Southwestern Ontario New Home & Condo Guide - January 19, 2013

Jan 19 - Feb 2, 2013 Volume 16 Issue 01

Tillsonburg Developments

Unbeatable value All brick, freehold homes with $30 monthly association fee

from $219,900 S e e pag e 14 for m or e

inside this issue

KITCHENER-WATERLOO: POISED FOR THE LONG-TERM

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WRHBA CONFERS ANNUAL AWARDS

SECURING THE BEST MORTGAGE FOR YOU

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COMING SOON TO V

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Wildflowers will offer a wide selection of stylish and affordable Townhomes and elegant Detached Homes. There will be a wide variety of architecture to add individual character to each streetscape.

Soon inpired living will open in Kitchener.

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All illustrations are artist’s concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. E.&O.E.

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contents

JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013

||

VOLUME 16 ISSUE 01

32

44

cover story

p.14

48

TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS Baldwin Place – where variety is the spice of life

regular and special features IN EVERY ISSUE 10 EDITOR’S NOTE

75 76

Tips to avoid hitting your personal debt ceiling

HOT DATES AD INDEX

COLUMNISTS 40 BUILDING BLOCKS

Securing the best mortgage for your first home

by Jeff Paikin

52

IN THE NEWS 16 BMO

HHHBA REPORT

18

WRHBA

46

BROOKFIELD HOMES

54

CHBA

Hamilton decision increases cost of new homes by $3,000

Brookfield a finalist for CHBA Marketing Excellence Award CHBA names 2012 National SAM Award finalists

January is ‘Make Do’ Month

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP 21 HOT SHEET

QUICK TIPS

26

MONEY MATTERS

by Gail Vaz-Oxlade

64

Start the new year by freeing yourself

by Hellen Buttigieg

77

FUNDAMENTALLY SPEAKING

Learning about mortgages is time well spent

by Wayne Karl

008 TOC_JY-WK.indd 8

HOT SHEET

69

HOMEBUYERS’ RESOURCES

SAM Awards of Distinction recognize building excellence

by Mathieu Langelier

60

58

Supersize your mortgage payments to save

30

CITY FOCUS

35

HOT SHEET

Kitchener-Waterloo – history, culture and long-term prosperity

Mortgage Calculator & Rate Table

community focus features 32

MULTI-SITE

Reid’s Heritage Homes

Don’t just live, LiveWise, with Reid’s Heritage’s commitment to excellence

44

BURLINGTON

Adi Development Group Mod’rn Condominiums one of the fastest selling condos in Burlington

Waterloo

MORTGAGE OPTIONS

London

48

NIAGARA, BRAMPTON

Empire Communities An expanding empire in the GTA and Southwestern Ontario

Hamilton

1/17/13 12:36:08 PM

ice skating

ice cream

Mountainview’s prices

good things come frozen.

To celebrate the chilly winter, we’ve frozen our 2012 prices at all Mountainview communities! plus for a limited time receive $3,000 off townes $5,000 off singles!

NIAGARA FALLS

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FONTHILL

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RIDGEWAY

mountainview.com | 905-323-6232 jan 19 - feb 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 9

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editor’snote

What rules your new-home choice?

Lifestyle increasingly influential for buyers

N

ew-home buyers are often driven by different influences, but there’s no doubt lifestyle is an increasingly important factor. Whether you’re considering a home near the beach, a golf course or a city penthouse or pied-à-terre, you’re likely looking to compensate for what you don’t have in your current residence.

The amount of living space is usually the issue – either too much or too little. Most young families are looking for more living space, which is why builders are designing homes with interiors that maximize every square foot of living space to make the most of your money.

As we get older, the quest for living space may take a different direction.

Downsizing is usually the answer, although many homeowners with existing homes in suburban or rural areas are acquiring townhomes or pied-à-terres in the city.

An urban location gives owners and their friends a chance to enjoy the social and cultural activities of the city without having to drive for hours to get home.

In today’s hectic world, your new home will be your retreat, so it’s important to find is to find a home that suits your needs and lifestyle. In this issue, we profile new communities which offer the perfect place to put up your feet, plus the latest industry news and features about buying and owning a new home.

Enjoy!

VICE-PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA

Jacqueline Hill

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Susan Maxwell

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, NATIONAL REAL ESTATE

Susan Legge ART DIRECTOR

Julie Yoo EDITOR

Wayne Karl CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Janine Druery Elisa Krovblit Silvana Longo Lydia McNutt (on leave) Sara Duck (on leave) DISTRIBUTION & SALES CO-ORDINATOR

Jennifer Bistron

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Antoinette Jackson

MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Bala Gnanapandithan CO-ORDINATOR

Laura Northmore GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alexander Yakubovich NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER, MEDIATIVE

Susan Legge EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Paul Slizys

Wall2Wall Media, susan.Legge@wall2wallmedia.com

Joanne Keenan Jeffrey Reed

Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

PUBLISHED BY

Tax time – embrace it

Preparing for this unsavoury topic earlier helps reduce the sting at deadline time

W

e’re approaching February already – a period we often associate with blahs, but also a month worth celebrating, given that it’s the shortest of the year, and March and spring soon follow. And while the deadline for 2012 Registered Retirement Savings Plan contributions isn’t until March 1, and April 30 for filing your 2012 income tax return, perhaps we need to start thinking of February in a different light altogether.

Indeed, coming up in our two February issues is our Tax Matters content; the idea was to explore this topic in advance of filing deadlines, to help readers learn about opportunities to take advantage of while they still can.

But, heeding the advice of experts, perhaps “tax time” should instead be a yearround task. From making regular RRSP contributions to comparing RRSPs and tax-free savings accounts to learning of the various credits available, tax planning for some is as necessary as the inevitable taxes themselves.

Preparing as best you can throughout the year might help minimize the sting come deadline time – and help you learn to embrace the opportunities to save, not just fear what you have to pay.

Wayne Karl EDITOR Wall2Wall Media, wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/WayneKarl

Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada.

#500-401 The West Mall Etobicoke, ON M9C 5J5 T 416.626.4200 F 416.784.5867 Call Susan Maxwell at 416.580.1654 FAX: 416.784.9554 Toll Free: 1.877.269.8257, follow prompts, ext. 4260; e-mail: susan.maxwell@wall2wallmedia.com Office hours are Mon-Thurs. 9-5; Fri. 9-12

ADVERTISING:

CIRCULATION: Free distribution. Published bi-weekly from Sept.-Nov. & from Feb.-June and monthly in June, July & Dec. TERMS: Advertisers, Editorials and New Home & Condo Guide 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. EDITORIAL: Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the address above, to the attention of the Editor.

COPYRIGHT 2013: All

rights reserved by New Home & Condo Guide, Toronto, Ontario. Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Contents of this publication are covered by Copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law. The views and data expressed by columnists do not necessarily represent those of the publication. Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada.

Please recycle this magazine! Wall2Wall Media participates in the Partners in Growth Reforestation Program through St. Joseph Communications. To date, Partners in Growth has planted over 2.5 million trees in parks, recreation and conservation areas, and other public spaces across Canada. Established in 1990, this program was started with Scouts Canada to help replenish the environment.

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* See Sales Representative for details. Illustrations are artist’s concept. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. October 2012

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coverstory

Baldwin Place

Where variety is the spice of life

I

t is often said that variety is the spice of life – an idea which is vividly expressed at Baldwin Place, Tillsonburg Developments’ premier adult lifestyle community in Tillsonburg. Here, you’ll find the perfect combination of value, quality and a range of great options to choose from, allowing homebuyers to personalize homes.

Tillsonburg Developments is proud to announce the re-opening of the Baldwin Place sales centre and model home at a new location, 3 Esseltine Dr. in Tillsonburg. Currently, there are several model homes under construction, due for completion in late-winter and early-spring, allowing clients to see more beautifully-designed and well-crafted all-clay brick bungalows. There are nine different home designs to choose from, available on generous sized lots of 40-, 45- and 50-ft. Or, have Tillsonburg Developments custom design a home plan for you – you can even bring in your own home plan!

Gorgeous new homes at Baldwin Place start at a very affordable $219,900 including HST. There is a monthly $30 residential association fee that goes directly towards operation of the recreation centre, a vital

location Tillsonburg housing type Adult lifestyle, single-detached custom freehold bungalows sales centre 3 Esseltine Dr., open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday to Thursday, Fridays and holidays by appointment only. contact 519.842.4251 | 1.800.265.5709 baldwinplace.ca

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TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS

Baldwin Place

part of the community. It’s an ideal space for neighbours to meet, and includes facilities such as a kitchen, fitness centre, library, salt water pool and salt water spa and numerous meeting rooms. There are also a variety of activities for Baldwin Place residents – chosen and run by the residents themselves, through the volunteer board of directors.

And now, Baldwin Place offers selected homes finished to drywall stage, allowing Tillsonburg Developments to offer quicker possession dates, while still allowing customers the option of choosing interior colours and finishes. Clients always have a choice of elements including flooring, wall colours and cabinetry, amongst others. An interior decorator is also available free of charge for Baldwin Place residents.

Each of the new homes at Baldwin Place, such as the 1,520-sq.-ft. Hampton model, includes a double garage, laundry room, two washrooms, air conditioning and high-efficiency forced-air gas furnace.

In addition to the recreation centre, there are a myriad of recreation and leisure activities within the town of Tillsonburg and surrounding area. There are approximately 30 golf courses within a 30-minute drive of Baldwin place. Downtown Tillsonburg and other municipal trails are easily accessible via a lighted path extending from

the Baldwin Place community. The Municipal Tillsonburg Community Senior’s Centre is another local hot spot. During the summer months, enjoy Tillsonburg’s Farmer’s Market. No matter what the season, there’s always an activity to enjoy in Tillsonburg.

The City of Tillsonburg boasts a bustling core with a variety of restaurants, retail outlets and the Tillsonburg Town Centre, making it the perfect spot for a day of shopping or a night out on the town.

There are two medical centres and a hospital, too.

Tillsonburg Developments takes great pride in the fact that its team of professionals consists of local businesspeople, all of whom live and work in the community.

The pride that these professionals take in their workmanship and community is obvious with the quality of life offered at Baldwin Place. With this strong commitment to the community, plus such a wide variety of options in home customization, everyone feels at home at Baldwin Place.

Visit the new sales centre today, and see for yourself how Baldwin Place embraces a modern lifestyle within a community-driven town.

For more information, call 519.842.4251, 1.800.265.5709 or visit baldwinplace.ca jan 19 - feb 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 15

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inthenews

Tips to avoid

hitting your personal debt ceiling

“Establishing a household budget that includes a debt repayment plan and accounts for other priorities and financial goals such as savings is essential.”

The deadline is approaching

» Manage credit card debt - Pay down credit

next month for the United States to come up with an agreement to raise the $16.4-trillion debt ceiling. The outcome may have wide ranging consequences with the potential to have a significant impact on the global economy and stock markets.

While putting its financial house in order is a top priority for administrations, it should also be top of mind for consumers and their financial affairs.

The BMO Household Debt Report shows that 25 per cent of Canadians are debt-free, however 41 per cent say that they have taken on more debt in the past five years as a result of increased spending.

“While debt is a part of life for the majority of Canadians, it doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture,” says Nancy Marescotti, director, BMO Bank of Montreal. “Establishing a household budget that includes a debt repayment plan and accounts for other priorities and financial goals such as savings is essential.”

cards, beginning with those that carry the highest interest rate, and consider using a low rate card for purchases.

BMO Bank of Montreal offers the following five tips to avoid hitting your personal debt ceiling: - Spend less than you make. Develop a budget that establishes how household expenses will be paid and how spending will be managed. Take advantage of free online tools to help stay on top of everyday household spending and saving. » Don’t overspend

» Invest to save - Set up a Tax Free Savings

Account (TFSA) or high interest savings account to set aside extra cash in case of an emergency. Currently, the BMO Smart Saver account offers a 1.2 per cent interest rate – the highest rate offered among Canada’s major financial institutions for a fullservice savings account, without minimum balance requirements. Also consider using Exchange Traded Funds to reduce management expense fees.

- Cutting your amortization and increasing monthly payments on mortgages can help you pay down your mortgage faster while saving you thousands of dollars in interest costs.

Additionally, consider increasing the frequency of your payments and/or making lump sum payments to pay down your mortgage faster. » Become mortgage free faster

- Develop a fall back plan in case you are unable to meet your financial obligations as a result of unexpected circumstances, such as loss of work, or damage to personal property, such as your home or vehicle. » Have a Plan B

16 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

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Right Size Your Lifestyle!

Discover The Very Best In 4-Season Living At The Village At Sally Creek-Woodstock’s Premier Golf Course Community.

Imagine, fabulous golf in the Summer; hiking and biking in the Spring and Fall and beautiful cross country skiing all Winter long. Woodstock’s abundant amenities, services and cultural activities are all close at hand and Sally Creek offers quick access to Hwys 401 and 403 for destinations beyond. ✔ Sensational Bungalow and Bungalow Loft Designs ✔ Spectacular finishes, features and design details ✔ Residents’ Recreation Centre on site ✔ Steps to the fairways of Sally Creek Golf Course and Bistro

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Follow us on:

#" - - " / 5 3 " & 4 50 6 ' ' 7 * - - & 1 0 35 ) 0 1 & 80 0 % 4 50 $ , $ - " 3 & . 0 / 5 Sizes, prices and specifications are correct at press time and subject to change without notice. All illustrations are artistʼs concept. The ENERGY STAR® mark is administered and promoted in Canada by Natural Resources Canada. Used with permission. E.&O.E.

BILD 2012 HOME BUILDER OF THE YEAR CHBA 2011 GRAND SAM AWARD WINNER

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inthenews

WRHBA’s SAM Awards of Distinction Recognize Industry Achievers and Building Excellence The Waterloo Region Home Builders’

Association (WRHBA) recently marked the 17th anniversary of its Sales and Marketing (SAM) Awards of Distinction at Bingemans in Kitchener. As the premier housing event for the region, the SAM Awards recognize the best of the best in the residential development, construction, renovation, design and sales/marketing sector. The grand gala event, presented in partnership with the Waterloo Region Record, hosted more than 425 industry and community leaders, dignitaries and supporters.

“Both large and small home builders from across the Region were well represented in the winners’ circle,” says Stephanie Lake, WRHBA event and marketing coordinator.

This year, more than 80 awards were presented to representatives of virtually every sector of the industry. A SAM award is recognized as an industry stamp of quality. Both industry watchers and consumers alike look for SAM Award entrants and recipients when reviewing new home construction and renovations, as there is no recognition more respected in distinguishing top-quality construction.

Marie Schroeder, WRHBA’s executive officer, says “the awards are regional in scope and aim to showcase the commitment and dedication to the high standards that WRHBA member companies strive to uphold. The residential development and construction industry remains as one of the largest economic driving forces in our region,

and as such, it deserves recognition; the SAM Awards is the Association’s way of celebrating this dynamic sector that provides homes for thousands of residents and jobs for tens of thousands.”

WRHBA President Brian Campbell (Stantec Consulting Ltd.) says, “WRHBA’s 260 members don’t just build houses, they build communities – they are among the most creative in this region and you can see from tonight’s line-up of entries, finalists and winners that they do an exceptional job and they deserve to be recognized!” Campbell adds that “this evening provided an excellent opportunity for builders, renovators and all WRHBA members to come together and celebrate their achievements from the past year; all finalists and award winners are to be applauded for their outstanding accomplishments!”

The competition is open to all members of the Waterloo Region Home Builders’ Association. Finalist and winners were chosen with objectivity and anonymity, by an esteemed panel of judges that conducted on-site judging for a number of the category entries before making their final decisions.

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WRhBA’s 2012 sAM Awards of distinction Recipients

gRANd SAM BuiLdeR oF THe YeAR Single Detached Home Hawksview Homes Ltd.

GRAND SAM BUILDER OF THE YEAR Multi-Unit Home eastforest Homes Ltd.

gRANd SAM ReuRBANiZATioN PRoJecT Reid’s Heritage Homes, Preston Meadows

gRANd SAM BuiLT gReeN eastforest Homes Ltd., The branson

gRANd SAM BuiLT gReeN empire Communities, The Westbank

BiLL gieS PReSideNTiAL AWARd Past President (2011-2012) jamie adam, Pioneer Craftsmen Ltd.

BuiLdeR MeMBeR oF THe YeAR Greg Schnarr, Schnarr Craftsmen Inc.

ASSociATe MeMBeR oF THe YeAR Dave aston, MHbC Planning Ltd.

LYLe S. HALLMAN AWARd Craig Robson, Robson Carpenter LLP

Vic SeLLNeR AWARd Pioneer Craftsmen Ltd.

RooFToPPeR AWARd Mark Van Dongen, Milla Homes, George Milla Construction Ltd.

cALL A MeMBeR FiRST AWARd activa Holdings Inc.

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MoST ouTSTANdiNg MULTI-UNIT DESIGN Capital Homes Inc., Sims Twin Villas

MoST ouTSTANdiNg SiNgLe deTAcHed DESIGN (TWO STOREY UP TO 2,500 SQ. FT.) Slotegraaf Construction Inc., Douma Residence

MoST ouTSTANdiNg SiNgLe deTAcHed DESIGN (TWO STOREY 2,501 SQ. FT. TO 3,500 SQ. FT.) branthaven Homes, Willow

MoST ouTSTANdiNg SiNgLe deTAcHed DESIGN (3,501 SQ. FT. AND OVER) branthaven Homes, Grand River

MOST OUTSTANDING KITCHEN (IN A HOME UP TO 2,500 SQ. FT.) Capital Homes Inc., Sims Twin Villas

MOST OUTSTANDING KITCHEN (IN A HOME 2,501 SQ. FT. AND OVER) Hawksview Homes Ltd., Mapleridge

MoST ouTSTANdiNg BATHRooM (IN A HOME UP TO 2,500 SQ. FT.) Heisler Homes Inc., Keep Calm and Cary On/Unit C

MOST OUTSTANDING BATHROOM (IN A HOME 2,501 SQ. FT. AND OVER) Pioneer Craftsmen Ltd., Hide-away on Idle Ridge

MoST ouTSTANdiNg iNdooR oR ouTdooR LiViNg SPAce Slotegraaf Construction Inc., Simmons Residence – Garage

MoST ouTSTANdiNg ReNoVATioN oR CONVERSION (UNDER $100,000) ecnomus fine Homes and Renovations, Manchester

MoST ouTSTANdiNg HoMe ReNoVATioN OR CONVERSION (OVER $100,000) Slotegraaf Construction Inc., Workman Residence

BeST NeW HoMeS SALeS oFFice branthaven Homes, joy

C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 4 . . .

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halton hills wellington waterloo

hot sheet

BUILDERS: If you would like to include your new model home or site opening, email wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com. Please say you saw it in New Home & Condo Guide!

preview registration gemini homebuilders Guelph | The Highlands Coming soon – executive townhomes and semis – register today.

geminihomes.ca

queensgate & losani homes Kitchener | Victoria Common Coming soon – carefree living condo suites and townhomes in downtown Kitchener-Waterloo.

victoriacommon.ca

the tricar group Guelph | RiverHouse Condominiums Luxury urban condos from the mid $200’s, with panoramic city and river views.

riverhouseguelph.ca

Vanmar Guelph | V2 Condos Coming soon to south Guelph, an intimate midrise condominium only minutes to nature trails, golfing, dining and shopping.

v2condos.ca

Almaa Ayr Cambridge Elora Fergus Georgetown Guelph Kitchener Rockwood Waterloo

new openings

new releases

hasstown holdings Cambridge | The Grand

reid’s heritage homes Fergus | Highland Hills Final building selling fast in this masterplaned community of two- and threebedroom condominium suites. reidsheritagehomes.com

Grand opening continues for these exciting new condominium residences on the Grand River.

grandcondo.ca

gemini homebuilders Guelph | Morning Crest New phase of development, including 30-ft. lots and semis, now available. Walkout and lookout lot options. Starting in the low $300’s.

geminihomes.ca

claysam homes Guelph | Creekside Freehold walkout townhomes starting at $299,900.

claysamhomes.com fusion homes Waterloo | Vista Hills

Premium home designs on 40- and 50-ft. lots in secluded community of Vista Hills.

fusionhomes.com

dunsire developments Kitchener | Mill Creek Village

gemini homebuilders Guelph | Creekside Already 30 per cent sold, these semis are at the heart of a community full of shops, schools and parks. Move-ins available for late summer or early fall.

geminihomes.ca

monarch Kitchener | The Poplar Designer decorated model home, 2,464 sq. ft. at $479,990.

monarchgroup.net

fusion homes Guelph | Blueberry Hill Brand new semi-detached and 30-ft. detached lots.

fusionhomes.com

Last chance at pre-construction pricing for townhomes in a central location, close to schools, amenities, highway access and the future LRT. Starting at $236,990.

millcreekvillage.ca

jan 19 - feb 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 21

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Plattsville

Breslau

Milton, Georgetown, Rockwood, Guelph, Fergus, Elora, Alma, Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, Ayr

Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

Acton

Prices

Cambridge

haastown holdings

The Grand

Collingwood

Reid's Heritage Homes

Lora Bay

Guelph

CLAYSAM HOMES

Kitchener

Page

•

from $209,900

27

from $375,100

BC

Creekside

•

from $299,900

61

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Joy

•

from the $240's 12&13

Kitchener

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Nestings

•

from the $400's 12&13

Kitchener

DUNSIRE DEVELOPMENTS

Mill Creek Village

•

from low $200's

29

Kitchener

FUSION HOMES

RiverRidge

•

•

from $299,900

25

Kitchener

MATTAMY HOMES

Wildflowers

•

•

Plattsville

claysam homes

Plattsville Estates

•

from $289,900

61

Waterloo

FUSION HOMES

Conservation Meadows

•

from $474,900

25

Waterloo

fusion homes

Vista Hills

•

from $459,900

25

• •

•

•

6

Milton, Georgetown, Rockwood, Guelph, Fergus, Elora, Alma, Cambridge, Kitchener, Waterloo, Ayr

Builders SiteS

Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

De t.

Se m Bu i ng a To low w Co nho nd m Ad o e ul tL ife sty le

Location

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inthenews |

CONTINUED

BEST INTERIOR DECORATING - MODEL HOME/SUITE (UNDER $30,000) Kenmore Homes (Waterloo Region) Inc., Vermillion

BEST INTERIOR DECORATING - MODEL HOME/SUITE (OVER $30,000) branthaven Homes, Willow

BeST coLouR Ad Hawksview Homes Ltd., Mud Rooms

BeST WeB SiTe Hawksview Homes Ltd., hawksviewhomes.com

BEST E-MARKETING CAMPAIGN branthaven Homes, joy

BeST AdVeRTiSiNg cAMPAigN branthaven Homes, joy, presented by Susan Maxwell, new Home & Condo Guide

BeST PRoJecT SigNAge Dunsire Developments Inc., Mill Creek Village

BeST PRoJecT Logo Deerfield Homes, a Division of eastforest Homes Group of Companies, Huron Landing

BeST PRoJecT SALeS BRocHuRe Deerfield Homes, a Division of eastforest Homes Group of Companies, Huron Landing

24 NeW HoMe & coNdo guide SWo | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

018-019-020-024 New WRHBA Awards-DN-WK.indd 24

1/17/13 11:39:51 AM

A celebrity designer may be sleeping over.

CELEBRITY

DESIGNER INCLUDED WITH EVERY

HOME Buy a home. Get a celebrity designer. Glenn Dixon from “Take this house & sell it” will help you pick your finishes and give you some great design advice. He’ll even customize a furniture plan and décor vision that suits your taste and lifestyle. And if you ask really nicely, he may even stay over.

Visit our Presentation Centre for details

Visit our Kitchener-Walterloo Communities

fusionhomes.com

Offer expires February 28, 2013. Consult your Sales Professional for complete details.

JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 25

025-Fusion Homes 01-19-13.indd 25

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mortgageoptions

SUPERSIZE YOUR

mortgage payments

ACCORDING TO A RECENT RBC HOME OWNERSHIP

survey, 65 per cent of Canadian homeowners are worried about mortgage rate increases, and 56 per cent admit that their mortgage is higher than they expected.

“Flexible payment options can help take some of the guesswork out of interest rates increases,” says Marcia Moffat, RBC head of home equity financing. “Speaking with a mortgage specialist and making a few simple changes can help you save thousands on interest costs as well as take years off your mortgage.”

HERE ARE A COUPLE OF TIPS TO HELP YOU PAY OFF YOUR MORTGAGE EVEN FASTER. » Make annual mortgage payments on the principle. Many mort-

gages allow you to make a lump sum payment once every 12 months or at renewal time, which is applied directly to the principal. If you come into a large sum of money through an inheritance or bonus, consider making a prepayment, which can shave years off your mortgage. » If you double up your payments once per year for 25 years, on a $250,000, 25-year mortgage at five per cent interest, you can save more than $30,000 and shave 3.5 years off your amortization term. » Switch to a bi-weekly mortgage payment schedule. Changing to an accelerated bi-weekly payment can be an easy adjustment that will help you save on mortgage interest. The bi-weekly accelerated payment works to help you pay down your mortgage faster as you actually end up making 26 bi-weekly payments a year versus 12 monthly payments.

This adds up to one extra monthly payment every year.

For more information, visit rbcroyalbank.com NC

UNLOCK THE POWER OF MORTGAGE PREAPPROVAL SO, YOU’VE DECIDED TO TAKE THE plunge into home ownership and start searching for your first home? Make sure you have your financing in order before you start your search.

“Having a mortgage pre-approval is a critical component of buying a home, particularly for younger homebuyers,” says Marcia Moffat, RBC head of home equity financing. “It presents you as a serious purchaser to both realtors and sellers.”

Pre-approvals have no obligation and help lock in your interest rate. It also clarifies your budget and sets your expectations accordingly so you’re not wasting your time viewing houses that are beyond your budget.

With a pre-approved mortgage you will know what you can afford right away.

On top of the pre-approval amount, consider your lifestyle preferences and how future cost increases may impact your payment comfort zone.

26 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013

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1/17/13 11:40:05 AM

Following the tremendous success of Waterscape Phase 1, Haastown is now opening the second and final phase of this exclusive condominium community.

The Grand at Waterscape is a brand new 12 storey contemporary residence designed for

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The views will last forever…this opportunity will not!

GrandCondo.ca

209,900

$

Here the most breathtaking views of the Grand River await you each morning in a sophisticated FROM Cambridge’s historic downtown, and minutes from shopping, dining or a night at the theatre. location, steps from the shops, live theatre and restaurants of the city’s historic downtown.

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Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. E. & O.E.

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1/16/13 3:59:32 PM

cityfocus

History, culture and long-term prosperity in

Kitchener-Waterloo

by WAYNE KARL

K

itchener-Waterloo may have once been best known as the home of Kitchener-Waterloo Oktoberfest, meat processor Schneider Foods and the Ontario Hockey League’s Kitchener Rangers. But while rich in German heritage and other culture, the town of about 220,000 has more recently gained a reputation more for high technology than pork sausage and beer-inspired oompahs.

In fact, this vibrant community located in the Region of Waterloo in the heart of Southwestern Ontario, help form the three point-towns that make up “Canada’s Technology Triangle.” Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge today comprise one of Canada’s most diverse economies, evolving from a reliance on manufacturing into a balanced economy that crosses many sectors. Today, the area boasts a thriving advanced technology sector and a highly skilled workforce in the IT, automotive, business and financial services sectors.

Complementing these strengths is a naturally advantageous location off Hwy. 401, close to major Canadian cities Toronto and Hamilton, as well as to entry points to the US at Michigan and New York.

All of this has the region poised for long-term economic health. Employment and population growth, two key factors in housing demand, are both doing well in the area, though they are not without their challenges in the short term. But, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC), the picture begins to brighten in the second half of 2013.

“Improving economic conditions and stable home prices will support housing demand by the second half of 2013,” says Erica McLerie, CMHC senior market analyst.

Overall, housing starts in KW were to increase marginally for 2012 from 2011 levels. Though total starts are expected to slow slightly this year, single-detached starts will actually gain – 4.6 per cent – over 2012.

KW’s diverse economy is expected to respond favourably the more the U.S. recovery continues. Manufacturing jobs have been on the rise over the past number of months, CMHC says.

Unemployment is forecast to be 6.6 per cent for 2013, which is unchanged from 2012 but down from 6.8 per cent in 2011 and eight per cent in 2010.

In terms of population, net migration accounts for more than 50 per cent of the growth, CMHC says, and is expected to average more than 3,000 annually. The city, in fact, is second only to Toronto in attracting immigrants, with almost all of them under the age of 45. In addition, the

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2011 Census showed population in the Triangle grew 5.7 per cent to 477,160 in KW at a glance 2011 from 451,235 in 2006.

POPULATION: Companies such as Toyota Canada, 220,000 Com Dev International, Innovative Steam MAJOR EMPLOYERS: Advanced Technologies and Heroux-Devtek are exmanufacturing, panding production, helping power the education, manufacturing sector to forecasted growth technology sectors averaging 6.2 per cent between 2011 and AVERAGE HOME PRICE, JULY 2012: 2014, According to the Conference Board $316,328 of Canada.

DISTANCE FROM TORONTO: 91 kilometres In addition to growth in high tech, the region has also seen expansion in the educational sectors in recent years. A new health sciences campus of the University of Waterloo, located in downtown Kitchener, opened in 2009 and is expected to inspire further social and economic spin-off benefits. Redevelopment of the downtown block includes new condo, retail and hotel projects and other improvements.

Ontario has committed to building a new provincial courthouse in the downtown area, which could lead to further job growth in the legal sector.

Transit expansion, an important element for any growing city to accommodate new residents and housing development, has also been a focal point for Kitchener. This facilitates transportation not just within the city but also eases commuter traffic to Hamilton, Oakville, Mississauga and Toronto.

Regional Council has been discussing a light rail transit system to service the Tri-Cities for years. Officials are negotiating funding agreements with the provincial and federal governments to cover the estimated $790-million cost of the system. Rail transit could be launched by 2014.

Meanwhile, GO Transit is also expanding service to the area. In 2009, it extended bus services connecting Kitchener with the Milton GO Train station and the Square One Bus Terminal in Mississauga, and in 2011 GO extended train service on its Georgetown line through Guelph to Kitchener.

As for entertainment, Kitchener has a lot more going for it than just Oktoberfest. From Bingemans camping resort and family playground, to Chicopee Ski Club, to the Children’s Museum, the Kitchener-Waterloo Art Gallery and the Farmers’ Market, there is always plenty to see and do in town.

And, of course, there are the Kitchener Rangers of the OHL, a fi xture in town since 1963. Playing out of the storied Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex, the Rangers are especially noteworthy because they are a publicly-owned team, operated by a 40-member board of directors comprising season ticket holders. This a rarity in sports today, and speaks to the level of community spirit and involvement in Kitchener.

So, what does all this mean for prospective homebuying in KitchenerWaterloo? For one thing, KW-Cambridge is ranked as the number two investment area in Ontario between 2013 and 2018, according to the Real Estate Investment Network. In addition to the strong economy, a commitment to infrastructure improvements and transportation projects will help drive the economy and real estate market in this area, the group says.

Builders seem to agree, as all of Branthaven Homes, Dunsire Developments, Empire Communities, Eastforest Homes, Fusion Homes, Laurel View

Photos courtesy of the City of Kitchener

Homes, Losani Homes, Monarch Corporation, Reid’s Heritage Homes, Terra View Homes, Kenmore Homes and Andrin Homes have developments underway in Kitchener, while Haastown Holdings and other companies are building in Cambridge.

Despite the growth, Kitchener remains proud of its German ancestry, harking back to its founding in 1854 as the Town of Berlin. Today, about 25 per cent of residents are Canadians of German descent.

Oktoberfest still serves as an annual celebration of this heritage. The nine-day event, based on the original German Oktoberfest in Munich, is the largest Bavarian festival in the world outside of Germany, and runs every October from the Friday before Thanksgiving to the Saturday after.

Whatever Kitchener has going for it, it seems to be working. In a recent survey of residents conducted by Environics, 91 per cent of citizens indicated they were pleased with the strategic direction of the city and the services provided by the municipal government.

All told, it sounds like a recipe for continued prosperity – and “ein prosit!”

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communityfocus

Reid’s Heritage Homes says don’t just live, LiveWise GUIDING PHILOSOPHY OF CELEBRATED BUILDER ENCOMPASSES THREE GENERATIONS OF COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE

W

e’re all familiar with the old adage about the three most important things to consider when buying real estate – location, location, location. But what about the environment? Or land use?

Or the future? In all the excitement of purchasing a new home, not many buyers stop to think about these things. Fortunately, though, Reid’s Heritage Homes does. And has for more than three generations, since the company’s founding in 1978.

By taking a big-picture, holistic view of the communities it develops, the homes it builds and the people it works with, Reid’s

Heritage Homes has become one of Southwestern Ontario’s leading home builders, with communities in Cambridge, Meaford, Owen Sound, Thornbury, Guelph, Fergus, Kitchener, Collingwood and Port Elgin.

Over the years, the company has gained thousands of satisfied customers, and a trophy case filled with more than 100 prestigious awards for quality, design and innovation. Last year alone, it was named New Homes Participant of the Year by Energy Star (the first home builder ever so recognized in Canada) and was a finalist for OHBA’s prestigious Homebuilder of the Year award.

Now, Reid’s Heritage Homes is codifying the unique business practices that have made it so successful into a program called LiveWise.

“LiveWise captures our core values. It’s an advancement of our team philosophies and a promise of excellence to our homeowners, our suppliers and the communities we work with,” say Tim Blevin, president and CEO

32

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REID’S HERITAGE HOMES Multi-site

locations Cambridge, Meaford, Owen Sound, Thornbury, Guelph, Fergus, Kitchener, Collingwood and Port Elgin contact reidsheritagehomes.com

of Reid’s Heritage Homes. “The values are already in place and have been practiced over the past 35 years. And they will continue to be the cornerstone of our company going forward. LiveWise is our pledge to the people we do business with.”

LiveWise spells out Reid’s Heritage Homes’ commitment and dedication to seven different principles: quality, the future, the environment, their people, service, design and neighbourhoods. For example, Reid’s Heritage Homes and LiveWise emphasize “zero tolerance for error and Total Quality Management by taking personal ownership and responsibility,” says Darryl McMillan, director of construction and operations.

When it comes to the environment and our future, Reid’s Heritage Homes will continue to take a leadership role. LiveWise ensures the continued development of sustainable buildings and practices by stressing design, health, energy and savings. As Scott LiveWise even dictates the superior level of service you can expect Reid, vice-president of Residential Construc- when purchasing a Reid’s Heritage Home. Customer Care Supervisor tion says, “we’re investing in the right systems, Tanya Dupuis put it best when she said, “we follow one basic philosophy: products and processes today for a better treat every home we build like it’s our own.” Homebuyers can count on tomorrow.” That may include providing geo- rigourous quality inspections, reliable delivery schedules and prompt, thermal heating and solar-ready piping, as timely issue resolution. seen in some most recent communities.

In the end, LiveWise represents the singular corporate culture of Reid’s And speaking of communities, LiveWise Heritage Homes. A culture that puts quality and a job done right above promises a unique approach to overall land expediency. A culture that creates homes instead of houses. A culture use. Green design and smart growth prin- that understands the dreams you bring to your new home purchase, and ciples result in vibrant, sustainable neigh- knows that to make them come true there’s a lot more to consider than bourhoods that flow into harmonious just location. streetscapes, making the most of the surTo accompany the launch of LiveWise, Reid’s Heritage Homes has rounding natural features and public ame- also introduced a new owl mascot. Wise, responsible and resourceful, this nities. Visit a Reid’s Heritage Homes com- new mascot is the perfect representation of the LiveWise approach. munity and you’ll see the pride of ownership and sense of belonging that this unique, To learn more about Reid’s Heritage Homes and the LiveWise program, forward-looking approach creates. please visit reidsheritagehomes.com today. jan 19 - feb 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 33

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S TRENGTH IN E XPERIENCE

Award-winning Bayview Wellington Homes presents Victoria Village, St. Catharines. Featuring The Preston 3 Family Room, from one of our many Exquisite Model Homes Collection.

january2013 bayview wellington homes has been featured as “model home of the month� as seen in the new home and condo guide model home calendar

hamilton halton niagara

hot sheet

BUILDERS: If you would like to include your new model home or site opening, email wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com. Please say you saw it in New Home & Condo Guide!

preview registration eastforest homes Simcoe | Woodway Trails Single-detached homes on 45-ft.-wide lots, as well as semis. woodwaytrails.ca adi development group Burlington | Mod’rn Condominium Register now – coming this fall – four-storey condo in the heart of Burlington. adidevelopments.com

Ancaster Beamsville Binbrook Brant Brantford Burlington Catharines Grimsby Hamilton Milton

Niagara Oakville Paris Port Dover St. Catharines Stoney Creek Vineland St.

new openings

new releases

countrygreen homes Waterdown | The Uptowns of Waterdown Urban style condo towns from the $200’s. countrygreenhomes.com

empire communities Stoney Creek | Victory Introducing a new release of 34-ft detached home designs with more square footage. victoryempire.com

Great gulf homes Thorold | Rolling Meadows Model homes now open for this upcoming community of singles on 42- and 50-ft. lots from 1,845 to 3,035 sq. ft. greatgulf.com

Bayview-wellington homes Niagara | Niagara on the Green Register now for these executive townhomes backing onto the Royal Niagara Golf Course. bwhomes.ca

menkes & fernbrook homes Oakville | Millstone on the Park Grand opening in Oakville – urban towns close to schools, shopping, major highways and more. millstonepark.ca

branthaven homes Waterdown | The Portraits Coming soon, intimate collection of just 47 townhomes in a landscaped enclave. branthaven.com

Losani homes Binbrook | The Fairgrounds Prestige Grand opening of 36- and 46-ft. single-family homes backing onto preserved woodlot. losanihomes.com

dawn victoria homes Burlington | Village West Coming soon – register now for this small enclave of urban townhomes on Plains Road West. Ideal for commuters and young families due to proximity to the GO station, QEW, parks and downtown. dawnvictoriahomes.com

marz homes Stoney Creek | Woodview Now open – forest-side town living in affordable freehold and private lane townhome collection. marzhomes.com phelps homes Grimsby | The Bedford Collection Model home now open at this private enclave of 28 bungalows a short walk from downtown Grimsby. bedfordcollection.ca new horizon homes Brant County | Royal Highland Estates Now under construction – custom bungalows on large estate lots. newhorizonhomes.ca

empire communities Hamilton | Summerlea New release of freehold townhomes to go along with 30-, 36- and 44-ft. detached homes. empirecommunities.com branthaven homes Grimsby | Bravo by the Lake Phase 2 lot release coming soon, in masterplanned community of two- and three-storey lakeside townhomes. branthaven.com countrygreen homes Hamilton | West Bloom Premium lots available in this intimate enclave of 35 single-family homes. countrygreenhomes.com brookfield homes Brantford | Grand Valley Trails New release of bungalow towns; also parkside singles and attached singles. brookfieldgrandvalley.ca dicenzo homes Niagara | Blueshores Final phase released – waterside living in luxury singles, attached singles and towns. blueshores.info spallacci homes Hamilton | Eden Park Phase 4 release of exceptional 32and 40-ft. lots. spallaccihomes.com

autumn lea developments Welland | Silverwood Manor Model home now under construction – freehold bungalow townhomes with doublecar garges and stylish designs.

1.866.318.3485

jan 19 - feb 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 35

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36

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Paris

Port Dover

Grimsby

Smithville

Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Ancaster, Paris, Brantford, Stoney Creek, Vineland, Lincoln, Thorold, Fonthill, Niagara, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Fort Erie

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

Thorold Fonthill

Ridgeway

Chippawa

Fort Erie

Prices

Ancaster

Rosehaven Homes

Tiffany Hill

•

Beamsville

Homes By DeSantis

Lincoln Square

•

Beamsville

Mountainview Homes

Hillside Estates

Brantford

eastforest homes

Brantford

Page

from $460's

38

from mid $200's

11

from $274,900

9

D'Aubigny Forest Estates

•

from $296,990

51

Empire communities

Wyndfield

•

•

from $189,990

2&3

Brantford

brookfield homes

Grand Valley Trails

•

•

from $219,990

47

Chippawa

Rosehaven homes

Lyon's Creek

•

•

from low $300's

38

Fonthill

Mountainview Homes

The Residences at Lookout

•

•

from $315,900

9

Georgetown

menkes

The Enclaves of Upper Canada

•

•

from $409,990

43

Grimsby

Branthaven homes

Bravo! By the Lake

•

from $219,990

12&13

Hamilton

Country Green Homes

WestBloom

•

from $329,900

7

Hamilton

empire communities

Summerlea

•

from $219,990

2&3

Hamilton

new horizon

City Square

Hamilton

SPALLACCI homes

Eden Park

•

Niagara

Mountainview Homes

Thundering Waters

•

•

Niagara Falls

Mountainview Homes

Deerfield Estates

•

•

Niagara Falls

Mountainview Homes

Fernwood

•

Niagara on the Lake BW Homes

Niagara on the Green

•

•

Oakville

MENKES

Millstone

Ridgeway

Mountainview Homes

Beaver Creek Estates

•

St. Catharines

BW HOMES

Stoney Creek

•

•

•

•

from low $200's

41 39

from high $200's

9

from $224,900

9

•

from $202,900

9

•

from low $200's

4&5

•

from $299,990

42

•

from $283,900

9

Victoria Village

•

from $254,900

4&5

BRANTHAVEN homes

Paramount

•

from $200,000

12&13

Stoney Creek

empire communities

Victory

•

•

from $274,990

2&3

Thorold

great gulf

Thorold

•

from $307,990

78&79

Thorold

Mountainview Homes

West Community

•

•

•

from $239,900

9

Thorold

Rosehaven homes

Gibson Heights

•

•

from $240,000's

38

Welland

autumn lea developments inc. Silverwood Manor

•

from low $200's

53

Welland

Mountainview Homes

•

from $213,900

9

Harvest Estates

•

•

Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Ancaster, Paris, Brantford, Stoney Creek, Vineland, Lincoln, Thorold, Fonthill, Niagara, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Fort Erie

Builders SiteS S

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

De t.

Se m Bu i ng To alo wn w h Ad ome u l /C t L on ife do sty le

Location

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It’s the feeling Rosehaven designs into some of the most unique and desirable homes in Southern Ontario. Homes that are as unique as you are. So choose Rosehaven and every time you step through the front door you’ll say, I am happy, I am comfortable… I am home!

Thorold - Gibson Heights Model home inventory release! Towns, semis & attached singles from the $240’s.

Plus 45’, 40’ & 36’ lots from $300’s.

Richmond St. & Winterberry Blvd., South of Hwy. 58

Chippawa / Niagara - Lyon’s Creek New 35’ bungalow loft towns & 50’ singles from the low $300’s.

Lyon’s Creek Blvd. & Sodom Rd. East of the QEW

Ancaster - Tiffany Hill Luxury stone, stucco & brick detached homes on 45’ lots from the $460’s and 4 models to tour!

Garner Rd. E. & Raymond Rd. East of Hwy. 6

For directions, hours, community information, visit:

rosehavenhomes.com • (1-888 / 416) 410-0175 38

038-Rosehaven-Multisite 01-19-13.indd 38

Prices and specifications correct at press time. E. & O.E. Prices quoted are in $ thousands.

1/16/13 3:59:40 PM

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buildingblocks

Securing the best mortgage FOR YOUR FIRST HOME

by Jeff Paikin Securing your first mortgage is truly one of life’s

milestones. Being able to carry a six-figure loan indicates that you have achieved well-regarded levels of prosperity and responsibility.

Before you apply for a mortgage, there are a number of measures first-time and seasoned buyers alike can take to ensure they qualify for the best mortgage possible. Keep in mind that reducing your mortgage rate by just one per cent can save you thousands of dollars over the life of your mortgage.

The primary focus for all prospective buyers should be to exhibit an ability to manage their personal finances within your current income environment.

Mortgage lenders look at your debt-to-income (DTI) ratio to determine how much you can afford to borrow. This ratio is calculated by dividing your monthly gross income by the amount you use to pay off debts such as auto loans, student loans and credit card balances each month.

Lending institutions rely on your credit score – a three-digit number that reflects the history and amounts of credit, and anything else that would affect your creditworthiness. Using this formula, lenders feel they can predict with considerable accuracy how comfortably a borrower can carry the mortgage.

You should never apply for a mortgage without first getting your credit reports. The primary reason is to ensure there aren’t any errors or discrepancies. Errors on your file can force you to pay a higher interest rate on your mortgage and in some cases even torpedo your chances of getting a loan altogether. You could discover accounts that aren’t even yours, or collection accounts for debts you no longer owe.

Once you’ve confirmed the accuracy of your credit report, you can now begin to take steps to improve your credit score in the months leading up to your purchase.

Thirty-five percent of your score is determined by your payment history.

Consistently being late on your credit card payments will significantly hurt your rating. Do your best to keep the balance on your credit cards under a quarter of the total line of credit. At the very least, pay your credit card bills on time to preserve a respectable score. If possible, pay off the balance entirely and promptly. Don’t close the credit card accounts when you pay them off, however. Closing credit accounts can negatively effect on your credit score.

The second most important part of your credit score is your level of debt.

You should look to pay down student or car loans that may be keeping your score down. Mortgage advisors will always encourage first-time buyers to limit their major purchases on credit until after they’ve secured their mortgage.

You might want to push back that new car until after you’ve bought your first

Jeff Paikin (Past President of HHHBA) has been in the building industry for more than 20 years. As President and CEO of New Horizon Development Group (Builders of the inaugural CHBA Green Home of the Year), there isn’t much in the housing world he hasn’t seen. Jeff will provide regular insight and perspective of what’s going on in today’s market and what buyers should be aware of as they prepare to make a purchase. He can be reached at info@newhorizonhomes.ca

home! As a first-time homebuyer, extending your unsecured credit to the maximum by buying one or more new cars before you get your first mortgage will almost always force you to remain a renter, and have you paying someone else’s mortgage for years to come.

Don’t apply for more credit than you need, as too many accounts can hurt your mortgage application.

Young professionals who’ve been renting or living with parents and don’t have a credit history might benefit from having utilities in your own name. It won’t establish a credit score, but it can still be helpful for a first-time borrower.

The best thing you can do is to get a credit card and use it with the utmost prudence. Using it in place of money, then using that cash to make your monthly payments can go a long way to helping you build credit. It takes time and there are really no shortcuts or tricks that can take you from bad credit or no credit at all to a high score. So, while it is important to establish credit, it is even more important to take the time to do the right things to maintain good credit.

Securing a good mortgage doesn’t have to be burdensome or disheartening. If you take the necessary steps to tidy up your financial affairs, you will find all aspects of homeownership, not just your mortgage, to be relaxing and rewarding.

Happy hunting.

40 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

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communityfocus

Mod’rn Condominiums: one of the fastest selling condos in Burlington

M

od’rn Condominiums by Adi Development Group launched in November to an overwhelming response from the local community.

Hundreds of eager purchasers spilled into the Mod’rn presentation centre. As guests enjoyed artisan treats served up by local Burlington roasters TAMP Coffee, the room filled with excitement about Mod’rn’s unique offering as the first boutique midrise condo to arrive in Burlington.

Priced from the mid $200,000s, a select number of suites are still available in the four-storey concrete building, offering open concept layouts with soaring nine- and 10-ft. ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows.

Resonating well with purchasers, Mod’rn’s standard features and finishes include wide plank laminate flooring, premium stainless steel Energy Star appliances, designer cabinetry and granite countertops. All units are open to the outdoors with a balcony or ground floor walkout patio.

“The response to Mod’rn has been remarkably strong,” says Krista Jackson, project manager for Baker Real Estate. “Adi understands what the market is looking for and they are bringing a quality product with contemporary styling to Burlington.”

Establishing a new tone for residential design in Burlington, Mod’rn’s contemporary architecture, stylish amenities and quality features and finishes attracted a broad demographic. “We are seeing lots of young, first-time buyers, as well as older couples who are looking to downsize, but

want a fresh, contemporary look,” says Tariq Adi, CEO of Adi Development Group.

Mod’rn’s façade features an interplay of warm and sleek materials, using dark iron spot brick, parklex wood panels and natural stone. The boutique condo also offers purchasers a remarkable rooftop urban retreat for lounging and socializing, with fireplace lounges, BBQ’s and outdoor dining areas. Indoor amenities include a contem-

location Burlington housing type Boutique midrise condominium sales centre 1284 Guelph Line, open Tuesday to Friday noon to 6 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. contact 905.592.2144 | adidevelopments.com

44 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

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ADI DEVELOPMENT GROUP

Mod’rn

porary lobby with a taupe stone feature wall and double-sided fireplace, concealing a stylish entertainment space for parties and private dining.

“The immediate success of Mod’rn is demonstrating to us that Burlingtonians are ready for something fresh and contemporary that moves away from what the

traditional townhome or condo can offer,” says Adi. Local brothers Tariq and Saud Adi of Adi Development Group share a passion for design and both draw from a wealth of international influences. Their inspiration for Mod’rn is derived not only from their love of Burlington but also from a lineage of international builders. As a result, Mod’rn has become a signature piece for both Burlington and the Adi Development Group.

“Burlington is where we shop, dine, work and play and we are very excited to bring a high quality and a high design product to our own community, designing spaces that we would also want to live in,” says Adi. With several other Burlington and local GTA projects slated to launch in the near future, Adi Development Group will be a significant force to watch in the area’s urban growth.

Located at 1284 Guelph Line, the Mod’rn Condominium presentation centre is open Tuesday to Friday noon to 6 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays noon to 5 p.m. For more information, please visit adidevelopments.com or call 905.592.2144. jan 19 - feb 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 45

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inthenews

Brookfield Homes named a finalist for CHBA Marketing Excellence Award

“We are delighted to have Pathways nominated for this prestigious Canadian Award. Pathways has been an overwhelming success since its opening and we are proud of the design, construction and quality of this community. We extend our sincere thanks to our consultants, trades and staff for all of their contributions,” says Marc Thibault, vice-president of sales and marketing at Brookfield Homes.

Brookfield Homes (Ontario) Ltd.

The award recognizes the new home builder whose single project combines the best overall achievements in marketing.

has been named a finalist for the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Marketing Excellence Award. The award recognizes the new home builder whose single project combines the best overall achievements in marketing. The award will be presented as part of the CHBA’s National Conference on March 8 in Lake Louise.

In addition to this award, Brookfield was also named a finalist for the best project signage/logo as well as the best brochure for Pathways, its master-planned community in Caledon East. Pathways is a picturesque well-balanced community of towns and singles featuring two parks and a pond and has several pathways connecting the community to enjoy nature at its finest.

About Brookfield Homes Brookfield Homes (Ontario) Ltd., a member of Brookfield Residential, is committed to being more than a homebuilder. We are dedicated to creating the best places to call home through an ongoing commitment to quality, design and customer service which has earned the company several highly coveted industry recognitions.

Brookfield has built more than 25,000 homes in Ontario since 1956 and has active communities in Alliston (Treetops), Bowmanville (BrookHill), Bradford (Grand Central), Brantford (Grand Valley Trails), Caledon East (Pathways), Mono (Fieldstone) and Niagara-On-The-Lake (The Village). For more information, visit brookfiledhomes.ca

46 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

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communityfocus

An expanding Empire in the GTA and Southwestern Ontario Empire Communities’ plans for 2013 include new communities in Niagara and Brampton

location Niagara, Brampton housing type Niagara, small single-family detached homes and townhomes, condominiums and apartments, larger detached homes; Brampton, townhomes, semi-detached homes and detached homes contact empirecommunities.com

F

or more than 20 years, Empire Communities has built beautiful, award-winning homes in some of the most desired locations throughout Southwestern Ontario. This year, Empire will continue its expansion with the launch of two exciting new master-planned communities, Imagine in Niagara and Lakeside in Brampton. For homebuyers looking for properties in some of Empire’s current communities, the company is offering everything from new home designs, to bigger homesites, to a great kitchen bonus in various locations.

IMAGINE Empire presents Imagine, a beautiful master-planned, eco-friendly community in Niagara set to launch in early summer of this year. Homes will appeal to all ages and every lifestyle and will range from small singlefamily detached homes and townhomes, to condominiums and apartments, to larger detached homes. Affordably priced, townhomes will start at $189,990 and detached homes at $214,990. Construction is underway!

“This dynamic community will truly have something for everyone,” 48 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

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EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Multi-site

says Paul Golini, executive vice-president of Empire Communities. “From families to second-home vacationers, empty nesters and retirees, Imagine will offer a vibrant lifestyle unmatched in southern Ontario.”

tan. Stay tune for more details on the opening of these great new model homes!

SUMMERLEA Just minutes from downtown Hamilton is Empire’s Summerlea community in Binbrook. Summerlea offers homeowners a range of urban amenities, yet is still minutes from the Binbrook Conservation Area. Empire is opening four new fully-decorated model homes in February. Two of the four model home plans were released in December – the Hampton and the Manhat-

For more information, visit empirecommunities.com

WYNDFIELD Set on the scenic, rolling terrain of southwest Brantford, LAKESIDE Wyndfield offers townhomes and detached homes on Empire Communities is bringing homes to Brampton! country-sized 30-, 36- and 44-ft. homesites in an everLakeside is a new master-planned community conve- growing master-planned community. Prices start from niently located near Hwy. 410 and surrounded by plenty $189,990 for townhomes and $243,990 for detached of greenspace. Featuring townhomes, semi-detached homes homes. All homes offer fabulous, functional layouts and and detached homes, Lakeside is suited for first-time buyers are ideal for young or growing families. One available or those looking to move into a larger house. floorplan even features two master bedrooms. Wyndfield homes also include an exciting Live-In Kitchen Bonus VICTORY which features upgrades such as a chimney-style hood Ideally situated in Stoney Creek on the mountain, Victory fan, special edition backsplash and countertop and a currently offers a diverse range of townhomes and detached retro faucet, to name a few. Look for upcoming releases two-car garage, single family homes on 34-ft. homesites. of new homesites.

Victory’s homes will appeal to a range of buyers – from From luxury to affordable housing, Empire has an esfirst-time homeowners, to those looking to upgrade and tablished tradition of creating prestigious award-winning from young professionals to families. Two new 34-ft. new homes, communities and amenities and has earned a designs have recently been released in addition to several reputation for outstanding attention to detail and customer new renderings of other popular existing homes. Coming service. With communities in some of the most picturesque soon – Victory will launch beautiful new home designs and conveniently-situated locations in Southwestern Ontario, on 42-ft. homesites. there’s never been a better time to own an Empire home.

048-049 CF Empire_AY-WK.indd 49

» Coming Soon

Summerlea: Binbrook – four new model homes in spring Victory: Stoney Creek – new 42-ft. home designs in spring Lakeside: Brampton – new site this spring Wyndfield: Brantford – new homesites in spring Imagine: Niagara – new site coming this summer

1/17/13 11:41:30 AM

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HHHBAreport

Mathieu Langelier is Executive Officer of the HHHBA. He can be reached at mathieu@hhhba.ca or 905.575.3344.

CITY OF HAMILTON

increases cost of new homes by $3,000

by MATHIEU LANGELIER

THE HAMILTON-HALTON HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION WAS IN

attendance recently at a Planning Committee meeting to oppose the substantial user fee increases proposed by city staff. The HHHBA asked for the proposal to be deferred in order to allow city staff to identify inefficiencies and reduce the overall costs associated to these fees, but City Councillors decided to follow through with the increases. The HHHBA is disappointed that the City’s decisions will continue to hurt affordability and drive families away from Hamilton.

The impact of this decision is that the average application fee will increase by 76 per cent, with some fees doubling and even tripling in price. It is important to highlight that fees, levies and taxes are costs that are not assumed by builders or developers, these are costs that are transferred directly to new home purchasers. This increase will impact the cost of housing in Hamilton with upwards of $3,000 being added to the price of a new home, depending on the subdivision.

The HHHBA asked for the possibility to review and assess the changes to application fees back in September, and our request was not taken into consideration in the report. As well, a review of the level of service provided by engineering and planning departments was not conducted. The proposed increase in fees is based on the costs to deliver current service. However the HHHBA and several of its members have expressed concern regarding service, particularly in areas of procedure, timing and expertise. An increase in fees will not address any of these concerns.

“The HHHBA is not opposed to fee increases across the board,” says HHHBA incoming President Anthony Chiarella. “We simply think being asked to pay more for current inefficient processes is not logical. The Open for Business Sub Committee has made a series of recommendations on how to be more efficient and open to business and although we are encouraged by some of the changes that have been implemented there are still many areas

that need work. Simply increasing fees is not the solution.”

Ward Campbell, president of Starward Homes, appealed to the common sense of the Committee, stating: “It will now cost me more to have applications reviewed by City Staff than it costs me to have the applications produced by our consultants. How can that make any sense? How can we continue to go down that path without looking at efficiencies and getting help from consultants?”

Hamilton’s main attraction for potential new homebuyers has always been affordability. The HHHBA is disappointed by the City of Hamilton’s decisions as this will simply add costs to the new-home buyer and affect affordability once again in the city of Hamilton. We will continue to fight for affordability and housing choice in the future.

In other HHHBA news, the association’s recent annual Holiday Social and Toy Drive was a great success, with 120 toys being donated to City Kidz. The event, sponsored by Union Gas, was held at Eatalia Restaurant in Burlington.

More than 100 people were in attendance at the event, each bringing a new, unwrapped toy for needy children in our community. City Kidz is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children living in the inner city.

The HHHBA is delighted to have contributed to such a wonderful organization and a heart-warming cause and we thank everyone who donated a gift for children in our community.

52 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013

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inthenews

CHBA names

2012 National SAM Finalists The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) has announced the finalists for the 2012 CHBA National SAM Awards, presented

by Schlage and Trane.

The awards celebrate excellence in new homes, home renovation, innovative technology and construction, outstanding presentation and marketing across Canada.

Twenty-three CHBA National SAM Awards will be presented at the Association’s 70th National Conference on March 8 in Lake Louise.

“This year’s SAM Award theme – Awe – speaks to the ingenuity, imagination and creativeness that drives new home builders, renovators and developers to build homes and communities that are truly awe-inspiring,” says CHBA President Ron Olson. “We take great pride in the achievements of our 2012 SAM Finalists.”

The awards are given for projects of varying sizes in the following categories: New Home Awards (eight in total); Home Renovation Awards (five in total); and Marketing Awards (six in total).

In addition, single awards are presented for Marketing Excellence; Green Home; Community Development; and, the Grand SAM, which recognizes the new homebuilder who demonstrates the highest level of excellence in both building and marketing.

Finalists for the 2012 national SAM awards: NEW HOME AWARDS Production Homes SINGLE DETACHED HOME UNDER 1,500 SQUARE FEET › Homes by Avi - Edmonton, Sherwood Park, Alta: “The Jacob Darcy Dixon in Maple Crest” › Linwood Homes Ltd., Young’s Point, Ont.: “Deerbay” › Stepper Custom Homes Inc., Calgary: “Cromwell, Copperfield” › Sterling Homes (Edmonton) Ltd., Edmonton: “Belvedere” › Whitestone Developments, Halifax: “Lot 159 Olive, Thistle Grove” SINGLE DETACHED HOME BETWEEN 1,500 TO 2,200 SQUARE FEET › Albi Homes Ltd., Calgary: “The Armento in Riverstone of Cranston” › Lexis Homes, Saskatoon: “The View” › Lucchetta Homes Ltd., Welland, Ont.: “The Hillcrest, Timmsdale Estates” › Rinaldi Homes (Niagara) Inc., St. Catharines, Ont.: “The Riverside, Courtland Valley Estates” › Trico Homes Inc., Calgary: “The Desmond in Evanston” SINGLE DETACHED HOME OVER 2,200 SQUARE FEET › Albi Homes Ltd., Calgary: “The Carrara in Artesia at Heritage Pointe” › Crystal Creek Homes Ltd., Calgary: “The Westwood II, Aspen Woods Estates” › Skymark Contracting Ltd., Torbay, NL: “Country Gardens Road” › Stranville Living, Lethbridge, Alta.: “Ayr, Couleecreek”

› White Eagle Homes Ltd., Edmonton: “The Blue Diamond, Allar Estates” SINGLE ATTACHED HOMES › Citta Construction Ltd., Saanichton, BC: “The Pointe, Phase 3, Sunriver Estates” › Lucchetta Homes Ltd., Welland, Ont.: “The Abbey, Ryan’s Walk” › Prominent Homes Ltd., Calgary: “50th Avenue Infill, Altadore” › R inaldi Homes (Niagara) Inc., St. Catharines, Ont.: “Unit #2 Old Mill Lane - Old Mill Lane” › Starward Homes, Hamilton: “The Bungalows of Ancaster” Custom Homes SINGLE DETACHED HOME UNDER 2,500 SQUARE FEET › Cochren Homes Ltd., Oakville, Ont. › Discovery Dream Homes Ltd., Peterborough, Ont. › Linwood Homes Ltd., Young’s Point, Ont. › Maric Homes Ltd., Winnipeg › Rooftight Construction Ltd., Fall River, NS SINGLE DETACHED HOME BETWEEN 2,500 TO 4,000 SQUARE FEET › Coastal Construction, Sidney, BC › Northern Sky Developments Ltd., Martensville, Sask. › T homas Cochren Homes, Waterdown, Ont. › Timberworx Custom Homes, Fergus, Ont. › Tony Ferkul Construction Group, Mississauga, Ont. SINGLE DETACHED HOME OVER 4,000 SQUARE FEET › Bachly Construction, Bolton, Ont. › Camelot Homes Ltd., Qualicum Beach, BC › Coastal Construction, Sidney, BC › Crystal Creek Homes Ltd., Calgary › McKinley Masters, Calgary

54 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

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“The Essex at Callaghan” by Rohit Communities

MULTI-FAMILY PROJECT › Adera Development Corp., Vancouver: “Breeze” › Adera Development Corp., Vancouver: “seven35” ›R ohit Group of Companies, Edmonton: “Essex at Callaghan Ravines”

GREEN HOME AWARD › Denim Homes Inc., Kentville, NS › Effect Home Builders Ltd., Edmonton › Landmark Group of Builders, Edmonton › Rooftight Construction Ltd., Fall River, NS › Steve Snider Construction Inc., Sunderland, Ont.

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AWARD › Adera Development Corp., Vancouver: “seven35” ›A vi Urban, Calgary: “Victoria Cross Phase Two” ›B ri-Mor Developments, Calgary: “West Grove Estates” › Empire Communities, Vaughan, Ont.: “Wynfield (West)” ›W atermark Development LP, Calgary: “Watermark at Bearspaw”

HOME RENOVATION AWARDS KITCHEN ›C ochren Homes Ltd., Oakville, Ont.

›K on-strux Developments Inc., Calgary › Nesbitt Originals and Okanagan Dream Builders, Kelowna, BC ›R JR Construction Management Ltd., Vancouver ›T he Caruk Group Inc., Toronto ANY ROOM › Cochren Homes Ltd., Oakville, Ont. › Just Basements, Ottawa › My House Design/Build Team Ltd., Surrey, BC › Newcastle Homes, Calgary › reVISION Custom Home Renovations Inc., Vancouver WHOLE HOUSE – UNDER $250,000 ›H aus of Lula Inc., Halifax ›P rominent Homes Ltd., Calgary ›R JR Construction Management Ltd., Vancouver › Sloot Construction Ltd., Arkell, Ont. ›T he Caruk Group Inc., Toronto WHOLE HOUSE – BETWEEN $250,000 AND $500,000 ›E urodale Developments Inc., Toronto › Lagois Drafting & Construction Inc., North Gower, Ont. › My House Design/Build Team Ltd., Surrey, BC ›O ke Woodsmith Building Systems Inc., Grand Bend, Ont. › Ultimate Renovations, Calgary

WHOLE HOUSE – MORE THAN $500,000 elly Homes, Winnipeg ›K › Malbec Homes & Renovations Inc., Calgary › My House Design/Build Team Ltd., Surrey, BC › Nesbitt Originals and Okanagan Dream Builders, Kelowna, BC › Newcastle Homes, Calgary

MARKETING AWARDS BEST PRINT AD ›C amrost Felcorp Inc., Toronto: “Imperial Plaza Condominiums”; Creative, concept and production: Montana Steele Strategic Marketing

› Empire Communities, Vaughan, Ont.: “Eau Du Soleil Condominiums”; Creative, concept and production: Montana Steele Strategic Marketing ›R eid’s Heritage Homes, Vaughan, Ont.: “Heritage Lake Estates”; Creative, concept and production: Montana Steele Strategic Marketing

›R osehaven Homes, Oakville, Ont.: “Kleinburg Heritage Estates”; Creative, concept and production: McOuat Partnership › Stepper Custom Homes Inc., Calgary: “Passion Starts Early”

jan 19 - feb 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 55

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ting

ustom

BEST DIRECT MAIL PROMOTION › Camrost Felcorp Inc., Toronto: “Imperial Plaza Condominiums”; Creative, concept and production: Montana Steele Strategic Marketing › Camrost Felcorp Inc., Toronto: “The New Residences of Yorkville Plaza”; Creative, concept and production: Montana Steele Strategic Marketing › Homes by Avi (Calgary) Inc., Calgary: “2012 Dream Home Centennial Photo Contest”; Creative, concept and production: Emerson Clarke Printing › Sifton Properties Limited, London, Ont.: “Riverbend Golf Community”; Creative, concept and production: Vivid Creative Communications › SigNature Communities, Maple, Ont.: “Tao Boutique Condos”; Creative, concept and production: Blackjet Inc. BEST WEBSITE › Celebration Homes Inc., Edmonton › Geranium Homes Ltd., Markham; Creative, concept and production: BIG - Builder Insight Group › K arisma Build Group Inc., Fonthill, Ont. › Oke Woodsmith Building Systems Inc., Grand Bend, Ont.; Creative, concept and production: Ecoworks › Rinaldi Homes (Niagara) Inc., St. Catharines, Ont.; Creative, concept and production: VRB Internet Solutions BEST PROJECT SIGNAGE AND LOGO › Branthaven Homes, Burlington, Ont.: “Origins”; Creative, concept and production: Toolbox Strategies › Brookfield Homes (Ontario) Ltd., Markham, Ont.: “Pathways in Caledon East”; Creative, concept and production: BAM Builder Advertising & Marketing Inc. › Geranium Homes Ltd., Markham, Ont.: “Neighbourhoods of Cardinal Point” › Rosehaven Homes, Oakville, Ont.: “The Randall Residences”; Creative, concept and production: McOuat Partnership › T he Wycliffe Group Ltd., Thornhill, Ont.: “Fairground Lofts in Old Woodbridge Village”; Creative, concept and production: McOuat Partnership

› T he Wycliffe Group Ltd., Thornhill, Ont.: “Fairground Lofts in Old Woodbridge Village”; Creative, concept and production: McOuat Partnership BEST SALES OFFICE › Albi Homes Ltd., Calgary: “Aspen Summit Park” › Branthaven Homes, Burlington: “Origins”; Creative, concept and production: Toolbox Strategies › Eastforest Homes Ltd., Kitchener, Ont.: “The Design Studio and Presentation Centre” › Maric Homes Ltd., Winnipeg: “Maric Homes Head Office and Design Centre”; Creative, concept and production: Lloyd Secter Architect › Mattamy Homes Calgary Ltd., Calgary: “Lakepointe”; Creative, concept and production: Payne & Associates

MARKETING EXCELLENCE AWARD › Branthaven Homes, Burlington, Ont.: “Origins”; Creative, concept and production: Toolbox Strategies › Brookfield Homes (Ontario) Ltd., Markham, Ont.: “Pathways in Caledon East”; Creative, concept and production: BAM Builder Advertising & Marketing Inc. › Empire Communities, Vaughan, Ont.: “Eau Du Soleil Condominiums”; Creative, concept and production: Montana Steele Strategic Marketing, Munge Leung Interior Design, E.I. Richmond Architects, Zeidler Partnership, MBTW Group › Lindvest Properties Ltd., Downsview, Ont.: “B.streets”; Creative, concept and production: LA Inc. › SigNature Communities, Maple, Ont.: “Tao Boutique Condos”; Creative, concept and production: Blackjet Inc.

GRAND SAM AWARD ›A lbi Homes Ltd., Calgary ›M aric Homes Ltd., Winnipeg; Creative, concept and production: Roth Marketing, Lloyd Secter Architect

BEST BROCHURE/KIT › Brookfield Homes (Ontario) Ltd., Markham, Ont.: “Pathways in Caledon East”; Creative, concept and production: BAM Builder Advertising & Marketing Inc. › Lindvest Properties Ltd., Downsview, Ont.: “B.streets”; Creative, concept and production: LA Inc. › Oke Woodsmith Building Systems Inc., Grand Bend, Ont.: “The Oke Woodsmith Design Collection” › Rosehaven Homes, Oakville, Ont.: “The Randall Residences”; Creative, concept and production: McOuat Partnership “The Essex at Callaghan” by Rohit Communities

56 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

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Fall Edition Available Now!

ONTARIO’S

PREMIER

GUIDE

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ADULT

LIFESTYLE

COMMUNITIES

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health tips for active adults HOW TO BRING

big style to your small space

Design · Decor · Lifestyle · Travel

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TAKE AN ADVENTURE

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FR E E

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homeTRADER and The homeTRADER & Design are trade-marks of Apax Partners LLP, used under license.

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JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 57

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LONDON

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BUILDERS: If you would like to include your new model home or site opening, email wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com. Please say you saw it in New Home & Condo Guide!

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058 Sneak Previews LONDON_AY-WK.indd 58

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jan 19 - feb 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 59

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moneymatters

JANUARY IS

‘Make Do’ Month

by GAIL VAZ-OXLADE

IF THERE’S ANY MONTH WHEN YOU’RE MOST LIKELY

January is a good month to experiment with a new routine as you make do. If you’re used to buying coffee every day, brew your own at home or work and save big-time.

to wonder if all the bills will get paid, it’s January. After the feverish rush of the holidays and all the unexpected expenses that popped up, no doubt things will be a little tight. Add the extra cost of heating and the jump in “fresh” food prices, and you’ll be looking for ways to trim back.

Enter “Make Do Month.” This is the month when you stretch everything a little farther so you spend a lot less. If you get invited to a party, you don’t rush out and buy something new, you get creative and shop from your closet. And if you need a little something different, you shop from a friend’s closet. Or hold a clothing exchange. What you don’t do is spend money!

When the weather is warm, it’s easy to do lots of free things. When it’s cold, entertainment gets more expensive.

Sure there’s that great movie you’d love to take the family to for a night out of the house. For a family of four, you’re probably looking at $100 or more with popcorn and drinks.

C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 6 2 . . .

60 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013

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Memories

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moneymatters |

CONTINUED

Make Do Month is a conscious decision to stretch every dollar as far as it will go. Try it and see if just becoming conscious saves you money. I’ll bet you’re pleasantly surprised.

Gail Vaz-Oxlade is the host of Til Debt Do Us Part, author of Debt Free Forever and blogs daily at gailvazoxlade.com. Follow Gail on Twitter at twitter.com/GailVazOxlade

But what if you have family or friends whose birthday falls in January.

You’ll have to buy something. No you don’t. You can give something of yourself instead of something purchased.

Make their favorite cookies, offer to cook them a meal or a bunch of meals for the freezer for those extra busy workdays, or create a coupon for three nights of free babysitting. Maybe you’re a computer genius and can offer to do maintenance or repairs.

Perhaps you’re a mechanic and can offer a tune-up. Substitute your energy for spending money.

After the buzz of the holidays you’ll no doubt be happy to stay home for the first couple of weeks. Then you may start feeling itchy. You’ve got to get out. You can feel the walls closing in. Time to hit that great new restaurant that just opened up, or head out to the clubs. Wait a minute.

This is Make Do Month.

Call up a couple of friends and throw a pot-luck game night instead.

See if you can do it at their house this Recycle a movie you already own or do a movie swap with time. Start a tradition of once-afriends, add some home-made popcorn and a 12-pack of month games or poker nights and pop and you can probably do it for $10. Now that’s rotate from one friend’s home to making do! another. No one says you can’t have January is also a good month to experiment with a new fun in Make Do Month. You just can’t routine as you make do. If you’re used to buying coffee spend gobs of money. every day, brew your own at home or work and save bigMake Do Month is a conscious time. If you regularly go out for lunch, pack one from decision to stretch every dollar as far home for four out of every five days – not only will you as it will go. Try it and see if just bedrop those holiday pounds, you’ll be able to pay off that coming conscious saves you money. holiday debt.

I’ll bet you’re pleasantly surprised.

62 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013

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quicktips

start the new year by

freeing yourself

Hellen Buttigieg, CPO, is a Certified Professional Organizer, life coach, TV host, author and owner of We Organize U. Visit her website, WeOrganizeU.com, for a free e-Book on how to find more time, energy and inner peace. Contact Hellen at 905.829.2219 or info@weorganizeu.com

by Hellen Buttigieg compelling ways your life will be better as a result of completing what you’ve been procrastinating on, you will find the inspiration to take action.

There is so much buildup at the end of the

year that it can almost feel like a race to the finish line.

Then Jan. 1 arrives, the social calendar calms down and the cocooning begins as you prepare to ride out the rest of the winter. Before you jump right back to everything you were doing before the holidays, take some time to look around and decide what needs to change. Not that you have to go making grand resolutions for the new year – unless that’s your thing – but look at it as an opportunity to free yourself of things that weren’t working for you.

Try new methods that may improve your life in little, noticeable ways.

Get clear on the year ahead If setting New Year’s resolutions is not your thing, there’s another way of defining what you’d like your life to look like – create a vision board. Get some magazines, glue and a poster board and start cutting and pasting images that you feel drawn to or that represent something you’d like to be or have in your life. If you would like to learn more about the power of these dream boards, and have a look at some of the ones I’ve created personally, check out my blog post, Creating a Dream Board (weorganizeu.com) End procrastination by knowing your payoff Ever wonder how to motivate yourself to tackle that daunting task you’ve been putting off? Rather than dwelling on the chore itself, turn your attention to how you will benefit once the job is done. If you can come up with two or three

Make your ‘someday’ a reality How many times have you wistfully said, “Someday, I’d like to…” It’s interesting how we often procrastinate on doing the things we most want to do. We continue to put it off because something more pressing always seems to come up. But life is short, and habitually putting off doing those meaningful things that bring us joy can literally suck the life right out of us. One thing that I personally find very effective is to catch myself when I say I’d like to do something, and immediately pull out my calendar and schedule it in, even if it’s not for another month or two… or even six. The trick is to allow enough time to prepare for the event in advance and, once the date approaches, treat it as you would any other appointment you’ve booked with someone important – keep it.

Make decisions fearlessly Clutter often represents unmade decisions. Many people struggle with indecision because of the fear of making a mistake (especially perfectionists). It may seem easier to avoid making the decision, but by doing so, you are deciding to procrastinate and stay stuck. Whenever possible, make decisions as you go along, before they accumulate. Although there’s no guarantee you will make the right decision, you will be taking the option that appears to be the right thing to do at the time. Avoid berating yourself if the outcome is less than you had hoped, and besides, there’s usually some recourse. See it as a great learning experience and move on. One effective decision-making technique is to ask: “What’s the worse thing that can happen if I make the wrong decision?” and “Can I live with that consequence?”

This usually puts the decision into perspective and helps you make it confidently.

64 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

064 Hellen Buttigieg January - fresh year_JY-WK.indd 64

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66 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

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ALSO AVAILABLE FOR NEW HOME GUIDE AND NEW CONDO GUIDE GTA Antoinette.Jackson@wall2wallmedia.com

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MODEL HOME CALENDAR

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2012 EDITION FREE

YOUR FIRST

HOME&CONDO THE GUIDE TO BUYING AND MANAGING YOUR FIRST HOME

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

SPECIALION: CONDO SECT

MORTGAGES

N URBA LIVING

CONDO IN THE CITY OR LOWRISE IN THE SUBURBS:

what are your

options?

THE GUIDE TO BUYING AND MANAGING YOUR FIRST HOME For your free copy call 416.626.4889 or email antoinette.jackson@wall2wallmdia.com

SPECIAL EDITION

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HomeBuyers’ Resource Section You love the home, see what you can afford!

Compare mortgage rates for your best deal Calculate your mortgage payments using the mortgage payment calculation chart

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ONTARIO’S MOST-READ NEW HOMES GROUP

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Profiling a selection of the GTA’s top home & décor shops and services

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January 12 - 26, 2013 Volume 13 Issue 01

HOME&CONDO

Your Best Source for New Homes and Condos

THE GUIDE TO BUYING AND MANAGING YOUR FIRST HOME

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT

shop your way

across the gTA

MORTGAGES

SECURING THE BEST MORTGAGE FOR YOU

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new homes of the GTA’s most beautiful An exclusive collection

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VARIABLE RATE MORTGAGE: IS IT RIGHT FOR YOU?

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106 NEW HOMES SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO | JANUARY 12 - 26, 2010

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Discover Ottawa/Gatineau’s top builders and developers – one success story at a time

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›› EXPERT PANEL: Why now is a great time to buy ›› MORTGAGE ADVICE: Beware of mortgage rate fixation

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EXPERT PANEL:

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COMMUNITIES

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WALTER GRETZKY’S

health tips for active adults

Discover the GTA’s top new-home builders & developers

– one success story at a time HOW TO BRING

big style to your small space

EXPERT PANEL:

Why now is a great time to buy

Discover the GTA’s top condo builders & developers

MORTGAGE ADVICE:

What you need to know about mortgages – before you buy

– one success story at a time MORTGAGE ADVICE:

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cALcuLAte YouR mortGaGe Payments Interest rate

amortIZatIon PerIod

cHart fIGure

eXAMPLe: 5%

25 YeARs

5.82

mortGaGe amount ÷ 1,000 (mortgage amouNt $125,000)

125

montHly Payment

$

follow tHese stePs to see If you’ll QualIfy for a mortGaGe on YouR DReAM HoMe

01

05

Calculate the combined monthly before-tax income of you and your spouse.

Multiply this figure by the amount you need to borrow.

Divide by 1,000.

02

06

Divide by three. This figure is the monthly payment you can afford to make on your home.

Add to this your estimated monthly heating costs and monthly property taxes.

03

07

Take the total price of the home and subtract the amount of money you expect to make as a down payment. This is the money you will have to borrow.

04

Refer to the chart on the opposite page. Look down the left column and locate the interest rate you expect to pay. Line this up with the amortization period of your choice.

(Most first-time buyers take the 25-year amortization.)

If this figure is equal to or less than one-third of your gross monthly income (calculated in Step 2), you’ll qualify for a mortgage on your dream home.

Bear in mind that this is a rough estimate. If you have several other large loans already, you may qualify for less.

Also, banks and trust companies vary in their policies. The best way to know what you can afford is to go to the lending institution of your choice and get pre-qualified.

72 New home & CoNdo guide swo | JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013

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mortgage paYmeNt calculatIon cHart % inteRest RAtes

amortIZatIon PerIods 10 YeARs

15 YeARs

20 YeARs

25 YeARs

3.00%

9.65

6.90

5.54

4.73

3.25%

9.76

7.02

5.66

4.86

3.50%

9.88

7.14

5.79

4.99

3.75%

9.99

7.26

5.91

5.13

4.00%

10.11

7.38

6.04

5.26

4.25%

10.23

7.50

6.17

5.40

4.50%

10.34

7.63

6.30

5.53

4.75%

10.46

7.75

6.44

5.67

5.00%

10.58

7.88

6.57

5.82

5.25%

10.70

8.01

6.74

5.96

5.50%

10.82

8.14

6.85

6.10

5.75%

10.94

8.27

6.98

6.25

6.00%

11.07

8.40

7.12

6.40

6.25%

11.19

8.53

7.26

6.55

6.50%

11.31

8.66

7.41

6.70

6.75%

11.43

8.80

7.55

6.85

7.00%

11.56

8.93

7.69

7.00

7.25%

11.68

9.07

7.84

7.16

7.50%

11.81

9.21

7.99

7.32

7.75%

11.94

9.34

8.14

7.47

8.00%

12.06

9.48

8.28

7.63

8.25%

12.19

9.62

8.44

7.79

8.50%

12.32

9.76

8.59

7.95

8.75%

12.45

9.90

8.74

8.12

9.00%

12.58

10.05

8.86

8.28

9.25%

12.71

10.19

9.05

8.45

9.50%

12.84

10.33

9.20

8.62

9.75%

12.97

10.48

9.36

8.78

10.00%

13.10

10.63

9.52

8.95

10.25%

13.24

10.77

9.68

9.12

10.50%

13.37

10.92

9.84

9.29

10.75%

13.50

11.06

10.00

9.46

11.00%

13.64

11.22

10.16

9.63

11.25%

13.77

11.36

10.32

9.80

11.50%

13.91

11.52

10.49

9.97

11.75%

14.04

11.66

10.65

10.15

12.00%

14.18

11.82

10.81

10.32

12.25%

14.32

11.97

10.98

10.49

12.50%

14.46

12.13

11.15

10.67

12.75%

14.59

12.28

11.31

10.85

This table shows the monthly payment of principal and interest for each $1,000 of mortgage. Example: The monthly principal and interest payment for a $125,000 mortgage with a 25-year amortization period at 5% is as follows: ($125,000 รท 1,000) X 5.82 = $727.50 JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013 | New home & CoNdo guide swo 73

069-072-073-074 Homebuyers Resource_AY.indd 73

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Compare mortgage rates for your best deal CHARTERED BANKS

Variable

6 Months

1 Year

2 years

3 years

4 years

5 years

ATB Financial 3

4 6.30op

3.1 6.30op

3.14 3.7 4.39 6.50op

3.19

Alterna Svgs/Alterna Bk 3

4 6.30op

3.05 3.09 3.09 3.29 6.30op

3.24

Bank of Montreal 3.1

4 6.30op

3 3.04 3.65 4.64 6.30op

3.09

Bank of Nova Scotia 3

4.55 6.45op

3.75 3.89 2.79 4.39 6.50op

3.99

Canadian Western Bank

4 6.45op

3.1 3.14 3.7 4.64 6.30op

5.24

CIBC 3.2

6.70op

3 3.14 3.5 4.39 6.35op

5.24

HSBC Bank Canada 3

2.7 3.95 2.98 4.99 6.35op

3.49

ICICI Bank Canada

4.45 6.20op

3.15

3.65

3.64

3.69

3.44

3

3

2.79

3.25

3.08

3.09 3.14 3.7 3.64 6.30op

3.79

3 3.1 3.15 3.15 4.00op

3.19

MonCana Bank

2.99

3.09

3.14

National Bank n/a

3.1 3.14 3.7 4.64 6.30op

3.99

ING Direct

3.05 3

Laurentian Bank n/a

4.4 6.70op

Manulife Bank 3 4.45

President’s Choice Finan

4 6.70op

3.2

Royal Bank 3.2

4 6.30op

2.99

3.2

3.04

3.35

3.44

3 3.04 2.99 4.64 6.30op

3.24

3.29

TD Canada Trust 3.2 3 3.04 3.65 3.49 3.29

6.30op TRUST COMPANIES AGF Trust

n/a

2.99

3.1

3.5

3.64

3.14

Community Trust

n/a

6.5

3.1

3.35

3.95

4.64

5.24

Effort Trust n/a

4.45 6.30op

3.45 3.8 4 4.6 6.30op

5.1

Home Trust Company

3.95

2.74

3.15

2.99

Investors Group Trust n/a

3.2

4 6.50op

3.1 3.14 3.7 4.64 6.30op

2.69

2.89

5.24

MTCC 3

4.55 6.45op

3.75 3.89 2.79 4.39 6.50op

3.99

4 Airline Financial C.U.

2.99 6.25op

3.09

3.49

Comtech Credit Union 2.79

6.6 8.40op

2.99 3.25 3.29 3.19 9.00op

3.29

First National Fin. LP

3.95

2.74

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS 3.25

3.15

3.09

FirstOntario C.U. 2.79

6.34op

3.09 3.19 3.24 3.29 6.34op

3.24

London Life n/a

3.1 3.14 3.7 4.64 6.30op

5.24

MCAP 2.9

3.6 3.95 4.35 4.89 7.00op

5.24

Meridian Credit Union 2.85 4.45

3.1 3.14 3.7 3.4 6.30op

3.28

Parama Credit Union

2.9

3.1

3.15

3.15

3.25

3.5

Steinbach Credit Union

2.5

2.5

2.6

2.8

2.9

3.1

3.05 6.50op

3.15

3.6

3.39

3.49

Teachers Credit Union 4

4 6.50op

4.45 6.30op

2.69

3.29

2.89

Notes: **Interest rate charged subject to adjustment during term mortgage. Please consult institution for term of years available. All rates are prime rates and subject to change without notice.

R.O.R. RATES ON REQUEST op OPEN ----- NOT QUOTING N/A NOT AVAILABLE Jan. 14, 2013. Prepared By Fiscal Agents Financial Information Services 905.844.7700

74 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

069-072-073-074 Homebuyers Resource_AY.indd 74

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hotdates

Jan. 24 - 27

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Open to all woodcarvers, wood burners and marquetry. Entry forms available on the website. hamiltonshows.com

Enjoy weekends in January with jan. 25 - 27 outdoor activities, ice wine, Discov- Lifestyle Home Show ery Pass features special events and WESTERN FAIR DISTRICT 900 KING ST. LONDON tastings at Niagara wineries. niagarawinefestival.com This year’s exciting exhibits featuring new products and services are jan. 19 - 27 full of everything you could want for your home! From small alteraInniskillin Winter tions to huge transformations, Market Grill vendors can help bring the vision INNISKILLIN WINES for your home to life! Whether you 1499 LINE 3 NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE are looking to build, renovate or As part of the Niagara-on-the-Lake decorate your home or your lifestyle; Icewine Festival, visit the Inniskillin the Lifestyle Home Show has everyour outdoor piazza for a winter cele- thing to suit your needs and fit your bration of fun foods and fine wines. budget all under one roof! greatestatesniagara.com

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jan 19 - feb 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 75

075 Hot Dates_JY-WK.indd 75

1/17/13 11:42:30 AM

advertiserindex Bayview Wellington: Niagara-on-the-Green

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Kitchener-Waterloo home show

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branthaven Homes: Multi-site

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mattamy homes: Wildflowers

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brookfield Homes: Grand Valley Trails

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menkes developments: Millstone on the Park

Claysam Homes: Multi-site

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menkes developments: Enclaves of Upper Canada 43

country green Homes: West Bloom

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Mountainview Homes: Corporate

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dunsire developments: Mill Creek Village

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new Horizon: City Square

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eastforest Homes: D’Aubigny Forest Estates

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fusion Homes: Corporate

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sifton properties: Multi-site

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geranium Homes: Woods of Sally Creek

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silvestri investments: Silverwood Manor

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spallacci homes: Eden Park

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Tillsonburg developments: Baldwin Place

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Great gulf: Thorold

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Homes by DeSantis: Lincoln Square

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76 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

076 Advertisers index_JY-WK.indd 76

1/17/13 11:42:35 AM

fundamentallyspeaking

Wayne Karl is an award-winning writer and editor with experience in real estate and business. In Fundamentally Speaking, Wayne explores the basics – such as economic fundamentals – you need to examine when buying property. He can be reached at wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com or follow him on Twitter at Twitter.com/WayneKarl

Mortgage essentials IT’S A HOT TOPIC IN A CHANGING LANDSCAPE, SO LEARNING AS MUCH AS YOU CAN IS TIME WELL SPENT

by WAYNE KARL MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES, STILL AT HISTORICAL

lows and expected to remain so well into this new year, represent a window of opportunity for those looking to buy a home. The mortgage industry is ultra-competitive, lenders often introduce new products and otherwise there are plenty of options for borrowers.

If you could lock in at a low rate over 10 years, for But just as important is to example, that gives you the also spend as much time as comfort of knowing what necessary to find a broker or your mortgage payments banker you trust and who will be over that period, knows their business. while over that time you can also take advantage of any pre-payment and lump-sum payment options to pay down your mortgage.

Another appeal of this scenario is that, as we often point out, experts advise you take a long-term view of your home purchase. For example, there is some talk at the moment about cooling prices and softening sales. But even

if that were to happen in your market and housing type, ask yourself: in 10 years, is a home you buy today likely to be worth more or less? If you need an answer to this question, just take a look back at prices 10 years ago. Of course, there are no guarantees, but if you’re in the homebuying mode anyway, today’s low rate environment makes a pretty compelling reason to act sooner than later to take advantage of these opportunities.

Low rates notwithstanding, the banks, financial firms, brokers and other experts still advise homebuyers to practice smart borrowing – everything from putting down a larger down payment to taking advantage of pre-payment options and even “stresstesting” your mortgage at a higher rate to ensure your finances can accommodate rate fluctuations or other unforeseen circumstances.

The mortgage market is a complex beast, and as a prospective homebuyer, these are not lessons you’re going to learn overnight – nor do you likely want to. You’re focused on saving a down payment, getting your finances in order, searching potential neighbourhoods, choosing a home and, when buying new, selecting interior finishings.

But just as important is to also spend as much time as necessary to find a broker or banker you trust and who knows their business. More so than in any other area of homebuying, you’re going to rely on the advice of this member of your team – now more than ever.

It will prove to be time well spent.

JAN 19 - FEB 2, 2013 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 77

077 FS Mortgage essentials_JY-WK.indd 77

1/16/13 2:58:57 PM

SAVE $25,000 GREAT GULF HOMES IN THOROLD NIAGARA

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CLOSE IN 120 DAYS VISIT OUR PRESENTATION CENTRE N

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78 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 19 - feb 2, 2013

078-079-Great Gulf-Thorold 01-19-13.indd 78

1/16/13 2:49:02 PM

MODEL HOMES NOW OPEN

Up to

$20,000

42' AND 50' LOTS 1,845 – 3,095 SQ. FT. FROM $307,990

in upgrades*

Opt. Covered Deck with skylights Opt. Covered Deck with skylights

1.

Opt. Covered Deck with Skylights Opt. Covered Deck with Skylights

Patio Door

2.

Patio Door

Desk

Desk

3.

Up Up

Breakfast 11'9" x 10'0" Breakfast 11'9" x 10'0"

Breakfast bar

Dw

Kitchen 13'11" x 8'8" Kitchen 13'11" x 8'8"S

F P

W Laundry Laundry

Opt. Uppers

D D

Up

Opt. Uppers

W

Up Railing Railing Ledge Dn

Dn

Bedroom 4 9'0" x 10'4" Bedroom 4 9'0" x 10'4"

Ledge

Door only if grading Permits additional Stepsif may be required Door only grading Permits additional Steps may be required

Tiled ledge Opt. Linen closets Opt. Linen closets

Standard 4'x4' Skylight above Standard 4'x4' Skylight above 8'x8' ceiling 8'x8' opening ceiling opening

S

P

Dining/Living 10'0" x 17'0" Dining/Living 10'0" x 17'0"

Tiled ledge

W.I.C.

Master Bedroom 15'6"(21'0") x 12'2" Master Bedroom 15'6"(21'0") x 12'2"

6.

Family Room 18'1" x 12'0" Family Room 18'1" x 12'0"

Dw

4.

Oval tub Oval tub

W.I.C.

Opt. Skylights

Breakfast bar

F

Opt. 2-Sided Gas Fireplace Opt. 2-Sided Gas Fireplace

Opt. Skylights

Ensuite Ensuite

Dn Dn

Railing Railing

7.

SH

Railing Railing

SH

Sloped Up Sloped Up

8.

Bath 2 Bath 2

Lin W.I.C.

Door only If grading Permits Door only If grading Permits

Lin

W.I.C. W.I.C.

W.I.C.

CL

Garage 18'3" x 22'2" Garage 18'3" x 22'2"

5.

W.I.C.

CL

Bedroom 2 14'7" x 10'6"(11'4") Bedroom 2 14'7" x 10'6"(11'4")

W.I.C.

PWD

Foyer

Bedroom 3 12'0" x 11'0" Bedroom 3 12'0" x 11'0"

PWD

Foyer

CL

Raised Ceiling

CL

Raised Ceiling

Covered Porch Covered Porch

Ground Floor Elevation ‘A’ Ground Floor Elevation ‘A’

Second Floor Elevation ‘A’ Second Floor Elevation ‘A’ W.I.C.

LIN W.I.C.

Foyer CL

42' FEATURES

Foyer

2. Oversized windows Unfinished Basement Furn

Up Up

Furn Standard 3 pc rough-in HWT Standard 3 pc rough-in

Bedroom 2 14'7" x 10'6" Bedroom 2 14'7" x 10'6"

6. Spacious family rooms

4. Gourmet kitchens

7. Large ensuites

5. Two car garage

8. Standard skylights

Ground Floor Elevation ‘B’ Ground Floor Elevation ‘B’

Raised Ceiling

Raised Ceiling

Second Floor Elevation ‘B’ Second Floor Elevation ‘B’

Furn

Up Alt. Sump

HWT

Up

Alt. Sump

Furn HWT Standard 3 pc rough-in HWT Standard 3 pc rough-in

Unexcavated

Unexcavated Unexcavated

Sump

Unexcavated

Optional Cold Storage Low Headroom Optional Cold Storage Low Headroom

Sump Sump

Sump

Basement Elevation ‘A’ Basement Elevation ‘A’

Bedroom 3 12'0" x 11'0"

Unfinished Basement

Unfinished Basement Unfinished Basement Alt. Sump

W.I.C. W.I.C.

W.I.C.

LIN

3. Breakfast areas

CL CoveredCL Porch

1. Beautiful light filled homes

Alt. Sump

PWD PWD

CL

CL

Covered Porch

Bedroom 3 12'0" x 11'0"

W.I.C.

CL

Basement Elevation ‘B’ Basement Elevation ‘B’

GREATGULF.COM /THOROLD

Optional Cold Storage Low Headroom Optional Cold Storage Low Headroom

*$15,000 in upgrades on 42’ lots and $20,000 on 50’ lots. Linked below grade. See sales representative for details. Prices, sizes and specifications subject to change without notice.

E. & O.E. Illustration is artist’s impression. All square footages are approximate. Actual usable space varies from stated floor area.

078-079-Great Gulf-Thorold 01-19-13.indd 79

1/16/13 2:49:03 PM

You’ll Love the Backyard.

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neighbours get to know

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080-Reids Heritage-Lora Bay 01-19-13.indd 1

1/16/13 2:49:07 PM