engineering. He worked for many years in both fields, though as the 1930’s drew to a close, the possibility of war grew ever more real. The Canadian government sent out a decree seeking engineers to be trained to help with the war effort. Jumping at the opportunity to give back to his new found country, Stan Sr. was off to Ontario where he was trained as an Aircraft Engineer. Receiving top marks in his class, Stan Sr. was offered his choice of posts. After settling in Edmonton, Stan Sr. worked at the 17

aircraft repair division at the Edmonton Municipal Airport. Damaged aircraft would be sent in crates via ship from the war front to Canada, and then via rail to Edmonton. Once repaired, the planes were then flown back to Europe to rejoin the war effort. Interestingly, the government would hold regular salvage auctions. At such auctions, Stan Sr. would purchase wooden crates that the aircraft parts came in, taking them home and stockpiling the nails and wood in his spare time. In addition, he would scrape the solder from the stainless steel boxes (used to ship aircraft engines) which were obtained from the same auction, selling the lead back to the government to manufacture bullets for the front lines. With victory abroad nearing, war related aircraft work began to dwindle and the Edmonton based aircraft engineers were encouraged to seek post war opportunities. Knowing that day would come, Stan Sr. had amassed a sizable stockpile of building materials. With that ingenuity, vision and resources, the present day Alldritt Group was born. Beginning with the homes at the NW corner of Stony Plain Road and 124 Street in 1943, and then the adjacent apartments (still standing to 18

this day), the Alldritt Group began providing quality homes in a timely manner to meet the housing shortage that followed WWII. Alldritt Group is still a family run business, currently run by Stan Alldritt Jr. who carries on his fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s legacy of quality and ingenuity. Over the years, the Alldritt Group has developed or built thousands of residential units in Edmonton and its surrounding areas, which continues to this day, and has further amassed an equally impressive commercial portfolio, which grows with each passing year. With 74 years of experience and knowledge, the Alldritt Group has firmly planted its roots in Edmonton, and Granville has now become a part of that legacy. FEATURES OF GRANVILLE Granville has something for everyone. Home options in Granville include front attached and rear detached duplexes, bungalows and two-storey executive duplexes, single family homes and refined estate properties. Two years ago, Stafford Greens added a 4-storey concrete and steel condominium to

the mix, which has now been completed, and plans for a new building are now underways. Granville has five premiere single family home builders (Alldritt Homes, Bedrock Homes, Crimson Cove Homes, Pacesetter Homes, and San Rufo Homes), and a variety of distinguished estate builders to choose from, including some estate lots open to other qualified builders of the homeowner’s choosing. This exciting combination of award winning builders and public builders ensures that all new-home buyers are able to find the perfect home to fit their personal tastes and lifestyle needs. Granville also offers its residents the convenience of a wide variety of amenities at its doorstep which gives homeowners the unique combination of a newly built home coupled with already existing infrastructure and services. These amenities include two recently opened new schools nearby (with another one coming) as well as a new K-9 public school and park site located right in Granville that is scheduled to open in January of 2018. There are also a variety of recreational and professional service opportunities. In addition, a wide variety of existing retail services including two grocery anchored shopping centers

and Edmonton’s newest Costco are walking distance away. “With so much demand in the area, we are also constructing three new shopping centres in Granville to complement all that already exists. One of which includes an 8 acre live, work and play site so residents’ will have everything at their fingertips,” says Benjestorf. Other Granville features include two beautifully manicured water features, two playgrounds, an extensive trail system connecting to adjacent communities, enhanced landscaping and like amenities, and a centrally located 21 acre school/park site, all designed to encourage an active lifestyle. Ideally located with easy access to the Whitemud and Anthony Henday, and adjacent to undeveloped reserve land, Granville has the benefit of quick City wide access without the negative impacts of noise, debris, power lines and traffic. With so many great features, it’s easy to see why life is so grand in Granville! For more information, please visit our website at www.mygranville.com. 19

…continued from page 16

Today we see decor options for children that cater to their tastes, such as cartoon characters or hobbies. That interest may not last, so add a few accessories based on the theme and spend your investment on the more permanent pieces in a room. A great bed, desk and dressers

can last for years right into their first adult apartment. But that requires discipline on your part. There is a whole category of juvenile furniture that may look great but is sometimes smaller in scale and your child may not be interested in those furnishings starting in their teen years.

The next stage in your child’s developing opinions on their “territory” come when your child hits the pre-teen years. Suddenly all the childhood themes are replaced with something a little more “aspirational.” Whether it’s sports, hobbies or fandom, your pre-teen will want a room that reflects their changing tastes. As I mentioned, painting can produce great results, then let them participate in what goes up on those painted walls. You may not like it, but everything is temporary, including the holes in the walls. Your teen may just start taking over the decor completely and become even more territorial over their space. I have a client whose teen son always left the empty drawers open in his dresser, the contents spilled out all over the floor. This client was mortified at the lack of respect for tidiness. The teen, however, saw it as a shortcut to getting dressed. This is normal, some teens express themselves through their room. This can be alarming and depending on your degree of tolerance, this may be the thing that puts you over the edge. But take a breath, try to relax, this too is temporary. If we can just keep in mind that it’s just decor. That it’s going to constantly change and develop. Most children learn a healthy respect for their surroundings and develop their own tastes by the time they’re adults. It may be difficult for those who like to control the aesthetics of their homes, but try to look at it as a gift you’re giving your child – the gift to express themselves in their own four walls. After all, one day you just might have a chance to exact revenge by decorating the guest room in your grown children’s homes!

Jane Lockhart is founder and principal designer of Jane Lockhart Interior Design. She was creative director and host of W Network’s top-ranked show, Colour Confidential, and has a Canadian-built furniture collection, Jane by Jane Lockhart, by Statum Designs. Visit janelockhart.com 20 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

Lang Built Homes

Exclusive adult living in Spruce Grove

or over a decade, Lang Built Homes has been perfecting the art of building adult tailored homes with their executive style bungalows in Spruce Grove. Conveniently located within the Harvest Ridge community is their newest development Water’s Edge Villas, a community that offers an exclusive adult lifestyle that Lang Built Homes is best known for. Based off of their highly successful EdgeWater Villas (a sold out community!), this new community is set to become another celebrated and thriving neighbourhood by the Lang Built Homes team.

You’ll find 26 estate bungalow villas within the Water’s Edge thoughtfully planned community. Featuring a desirable lock-it and leaveit lifestyle, these homes are ideal for the unique needs of empty nesters and snowbirds. Water’s Edge provides a convenient, comfortable, and beautiful place to call home for its residents. Boasting fantastic amenities, homeowners will be situated close to walking trails, first-rate shopping, and quick access to major roadways. By turning homebuyers’ downsizing dreams into a reality, Lang Built Homes has mastered the ideal combination of providing a desirable home product within a community that connects individuals with similar interests. 21

The homes at Water’s Edge Villas have been designed to meet the growing demands of the baby-boomer homebuyers in the market. Each home offers a gorgeous floor plan that has been strategically developed to be comfortable for the owners and also cater to guests. Open floor plans, and large kitchens with a 9-ft. island and bar seating, define these homes. The home’s sizeable kitchen, dining and great room are located towards the rear of the home and offer expansive windows, which highlight the community’s picturesque park views. Stunning finishes are found throughout the Water’s Edge Villa’s, including striking ¾-inch engineered hardwood floors, granite countertops, and a roomy kitchen pantry. Homeowner ease is key with these homes, which feature a main-floor laundry located next to the generously sized master bedroom. The master bedroom feels more like a retreat – complete with a walk-in closet and an ensuite that features a soaker tub, double sinks and walk-in shower. A 22

finished basement provides homeowners with even more beautiful space for entertaining, and additional bedrooms to ensure there’s always a comfortable place for guests to stay when visiting. The Water’s Edge Villas don’t run short on curb appeal, with a huge front veranda that welcomes visits with neighbours, and charming landscaping that is always kept looking polished. The homes also offer long driveways and a front-attached 20-by 24-ft. garage – perfect for storing recreational vehicles! What distinguishes Lang Built Homes’ exclusive communities is the unique atmosphere it offers residents. “The feeling in the community is really special,” Klint Langstaff, Lang Built Homes owner, explains “residents often become friends because they’re at the same stage of life as each other and have similar interests.” Whether it’s enjoying a morning coffee together on the welcoming verandas, or having the peace of mind knowing that your next-door neighbour will let you know if you leave the garage door open, the

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34.18

37.06

38.32

7.00

24.33

TREE STAND SURROUNDING ATIM CREEK

12.13

BLOC

38.14

GREEN SPACE

37.94

7.13

38.52

34.21

36.11

SOLD

12.52 16.28

THIS

ILLUSTRATIVE PLAN IS CONCEPTUAL ONLY AND IS S U B J E C T T O C H A N G E .

community’s friendly environment is truly special and it’s one of the many benefits of life in a Lang Built Homes adult villa. Homebuyers at the Water’s Edge Villas have the opportunity to work one-on-one with Lang Built’s client liaison, Trisha, who is also an interior designer. Trisha works with customers to help plan and design their home’s interior, ultimately ensuring that customers have a professional finish to their new villa. An on-site construction manager, Kiel, is always keeping a watchful eye on the entire construction process, ensuring every home presents outstanding quality. Winner of a New Homebuyers Choice Award, Lang Built Homes prides themselves on their ability to create functional homes that allow homeowners to enjoy luxurious amenities and spacious designs - all while maintaining an affordable price point for those approaching retirement. Dedicated to providing superior service, Klint and his team are committed to delivering a quality product that is second to none in the marketplace.

Waters Edge VILLAS

To learn more about the Water’s Edge and Land Built Homes, visit their showhome at 17 Harvest Point, open Monday-Thursday 3-6 p.m., and weekends from 12-5 p.m. (note: the showhome is closed Fridays and long weekends). You can also call Klint at 780-722-6496 or Trisha at 780-700-9225, or visit their website at langbuilthomes.com.

White Eagle Homes Customized Luxury

HITE EAGLE HOMES is a family-based company that specializes in building exclusive custom homes in Edmonton and area. Since 1996, the celebrated company has been dedicated to creating unique and high quality custom homes that set them apart from other typical homebuilders in the market. Showcasing the distinguished style and contemporary European flair, White Eagle Homes offers a variety of gorgeous home styles to choose from, including bungalow, two-story, and duplex options. White Eagle Homes offers clients a personalized and customized home-building experience. Customers have the opportunity to work directly with the White Eagle team

through the design and planning process, as well as during the construction phase. There are thousands of options and upgrades available when building with White Eagle – a distinctive quality that provides homebuyers with the opportunity to create a dream home that caters to their unique lifestyle needs. Customers are treated like family, and each home is looked at as an individual project that is given exceptional attention by the White Eagle team. It is the company’s distinctive approach to customer care and their quality building style that has led to White Eagle’s countless referrals and repeat business from happy clients. Proudly offering one of the best multi-

level warranties in the industry, White Eagle Homes is invested in customer satisfaction long after a client has moved into their stunning new home. With no details overlooked, craftsmanship that is unrivaled, and the use of high-end materials, the classic product that White Eagle Homes provides its clients is luxurious and timeless. Offering innovative designs that reflect the ever-changing lifestyles of today’s families, White Eagle Homes works closely with clients to ensure their home not only meets, but also surpasses their expectations. Since 2005 White Eagle Homes have been nominated for numerous local, provincial and national industry awards, including the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Edmonton Awards of Excellence in Housing – and, have won or been named a finalist every year

since then. One of their most celebrated achievements was winning the soughtafter Ralph Scurfield, CHBA - Alberta Builder of the Year Award in both 2011 and 2012. White Eagle Homes has also recently won various single-family home awards at local and provincial levels, and the CHBA - Alberta Small Volume Builder of the Year Award in 2013 & 2015. You can find White Eagle currently building their beautifully designed homes in the following communities: Allard Estates, Allard in Heritage Valley, Allin Ridge Estates, McConachie, The Village at Schonsee, Tuscany Hills, and Westpointe of Windermere. White Eagle is also able to build anywhere in Edmonton and surrounding areas, allowing customers to choose a location that best fits their lifestyle.

For showhome information or to learn more about White Eagle Homes visit their website at whiteeaglehomes.ca

Visit one of the following showhomes to see the White Eagle quality firsthand. SOUTHWEST EDMONTON: Westpointe of Windermere 5112 Woolsey Link NORTH EDMONTON: Schonsee 17116 75 Street.

780-456-5393 Cell 780-497-8998 www.whiteeaglehomes.ca

Exceptional Communities to Call Home In our exceptional communities, streets aren’t just planned for commuting cars. They’re also rinks for street hockey. Trails aren’t drawn just to connect green spaces. They’re a family’s walk after dinner. Sidewalks are where training wheels come off for the first time, and urban forests are for spotting wild flowers and nesting birds. As the largest developer in the region, we build communities where people love to live. This means not just excellent locations, but also outstanding quality of life. Qualico Communities are where lives are lived, families grow up and memories are made to last a lifetime. For more than 65 years, we’ve been developing communities with pride. We understand that a solid foundation is always the key to greatness. Which is why we put strong vision, planning,

and ample resources behind every project. We know we’re creating more than neighborhoods. We’re developing a place where you’ll make memories. So we go beyond the status quo. With skilled expertise in technology, design and service, we take pride in creating exceptional communities to suit all lifestyles. By offering diverse new home styles and access to amenities such as soothing creeks, naturalized ponds and safe playgrounds, there’s truly a community for everyone from the trusted name of Qualico Communities. We create a place for life. We create what we believe in.We create exceptional communities for you to call home. Visit qualicocommunitiesedmonton.com to learn more. 27

SOUTHEAST EDMONTON The total family package. Conveniently located in southeast Edmonton, this affordable family-oriented neighbourhood is full of parks, green spaces and trails. There’s even beautifully landscaped ponds! You get peace of mind while your kids have space to safely run, play and grow. Homes offered by eight outstanding builders. New K-9 school, Svend Hansen, just opened. • Townhomes, Duplex and Single Family Homes • Pacesetter Homes, Sterling Homes, Landmark Homes, StreetSide Developments, Victory Homes, Coventry Homes, Parkwood Master Builder, Daytona Homes laurel-crossing.com

SOUTHWEST EDMONTON Located in the highly sought-after area of Windermere, this trendy neighbourhood offers proximity to cool restaurants, shopping, movies and more! Choose between a gorgeous Executive home with spacious floor plans and high-end finishing, the super-unique Streetscape home with beautiful front porches and unparalleled curb appeal or new affordable townhomes. New K-6 school in the community, Constable Daniel Woodall. • Executive, Streetscape Single Family Homes and Townhomes • Pacesetter Homes, Sterling Homes, Marcson Homes, Augusta Fine Homes langdale-windermere.com

NORTHEAST EDMONTON A community that stays active year round! Enjoy fully integrated walking paths, parks, ponds and green spaces. The All Seasons Park includes an outdoor leisure rink, spray park and more. Moments from the Clareview LRT station and easy access to major commuter arteries and shopping centres, all rolled into one fantastic community. 2016 Excellence in Housing Awards – Winner for Best New Community. • Townhomes, Duplex and Single Family Homes • Pacesetter Homes, Daytona Homes, Rohit Communities, Sterling Homes, Coventry Homes cybecker.com

WEST EDMONTON This community is “upland” from the North Saskatchewan River. The community features a beautiful pond, creek and ravine backing lots, the opportunity for walkouts and a connective trail system. Choose from Executive and Streetscape single family homes or townhomes. • Executive, Single Family Homes, Streetscape Single Family Homes, Townhomes, Streetscape Townhomes • Coventry Homes, Daytona Homes, StreetSide Developments, Pacesetter Homes, Sterling Homes, Augusta Fine Homes, Kimberley Homes, Jayman BUILT, Homes by Avi liveintheuplands.com

NORTH EDMONTON Your home is your modern-day castle. Imagine a peaceful community pond, playground and luscious green spaces with landscaped walking trails. Newcastle is a community for families who want a calm neighbourhood away from the hustle and bustle but within close proximity to the modern conveniences that Edmonton’s thriving north side has to offer. Now selling the final phases! • Duplex and Single Family Homes • Coventry Homes, Sterling Homes, Pacesetter Homes newcastle-edmonton.com

SOUTHEAST EDMONTON A dream community that stays active close to home. Family-oriented Tamarack Common makes life easy with great schools, shopping, sports fields, parks and a golf course minutes away. The Meadows Community Rec Centre is located across the street. • Townhomes and Single Family Homes • Sterling Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Parkwood Master Builder tamarackcommon.com

SOUTHWEST EDMONTON A new home community nestled in natural Heritage Valley just North of 41 Avenue. Bask in the warmth of family and friendly spirit in this peaceful community, which boasts serene landscapes, endless recreation opportunities, and shopping and entertainment minutes away. A new K-9 school, Donald R. Getty, is now open. • Townhomes, Duplex and Single Family Homes • Pacesetter Homes, Sterling Homes, Prominent Homes Ltd

SOUTHWEST EDMONTON A dream opportunity in a brand new community! Break new ground in Glenridding Heights, located in a new area of Southwest Edmonton, with the same great access to shopping, recreation and services. • Townhomes, Duplex and Single Family Homes • Sterling Homes, Coventry Homes, Pacesetter Homes liveinglenriddingheights.com

crimsonincreekwood.com

Fantastic communities in thriving cities and towns packed with charm, green spaces, convenient commutes and peaceful lifestyles. Family friendly, the following communities are also within commuting distance of Edmonton: Town of Beaumont: Ruisseau Town of Devon: South Ravines

City of Fort Saskatchewan: Forest Ridge and Sienna City of Leduc: Meadowview Sherwood Park: SummerWood City of Spruce Grove: Springate Town of Stony Plain: Westerra, Silverstone and South Creek

TRENDING

HOTEL RESTAURANTS THAT EXCEED EXPECTATIONS by SYDNEE BRYANT

The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald 10065 100th St. NW, Edmonton The Confederation Lounge is one of the most elegant rooms in arguably the fanciest, most la-dee-da hotel in Edmonton. The lounge is always full of not only hotel guests but businessfolk making deals over Old Fashioneds and martinis. But don’t get the wrong impression; the lounge may be fancy but it’s also warm and homey, like your richest friend’s library.

Edmonton hotel restaurants that are worthy dining destinations, whether you’re staying there or not

Ric’s Grill & Lounge 403 11 Ave., Nisku The Four Points by Sheraton hotel, located at the Edmonton International Airport, is home to Ric’s Grill, a top-notch restaurant that’s definitely worth trying. It’s become a destination for all kinds of people – even those who aren’t flying in or out of the airport. At lunch, they offer a buffet with a wide variety of cuisines. By evening, enjoy one of their perfectly cooked steaks. Plus, the bar has a ton of televisions, so it’s great for watching a game. Chop Steakhouse & Bar 10111 Ellerslie Rd. SW, Edmonton Located next door to the Sandman Hotel, Chop Steakhouse & Bar draws travelers and locals alike. The restaurant is known for its steaks and seafood, but they also have a 30 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

classy bar that’s great for hanging out with friends. Whether you go for top sirloin, filet mignon or New York striploin, the Chop experience is always satisfying. Any meal here should be wrapped up with the fallen chocolate soufflé — it’s to die for, completely. Wildflower Grill 10009 107 St. NW, Edmonton I once had dinner at Wildflower for a friend’s wedding stagette. It was one of the best meals I’ve ever had, not to mention the fun, fancy cocktails! We were all so full that we almost didn’t want to go out dancing afterward. We wanted to bask in the glow of our oh-so-spectacular meal. The steak is phenomenal, the service attentive, and the atmosphere is best described as “evening elegant with a splash of sparkly excitement.”

Madison’s Grill 10053 Jasper Ave. NW, Edmonton The menu at Madison’s Grill changes with the seasons, as they try to use as many local ingredients as possible. If the entire table is in an adventurous – and trusting! – mood, they can opt for a six-course “culinary adventure” that the chef creates as a surprise. The á la carte menu is heavy on seafood but it is Alberta after all, so beef has a place on it, such as the Guinness beer-braised beef. The Westin Edmonton 10135 100 St. NW, Edmonton There’s never a shortage of tables. The lobby lounge area is slightly more casual, while the formal dining room comes complete with fireplaces and white linen table cloths. The menu is full of playful trendy takes on fancy dishes, such as duck poutine (duck confit, black pepper jus, cheese and garlic on fries – yum!) and buttermilkfried chicken atop a pecan agedcheddar waffle with Dark Horse whiskey maple syrup. From YP.ca. More YP travel tips and city guides at yp.ca/tips

delivering client-focused success in residential and commercial developments Behind any successful organization is an outstanding team, and that’s exactly what you’ll find at Novesta. Lead by two industry experts, Novesta brings client-focused residential and commercial development, construction management, and designbuild services to the Edmonton and Alberta market. The team at Novesta offers over sixty years of combined experience in development and construction industries – an exceptional foundation of business and development know-how that sets their team apart from others in the industry. The base of their success comes from the unique skillset of the Novesta team. Danny Pereira and Mark Martel established their partnership over five years ago

when they realized that their combined expertise gave them a unique advantage in the real estate and development industry. By joining forces and merging their specializations, they were able to substantially grow Novesta within a short period of time. Known for his meticulous attention to detail, Danny brings a wealth of

FROM COMMERCIAL TO RESIDENTIAL

knowledge from his past roles in project management, as well as estimating and safety management for some of North America’s largest general contractors in the commercial, industrial and residential sectors. Danny’s strong leadership skills drive his entrepreneurial spirit, and it’s what lead him to establish two successful companies early in his career - Jord Development Group and PnP Coatings. Mark possesses an excellent understanding of the process of real estate development, site operations, day care centres, office build-outs, and medical clinics. His love of networking and establishing relationships with investors is the backbone of the company, and he credits the root of Novesta’s success to the individuals they have had the opportunity to work with. Recognizing the need to add a construction expert to their team, Danny and Mark recently asked Peter Giannis to join Novesta. As a construction building envelope specialist, Peter brings an abundance of knowledge to the company and allows Novesta to offer a fully rounded project development experience to their 32

customers. Together, Danny, Mark and Peter ensure clients receive superior quality and value, no matter the complexity or scope of the project. Current and past projects for Novesta include commercial and residential land development, commercial construction, multi-family and single-family home building, restaurant projects, and interior tenant improvements.

Their hands-on approach to each project, combined with their ability to understand and exceed building requirements is what defines their industry success. The priority of every Novesta project is meeting the needs of their clients. Danny and Mark are personally invested in the success of each project, and will constantly monitor a site’s progress

to ensure their high quality standards are met throughout every phase. Propelled by past industry experience, the Novesta team has built a network of reliable and exceptionally talented individuals that can effectively execute the vision of their clients. By partnering with qualified architects, engineers, interior designers and experienced trades people, Novesta is confident that clients will be proud to showcase completed projects to family, friends, and their community. With many successful projects in their portfolio, Novesta is focused on continuing to grow their company and help more individuals achieve their development dreams. Some of their latest work includes a project in south Edmonton that features Tiffin Fresh Indian Kitchen and Harvest Point Daycare. Noting the increasing demand for infill homes within Edmonton, the Novesta team has continued to invest in developing modern architecturally designed homes in some of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most coveted neighbourhoods. Their upcoming projects feature eye-catching homes in the desirable communities

of Glenora, Ritchie, Grovenor and McKernan. They are expecting to add even more infill home projects to their schedule, and have multiple commercial projects planned for the coming year. At Novesta, their vision isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t only to enrich the community with aesthetically appealing developments, but to also help encourage more community interaction and growth. Supporting other community organizations that share their vision is important to the Novesta team, and they are proud supporters of the Kidney Foundation of Canada, Sorrentinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Compassion House, and also the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra. With industry savvy skills and an ability to develop strong market relationships, the Novesta team is set for a bright future. Next year, Novesta is excited to be expanding into two new markets, Calgary and British Columbia, and will be investing in more projects within the Edmonton area. For Danny and Mark, this is just the beginning of their journey, and they are looking forward to many more successful projects and satisfied clients.

Danny S. Pereira & Mark M. Martel

To learn more about Novesta visit their website at novesta.ca, or call 780.244.1144 for more information.

TOP DECORATING MISTAKES… BY C. MARIE HEBSON

Are you unable to pin point exactly what is wrong with your home? Constantly trying new things, or so you think your trying something new, to only end up with the same result? Chances are you’ve made one or many of these top 10 decorating mistakes. A re-design can always make a great impact in how the room feels, and it can be as simple as a change in paint colour, or adding pops of colour with your accessories. The sooner you identify your problem areas, the quicker you can get that designer look you’re after.

BEFORE

AFTER AFTER

BEFORE

1. 2. 3.

AFTER

Not defining your priorities. Not setting a budget. Poor furniture placement. Asymmetry vs. Symmetry 4. No window treatments/drapery. 5. Furniture that doesn’t compliment each other – flow. 6. Having a cohesive look –harmony from room to room. 7. Ignoring the room’s focal point. 8. Improper use of art work hanging your artwork too high. 9. Ineffective use of accessories – area rug too small for the room. 10. The most common interior design mistake - incorrect lighting.

Shown here are before and after photos from a re-design project we completed. Should you want information on any of these products, don’t hesitate to contact our design studio.

Get involved with Sage! Sage is a non-profit seniorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; serving organization, offering a wide range of programs that enhance the quality of life for seniors in Greater Edmonton. Get involved with Sage! Take advantage of the many resources, programs and services. Explore a variety of volunteer opportunities. Consider supporting at-risk seniors by making a charitable donation. Sage has been serving seniors in your community for over 40 years.

Visit www.MySage.ca or call 780-423-5510!

It Takes a Village Christenson Developments Ltd. is an Edmonton-based company started 45 years ago by Lloyd Christenson. Lloyd’s son, Greg Christenson, started working for the company in the late 1970s, and in 1989, Greg and co-owner Peter Dirksen teamed up to continue Lloyd’s mission of building quality multi-family homes for Edmontonians. Today, Christenson Developments focuses on active adult and active senior communities, with a wider lens of building urban villages in complete communities.

“We’re known for our innovation in building urban villages, low maintenance communities for Baby Boomers’ and their parents’ changing needs,” says Greg Christenson. “But what we’re really are is a facilitator, working with land owners, other builders, credible charities, local governments, industry associations and universities to build better, smarter, more sustainable and healthier communities for all Edmontonians and Albertans.” Greg refers to affordability and choice, sustainable and healthy communities as complete communities, something both Christenson and his Alberta Community Builders partners are passionate about. Alberta Community Builder’s (AlbertaCommunityBuilders.com) was created in 2011 to support the concept of aging in place and a residential model for seniors care. Since then, the movement has been broadened to encompass the principles of complete communities that support healthy lifestyles and supportive services not just for seniors, but for Albertans of all ages.

Southwoods Court North Edmonton

THE FOUR PRINCIPLES OF A COMPLETE COMMUNITY 1. A range of housing options including active adult and seniors apartments, and family townhouses. 2. Active transportation options where walking, biking, transit, and cars can all work together. 3. Integrating wellness and care into a residential environment; you don’t have to move away to an institution get the support you need; where the community is designed to promote a healthy lifestyle. 4. Commercial and mixed use nodes where nearby services and businesses meet the broader community’s needs, while providing walkable options for older residents, and serving as employment for younger residents, allowing them to avoid the time and expense of long commutes.

Learn more at cdlhomes.com 37

Bedford Village, Edmonton

“We need to build communities where people can live near where they work,” exclaims Greg. “It cuts down on transportation costs, carbon emissions, and helps with physical and mental health, not just for seniors who must eventually give up their car, but for all members of the community.” One case study of a successful complete community is Southwoods Village in the mature south side community of Hazeldean. Rather than razing and redeveloping the site from scratch, Christenson Developments retained and refurbished the existing rental family town homes (built originally in the late 1950s by the Muttart family) while densifying the site with 264 new seniors apartment units. These energy efficient apartments are geared toward retirees, providing site-based home care and Alberta Health Services designated supportive living beds. The townhomes are family-oriented rentals, where eligible renters—including staff at the seniors’ facilities on site—can receive a rent reduction of up to 25% through the City of Edmonton’s Cornerstones program administered through Capital Region Housing.

Southwoods Village is within easy walking distance to Mill Creek Ravine, Hazeldean School and Community Centre, and shopping. Internal streets are fully equipped with sidewalks and street lighting, and there’s ample greenspace. Support staff for the seniors’ buildings live on site, creating a small town atmosphere.

Greg: “We need to look at things long-term. Yes, there’s a short-term price to pay for this type of vision. But in the end you develop more positive relationships and are able to innovate and affect change; to really make a difference.” Greg says they’ve learned a lot from their earlier urban villages, including Railtown adjacent to MacEwan University, a community he calls “an urban village on steroids”. Centre in the Park in Sherwood Park is another case study of a successful urban village. Centre in the Park has a variety of apartment-style seniors’ housing options, four to six storey active adult condominiums connected underground to Bedford Village Retirement community. New rental apartments, and mixed-use shops and professional buildings will be adjacent

Southwoods Village, Edmonton

to public amenities including Festival Place, high schools, the Strathcona County Community Centre and library, the Sherwood Park Care Centre and Broadmoor Lake. The Prairie Walk pedestrian corridor links the community together. There’s transit nearby and employment opportunities both on and off site, including at the nearby Sherwood Park Mall.

Southwoods Court North, Edmonton

do plenty of that). It’s about using your expertise and resources to build a better— a complete—community. To learn more about Christenson Development’s communities and watch videos about their work in the community, visit cdlhomes.com, or go to YouTube under cdlhomes.com

“We’re always looking at the bigger picture rather than at just selling one unit at a time.” And while Greg jokes that yes, at the end of the day, he does need to sell homes, planning and building a complete community take time and lots of resources; this isn’t a “make hay while the sun shines” type of business model.

“It all comes down to these three things: We believe that people should age in style, dignity and grace. Everything we’re doing with government, health care agencies, and industry is to support that. To get the right formula, you need to test, learn and innovate.” For Christenson, that’s what being a responsible corporate citizen is about. It’s not just about giving money to charity and sponsoring events (though they

E TUR FEA ORY ST

IT’S OFFICIAL, EDMONTON...

THE RECOVERY IS ON by WAYNE KARL

Well done, Edmonton. You’ve weathered the natural resource storm over the last few years, and your economy and housing markets are poised to recover. In fact, the comeback is already on. But don’t just take our word for it. Indeed, all of RBC, The Conference Board of Canada and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. issued recent reports that point to the recovery. And another important vote of confidence recently came from the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), which names Edmonton as the number one place to invest in real estate over the next 12 to 18 months. Let’s examine the key reasons these organizations are giving the city the thumbs up.

40 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

ECONOMY

The Conference Board of Canada, in its Metropolitan Outlook – Autumn 2017, says Alberta will boast the fastestgrowing provincial economy this year. For Edmonton, specifically, all the important numbers are trending in the right direction. Real GDP is expected to increase by 3.9 per cent in 2017 – the first increase in three years – and by a further 2.2 per cent in 2018. Edmonton’s economy is benefiting from higher oil prices and increased

investment and drilling plans. At the same time, output in the construction sector is also bouncing back, the Board says. Despite still-high inventories, builders are coming back to Edmonton’s housing market. Housing starts are set to increase from 10,000 units in 2016 to 11,700 units for 2017, before falling back to slightly less than 11,000 units in 2018. Non-residential construction has been busy with several non-energy

Edmonton forecast 2016

2017(F)

2018(F)

2019(F)

New Home Market Housing starts Single-detached

4,335

5,300

5,800

6,100

Multiples

5,701

6,600

6,100

6,500

10,036

11,900

12,600

Sales

16,990

18,800

19,100

19,300

Average price

369,365

379,000

385,000

393,000

Total

Resale Market

Source: CMHC

INTEREST RATES

developments. Chief among them are the new Rogers Place arena, the Royal Albert Museum, new hotels and stores, college expansions and millions of square feet of new office space. In addition, projects continuing or beginning in 2017 included the new Valley Line LRT, the MacEwan Centre for the Arts, the redevelopment of the old Molson brewery building, a new city park and funicular and a new Premium Outlet mall.

Mortgage rates are expected to rise modestly over the 2017-19 period, CMHC says. This increase is consistent with the expected improvement in domestic economic conditions and the predicted increase in world interest rates. The posted five-year mortgage rate is expected to lie between 4.9 and 5.7 per cent in 2018, and between 5.2 and 6.2 per cent in 2019, says CMHC. “We’re in the initial stages of a rising interest rate environment,” adds Robert Hogue, senior economist at RBC. “The end of ultra-low interest rates will signal a new chapter in the housing market.” Despite these increases, mortgage rates are expected to remain below

levels observed prior to the Great Recession. HOUSING AFFORDABILITY

Despite the economic recovery pausing slightly in the earlier part of 2017, home resales are trending solidly above year-ago levels and properties listed for sale increased, RBC says in its latest Housing Trends and Affordability Report. Housing affordability in Edmonton – which remains among the best in the country – is not a concern, RBC says. Employment, however, might be. EMPLOYMENT

Unemployment is to fall to 7.9 per cent for 2017, from 8.1 per cent in 2016, and again to 6.9 per cent NextHome.ca 41

in 2018, according to the Conference Board. Job growth is projected to improve next year, but consumer spending will slow in step with the overall economy. Though Edmonton’s unemployment rate is expected fall for 2017, it is likely to remain above the national average.

WHERE IS EDMONTON IN THE REAL ESTATE CYCLE?

WHY ALL OF THIS MATTERS…

42 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

Beginning boom approaching peak

Mid boom market peak End boom begin slowdown

12 End recovery further rising market, hot

Beginning slump warning, market slowdown

BOOM

RECOV

Such positive economic fundamentals translate into rising consumer confidence. With employment and personal disposable income growth picking up, consumers are more encouraged to spend again. Retail sales are forecast to rise by a vigorous 8.3 per cent for 2017 and a more moderate 2.4 per cent in 2018, the Conference Board says. This will translate into increases of 4.5 per cent and 1.1 per cent in wholesale and retail trade output in 2017 and 2018, respectively. The business services sector is also growing again, with stronger growth in the cards for 2018. All of these developments are among the reasons REIN ranks Edmonton number one for investment destinations through to 2019. Calgary comes in second. Cities near Edmonton – Leduc and Fort Saskatchewan – take the next two spots on the list, as both are expected to benefit from a “ripple effect” that comes with their proximity to the diverse and robust economy. “Alberta had an amazing last couple of decades of economic and demographic growth,” REIN Senior Analyst and best-selling real estate author Don R. Campbell told NextHome. “However, Edmonton has been protected from the worst of the downturn and will be the first to recover as the economy begins to re-ignite as its economy is much more diverse than other areas of the province.” Lethbridge captures spot five, thanks to the fact it relies less heavily on the energy sector for its economic health.

Mid recovery rising market warmer still

Mid slump approaching bottom of market

6 Beginning recovery market starts to rise, warming up

End slump market bottom, trough

Source: Real Estate Investment Network

What affects the performance of a real estate market? According to the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), it all comes down to one thing: Economic fundamentals. And while REIN focuses on investment real estate, the economic fundamentals that impact the housing market in general are the same: Factors such as a diverse and

growing economy, GDP growth, employment and wage growth, and housing affordability. Depending on the strength of each of those factors, a real estate market’s cycle could be in boom, slump or recovery mode. Edmonton’s cycle, according to REIN, is heading toward the end of the slump, and rounding the corner to recovery.

111 ST.

RABBIT HILL RD.

111 ST. . Y TR

41 AVE. SW

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. GAR

CAL

170 ST.

CHAPPELLE DR.

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141 ST.

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Find your new home in South Edmonton.

ANTHONY HENDAY DR.

Nestled in the natural habitat surrounding Whitemud Creek, these two communities in the Chappelle neighbourhood feature vast wetlands, park spaces and an extensive trail system. You can enjoy the outdoors, all while being minutes away from a new K-9 school and other major amenities.

Change is good. Make a change by choosing your next community:

a quiet calm | an urban escape | a convenient choice Create the perfect home for your family at Creekwood. Easy access to major arteries and amenities, large parks and natural areas to experience â&#x20AC;&#x201D; these are all the perks you can enjoy in your new home.

Make your choice at lifeincreekwood.com

an array of options | create the lifestyle of your dreams Whether itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the natural wetlands or access to amenities that draws you to Creekwood Collections, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find more than just that here. Find your forever home or start the next stage of your life, and make it distinctly you.

Learn more at livethecollections.com

TRENDING

ALBERTA HOMEOWNER? CONSIDER INVESTING IN A SNOWBLOWER

Though we may not always like to admit it – Alberta winters can be tough! Back on Oct. 25, 1970, for example, Edmonton was hammered with a record snowfall of 31.5 cm. With Environment and Climate Change Canada calling for a long, cold winter this year, it begs the question, “Are you ready?” “Winter is unavoidable,” says Michelle Sordi, director of marketing of Husqvarna Canada. “So, before you find yourself knee-deep in the white stuff, take stock of the winter supplies you have on hand. A little preparation can get you safely and happily through the first snowfall of the season.” There are a number of things you can do to prepare for snow, whether it’s a major storm or a light dusting. • Salt or sand – Keep a bag of salt or sand on hand. It doesn’t go bad, but when it snows, it does go fast – from stores, that is. • Shovel love – Where is it? Is it in good repair? Give it a once-over and replace it if necessary. Don’t wait until you need it. • Snowblower check-up – Ensure your machine is in good repair, with fresh gas, a new spark plug, full tires and good blades. If it’s not running at its best, take it to a dealer for a tune-up. If you don’t yet have a snowblower, here are some helpful shopping tips: WHAT SIZE?

This depends on the size of your clearing area. For heavy snowfalls and to blast through hard-packed snow, a two-stage system snowblower works best. These machines are ideal 46 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

for homeowners who need a highperformance unit to clear snow from large driveways and paths. For smaller spaces, homeowners can look to a single-stage blower, which are more compact and easy to use. WHAT ARE THE KEY FEATURES TO LOOK FOR?

The size (width) of the auger is a priority. The larger the auger, the more you can clear and faster you can get the job done. Also, snowblowers with wider augers have larger, more powerful engines. WHAT ARE SOME OF THE NICE-TO-HAVE FEATURES?

Power steering for effective maneuverability. Husqvarna has

trigger-control power steering, which allows homeowners to operate each wheel or track separately for easy movement and tight, 180-degree turning. This also acts as a safety feature. Heated handles make your snowblower more comfortable to operate, and LED headlights provide helpful lighting for evening use. WHAT ARE THE SAFETY FEATURES?

Safety should be a priority. Look for a cleated track-drive system – it helps with effective propulsion on slippery surfaces and hills you may encounter. Ensure that all levers and controls are placed within easy reach for added comfort, control and safety.

POMPEI HOMES

FAMILY BUILDERS FOR EDMONTON’S DIVERSE FAMILIES

“We want our homes to be the best they can be... and build what our customers dream.” ong before Sergio Pompei founded Pompei Homes, he already had a strong appreciation for and skills in woodworking. He had learned the fine art of furniture making in his native Italy, and after immigrating to Canada in the early 1960s, he gained experience in all areas of home building. Armed with his knowledge and experience, he built a home for his family in 1967. A few years later, he built another home to accommodate his growing family. A friend was so impressed that he asked Sergio to build a home for him. Word soon got out, and Sergio ended the year with seven more homes under his belt. In 1972, Pompei Homes officially opened for business, and today, the second generation of Pompeis is involved in running the family-owned and operated firm. They passionately and proudly carry on the tradition of building quality custom homes in the Edmonton area. 47

All in the family. Clockwise from bottom: Sergio Pompei, daughter Anna, & sons Tino & Dario.

While styles and building techniques have changed over the years, one thing hasn’t: Pompei Homes holds true to its core values of honesty, integrity and pride. “They describe our ethics and morals,” says Dario Pompei, Sergio’s son and general manager of Pompei Homes. “Honesty and integrity are really important because customers need to trust their builder to work as a team. It makes the whole experience much better for everyone.” And work as team they do. The family is a team of experts - Dario as general manager, Tino as construction manager, and Anna as office manager – and they’re all highly dedicated to the values and work ethics established by their father. Together they work with the client to build a custom dream home. Whether it’s a large luxury home or a small mid-range home, a twostorey or a bungalow, traditional style or contemporary, Pompei builds to the vision and needs of their customer. “Every buyer has different needs,” says Dario. “That’s what we are here to do – fill those needs.”

3D computer aided visualization allows clients to envision their home before it is built. Shown are a floor plan view, and eye-level view (below).

Being a small volume builder – they build between five to 10 homes annually - allows Pompei to focus on the customer and quickly and efficiently make changes as needed. One way of making sure the client’s home is exactly what they want is by using state-of-the-art 3D computer-aided visualization technology. Clients are able to design and see their homes unfold in front of their eyes. With full colour renderings, the clients can visualize the layout and see the home from multiple angles, just like they would if the house existed in more than a drawing. The program also allows the flexibility to experiment with different colours and products right down to how they want the fireplace to be detailed. “It’s a great tool because our clients can visualize their dream home before it’s built. It’s very detailed and allows us to fine tune,” explains Dario. “It also allows us to see any potential mistakes and rectify them. There are no surprises for the customer.” Keeping up with technology isn’t limited to the design stage. Pompei also keeps up with the latest green technology in home building. They search out the green options that are cost effective and add value to the home and the client can choose to incorporate them into the home.

You’ll find new and infill homes built by Pompei throughout the Edmonton area including Strathcona County, Sturgeon County, Parkland County, and Fort Saskatchewan. “We build where our clients want to go and where it’s available to us, whether an acreage or city lot,” explains Dario. Right now Pompei’s show home is located in Tuscany Hills (north of 195 Avenue on 127 Street). The future for Pompei Homes is to continue doing what they have always done. “We will continue to maintain high quality standards, quality workmanship, and taking pride in our work and being personally involved at all stages,” says Dario. “Whether big or small, we want our homes to be the best they can be.”

VISIT OUR SHOW HOME IN TUSCANY HILLS

Monday - Thursday 3-8pm Weekends & Most Holidays Noon-5pm FOR MORE INFORMATION

www.pompeihomes.com 780.457.4800 49

TRENDING

5 THINGS TO LOOK FOR WHEN BUYING A HOME by WAYNE KARL

Most people have an idea what they want when buying a home – proximity to transit and schools usually ranks near the top. Buyers’ criteria may vary depending on their age and location. Single professionals looking for a downtown condo would likely key on proximity to mass transit. Young families in the suburbs, on the other hand, might rank schools and parks at the top of their list. When it comes to the value of your home, however, certain neighbourhood features have very distinct influences – positive and negative – that you should be aware of.

50 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

For example, realtor.com, the official website of the National Association of Realtors in the U.S., recently produced a list of the best and worst neighbourhood features that affect your home’s value. Its counterpart north of the border, the Canadian Real Estate Association and its website, realtor.ca, doesn’t have an equivalent list for the market here, so we assembled one – from an informal poll of realtors and other sources. Here, then, are five things to look for when buying a home.

THE TOP 5

MASS TRANSIT: This isn’t just

for convenience, though being able to walk to a subway, LRT or commuter train is the wish of many homeowners. Experts rank walkability to a subway station as the number one thing homebuyers are willing to pay for – so it has a very real positive impact on property values. Research shows that homes located 500 to 800 metres from a subway stop increase by 10 to 20 per cent in value more than average. And in a downturn, these properties will drop by 10 to 20 per cent less.

SCHOOLS: This may be more important for young families than single professionals or Millennials, but overall, properties close to good schools and school districts are at a premium. (And be sure to avoid poor school districts.) Think convenience in dropping off the kids, less worry about long commutes, syncing up with daycare or requiring them to become “bus pupils.” And when it comes to resale, you’ll find lots of people looking for just this kind of home.

WALKABILITY: Speaking of convenience, proximity to amenities such as shops, services and restaurants ranks high on most

buyers’ lists. Being able to walk to them, within reasonable distance, is golden. Builders know this, and more and more of them masterplan their communities to make sure such essentials are nearby.

PARKS: Lifestyle is becoming increasingly important – and in some cases, a concern – these days, especially for the thousands upon thousands of Canadians choosing to live in condos because of their affordability. Think it’s not so important? Try living in a downtown condo cluster without any greenspace in sight. Generations of Canadians are now growing up as condo dwellers, so nearby parks, trails and other escapes are increasingly essential.

MAJOR HIGHWAYS: Besides living reasonably close to work, most homebuyers also want to be close to friends and family. But these days, with rising prices increasingly determining where you buy, easy access to major highways and thoroughfares is the next best thing. And thank goodness many Canadian governments are spending billions on infrastructure to help make it all happen.

NextHome.ca 51

ADVICE | MORTGAGE INTEL

NEW MORTGAGE RULES HOW WILL THEY AFFECT YOU?

ALYSSA FURTADO

Canada’s banking regulator – the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) – introduced new mortgage rules, which requires a stress test for borrowers with uninsured mortgages. As of Jan. 1, 2018, consumers who get uninsured mortgages – those with a down payment of 20 per cent or more – will have to qualify at a new minimum qualifying rate, which is the greater of the Bank of Canada’s fiveyear benchmark rate (currently 4.89 per cent) or 200 basis points higher than their actual mortgage rate. In October 2016, the federal government introduced a similar stress test for all insured mortgages – those with a down payment of less than 20 per cent. The new stress test is designed to help prove borrowers can withstand a hike in mortgage rates. However, federally regulated financial institutions aren’t expected to “re-apply the qualification rate assessment to existing borrowers that are renewing mortgages.” “Those of us working in the mortgage industry question if now is an appropriate time to introduce more regulation, which will cool markets across the country further,” says James Laird, co-founder of ratehub.ca and president of CanWise Financial. “We have yet to see the full impact of regulation added over the last 12 months, combined with rising interest rates,” he says. “A more prudent approach would be to let these new 52 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

variables work their way through the real estate markets and decide if further tightening is required.” For new homebuyers, the changes will affect the amount they can afford. Here are two examples: 1. BANK OF CANADA FIVE-YEAR BENCHMARK QUALIFYING RATE

A family with an annual income of $100,000 who qualifies for a five-year fixed mortgage at 2.83 per cent, with a 25-year amortization and a 20-per-cent down payment, can currently afford a home worth $726,939. But under the new rules, they’ll need to qualify at the BoC’s five-year benchmark rate of 4.89 per cent. As a result, they’ll only be able to afford a home worth $570,970. That’s a $155,969 difference. 2. 200 BASIS POINTS ABOVE THE CONTRACTUAL RATE

Using a mortgage qualifier calculator,

a family with an annual income of $100,000 that gets a five-year fixed mortgage at 3.09 per cent with a 25year amortization and a 20 per cent down payment can afford to spend $706,692 on a home. But under the new rules, they’ll have to qualify for their mortgage at 5.09 per cent – 200 basis points above the contractual rate. As a result, they’ll only be able to afford a home costing $559,896. That’s a difference of $146,796.

Alyssa Furtado is founder and CEO of RateHub.ca, a website that compares mortgage rates, credit cards, highinterest savings accounts, chequing accounts, and insurance with the goal to empower Canadians to search smarter and save money.

+MORE ADVICE ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/advice

RELIANCE HOME COMFORT ™ Providing exceptional heating, cooling, and water heating services to homeowners

PROPERLY HEATED HOME DURING THE COLD MONTHS of winter is something Canadians don’t take lightly, and the experts at Reliance Home Comfort have more than 50 years experience of getting that job done effectively. Providing homeowners with trusted heating, cooling and water heating systems is the heart of Reliance, and their team at Reliance The Furnace Company in Edmonton is ready to help more homeowners benefit from their professional services.

By offering expert assistance and quality products to 1.7 million customers across Canada, Reliance Home Comfort has secured its spot as a leader in the industry. With a customer base that is steadily growing, Reliance is proud to note that their continued success is largely due to the superior level of customer care. Daniel Murphy, Director of Builder Sales, notes that their company motto “We’re not comfortable until you are” is what really sets them apart from others in the market. 53

It’s this core value of quality and care that defines Reliance, “We’re a big believer in customer service” says Daniel, adding “we’re also different in that most of our customers rent our products”. This unique concept of renting equipment is relatively new in Alberta; however, it offers many appealing benefits. Over the last five years more and more customers have taken the rental route with Reliance The Furnace Company in Edmonton and area, because, as Daniel explains, “Homeowners are provided with peace of mind because there are no unexpected costs to face. We fix the equipment, provide regular maintenance and, eventually things wear out and break, so we replace them at no cost to the customer.” There are numerous client benefits that the Reliance team offers, including a professional service team that will respond to calls quickly and efficiently -24 hours a day, seven days a week. Their exceptional team is ready to help homeowners choose the best products that suit their home and lifestyle needs, and they are educated on all the environmental and building regulations that must be met for their market’s home products.

Reliance is a member of the Canadian Home Builders Association – Edmonton Region and works closely with home builders to offer rental services to home buyers. Their efforts towards achieving a high customer satisfaction rate regarding their products and services haven’t gone unnoticed. As a result of their first-rate company standards and outstanding customer service, their exceptional team has been by recognized by Waterstone Human Capital as one of Canada’s 10 Most Admired Corporate Cultures. Their success has provided them with an opportunity to offer their excellent services to a larger market, and they’re pleased to have recently entered into the U.S. market in Atlanta, Georgia. With 15 years of first-rate service in Edmonton, Reliance The Furnace Company is proud to be the Official Partner of the Edmonton Eskimos and is looking forward to helping more of the community with their heating, cooling and water heating needs.

For more information on Reliance Home Comfort, visit the website at reliancehomecomfort.com/edmonton.

THE LAST WORD

Q+A WITH CARMEN WYTON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, BUILDING INDUSTRY AND LAND DEVELOPMENT ALBERTA ASSOCIATION (BILD ALBERTA) by WAYNE KARL

NH: How is the merger going? CW: I am very impressed with the process that was undertaken to bring the associations together. The amalgamation strategy has stayed true to course and we recently named the first BILD Alberta Board of Directors. Everything that comes after is about obtaining the desired state – connecting with members, enhancing member value and exceeding member expectations as a united voice for the industry. NH: How has your career to date

prepared you for this new role as CEO? You don’t have a direct background in home building… Does that give you the benefit of a fresh perspective?

Last year, the Canadian Home Builders’ Association - Alberta merged with the Urban Development Institute Alberta to form the Building Industry and Land Development Alberta Association (BILD Alberta). Now, BILD Alberta has appointed its first CEO – Carmen Wyton, former Chair of the Canadian Society of Association Executives – Edmonton, and founder of the Women’s Health Coalition of Alberta. NextHome: What about the home building industry interested you to join BILD Alberta? Carmen Wyton: I have had the

privilege of working with land development and home building organizations throughout my 56 EDMONTON BUILDER & DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2018

career in the social sector. All of my experiences have shown an industry that genuinely cares about the communities it works in and gets behind local projects in tangible ways. I am thrilled to be a part of the association in this time of change and harmonization.

CW: I am confident that my past experience as a leader, an association executive, the advisory roles I have had with government and my ability to build highperforming teams gives me a good foundation to take on this new role. I don’t have any pre-conceptions about what has or has not worked in the past. I don’t have any biases as to what should come first or is most important. This is likely to encourage me to be more open to every discussion, idea and suggestion… To me, they will all be innovations. The BILD Alberta team is expert in its field and the Board of Directors has set forth a clear vision. The most important contribution I can make is to provide leadership… I’m ready!

NH: Much of your background is

in government and stakeholder relations. How important are those tasks for the association? CW: Associations play a key role in creating dialogue and bringing industry, government and community together around common goals and opportunities. I have built my reputation around developing collaborations, creating frameworks that can track and measure performance and influence change, by identifying where common interests are. When true collaboration takes place, systems can change – not instantly, but with continuous progress, sustainability and benefits to all stakeholders. NH: What are the key challenges you

see facing the industry? CW: Every industry faces regulatory challenges… Gaining a better understanding of the challenges facing BILD Alberta is one of my first

priorities. My past experience will lead me towards examining political and economic factors that are affecting industry and consumer confidence, and environmental considerations that need to be top of mind to work effectively with members, stakeholders and government. As quickly as possible, I will catch up to work that has already been done and enhance relationships with influencers where I can. NH: The greatest opportunities? CW: There are a lot of moving parts

affecting the land development, home building and renovation industry in Alberta. Everything from procurement policies, building and employment standards, municipal government act and more I’m sure I will learn about quickly. The key will be making sure that BILD Alberta is at the table and recognized as a credible, responsive and informed partner to explore changes.

NH: What do you hope to

accomplish in your tenure? CW: Being new to the industry, my first 90 days will focus on gaining a better understanding of the industry and the most critical issues and opportunities. I will meet with as many members as I can to understand their needs and foster a relationship that is built on trust, transparency and accountability. Operationally, I will continue to implement the amalgamation strategy, bridge relationships with constituency associations, create integrated systems for business and member engagement, and create a high value proposition to being an engaged member of BILD Alberta. The team’s success will be measured by our ability to advocate for the land development, home building and renovation industry at the provincial level. We win when the organization comes together as one voice for the industry.

NextHome.ca 57

Your nexthome is waiting. Find the perfect new home or condo in the neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle.

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