You're Home - Living Condo Style

You’re home fall 2012

Fall 2012 harbourlanding.ca

The official magazine of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association

CENTURY WEST

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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

o t e m o c l We e m o H You’re

I

s the condominium lifestyle right for you?

This edition of You’re Home, published on behalf of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA), will help you answer that question.

With multi-unit housing starts at an all-time high in the city, Regina residents have never had a more diverse selection of condominium properties to choose from. There are condominium residences in every price range and every neighbourhood, from entry-level townhomes to luxury urban penthouses. Join us as we explore a number of Regina’s most unique and inviting multi-unit developments!

We will also turn the spotlight on innovative initiatives being offered by builder members of the RRHBA which are helping Regina residents realize their dreams of new home ownership, including fee-simple townhomes and basement suite development.

Julie Folk, founding editor of You’re Home, has accepted a new career opportunity and has stepped down from her role at the magazine. We’re very happy that Julie will remain a big part of You’re Home. She will continue to write her popular ‘Developing Regina’ series as well as several feature articles for each edition of the magazine.

As the new editor of You’re Home magazine, I am looking forward to working with the dynamic team at the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association, as well as our talented crew of writers, photographers and artists, to bring you the latest trends and developments in new home construction and renovation which are influencing Regina’s vibrant housing market.

Come on in.

Jeanni e

You’re home Fall 2012 7

contents

62 20

30

features

50

20 developing regina

72 landscaping with carson arthur

What's in a Name?

62 my space

Customize your home, build your dream

80 welcoming

Amerispec Home Inspection Service

your home in design

Grow a beautiful yard, the natural way

82

closing remarks

building & design 16 customization

ask an expert 33 your home as an investment 46 your home in real estate 47 more or less?

New mortgage rules 8 You’re home Fall 2012

A great reason to go with a newly built condo

38 new homes 11 truly unique

Reflection of the Past; a view to the Future

24 a condo for every lifestyle 36 suite deal

Secondary suites open doors to New Home ownership

38 colours of joyy Oak Park Living

30 modular solutions

44

69 building efficiently

54 regina's newest multi-unit developments

Deveraux Developments goes modular Green energy solutions

76 turn up the sizzle in your kitchen

easy does it!

Fee simple townhouses an affordable option

Condominium directory

68

de marco pointe Where you want to be

contributors editor jeannie armstrong

76

art directors bonnie bird jacquie bumphrey

photography shawn fulton

www.shawnfultonphotography.com

vienna di ruscio

11

www.vmdphoto.com

contributing writers jeannie armstrong miranda burski julie folk christeen jesse neil kingsley wendy livingstone tammy mclean Stu NIEbergall

24

16

pat rediger

publisher leader-post You’re home Fall 2012 9

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Ultimate Connections Blazing Speed Infinite Potential

truly unique Reflection of the Past …A view to the Future

by JeannIe armstrong canterbury park photos by shawn Fulton

People who dismiss condominium developments for their cookie-cutter designs and generic environments haven’t taken the time to explore Regina’s vibrant condo scene.

Local developers Hydeman Property Management Ltd. and Fiorante Homes and Commercial Ltd. are attracting national attention for their one-of-a-kind condominium projects.

Both builders set out to design condominium developments that would be out of the ordinary and unique to the province. Both developers shared a common goal of attracting new residents to Regina’s rapidly transforming downtown core. Each took a completely different approach to achieving that goal, with one builder paying homage to turn-of-the-century elegance and the other embracing contemporary style!

centre sQuare place condomInIums

V

isionary is the only way to describe Centre Square Place Condominiums, a dramatic 10-storey structure being constructed by Centre Square Developments and Hydeman Property Management Ltd. on the corner of Broad Street and 15th Avenue in Regina.

Centre Square Place is transforming Regina’s downtown skyline with its impressive circular form, designed to offer panoramic views of the city’s famed “infinite horizons.”

You’re home Fall 2012 11

Curved balconies create the optical illusion of a rounded structure, said Wayne Hydeman, founder and CEO of Hydeman Property Management. “It’s not a circular building, however that circular theme allowed for creativity in designing the floor plans for our 71 suites. The main aspect of the design is when you enter a suite, you have an immediate view of the surrounding cityscape.”

The condominium tower will feature 71 residential suites, ranging in size from 900 square feet to 2,000 square feet.

Buyers can select from one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans each with a media/den/guest room. Four penthouse suites, each measuring 2,000 square feet in size, were among the first units to be sold. Three two-storey walk-up style townhouse condominium units have also been constructed along 15th Street, ranging in size from 960 square feet to 1,380 square feet.

Centre Square Place

The attractive floor plans take their names from Saskatchewan grown trees: Balsam, Aspen, Birch, Willow and Elm. “We’ve taken that theme a step farther and created colour palettes that reflect Saskatchewan’s four seasons,” said Hydeman.

There’s a cosmopolitan flair to the suites’ interiors, including notable European design influences such as the option of maple armoire-style closets. Each suite has a loft-like feel, created by ceilings that soar up to 9-feet, sixinches.

The open concept floor plans are ideal for entertaining.

“The open kitchen/dining area will be a popular gathering area,” said Hydeman. Each kitchen is fashionably dressed in maple cabinets, granite countertop and an undermount sink.

The inviting living room extends out onto the signaturestyle balcony. Framed by clear glass panels and an architectural railing, each balcony offers a breathtaking view.

The best view of all can be seen from Centre Square Place’s ‘green’ rooftop garden. From this vantage point, residents will marvel at panoramic 360-degree views of the Regina skyline. Not only will the building’s rooftop have a walking track and fitness centre, the vegetation-type roof will feature trees, plants and natural grass.

This is just one of the notable environmental features distinguishing Centre Square Place. Energy conservation has been a long-time focus for Wayne Hydeman, whose background includes architectural design and mechanical engineering.

Centre Square Place is environmentally friendly and conscious by design, added Hydeman. The building is being constructed to a LEED shadow standard. Green technologies employed in the building include an energyefficient Heat Reclaim Ventilation (HRV) system, highefficiency condensing boilers, environmentally friendly refrigerant (zero ozone depletion potential), high efficient motors, VRF inverter-driven compressors for maximum energy savings during heating and air conditioning cycles, a rainwater recovery system to irrigate the green spaces and regenerative elevator motors with sleep cycle technologies.

12 You’re home Fall 2012

Canterbury Park “We offer many energy conserving options within the suites. These include low-wattage LED lighting, low-E double-glazed windows with solar reflective blinds, dual flush water closets, low flow faucets and ENERGY STAR® appliances,” said Hydeman.

A number of the tower’s 71 suites are sold, giving Hydeman a strong indication of the community that will be residing at Centre Square Place. These include young and mature professionals as well as retirees who enjoy travelling and want the lock-and-leave convenience afforded by urban condo ownership.

Fiorante Homes purchased the parcel of land five years ago. “When this site became available, we jumped at the opportunity. We wanted to create a development that would complement the existing buildings and promote the heritage of the site,” said Vince Fiorante, who founded Fiorante Homes with his brother Joe 40 years ago.

Hydeman sees Centre Square Place as a perfect fit in Regina’s urban revitalization strategy. “The City of Regina proposes 7,000plus residences downtown. In order for us to grow an urban population, we need to have and provide the facilities and amenities that will attract people to live downtown. I think our development definitely fulfills a portion of that objective.”

After completing a popular townhome project on the site, Fiorante Homes is now putting the finishing touches on a new apartment-style condominium residence at Canterbury Park, named Canterbury Common.

He is also proud that Centre Square Place is being designed, constructed and financed locally. “It’s an expression of the talent and the skills that we have in our city, our province, to do this type of venture.”

Until the opening of the actual show suite early next year, people can see a full-size representation of The Birch Suite located in the company’s Presentation Centre at 2139 Broad Street. For more information, visit www.centresquareplace.com or call (306) 565-2300.

Canterbury Common consists of three storeys, with 11,000 square feet of commercial space on the ground floor, and 16 apartment-style condominium units on the second and third floors.

The condominium development is a pleasing blend of turn-of-the-century character and modern convenience.

Canterbury Common “The building really stands out for its character style. We wanted to stay with the heritage theme and be sympathetic to the era of the existing buildings,” said Fiorante.

CANTERBURY PARK Canterbury Park is an exciting urban community under development on the corner of College Avenue and Broad Street by Fiorante Homes and Commercial Ltd. Located in the heart of Regina across from beautiful Wascana Park, Canterbury Park draws its inspiration from the century-

old heritage buildings which continue to grace the downtown development site. The heritage site was once owned by the Diocese of Qu’Appelle and housed five red brick Collegiate Gothic style buildings including a theological college, cathedral and bishop’s residence. Three of the five buildings remain on the site and have been sympathetically renovated and repurposed for residential, commercial and office use.

The company went to great lengths to achieve that harmony, even having the building’s exterior bricks specially manufactured to complement the century-old red brick that adorns the preserved bishop’s residence and collegiate. “The brick we used is ‘heritage red’,” said Fiorante. “We sourced them from a plant in Wisconsin.

Because we were ordering such a large quantity, the brickmaker decided they would do a special mix to try and match the existing heritage brick as closely as possible.”

You’re home Fall 2012 13

CANTERBURY COMMON

“If you look at the coloured brick of the existing building and compare them to the brick we are using in the new construction, you wouldn’t really know the difference,” said Christina Fiorante-Lang, Joe’s daughter and the company’s sales coordinator.

Tyndall stone corners and heritage-style triple-glazed low-E windows further enhance the building’s character. “I think it really stands out.

The building has been earning a lot of compliments from people across Canada. There’s nothing else like it in the province,” said Fiorante.

HERITAGE-STYLE CONDOMINIUMS, ideally situated at Broad Street and College Avenue, next to Wascana Park

DEVELOPED BY:

While the exterior of Canterbury Common celebrates the past, residents will enjoy every modern convenience within their stylish suites, including in-suite climate control, underground parking and elevator service.

Sixteen units will be offered in the first phase of development, ranging in size from 820 to 1,382 square feet. Buyers can choose from seven different floor plans, including two-bedroom or bedroom-plus-den configurations.

s 2EGINA 3+

“The interiors are upscale, featuring granite countertops and shakerstyle maple cabinetry. Buyers get to select their own paint colour palette and have a choice of flooring products,” said Fiorante.

The condominium development is a pleasing blend of turn-of-the-century character and modern convenience.

Nine-foot ceilings complement the suites’ open concept design. Lovely balconies, many with views of the park, further extend the home owners’ living space.

Pricing begins at $269,900, including a package of five appliances and window treatments. Over 50 per cent of the suites have been pre-sold.

The condominium development is proving attractive to a broad demographic. “There’s a real mix of people – younger, older – mostly professionals,” said Fiorante.

“They’re attracted by the downtown location and the heritage theme.

The proximity to downtown means you can walk to work,” said Fiorante-Lang.

“They’re not just buying a property, they’re buying a lifestyle,” she adds. “You can just imagine grabbing a coffee on your way out of your suite, strolling along Wascana Lake and browsing through the neighbouring shops.”

“At the end of the day, we’re trying to create a community that has all of the amenities. If you live there, you don’t have to have a vehicle.

You don’t have to leave,” said Fiorante.

s Three-storey apartment-style condos with elevator s 820 to 1382 square feet s Maple cabinets, granite countertops s Five appliances included s Choice of interior colours and finishes s In-suite-controlled air conditioning and laundry s Heated indoor parking s Video security system in lobby

MARKETED BY: 789-1700

www.fiorantehomes.ca

Fiorante Homes and Commercial Ltd. brings four decades of residential construction experience and more than a quarter-century of land development to the project. The company has developed neighbourhoods in all four quadrants of the city, including numerous infill developments on former school sites.

“We’re one of the most established builders in the city. We’re connected and committed to the community,” said Fiorante. “We always try to do the best job for the area. We look at the site and think, what will work here? We try to analyze it and be sympathetic to the neighbourhood.”

The show suite at Canterbury Common will open in early October. For information on the project, call Fiorante Homes and Commercial Ltd. at (306) 569-3456 or visit www.canterburyparkregina.com. n

A Green Home begins with a Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association ENERGY STARŽ Builder Member

For more information visit

www.reginahomebuilders.com The ENERGY STAR mark is administered and promoted in Canada

by Natural Resources Canada. Used with permission.

C

ustomization

— a great reason to go with a newly built condo

by tammY mclean

t

oday, the experience of going with a newly built home is very different from the past.

This is the era of customization.

The home builders of today provide an incredible range of options and upgrades from designs to features and finishes.

With a newly built home, you have choice over how it will look and feel, and the end result is a home that is truly your own. But, do these same advantages apply when purchasing a newly built condominium?

There are many advantages to going with a newly built condo. For starters, today’s home builders offer designs that are highly functional with efficient use of space. New condos stress spaciousness rather than square footage - smaller, welllaid out homes that include many of the details and amenities of a larger home. An open layout, or “great room” - a large informal space for living, working, eating and relaxing is a popular feature in today’s newly built condos.

Also watch for well-appointed, organized workspaces.

Today’s condos are generally designed with plenty of built-in storage and conveniences that include ample closet space, drawers, cupboards and shelves, and linen closets. Look for other conveniences such as laundry rooms on the main or second floors, and pantries in some cases as well. Some condo styles also have attached garages with direct access to a mudroom off the kitchen.

16 You’re home Fall 2012

Home building designs, materials, techniques, and systems have advanced significantly over the last number of years creating more energy efficiency. Generally, energy-efficient double glazed windows are the standard with an upgrade to triple-pane windows optional. Thanks to the great advances in the construction and sealing of windows and doors, today’s new condos are light and bright, with less worry about heat loss in the winter, and overheating in the summer.

Energy-efficient mechanical systems are designed to be more environmentally friendly while saving money on your energy bills.

When condos are attached in groups, fewer exterior walls also add to their energy efficiency. In addition, the appliances manufactured today are significantly more efficient than those of even a decade ago.

Brand name products are another great advantage of going with a newly built condo. Many professional home builders work with leading manufacturers that provide builders with complete product packages. These brand name products offer solid value in terms of quality, performance, warranty and after sales service.

Brand name products provide home buyers with warranty protection and a service network you can count on. The types of brand name products in a new condo will vary with each builder and will depend on the target market of the particular condo development.

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Customization (continued from Page 17) When one thinks of a newly built home, being able to design your own home and having choices regarding its features and finishes is a large attraction to many buyers. When purchasing a newly built condo, many of these advantages still apply. Although customization of the exterior is typically not an option, some builders are creating designs that make each unit appear unique, even from the exterior.

However, when it comes to the interior of the unit, customization is still the name of the game. The options will vary with each builder and depend on the target market of that particular condo development.

to take into account in discussions with your builder regarding the common elements, condo fees, bylaws etc. As such, choosing the right builder is just as important as choosing the right condo. You will want to ensure that you are dealing with a reputable and qualified professional.

The place to start looking for a qualified builder is with the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA). All builder members of the Association must meet certain qualifying criteria, have agreed to abide by the Association’s Code of Ethics, and complete the Certified Professional Home Builder’s Program. They must also be members of a third party new home warranty program which provides you with protection that includes deposit insurance, and protection against defects in workmanship and materials, as well as structural defects.

The place to start looking for a qualified builder is with the Regina & Region Home Builders' Association (RRHBA).

Options for customizing your condo more frequently deal with features and finishes, rather than design, and normally include a choice of floor coverings, as well as a choice of cabinetry, countertops, and back splashes. Paint colour, light fixtures and hardware are other items where you can make your mark to personalize your newly built condo.

Some builders offer options for trims and mouldings around doors and windows, baseboards, and ceilings. The same applies for granite countertops, and tile or hardwood floors, although these would likely be considered upgrades, depending on the target market of the development. Many builders will include the assistance of a designer to help in choosing the right combinations that best suit your taste and lifestyle.

Purchasing a new home is one of the largest investments many of us will ever make, and therefore demands many special considerations.

When purchasing a newly built condo, there are additional items

18 You’re home Fall 2012

Builder members of the Association have access to a network of trade contractors and suppliers, and are kept up to date on the latest building technologies, products, and trends in home building. When you are dealing with a member of the RRHBA, you are dealing with a qualified professional.

In the end, the quality of your newly built condo depends on the quality of your builder. For more information, go to www.reginahomebuilders.com. Once you have decided on your builder and new condo development, enjoy the process of customizing by adding your personal flavour to your newly built condo. n

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Developing Regina

N

What's in a

ame?

The Creeks

By julie folk Photos by Shawn Fulton

D

rive into any neighbourhood in Regina, and you will experience feelings unique to the area. Sometimes these feelings are hard to describe, but in each it’s a mixture of carefully planned themes and the aura residents bring with them when they move in.

Regina’s subdivisions each have a distinctive character.

From street names to the overall atmosphere, it’s something developers put thought and effort into when building a new area.

The Creeks

"Naming a subdivision is harder than one might think," said Kevin Reese of Karina.

Karina Developments Ltd. has recently experienced the challenge of finding a name for their newest subdivision that would express both the area and the city in general.

“Naming a subdivision is harder than one might think,” said Kevin Reese of Karina, developers of the newly named Hawkstone, The Creeks and Maple Ridge. “(With Hawkstone) we didn’t want to have something including ‘Park,’ because that has been used. There is no ridge so we didn’t want to have ‘Hill’ or ‘Ridge’...

We always think of what’s around Saskatchewan, and if you drive anywhere you’ll see hawks. And there are lots of stones in the field, so it was a combination that sounded good together.”

Individual streets are often named in conjunction with the ‘theme,’ or after recognizable people in the city. Hawkstone is excited to feature Saskatchewan Roughriders in their street names.

“When Hawkstone began, it was the 100th anniversary of the Riders. We felt it was important to recognize the players and others associated with the Riders,” said Reese. Elgaard, Poley, Jurasin, Brock and Abendschan are among some of the first streets to be named in phase one. “I think people will like to live on Elgaard Drive.”

In The Creeks, Karina capitalized on the natural surroundings, as the McKell Conservation surrounds the development.

The Greens on Gardiner 20 You’re home Fall 2012

It is with GREAT pride that I accepted our distinction of being named the Full Service Store of the Year across the KitchenCraft network both in Canada and the United States.

The hard work of those pictured above, our dedicated group of installers, field service staff, suppliers, builders and customers have in no small way contributed to this honor and I thank each and every one of you for your efforts.

I know I speak for all of them when I say we look forward to serving the Regina and surrounding area and supplying beautiful homes filled with exceptional cabinetry.

Angus Smith, Manager

£{Î{Ê À >`Ê-Ì°ÊUÊxÓÓ n {

“We have a shallow creek, but it’s beautiful in its own right,” said Reese. “When you start looking at the sunsets and the wildlife, it’s pretty cool.

Our theme in The Creeks remains ‘Connected to Nature.’”

The natural theme continues in The Greens on Gardiner, where the name came from a mix of history as well as multiple meanings of the word ‘green.’

Fairways West - photo by Greg Huszar

RAIN POUNDS

BLIZZARDS RAGE

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MOTHER NATURE SURE HAS A LOT OF MOOD SWINGS.

We’re always interested in starting a conversation about your needs and how we can meet them.

Give us a call at 1-800-638-5709 or visit us at allweatherwindows.com 22 You’re home Fall 2012

“The green space is the fun part of the development,” said Lorne Yagelniski of Yagar Developments Inc., developer of The Greens.

“Isabelle Gardiner used to own the land, and she willed it to her daughter. One of her wishes was that if the land was someday developed, she would like the Gardiner name to live on. That was relayed to us when we purchased the land. One of the challenges was that there already was a Gardiner Park and Gardiner Heights. We really wanted a green development – lots of green space, on-street greenway and the use of stormwater, all those various components of green. The green component is everything from green grass to storm water management, extra planting of trees, hardiplank siding, low maintenance material and non-maintenance light poles. The green aspect means a whole bunch of things and it’s on the Gardiner piece of land – so The Greens on Gardiner.”

what remains a common theme throughout regina is the community atmosphere - a small-town feel in what is becoming a big city.

Skyview is also named for the prairie theme, with Saskatchewan being home to the living skies. The street names of Eagle’s Cove and Little Pine Loop follow on the theme, while Koep and Balzar are named for local priests – Father Ken Koep and Father Joe Balzer.

Fairways West, of course, relates to the fairways of the surrounding Joanne Goulet Golf Course and its location on the west side of the city.

“It is a destination,” said Chad Jedlic of Harvard Developments Inc., the developer of Fairways West. “Residents often comment that it is quiet and peaceful because of its location away from the hustle and bustle of commercial areas.”

The main street in Fairways West honours developer Gordon Staseson of Regina, for his special contributions to the Regina community. The remaining streets relate to the surrounding environment such as Brookview Drive, Oxbow Crescent and Prairie View Drive.

The Greens on Gardiner - photo by Shawn Fulton

Harbour landing

Within Fairways West is Greenside Terrace, which is an exclusive bay of homes on a private drive that provides the perfect setting for a dream home. Situated on a terraced slope, the homes are surrounded by open green space and overlook both Wascana Creek and the Joanne Goulet Golf Course.

Edgewater is another development named for its surroundings – located on the west edge of the city and bordered by Wascana Creek on its south side. Streets in Edgewater, such as Archer Lane and Hincks Lane, are named after local politicians.

Harbour Landing was a reaction to the location and marketplace. They wanted to create a small-town feel within the community, and the urban square and local retail outlets create a more pedestrian-oriented development. The theme, of course, is aviation, as the subdivision is close to the Regina airport.

Harbour landing

“Every street and park has been connected back to aviation history, which is quite rich in Regina but not common to most people,” said Paul Moroz of Dundee Developments, developer of Harbour Landing. “There are a lot of aviation firsts in Regina and Saskatchewan – pilots, planes, fields. It wasn’t hard to find aviation history.”

What remains a common theme throughout Regina is the community atmosphere – a small-town feel in what is becoming a big city. n

'RANITE s 1UARTZ s -ARBLE /THER .ATURAL 3TONES CNG Stone did the granite countertops in our kitchen.We had originally hired another company to do it, which then went bankrupt.

Understanding the difficult situation we were in, CNG Stone worked hard to find us the granite that we had originally wanted, and went above and beyond to help us get the kitchen we wanted.Their customer service is great. Scott and Susan are fantastic to work with.

-Tyler and Heather Sebulsky They did an amazing job in my kitchen and bathroom.Their quote was competitive, but their customer service and attention won us over.

We were working with a designer, and they had previously worked with CNG Stone and confirmed that it was an excellent company to work with.

They met all of their timelines, and worked very cleanly.When they left, everything was shiny and spotless.

WHo We Talked To: paul moroz, Dundee Developments - harbour landing chad jedlic, Harvard Developments Inc. – Fairways west, greenside terrace, edgewater kevin reese, Karina Developments Ltd. – the creeks, hawkstone, maple ridge doug rogers, Terra Developments Inc. – skyview lorne yagelniski, Yagar Developments Inc. – the greens on gardiner, maple ridge

-Karen Pacholka

585-9876

£{{xÊ-V>ÀÌ Ê-ÌÀiiÌÊUÊ,i} >]Ê-

Fax 585-9830

www.cngstone.com for ideas & testimonials

You’re home Fall 2012 23

L

ifestyle

A condo for every by mIranda burskI photos by shawn Fulton

alison Reese

t

he demand for condominium properties continues to accelerate in Regina, as evidenced by Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s recent forecast that multi-family housing starts will double in our city in 2012 from 2011.

Who is embracing condo living in Regina? Two categories of condo consumers initially come to mind: first-time home buyers seeking an affordable entry point into the housing market and retirees desiring a low-maintenance place to call home.

However, the type of people living in condos is much more complex than that.

Condo ownership has broader appeal than ever, a reflection of choosing based on lifestyle rather than a stage in life.

“I think people with busy schedules, for sure, [would benefit from buying a condo],” said Alison Reese, who moved into her first condo in March of this year. “[Condo living is ideal for] a single person who doesn’t need a lot of space, somebody who doesn’t need a yard for their pets, [and] somebody who’s looking to control their costs [and] stay within their budget … If you’re looking to save some time and money, I’d say condo over house.”

24 You’re home Fall 2012

Jessica Reese

Alison chose to buy a new condo as her first home for many of these same reasons. As a full-time accountant and someone who participates in a number of recreational sports, she felt she just didn’t have time to keep up with the yard work and maintenance that would come with buying a house.

This, along with her desire for something cost-effective, led her to purchase a newly constructed condominium.

be in the construction of the project. This came partly because of how early she found the plans for the complex and partly because of her job. As a four-year employee in Associated Engineering’s infrastructure area, Jessica does a lot of work involving land development.

One of her projects involves designing and helping with the construction of The Greens on Gardiner subdivision.

affordability and a maintenance-free lifestyle are promoted by many condominium developments.

Affordability and a maintenancefree lifestyle are promoted by many condominium developments. To narrow down her choice, Alison also considered different features and amenities.

“It was affordable and nice and in the area of the city that I wanted to live in. It was just really well done … and well laid out,” said Alison.

The spacious two-bedroom floor plan was appealing and allowed for the possibility of a roommate to reduce expenses, and Alison was excited about having in-suite laundry instead of sharing communal washers and dryers. The building’s future amenities, including a hot tub and gym, were also big pulls for Alison.

Meanwhile, Alison’s sister, Jessica Reese, chose her condo in The Greens on Gardiner because of how involved she was able to

You’re home Fall 2012 25

A Perfect Family Playground Phase 3 Lots Now Available

Green Meadow Park is now completed. Featuring ponds, mature trees, walkways, a playground structure and plenty of open space, Green Meadow Park is the activity hub of The Greens On Gardiner.

For the active family, now is the best time to buy a home in The Greens On Gardiner. Phase 3 lots, only minutes from the park, are available now. There are also a few select Phase 2 park-adjacent lots still available. Talk to your builder now to ensure best selection.

( Please visit our website at

www.greensongardiner.com to view a 3D animation of the community park

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Bev and Myrna Bell

“When I was looking [for a condo], I actually came across the plans for the … Greens on Gardiner ... I really liked the layout, could see and picture how it would be,” said Jessica.

She explained that she had begun looking for a condo in December of 2009 and had even put a down payment on a different property.

But, she just didn’t have the right feeling about that particular

unit and decided to let it go, even though she would have had possession in January of 2010. This meant waiting an extra year and a half before moving into her condo, but she said it was “totally worth it.” Jessica moved into her condo in July of 2011 and has been happy with her decision ever since.

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For others, the decision regarding which condo to buy comes much more quickly. Myrna and Bev Bell, retirees, started looking for their newest condo on Mother’s Day of this year. Within two weeks they had bought a unit in Gordon Point Condominiums, a complex built

by Fiorante Homes and Commercial Ltd.

& Design

“This is one of the first places we looked at, and we were really impressed,” said Myrna. “It just seemed to suit us and it’s only about four blocks from where we’re living right now. We’re still in the same neighbourhood; we’ll still use the same bank and all that.

It’s quite nice.”

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This isn’t the first condo the Bells have owned; they bought their first about 26 years ago. Several years later, they moved to a second condo in the south end of the city. They decided to make their third move earlier this year.

While awaiting completion of their unit, Myrna said they were looking forward to their new home. “It’s a brand-new building … with all the amenities: elevator, underground parking, the whole schmeer… We’re pretty excited!”

Another element the couple has enjoyed is the amount of control they have had over how the condo will look when it’s finished.

“We’ve never had brand-new before, so this is quite an experience for us, to be able to choose everything from scratch. We chose all the [cabinets], flooring, lighting, the paint and everything. [It was] kind of fun!”

Regardless of the reasons why they choose to live in condos or why they chose their particular units, there’s one thing that Alison, Jessica and Myrna all agree on: choosing a condo comes down to finding what suits you and your lifestyle. n

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modular solutions by chrIsteen Jesse

I

n Regina’s housing market, where vacancies are low, rental prices are high, and weather is extreme, new home development is a costly and time-consuming undertaking. But one local custom home builder has narrowed in on a way to dodge the variables and produce quality homes on a short timeline - and the units are stacking up.

Deveraux Developments is using a new approach to multi-unit construction. As opposed to the regular stick-build construction, where a building is erected on site, the modular approach to construction sees each unit built as an individual module in a climate-controlled factory, protected from the elements.

“That’s the major difference between modular and stick-build — they have that protection,” said Rick Turchet, chief operating officer of Deveraux Developments. “Fifty per cent of the construction of our units happens in a factory, where units are

custom designed with a full kitchen, appliances, full cupboards and flooring.

“So the majority of the work is done off site, and then we get a price per-unit for that. On site, we do the work on it, which makes up for the other 50 per cent — which is putting the units together, finishing the drywall, doing the painting, cleaning up and finishing touches.”

The indoor assembly allows construction teams to work yearround, increasing production speed significantly. The modules are then assembled together on site with a crane— a bit like stacking Lego blocks — into complexes of varying heights and sizes.

Deveraux Developments assembled its first pre-fabricated complex in Regina at the beginning of 2010, and has just finished their eighth building. From an interview in the most recently completed development — a 14-unit condominium building on the corner of 15th Avenue and Montreal Street — Turchet explained the quick turn-around time modular construction offers.

“This building was set Nov. 18, and as of April, we had six pre-sold units and people living in here by mid-April,” said Turchet.

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“The key to modular construction in today’s market is that we’re in a very, very tight labour market. It’s very tough to find good trades that are consistent and meet your standards. So when something can come to you almost half done, that allows us to finish the product a lot faster.”

In a housing market where vacancy is lower than ever, producing a high-quality product in a reasonable amount of time is extremely appealing. With the needs of local renters at top-of-mind, Deveraux Developments has already provided hundreds of rental units in Regina, making a significant impact in easing the city’s housing shortage.

“The principals of the company - Denis Jones and Kevin Gelsinger - found a niche where we can bring the products to the market in a short period of time to help with the shortage of rentals in Regina,” said Turchet.

“In the last two years, we’ve brought in close to 400 rental units to the market. As of this August, we’re bringing in our last

deveraux developments goes modular to help ease regina's housing shortage

two buildings — a 75-unit building at the top of McCarthy [Boulevard], called Sky Point, which is completely rented out with a waiting list, and Sky Harbour Estates in Harbour Landing, which is 315 units, and also fully rented out. The last building that is coming up in August has 39 units and it’s fully rented too.”

The modular movement took off in the city about four years ago when Deveraux Developments CEO Denis Jones identified the disconnect between Regina’s economic boom and lack of rental housing. After

researching modular companies, and choosing one that fit with the local market, he kicked off the first project in Harbour Landing in 2010.

Deveraux Developments has since branched out into inner-city Regina with the completed condo complex on Montreal Street and a new 24-unit rental building on the corner of 15th Avenue and Angus, which is set to begin construction this fall.

Expanding even further, Deveraux will likely be taking their modular model outside the city limits this year. Turchet said the

company is working on an opportunity to construct a 24-unit complex in Indian Head, and a potential condo project in Moose Jaw. They also have a 14-unit complex in Milestone on the drawing board.

The success of the modular approach to home construction is also echoed in the increased production of and demand for their full-sized “West Coast Series” homes.

“With the growth we’ve had over the last couple years, this year we are doing over 15 homes and targeting 25 to 30 next year,” said Turchet. n

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Ask an expert Your home

as an Investment

barbara hitchens mortgage specialist rbc royal bank 306.584.9401 barbara.hitchens@rbc.com

by barbara hitchens

A home can be one of the most personally and financially rewarding investments you’ll ever make. But if you’ve never bought a home before, the process may seem a little overwhelming.

A: One thing your lender will look at before approving you for a mortgage is your credit score – your record for paying your bills and repaying loans on time.

We have answered the most frequently asked questions of firsttime home buyers, which we have continued from the previous issue of You’re Home.

In Canada, there are two main credit-rating agencies, Equifax and TransUnion. These companies keep records of missed payments and overdrawn credit accounts. If you’ve ever had a credit card or applied for an account with a major utility, chances are your payment history is on record with one or both of these companies.

Q: How can a mortgage specialist help me?

A: Working with a mortgage specialist has a number of advantages, especially if you are a first-time home buyer. Mortgage specialists have access to an entire network of resources to draw upon on your behalf. They’ll not only help with your pre-approval but also look at your whole financial picture and provide personalized advice based on your needs. That includes reviewing your mortgage options with you and making sure you get the mortgage that’s right for you.

Once your mortgage specialist says you are pre-approved, you are – no last-minute surprises to worry about!

This allows you to go shopping with confidence.

Q: Why should I use a real estate agent?

A: A real estate agent will help you find the right home and will offer you advice on what price to offer and any conditions you might want to consider including in your Offer to Purchase. If possible, get referrals from friends, family and co-workers. It’s important to choose an agent who is familiar with the area where you are searching for a home. You may be spending a lot of time with your agent checking out homes, so be sure to choose someone you feel comfortable working with.

Q: Is my credit good enough for me to be approved for a mortgage?

If you have a good track record – that is, you’ve always paid your bills on time and made at least the minimum payment due on your credit cards – you will have a good credit rating.

If your track record isn’t perfect, that doesn’t mean that you won’t get approved for financing.

If your late payments are in the past or date back to your student years but have since been paid on time, then you may not have difficulty in arranging financing.

Your lender can help you assess your situation and provide advice as to how to improve your credit rating to get you ready to purchase your first home.

You can get a free copy of your credit file by mail just by asking.

For details, visit Equifax.ca or Transunion.ca.

Q: What is mortgage insurance?

A: If your down payment is less than 20% of the purchase price of your home, you will require a mortgage that’s insured against default. This insurance protects the lender in case you default on your mortgage payments and is required by law.

There are two main mortgage insurers in Canada (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation and Genworth Canada). The cost will vary from 0.5% to about 3% of the total amount borrowed.

The amount is usually added to your mortgage and the cost added in your regular payment.

You’re home Fall 2012 33

Q: What are “closing costs,” and how much money should I set aside for them?

A: Closing costs are those additional expenses that come due when you complete the purchase of your home.

They typically include: • Lawyer’s or notary’s fees. When you buy a home, you need to hire a lawyer to complete a title search (to make sure there are no outstanding liens against the property and that the vendor actually owns the property), ensure all the documentation has been accurately completed, register your mortgage and register you as the new owner of the property.

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of lots in early 2013.

• Disbursements. These are costs that the seller has paid in advance, such as property taxes and utilities. You reimburse the seller for any prepayments that come into effect after you take possession of the home.

The amount of these costs will vary, depending on where you live and what kind of home you’re buying. As a guideline, you can estimate that closing costs will be about 2.5% of the purchase price of your home, though this may vary greatly.

In addition to closing costs, remember that you may also need to budget for appliances (if not included with the home), utility hookup, redecorating and paying a professional mover.

Q: How long will it take to pay off my mortgage?

A: The length of time needed to pay off your mortgage completely is called the amortization. Many first-time buyers opt for a 25-year amortization, but can be shorter depending on your needs.

Choosing a longer amortization will lower the amount of your regular payments, but it means you’ll be paying more interest over the life of your mortgage. Shortening your amortization, on the other hand, increases your regular payment but saves you interest overall and means you’ll be mortgage-free sooner.

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An easy way to shorten your amortization and pay less interest overall is to choose an accelerated weekly or bi-weekly payment schedule rather than monthly. Essentially, your regular monthly payment is divided into four (or two). Because some months in the year have five weeks rather than four, over the course of the year you make the equivalent of an extra month’s payment. n

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ownership

w

ith rising house prices and tightening mortgage regulations, how can first time home buyers get their dreams of new home ownership off the ground?

One Regina home builder is advising home buyers to look under their feet and consider the financial advantages of owning a new home with a regulation basement suite.

By popular demand, Trademark Homes Inc. is bringing back its innovative “Mortgage Helper” basement suite option, available at its new Harbour 13.2 streetscape development in The West Landings, Harbour Landing.

Trademark Homes is building on the success of last year’s Harbour 13 project, which consisted of 13 homes designed and constructed to have regulation basement suites. Home owners enjoy the advantages of living in a brand new home, while using the rental income from the secondary suite to pay down their mortgage. All 13 homes sold out in a matter of just a few weeks, said Melissa McCullough with Trademark Homes.

Trademark Homes is in its fifth year of business in Regina. The company is locally owned by two couples – James and Melissa McCullough and Nathan and Melanie Cressman - who share a lifelong love of their home province of Saskatchewan. In addition to being a co-owner, Nathan Cressmen is also Trademark’s real estate agent.

We saw a need for the mortgage helper basement suites, so we jumped on it.

“We like taking a fresh approach to building new homes. We’re willing to try new things, such as the Harbour 13 development. We saw a need for the Mortgage Helper basement suites, so we jumped on it. It’s another thing we can offer our generation, because we realize it’s getting harder for them to buy a house,” said Melissa McCullough.

The McCulloughs say that having a basement suite helped them become new home owners when they got married.

“Our first house had a basement suite. We loved owning a house, but not having the responsibility for the whole mortgage on our shoulders. It allowed us to save up money for our next house because we had a renter helping to pay down the mortgage,” said McCullough.

“We built our second house with a basement suite. By that time, we had started our family and had a baby daughter, but we still didn’t need that basement square footage.”

For many people, the basement of their home is underutilized space yet has the potential to become a financial gold mine.

36 You’re home Fall 2012

“There’s a lot of money in your basement,” said McCullough. “It’s such a good piece of real estate. People aren’t using their whole house to its full potential. They’ll put a few boxes in their basement when they could be bringing in upwards of $1,500 a month in income by thinking outside the box and adding a regulation suite.”

McCullough says that adding a regulation basement suite can open up the possibility of new home ownership to many first time buyers. “There are so many young people who want to get into a house in Regina. This is a great way to afford a new home and have someone help pay down your mortgage.”

First time home buyers aren’t the only consumers who can benefit from building a new home with a secondary suite, added McCullough. “My grandparents go south for several months during the winter. They always needed someone to check on their home while they were away. I asked them, ‘When was the last time you were in your basement?’ My grandma said, ‘A month ago, to change the furnace filter.’”

McCullough’s grandparents will soon be enjoying the advantages of Trademark Homes’ basement suite option. “The suite generates revenue for them that they can use for their winter travels. If you have your mortgage paid off, the rental revenue from the basement suite can be used to enhance your lifestyle. They’ll go travelling on that money,” said McCullough.

Trademark Homes’ Harbour 13.2 project consists of 14 new homes each designed to have an optional regulation basement suite.

Three different floor plans are available, including bungalow and two-storey options.

The York is an 1150 square foot three-bedroom two-storey with an optional one-bedroom regulation basement suite. The York is priced at $359,900, plus $30,000 for a one-bedroom basement suite option.

the loan forgiveness period was reduced from 10 years to five years.

The terms established by Saskatchewan Housing Corporation limit the monthly rent a Regina home owner can charge under the program to $791 for a one-bedroom unit and $950 for a two-bedroom unit.

“The home owner has to do the math and figure out all the pros and cons, to determine whether they want to take advantage of the secondary suite forgivable loan program and then have to rent out the suite at a lower rate,” said McCullough.

Trademark Homes will open its Harbour 13.2 show home in early October, located at 4761 James Hill Road, in Harbour Landing. The show home is the 1033 square foot Melbourne model and includes a completed two-bedroom regulation basement suite.

Thirteen additional lots surround the show home as part of the Harbour 13.2 project.

Two variations of the Melbourne bungalow model are also available. The 1033 square foot three-bedroom version is $343,900.

A 1078 square foot version of the Melbourne is $349,900. The Melbourne model is available with an optional two-bedroom regulation basement suite for an additional $45,000. Prices stated are before the GST calculation.

Harbour Landing’s proximity to the University of Regina will make it easy for home owners to find tenants, said McCullough.

Trademark Homes ensures that the basement suites meet all City of Regina regulations for secondary suites. “We’ve done all the research for the homeowner to ensure the suite surpasses building codes and meets our high standards. They are completely fireguarded with additional soundproofing. The windows in the basements are of a larger size, to bring in lots of light and allow for easy escape in the case of an emergency,” said McCullough.

There are many advantages to living in Harbour Landing, she added. “It’s a really vibrant neighbourhood that’s attracting lots of cute stores and restaurants.”

Trademark Homes finishes each basement suite to the same high standards as the home’s main floor. The suites are completely self-contained, with in-suite laundry, separate mechanical and individual metered utilities.

The basement suites are also designed to qualify for Saskatchewan Housing Corporation’s secondary suite forgivable loan program.

Home owners wishing to build a secondary suite can apply to the program to receive a forgivable loan for 50 per cent of the total construction or renovation cost of a secondary suite. The maximum loan amount is $30,000 per unit.

To qualify for the program, the home owner has to agree to rent the basement suite at an affordable rate to tenants with low to moderate incomes, based on the rent schedule established by the Saskatchewan Housing Corporation. Effective January 1 of 2012,

“Regina is having a real rental crisis. With the vacancy rate under one per cent, it’s really hard for renters out there, especially university students,” said McCullough.

Easy commuter access adds to the convenience of living in Harbour Landing, said McCullough. “This is the closest newly developed neighbourhood to Regina’s Global Transportation Hub and for people working at the Loblaw’s Distribution Centre.

There’s also easy access for anyone working at the refinery or nearby mines.”

Trademark Homes is a member of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association. All Trademark Homes feature third party warranty by Progressive New Home Warranty Solutions Inc. In addition to special projects like Harbour 13.2, Trademark Homes builds two categories of houses. Trademark’s Executive Homes are located in Regina’s newest developments of Harbour Landing, Lakeridge, The Greens on Gardiner and in the nearby communities of Pilot Butte and White City. The builder also offers a line of “Lifestyle” new homes which are being built in existing mature neighbourhoods throughout Regina.

For more information, call Trademark Homes at (306) 205-2502 or visit www.trademarkhomes.ca. n You’re home Fall 2012 37

RGB

Colours joyy

of joyy

By Julie folk

H

ome is where you feel comfort, colour, and joy – three words that are apt descriptors of two of Oak Park Living’s newest products in Regina: JOYY townhomes and RGB attached homes in Harbour Landing, in south Regina. Both projects are within walking distance to amenities, green space and parks.

JOYY is a 108-unit multi-family project which features two and three bedroom two-storey townhomes.

“Our focus for JOYY is to create real life spaces for how people live today,” said Karen Dansie of Oak Park Living.

JOYY is a multi-family project, but each owner will feel independent in their two- or three-bedroom two-storey townhome.

Each unit has the potential to be customized for the owner’s needs.

With full basement height foundations, there is flexibility for future lower development. With high efficient furnaces and a tankless hot water system for each townhouse, Oak Park has provided value for their condominium owners.

Oak Park has established itself in Regina with the previous condo developments of Sage and Skyy. In building JOYY and RGB, the same professional management and production teams have made design improvements based on customer feedback.

There will be options for an attached garage, a main floor half bath, two full upstairs bathrooms and lower development – just a few of the differences which will be found in the 108 units built in JOYY. “The exteriors are architecturally designed, incorporating generous 38 You’re home Fall 2012

low-maintenance details that add to the beauty of the community,” says Dansie. Residents will enjoy generous private patio spaces or spacious balconies overlooking green space.

“The pocket neighbourhood is what makes it unique. A pocket neighbourhood is a clustered group of neighbouring homes gathered around a shared open space – a garden courtyard, a pedestrian street – all of which have a clear sense of territory and shared stewardship.”

Dansie added that JOYY will accentuate the beauty of the natural outdoors through landscaped courtyards and a spacious green space, complimenting the generous parks, walking paths and dedicated environmental reserve land which Dundee Developments has incorporated in Harbour Landing.

Oak Park is now beginning development of JOYY and owners will begin to move in during the winter of 2013. Awaiting them will be high-end features such as deep square-edge laminate countertops, stubwall capping, crafted wood grain armoire closets, a smooth top range, and the necessary appliances.

Oak Park’s newest product is RGB attached homes, which provide the price point of a townhome in single family living. Situated on a developed streetscape, the homes feature landscaped front yards and a boulevard. There are several floor plan layouts to choose from with generous interior options, from craftsman cabinetry, countertops, flooring, lighting and paint colours to the option of a front porch and lower development. The open modern floor plans allow for flexibility of living. The Crimson, Cobalt, Indigo and

joyy

Onyx plans are built in a rainbow of exterior colours, including Saddle Brown, Venetian Red, Moonlit Moss and Midnight Surf.

RGB also provides choices in lifestyle – as no condo bylaws means you can have a dog, grow a garden, or build a play structure. RGB lots are selling quickly, with limited lots left in Phase 3 and Phase 4 RGB attached homes.

rgb

With each development, Oak Park also presents each client with a complimentary personalized iPad upon purchase of a home.

It is pre-loaded with a direct link to the Client Solutions Team, transforming interactions between the client and builder through Your Client Solutions 24/7.

More information can be found at oakparkliving.ca. n

Trademark Homes is pleased to present Live In Pilot Butte. Trademark Homes is giving you the opportunity to own a brand new home, on a 54 ft lot, with a triple car garage for under $400,000.

There is a 1018 sqft 2 bedroom, 1100 sqft 2 bedroom, and a 1250 sqft 3 bedroom bungalow floor plan to choose from. Some great features of these homes include: hardwood to the living room, air conditioner, stucco with stack stone exterior, ensuite, and much much more. A select number of homes will also include a gas fireplace. These homes are selling fast so call Trademark Homes to get yours today!

Trademark Homes

N

3889 Arcola Ave. E., Regina, SK

N

(306) 205-2502

398 5th Avenue (1250 sqft – no fireplace) - SOLD 394 5th Avenue (1250 sqft – no fireplace) - $399,900 390 5th Avenue FUTURE SHOWHOME (1250 sqft – no fireplace) - $406,400 386 5th Avenue (1250 sqft – no fireplace) - $399,900 382 5th Avenue (1100 sqft – with fireplace option) - $377,134 378 5th Avenue (1250 sqft – with fireplace option) - $406,400 374 5th Avenue (1250 sqft – no fireplace) - $399,900 CONDITIONALLY SOLD 370 5th Avenue (1250 sqft – with fireplace option) - $406,400 366 5th Avenue (1100 sqft – no fireplace) - SOLD 362 5th Avenue (1250 sqft – no fireplace) - $399,900 358 5th Avenue (1018 sqft – no fireplace) - $359,900 358 5th Avenue (1100 sqft – no fireplace) - SOLD ***PRICES INCLUDE HOUSE, LOT, AND GST

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New Trademark Homes Show Home Opening Soon!

11 Cumberland Bay in White City 1452 sqft Bungalow Three Bedrooms Triple Car Garage

The Reed

ASK US ABOUT BUILDING IN BALGONIE! info@trademarkhomes.ca

N

www.trademarkhomes.ca

781-8007 Corner of Ross Ave. & Fleury St.

Relax.

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Clif fstoneRegina.ca 306-352-5900

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Fee-simple townhouses an affordable option By pAt rediger

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A

lthough there are many people interested in the benefits of purchasing a condo, ongoing fees and decision-making by a condo association can be a deterrent for some.

Now there’s a solution for these people with fee-simple townhouses.

“These townhouses are more like a traditional home. You have fees like property tax and insurance, and you are responsible for your own maintenance, but you don’t have condo fees, and you don’t need approval from a condo association,” said Rod McPherson of North Ridge Development Corporation.

Similar in design to a traditional condo, purchasers own their own property and have a common wall between neighboring units.

There are some restrictions on how they can change their property, but for the most part, they can make their own decisions about what they want to maintain and enhance. “If they want to plant a tree in their front yard, for example, they can do so without having to go to the condo association to get approval,” said McPherson.

He adds that these townhouses are popular with a variety of buyers. They are usually more affordable for first-time buyers since they are less expensive than new homes and don’t require ongoing condo fees. Families who are moving to the city but find current housing prices beyond their means will be attracted to this type of development. There are also those who spend most of their time at the lake and want a second home in the city to accommodate their work schedules who find these developments appealing.

Fee simple townhouses tend to follow a basic architectural plan and then buyers have the option to add various options. North Ridge has a simple-fee townhouse development in Harbour Landing called Cliffstone, which includes provisions for buyers to add garages, decks or finished basements.

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Cliffstone has 24 attached units ranging in size from 1,140 to 1,250 square feet. Units can contain two or three bedrooms and additional rooms can be constructed in the basement. They generally range in base price from $294,000 to $314,000. Buyers also have the option to add various packages including appliances, central air conditioning, floor upgrades, granite countertops and much more. Cliffstone is currently under construction and is expected to be open by the end of October.

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“As prices escalate, fee simple townhouses are a great way for people to enter the market,” explained McPherson. “You have many of the benefits of condo living with the added benefit of living in your own home.”

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Fee simple townhouses were introduced into the marketplace about 20 years ago, but it is only recently that they have come to Saskatchewan. They have proven to be popular in places such as Calgary, where strong housing demand made home ownership difficult for some.

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“They are really like single family homes. You have to maintain your home and yard, but you avoid the condo fees. They are a great investment,” said McPherson. n

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Ask an expert Your home

in Real

Estate

dale ripplinger realty executives dale ripplinger and Associates 306.775.5555 dale@daleripplinger.com

By dale ripplinger

Q: New condo projects are coming up all over the city.

Are there any special concerns when buying new?

Q: Are there differences in condo fees when buying new as opposed to used?

A: Well, the biggest difference between buying new and buying used is that GST is payable on new condos. There is also a GST rebate that a buyer may be entitled to, so it is very important that you know who is responsible for paying the GST and who is entitled to the rebate. In most cases builders price their condos with the net GST included. This just means that the builder has included the GST in the price and that he or she will receive any rebate. This is actually the simplest for the buyer because in this case whatever price is quoted is the price you will pay and the buyer will not have to go through the hassle of applying for the rebate. The alternative would be a higher quoted price with the buyer receiving the rebate but the net price after the rebate would be the same. The only difference is that in this case the buyer has to do the paperwork to receive their rebate. Finally, there are builders who will quote a price but then the GST will be on top of the advertised price. This advertised price then can be somewhat misleading because no matter who gets the rebate, in this situation the buyer will be paying much more than they may have anticipated because the tax liability to them could be tens of thousands of dollars. So always confirm with the seller who is paying what when it comes to the GST.

A: I would say that generally condo fees should be lower in a new building because new construction will be more energy efficient and the building materials used today offer low or no maintenance.

A lot of people assume that because everything is brand new that the fees should also be lower however that will not necessarily be the case because no matter the age of the building an astute condo association will be contributing to a reserve fund to cover anticipated future capital expenditures. So, no matter whether the building is new or old, money must be set aside adequate to cover replacement of big ticket items like boilers, roofs and elevators. The advantage that a new building does have though is that with proper management that reserve fund will be sufficient so there won’t be any surprises as components require replacement. On a used building if previous condo boards have not been as conscientious in maintaining an adequate reserve fund then either condo fees will have to be raised to replenish a depleting fund or special assessments levied to pay for immediate necessary expenses. In either case proper management will insure this doesn’t happen but the new building does have the advantage of time to correct any underfunding mistakes since major expenditures should be well into the future.

BUYING A NEW HOME? PROTECT YOUR INVESTMENT

Choosing a builder who belongs to the New Home Warranty Program ensures your new home is protected from problems that can occur with new buildings.

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s 9OUR INITIAL DEPOSIT UP TO IF THE BUILDER DEFAULTS

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Q: if i am buying a new condo how do i know what my condo fees are going to be and will they go up?

A: The builder must provide you with a condo budget which will show you what you are paying for. This budget will also include the amount of condo fees assessed to your unit. You then have to determine, either on your own or with the help of a professional how reasonable you think that budget is. However, you should be aware of a couple of things. First of all this is only a budget and therefore an estimate and although most builders do a good job of preparing that estimate you should be aware that it is in their best interest to budget conservatively in order to establish attractive condo fees. So don’t be fooled by someone who is advertising unusually low condo fees because those are not sustainable.

Secondly, because on a new building no one knows what the true operating costs are, it may in fact be a couple of years before an accurate condo fee can be established and often that number will be higher than originally anticipated. However, it should not be significantly higher since condo fees are determined by the cost to operate the building and place money into reserve and nothing else. Some people seem to think that a builder is making money off the condo fee or that the builder will arbitrarily raise the fees once all the units are sold. This is not how it works. What happens is the initial fees will be as budgeted when you first purchased your unit and once your condo association is established the elected Board of your association will determine whether there is adequate income from condo fees to pay the building expenses and put enough money into the reserve fund. If not then your fees will have to go up. But remember that there is no profit motive for anyone in establishing and collecting condo fees so you shouldn’t have to worry about that when buying a new condo. n

more or less?

First-time home buyers will feel the pinch of new mortgage rules By jeANNie ArmstroNg

i

t’s now been just over two months since the Canadian government enacted changes to the financing criteria for government-backed insured mortgages.

Changes to mortgage-qualifying rules include: - reducing the maximum amortization period from 30 years to 25 years - lowering the maximum amount Canadians can withdraw in refinancing their homes to 80 per cent from 85 per cent of the home’s value - limiting the availability of governmentbacked insured mortgages to homes with a purchase price of less than $1 million - fixing the maximum gross debt service ratio at 39 per cent and the maximum total debt service ratio at 44 per cent.

The federal government’s mortgage rule changes are designed to put the brakes on the rising level of Canadian household debt and temper a perceived ‘overheating’ of the Canadian housing market in cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

Stu Niebergall, executive director of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association, disagrees with the federal government’s heavy-handed strategy.

"The reduction of the amortization period impacts all first time home buyers who require mortgage insurance the same way even the ones who have low debt levels and good credit," said Niebergall.

“This is a blunt mortgage change that penalizes good borrowers and first-time home buyers. Reducing the maximum amortization period from 30 to 25 years really puts everybody in the same basket.

While there is a need to recognize and decrease the high levels of household debt, the federal government should have used more precise tools that would be related directly to individual home buyers,” said Niebergall.

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Taking an individual approach to limiting exposure to debt would be more effective.

You’re home Fall 2012 47

“Further limiting debt ratios or raising minimum credit scores at the mortgage application level might have been a more prudent approach. That would impact individuals, instead of having an effect on all Canadians.”

Niebergall agrees there is reason to be concerned about the rising level of Canadians’ personal debt, especially in light of the European economic crisis. “However, I’m not sure how valid it is to pinpoint the housing industry as the tool to slow the economy nationwide. Mortgage debt is asset-backed debt; it’s different than other types of debt, like a vehicle loan.”

He pointed out that financial lenders have extended the terms on auto loans to as long as seven years, despite the huge depreciation that a vehicle will experience over that length of time.

On behalf of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, national president Ron Olson wrote to Finance Minister Jim Flaherty after the mortgage rule changes were announced.

In addition to voicing the industry’s concerns over the new mortgage rules, the Canadian Home Builders’ Association has called upon the federal government to take immediate action to reduce government-imposed costs on new homes, including adjusting federal GST thresholds for the New Housing Rebate.

“Adjusting the GST thresholds would have the same effect as shortening mortgage amortization rates. It would help young Canadians build equity in their homes more quickly and also reduce their overall level of debt,” said Olson.

SMALLER HOUSE, SAME AMENITIES Reducing the maximum mortgage amortization period from 30

years to 25 years adds approximately $60 per $100,000 of mortgage debt to the cost of a monthly mortgage payment, at current interest rates. A home buyer seeking a $300,000 mortgage will now pay approximately $180 extra a month for a 25-year mortgage, or an additional $2,160 per year.

Buyers who cannot afford the higher monthly mortgage payment that results from a 25-year mortgage will likely end up buying a smaller house, Niebergall added.

Market analysis by the National Association of Home Builders reveals that when budget-conscious home buyers have to choose between amenities like granite countertops or hardwood floors or buying a smaller home, they’ll opt for a smaller-sized house.

“People for the most part aren’t prepared to give up amenities; they’d rather give up square footage,” said Niebergall.

“Our biggest concern is that the mortgage rule changes take away the payment flexibility that’s needed by many young home buyers.

That’s the sector of the market that is being most affected by this.

I’m disappointed to see that such a broad-based measure has been taken by the government, instead of using more precise strategies,” said Niebergall.

“In our industry, when a job requires a shovel, we don’t use an excavator. Why do it in financing?”

He remains confident that the demand for new houses in Regina will remain strong.

“Going from a 30-year to a 25-year mortgage will not be hugely damaging to the industry, but it does create more of a challenge for the first-time home buyer,” said Niebergall. n

Contact Westridge Homes 352-9974 for more information www.demarcopointe.com

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Brenda gordon and heidi inden design Consultants Alford Floors & interiors (1967) ltd.

306.522.5651 bgordon@alfords.ca hinden@alfords.ca

in Design

By Brenda gordon & heidi inden

conDo l living

iving in a condo doesn’t mean you are giving anything up. In fact, you are gaining freedom and the opportunity to live stress-free in a rejuvenating environment, with the option to get away at a moment’s notice.

Condos may be smaller in size than other types of homes, so it’s important to utilize every space available and design your home to emphasize its best features.

Also keep in mind that condos often offer an extension of square footage with shared amenity areas, such as workout rooms, pools, hot tubs, party rooms, wood shops, craft rooms, game rooms, underground parking and guest suites.

One of the best perks is the fact that outdoor maintenance, such as clearing snow and landscaping, is usually not your responsibility, so you can travel without worry.

There are many ways to make your space appear larger. Here are a few ideas on maximizing your home:

Clutter-Free liViNg Our lives are now so fast-paced; our home has become a place to rejuvenate. When it’s clutter-free, we can relax. There is nothing that makes a space feel more cramped than having too much stuff. A cluttered room equals a smaller room. Free up space in your condo by being organized.

Most condos have a storage closet, so take advantage of it. To create clean surfaces, use baskets to hold little objects. Often if children and adults are sharing a space, baskets are perfect storage for toys to keep the area clutter-free.

50 You’re home Fall 2012

Fewer large items also create a feeling of more space than many smaller items. For example, instead of hanging numerous pictures on the wall, hang one large painting. Don’t clutter shelves with many items; instead use a single vase or a couple of candles. Also on bookshelves, lay books on their side and leave plenty of white space where you can highlight an art piece or an interesting knick knack. White space allows the eye to rest.

hANgiNg mirrors Mirrors can create a false sense of space. By placing them across from a focal point, they give the illusion of depth. Mirrors also reflect natural and artificial light to make a room brighter. Glass tabletops provide a similar effect, creating more of an open flow.

multi-purpose FurNiture Furniture that can be used for multiple functions can certainly clean up a space. Look for chests that can be used as coffee tables; sofa beds; or beds with drawers for storage underneath. Ottomans can be used as footstools, for storage, or flipped for entertaining.

End tables that can be used together or pulled to the side as wedge tables offer versatility. If there is only one extra bedroom, use it as an office but include a piece of furniture that can be used as a bed.

Another tip is to stick to clean lines. Place furniture on angles, and in a great room area, designate areas of function. Selecting furniture to fit the size of the room, or moving the furniture away from walkways will create more open spaces. Sofas and chairs with open arms and exposed legs, along with glass tables, create an appearance of open and free space, as light filters under the furniture, making the room appear airier. Also incorporating furniture the same colour as the walls creates an added feeling of space.

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For eating spaces, round tables provide the most seating for the least amount of space. Extendable, folding or nesting tables are ideal for entertaining as they can be tucked away when not in use.

lightiNg Lighting is a key element. If you do not have a lot of natural light, you can add some lighting features to the room to make it look bigger. Pot lights are very popular. Lighting walls and features such as photos or the fireplace also help to open the room and create a mood. Lamps will bring in colour and focus attention.

Make sure window coverings are sheer or are pulled back to bring more light in. If you don’t have a nice view, hang plants and place potted flowers near windows.

wAll Colour Painting is a small change that can go a long way. Light colours, such as pastels and neutral colours, leave your condo feeling airy and open, since light bounces around the room. Another option is to paint your wall trim and moldings a lighter colour than your walls so the wall appears further back.

Condos and condo townhouses are usually open concept.

Introducing too many colour schemes will overpower the space.

When painting, choose a colour that you can repeat. For example, paint your bedroom the same colour as your washroom. Choose a lighter or darker version of the shade for the living area and kitchen. A monochromatic colour scheme will make your home appear larger.

Also ensure your décor flows from one room to the next, including out to the balcony, which is an extra room on your house. n

“I’LL BE BACK”... …with an offer on your condo!

Dale Ripplinger is The Condonator and should be the first person you call if you want to sell your condominium.

Buying or Selling Call

The Condonator

Dale has 30 years of experience selling condos and has developed an extensive database of condo buyers.

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775-5556 DALE RIPPLINGER AND ASSOCIATES

You’re home Fall 2012 51

Homes by Dundee provides a unique blend of innovation and tradition.

For the past 55 years they have been Regina’s leading new home builder, and in that time have continued to evolve to meet the needs of Regina homeowners.

Homes by Dundee was just named Regina’s 2011 Customer Choice Builder by the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association and was awarded the Master Award in Environmental Leadership for 2011 – a testament to Dundee’s commitment to customer satisfaction and dedication to environmental advances in the new home building industry.

Addition, and can now also be found in The Greens on Gardiner, The Creeks and one of Regina’s newest subdivisions, Edgewater (a Westhill Addition).

In the Greens on Gardiner in Regina’s South East, Homes

by Dundee has introduced the G2 Series, a new and exclusive project.

Homes feature an attached garage and an option of a second detached garage off the back lane. The front entry is advanced to provide a more attractive streetscape and de-emphasize the dominance of the attached garage. A common themed exterior of stone or brick fronts compliments the backing Heritage series, another new series of Homes by Dundee homes.

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Dundee strives to provide solutions to what clients are looking for. In 2012, they have responded to the market demand and have expanded to serve most new areas of the city. Homes

by Dundee builds in Fairways West, Harbour Landing and the Lakeridge

There is a concentration of aesthetics and function in a variety of unique yet affordable G2 Series home plans.

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the rear lane for an additional detached garage, lends itself to many possibilities. Whether it’s for the man of the house who just needs more room for his tools, or a garage for the family boat to call home, you’ll surely have the space you need while ensuring that the aesthetics of your home are kept intact. With eight models to choose from in the G2 Series, including six two-storey models and two bungalow models, there are many options to fit the needs of home buyers.

Dundee is excited to remain a market leader by offering these new exciting projects to their clients.

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regina's

Multi-Unit Developments

Regina is continually growing and expanding. Many of the newest developments are multi-unit condo projects. We explore a few of our city’s exciting new condo communities.

Bellagio Terrace

North prairie developments ltd.

Nestled in the heart of Regina at 1220 Blackfoot Drive, Bellagio Terrace is one of Regina’s most exciting and value-rich multi-unit developments.

Embraced by the natural landscape of Wascana Park, this ideal location is just minutes from downtown, and within walking distance of the University of Regina and the Saskatchewan Legislature. Bellagio Terrace is currently under construction with the estimated opening of show homes in spring, 2013. Bellagio Terrace offers a maintenance-free, affordable lifestyle with 77 units and 15 modern, open floor plans to choose from, heated underground parking and an indoor fitness facility. This unique new project offers quality, affordable luxury living.

Canterbury Common Fiorante homes and Commercial ltd.

Canterbury Park is an exciting urban community located at College Avenue and Broad Street, across from Wascana Park. Developed by Fiorante Homes and Commercial Ltd., Canterbury Park draws its inspiration from the turnof-the-century heritage buildings that continue to grace the site. Fiorante Homes is now putting the finishing touches on Canterbury Common, a one-of-a-kind three-storey apartment-style condominium development that offers a pleasing blend of character style and modern luxury. The exterior of Canterbury Common celebrates the past, adorned in heritage-style red brick and Tyndall stone. Inside, the suites are luxuriously appointed with maple cabinets, granite countertops and a package of five appliances. Seven different floor plans are offered, including two-bedroom and one-bedroomplus-den configurations, ranging from 820 to 1,382 square feet. Residents enjoy the convenience of in-suite climate control, underground parking and elevator service. Proximity to downtown means residents can walk to work and make the most of Regina’s vibrant urban lifestyle!

Centre Square Place hydeman property management ltd.

Centre Square Place is the sophisticated and stylish new address in downtown Regina, located at Broad Street and 15th Avenue. This architecturally unique ten-storey condominium tower will transform the Regina skyline, offering a mix of 71 luxury condominiums, townhouses and penthouses, ranging from 900 to 2,000+ square feet in size. The condos are designed to satisfy the most discriminating homeowner, featuring maple cabinets, granite countertops and engineered hardwood floors. Select from one-bedroom and two-bedroom floor plans, each with a media/ office/guest room. Each loft-like suite offers a spectacular view of Regina’s ‘infinite horizons’ as you walk in your front door. The view is even more breathtaking from the condo’s signature curved balconies, or the building’s unique rooftop garden, walking track and fitness centre. For more details, visit the Centre Square Place show suite, at the presentation centre located at 2139 Broad Street.

54 You’re home Fall 2012

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Cliffstone

North Ridge Development Corporation Cliffstone, located in the exciting new neighbourhood of Harbour Landing, offers buyers a rare opportunity for the outright purchase of a townhouse.

Homeowners will own the land on which their townhouse is located and will not have the restrictions that are imposed by bylaws in condo developments, although some guidelines will be in place to ensure that the community remains attractive. Without the added expense of condo fees, buyers will qualify for higher mortgages. Homes in the six fourplexes will range from 1,142 to 1,254 square feet. Buyers will have a range of options for layouts, and will be further able to express their individuality when developing the lower levels of their homes. Cliffstone, which will be ready for possession this fall, is located less than a block from a neighbourhood park.

Cliffstone

Greenstone

Cornerstone Heights

Greenstone, a community of garden-style townhouse condos, is now under construction on Green Apple Drive in the quiet Greens on Gardiner neighbourhood. The development will consist of 104 upper and lower condos with a large portion of units to include detached garages. The small number of units in each building allows for separate entrances, plenty of windows and two patios or balconies. Each two-bedroom unit is approximately 1,040 square feet and has two full bathrooms. The exteriors of the buildings are being finished with low-maintenance, durable James Hardie cement siding.

Sun West Construction has been building custom homes in Regina and the surrounding area for 37 years.

Twenty-eight luxury, apartment-style condos are now being built in Phase 2 of the Reimer Crossing development, located adjacent to two large green spaces in Harbour Landing. The homes’ interiors feature nine-foot ceilings, ceramic tile and hardwood flooring throughout, and high-quality finishing that includes upgraded trim packages. Buyers can select from seven different layouts ranging in size up to 1,480 square feet. Homes may be decorated with the assistance of a professional designer. On the exterior of the building, beautiful street appeal has been created through the use of European Tudor styling, with large distinctive windows, acrylic stucco, and striking architectural features. Amenities include an exercise room, access to a guest suite, and indoor, heated, above-ground parking. Construction has begun with possession dates beginning in fall 2013.

Sun West Construction Ltd.

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Reimer Custom Homes & Commercial Inc.

306.565.0741

1.888.545.5565

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Dakota Drive Condos Deiana General Construction Ltd.

The Dakota Drive condo development, conveniently located near Regina’s east-end amenities, includes 60 spacious, fully air conditioned, apartmentstyle units. There are four different styles to choose from, the majority of which have two bedrooms, but there are also one- and three-bedroom units available. Homes range in size from 1,080 to 1,340 square feet, and all have two bathrooms, a living room, kitchen, dining room, laundry and storage space. To add to the safety and convenience of residents, the building is equipped with a fire sprinkler system and an elevator. Buyers may select from several floor plans and choose their own interior colours, finishes and flooring. Each unit has a deck and ground-level parking is included, with additional parking available for purchase outside. Show homes at this wellbuilt, steel structure will be available for viewing September 1.

De Marco Pointe Townhomes Westridge Homes Ltd.

Contemporary design and exceptional features distinguish Westridge Homes’ newest condominium development: De Marco Pointe Townhomes. This 34unit, two-storey townhouse community delivers chic style and exceptional functionality. Adjacent to Lewvan Drive in Rosemont, De Marco Pointe is centrally located close to parks and shopping. Three innovative floor plans offer an exceptional list of features, including upgraded cabinetry, fixtures and floor coverings, at an affordable price point. The open-concept main floor living area includes a well-appointed kitchen with an island and eating bar. Each unit has three bedrooms, with a walk-in master closet and second floor laundry.

Superior building techniques, a high efficiency furnace and on-demand water heater will keep utility costs down. Attractively landscaped, each townhome has its own rear deck and a drywalled attached garage. Westridge Homes’ last two multi-family developments received the 2009 and 2011 RRHBA Best Condominium Master Awards. De Marco Pointe carries on the builder’s tradition of quality.

RGB

Oak Park Living RGB is a colourful, new development comprised of attached homes that feature attractive architectural details, such as front porches, verandahs, premium siding colours, shutters and window battens. Interiors can be custom decorated to suit your tastes, with hundreds of options to select from. RGB offers the cost savings of a multi-unit development (prices start at less than $300,000), with the freedom of outright home ownership. You own your lot, and you can store a snowmobile, fence your yard, own a pet or install a hot tub — and you pay no condo fees. The development is located in Harbour Landing, within easy walking distance of Grasslands’ unique boutiques, regional and national fashion and specialty stores, and restaurant and dining experiences.

Creeks Edge

North Ridge Development Corporation Creeks Edge offers condo living in The Creeks, a neighbourhood in southeast Regina that combines the allures of natural prairie habitat and the benefits of city life. The spacious Creeks Edge units, which range in size from 1,338 to 1,415 square feet, are available in several different two- and three-bedroom styles, allowing owners to customize units based on their lifestyles. All of the homes are ENERGY STAR® certified, come with durable and stylish Hardie Board siding and have attached single-car garages. Fenced-in backyards, the development’s half basketball court and a nearby eight-acre park provide plenty of recreation opportunities for residents of all ages. Creeks Edge is expected to be ready for occupancy in September.

58 You’re home Fall 2012

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Evans Court

Evans Development Group Inc. The classic Craftsman-style exteriors and the interiors of Evans Court have been carefully designed to complement the comfortable, relaxed feel of Wascana Park, creating the perfect ambiance. Ramsgate Hall is a remarkable, 36-unit, apartment-style condominium development, while the Birkshire Town Homes combine the classic architectural style with modern, energyefficient design. Evans Court is bordered by the southern edge of Wascana Centre and 23rd Avenue, and is located between Albert St. and Broad St. In addition to the town homes and the apartment-style living in Ramsgate Hall, this community in the heart of Regina also includes single-family, detached homes.

Timber Creek

Sthamann Homes Inc. and Munro Homes Ltd. An exciting, new development is taking shape in a quiet bay nestled in The Creeks. Sthamann Homes and Munro Homes have partnered to offer beautiful, custom, detached, single-family condominium homes that will have the advantages of both detached-home and condominium lifestyles.

Homes in the luxury development begin at 1,400 square feet and are designed to appeal to mature families, professionals and empty-nesters. The maintenance-free, secure lifestyle of condo living provides the freedom to enjoy extended travel. Homeowners can choose a custom-built bungalow on one of 14 traditional or pie-shaped lots. The homes are complete with spacious, fully landscaped yards and two- to three-car garages. The masterplanned streetscape is characteristic of an upscale mountain resort, creating the enduring beauty and luxury of Timber Creek.

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1323 Albert St. 565-3637 60 You’re home Fall 2012

Trinity Lane Village

Reimer Custom Homes & Commercial Inc. Trinity Lane Village is an exciting, newly released 13 townhousestyle condominium project in the prestigious Reimer Crossing Development in Harbour Landing, which features green space on two sides. These homes will have the flare of old world architecture, providing spectacular street appeal. High quality construction specifications will include all units being built on structured piles with insulated concrete form foundations. Functional layouts include two- and three-bedroom options with approximately 1250 square feet on two levels. n

PHASE 8

LOTS AVAILAB FALL 2012 LE

Of Course You Want The Best For Your Family

Start with the best place to live in Regina.

New

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COURTNEY

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PARTICIPATING BUILDERS

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Maple Ridge is a quiet, family-oriented community tucked away in a tranquil corner of Regina. Unlike many new developments, all amenties are already in place nearby - schools, parks, shopping and recreation facilities - so your family can get the most out of its new home right

My Space

Customize

your home. build your dream By neil kingsley Photos by Shawn Fulton

F

inding your dream house can sometimes be a nightmare: it can be the right house but the wrong location, or a great character home that has lots of fixing up to do, or you simply can’t find what you’re looking for. Instead of searching for that ideal home that may or may not exist, why not build your own?

Having a custom home built by an experienced builder lets you wake up in the house you’ve always dreamed of.

Going with a custom home gives buyers more options when it comes to the little things — the little things that make a big difference in making a house feel like a home.

“If you’re going out to shop for an existing home, one out of 100 might have the features you’re interested in,” said Ted Reilly, Sales Manager for Gilroy Homes Inc. “Today we find that home buyers are much more specific on what they’re looking for in a house.”

“We never build the same house twice,” he added. “Sometimes we’ll take a three-bedroom house and turn it into a one-bedroom house or we’ll take a one-bedroom house and make it into a three-bedroom home.”

Going with a custom home gives buyers more options when it comes to the little things—the little things that make a big difference in making a house feel like a home. Often customers will find design elements or materials that they like in a magazine or on television but Reilly said integrating all of those requests depends on the reality of the construction. “The first thing we discuss is their wants and needs, their long list of wishes,” he said. “Then you work it down to their short-list.”

62 You’re home Fall 2012

With over 30 years experience, Gilroy Homes has kept up with the ever-changing tastes of homebuyers and continues to build homes that meet their clients' expectations.

With over 30 years experience, Gilroy Homes has kept up with the ever-changing tastes of homebuyers and continues to build homes that meet their clients’ expectations. Those expectations can include eye-catching aesthetic features or they can focus on elements that affect the day-to-day functionality of the house.

alone. In March, 2012, he and his wife moved into their custom home in The Creeks neighbourhood, located in Regina’s southeast corner. He said the flexibility of the custom home process allowed him to get a new house with aspects of the past tastefully interwoven.

“There’s more emphasis on insulation and energy-efficiency now than 10 years ago,” said Reilly. “With custom home builds people are more set on what they want and they are willing to pay extra to have those products. Every wholesaler in Regina will tell you the same thing, people are upgrading to materials they wouldn’t have 10 years ago.

“Our basement is done in a western/country theme so our fireplace looks like it is 100 years old. The mantle is actually made from an old bench that was near the old fireplace so it’s all weathered and burned,” said Reilly.

“We’re not seeing many dining rooms in homes anymore,” he added. “There’s a premium put on the entertainment value of a home.”

Buyers prefer to have a kitchen that is ideal for a casual gettogether as opposed to a formal dining room. Also, with the typical family size being smaller than in the past, buyers tend to go with one relatively large guest bedroom instead of one or two small bedrooms. There is also increased emphasis on creating what Reilly called, a “Master Retreat” where a large master bedroom is coupled with a walk-in closet and elegant bathroom, often featuring a double vanity, jet tub and shower.

Reilly’s experience with custom homes is not limited to selling

The house is also equipped with an energy-efficient heating system that has no furnace, using a boiler instead. Reilly said the increased energy-efficiency of a new home over an older property is likely the biggest difference buyers will notice.

Being current and cohesive, the overall look of a new house will also appeal to buyers said Reilly, as even a high-quality renovation is “never as seamless” as a new custom home.

Going with a custom home gives buyers a chance to make changes throughout the process but Reilly said the first step is to find a builder that is right for you and your vision. Just as home buyers shouldn’t necessarily go with the first home they see, they shouldn’t always go with the first home builder they see either.

“Build with someone you are comfortable with,” Reilly said. “Trust is a big issue and you need to trust your builder.” n You’re home Fall 2012 63

ascana W

Evans Court on

THE BIRKSHIRE TOWNHOMES

THE SALISBURY

• Choose from 3 floor plans • 1837 to 2315 sq. ft.

• 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms • Great room 9 ft. and 12 ft. ceilings • Granite kitchen countertops • 6 appliance package • Double and single garages • Engineered structural basement floors

With two bedrooms and two full baths, the huge balcony of the Salisbury overlooks Wascana Park. The second bedroom acts as a flex room, featuring pocket doors to transform it from bedroom to den adjoining the living room.

2 REMAINING

SHOWHOME HOURS: RAMSGATE HALL APT. CONDOS AND BIRKSHIRE TOWNHOMES Tues., Wed., Thurs. - 7-9 pm Sat. & Sun. - 2-4 pm 3501 Evans Court

For Ramsgate Hall apartment condos and Birkshire town homes contact: Bruce Evans – Sales Executive N (306) 581-7740 N ELs2000@accesscomm.ca N www.evansdevelopmentgroup.com For single family homes contact: Merna Evans - President N (306) 584-5378 N evansdev@accesscomm.ca

B

Extraordinary Views

rilliant sunrises and sunsets flood the exceptional Ramsgate Hall apartment condominiums bordering the southern edge of Wascana Park on 23rd Avenue. Bright, spacious, well-appointed, exceptionally finished Ramsgate apartments will more than meet your expectations.

Ramsgate Hall at Evans Court is more than just an apartment condominium complex — it is a community in the heart of Regina, next to the glistening Wascana Lake and the impressive legislative buildings. Ramsgate is the new home for a variety of residents, and has options to fit every lifestyle, with suites ranging from 1,130 to 1,563 square feet. Selected Suites Immediate Possession.

The Bristol, York, Exeter and Fleetwood units facing south capture the beautiful sunrises and sunsets, which provide a kaleidoscope of colours of Saskatchewan’s living skies. The classic architectural style incorporates British history with 21st century function. Each apartment has its own character.

THE YORK

THE BRISTOL

Featuring large windows and south exposure, the York is a one bedroom plus den, one bath unit and features an open concept kitchen.

Two exceptional bedrooms, two bathrooms, open concept kitchen, dining and great room, large balcony with south exposure.

EVANS

COURT

o n Wa s c a n a • Three other large Ramsgate Hall apartments to choose from, the Exeter, the Fleetwood and the Lincolnshire.

• All plans feature choice of cabinetry, laminate floors, granite kitchen countertops, large balcony, and a six appliance package, as well as access to bicycle storage, library lounge and exercise room.

DeMarco Pointe

where you want to be if you want to go everywhere By neil kingsleY

W

ith Regina’s housing boom still going strong, finding a new home within the city can be difficult.

House hunters have to look to the outskirts of Regina to get a modern house in an up-and-coming neighbourhood. For those looking to live within the city — and within their budget — Westridge Homes Ltd. may have the answer: De Marco Pointe Townhomes.

Located west of Lewvan Drive and north of 4th Avenue, De Marco Pointe provides easy motor access to many of Regina's attractions and shopping destinations. “You can hop on Lewvan Drive and go to the north end or south end of the city or head downtown,” said Robert Kuntz, Branch Manager for Westridge Homes.

“It's in an area of the city that is starting to come around now,” Kuntz added. “There are quite a few young families or first-time buyers moving into existing homes in the community. It’s time for a refurbishing in the area and with this new development we’ve noticed a lot of ‘neighbours’ renovating their houses.”

The options for a buyer looking in the $329,999 to $339,999 range will likely include an older property or a condo conversion. With De Marco Pointe, though, first-time homeowners can feel secure that they are getting a premium product for an affordable price.

Buyers benefit from improved energy-efficiency, large windows, soundproofing and a garage - features not always found in an older house or converted apartment.

“We have priced this development to be more affordable for firsttime home buyers by using laminate countertops but if someone wants the upgrades, like granite countertops, we’ll definitely accommodate that,” said Kuntz.

“This new neighbourhood is appealing to families and sets the bar 68 You’re home Fall 2012

high for affordable, quality homes," Kuntz said, adding that “not everything new is necessarily premium.”

“Everything works together,” Kuntz said of De Marco Pointe. “It’s a very high standard. We work within two different price ranges and the number one comment I get about our townhomes is that people like the quality.”

Those high standards have earned the company several awards over the years from the Regina & Region Home Builders' Association, including Best Condominium Project and Customer Choice Multi-Family Master Award in 2009, and the Best Condominium Project Master Award in 2011.

Westridge is committed to meeting the needs and wants of their customers and providing them with options that fit within the necessary framework. Using input from past clients Westridge has included features like a second-floor laundry room because buyers had remarked how it would make life more convenient. Also, the high ceilings at the entrance way have been discarded in favour of a cozier foyer that uses space more effectively.

Kuntz also said that living in a newly constructed townhome in an established neighbourhood offers buyers the best of both worlds. The condo lifestyle means no snow shoveling or yard work in the scorching sun, but De Marco Pointe is close to enough parks to entice one to go outdoors. “At nearby Rose Pointe, we’ve had young or first-time home buyers to older people who are looking for a new property where they don’t have to do any yard maintenance.”

Less time in the yard means more time out enjoying what’s around you - and at De Marco Pointe that will include pretty much everything. n

building efficiently

Green energy solutions reduce your home's environmental footprint By julie folk ‘Energy efficiency’ is a term frequently used and yet not always fully understood.

When we build a new home, we are looking for value in the home, and savings on our energy sources. As a whole, we are also more concerned with the footprint we are leaving on the environment and how we can reduce emissions.

Even a house with radiant heating and cooling will have duct work. The ventilation system will take the air out, de-humidify it and send it back into the room. The radiant cooling will absorb any radiant energy coming into the house, from human bodies, appliances or sunshine.

There are many ‘green’ aspects of new homes that have become common: ENERGY STAR® appliances, dual flush toilets and lowflow showerheads are just a few options available. But what are some of the substantial methods of energy reduction that will save on emissions as well as energy bills? Lyle Weichel of WestSource in Regina explained many of the practices that have the most value for the home owner.

HEATING, COOLING & VENTILATION Radiant Heating: Radiant heating is the most energy efficient method to heat your home. In addition to reducing energy costs, it’s more comfortable and creates fewer issues for people with allergies, as it replaces a forced air system.

“You have tubing that runs through the floors,” explained Weichel.

“An important note is that radiant heating can be used in all the floors in the home. It can be used under carpet, hardwood, or other types of flooring; there are just some special design considerations to be made.”

Historically, radiant heating needed a concrete overpour. That is still an effective option, but requires another subcontractor and a reinforced structure. Innovative ways around this include products like warmboard, which are floor boards pre-made with grooves for the tubing, that snap into place.

Radiant Cooling & Ventilation: The radiant heat tubing can also be used for radiant cooling, but ventilation becomes very important.

“In the summer, there are often hot, humid days,” said Weichel.

“If the flooring is cold, the water in the air can condense and pool water on the floor. This is where the ventilation system comes in.

Ventilation is part of the building codes to deal with humidity, but it also comes into play with the latent heat (moisture in the air) that is in the home.”

Hot and Cold Supply: “The conventional way to make heat is a natural gas boiler, or an electric boiler if someone doesn’t have natural gas or elects not to hook it up,” said Weichel. “The conventional way to cool is an air conditioning unit that sits outside the house, or a ground loop underneath the ground that isn’t connected to a heat pump. Fluid circulates through it in the summer months, and there is a heat exchange because the ground is cool.”

The second option is geothermal, or a ground source heat pump.

“You have a heat pump that will make hot water for heating and cold water when you need to cool the home,” said Weichel.

You’re home Fall 2012 69

energy reduction Alternative sources of energy are wind and solar energy. Because wind turbines would not be allowed within city limits, solar is the primary available option.

Solar Water Heating: “You’re essentially capturing solar radiation from the sun when it’s shining, collecting that heat and using it to heat a storage tank,” said Weichel. “In the simplest system, the water you’re storing is used for hot water in your house. You draw on that hot water first, and when it runs out, your conventional hot water system kicks in.”

Typically over a year, hot water costs decrease by about 40 to 60 percent.

A more advanced system runs in conjunction with a geothermal heating and cooling system.

“Once you’ve heated your solar storage tank, you could take the extra heat being generated and put it back into the ground, increasing the overall efficiencies of your geothermal system,” said Weichel.

A third option would be using it to heat an outdoor swimming pool.

Solar PV: “Solar PV is using the solar energy from the sun to make electricity instead of making hot water,” said Weichel, adding that no batteries are used and the power is not stored. “You have a set of solar panels on the roof or a detached structure. An inverter takes the power coming off the panels and converts it to the same power that is used in your home. In your home at that given time, if you are producing more power than you’re consuming, it pushes the power into

SaskPower’s electrical grid. You have a bi-directional metre, which measures the power flowing in both directions. At the end of the month, if you produce more power than you use, you get a credit on your power bill.”

This is referred to as SaskPower’s Net-Metering Program. The credits accumulated can be used for months owing on the power bill. SaskPower trades each kilowatt of power one-for-one, and because batteries are not needed with the system, it decreases the overall capital costs, so there is no maintenance with the solar system as there are no moving components.

How much the solar PV system will save on your energy bills depends on your lifestyle, how many people live in the home, the size of the home, and what type of heating and cooling system is being used.

Another restriction is the amount of roof space available for solar panels. There are typically 10 to 12 panels required for a basic system, each at about 18 square feet. Sometimes fewer panels are used if the roof is a limiting factor.

water conservation The best way for Regina homeowners to conserve water is rain water harvesting.

“Essentially you’re going back to old-school ways,” said Weichel. “You’re capturing the water that comes off your roof or eavestroughs, storing it in a cistern and using it as irrigation.”

The storage tanks are located underground outside of your house.

In Regina, bylaws do not allow for rain water to be used for any applications but irrigation; however studies show watering your lawn is responsible for up to 50 percent of your water bill, depending on the size of your yard. With water the most rapidly increasing utility expense, water conservation will be a significant factor for long-term planning. n

Plan ahead for energy efficiency Energy efficiency methods are best built into your home plan early on in the process. It may require cooperation between the builder and the energy efficient company, such as WestSource.

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Prior to selecting a builder, inquire into what energy efficiency and water conservation options are included in your home, if this is important to you. If you have a builder in mind and they do not include these systems, ask if they work with or would be willing to work with a third party who has experience with these systems. Also ensure your energy efficient company is willing to work with the builder to provide an overall working relationship.

The best time in the home building process to plan for energy efficient options is prior to the contract being signed so that accurate pricing can be determined. Either the builder or an energy efficiency company can help you determine what systems you would like to include. Because these systems work as a unit with other aspects of the home, the trades need to work together in building them into the house.

With so many options available, it is important to do your research and understand what will benefit you and provide the outcomes you desire – to decrease energy bills, do your part for the environment, or ease your lifestyle. Every house is its own system, so determine who can help plan the best for you.

70 You’re home Fall 2012

O

Expect the BEST for Your New

ur homes are built for a lasting impression, not just a first impression.

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Building Homes in Regina for 15 Years

“Our mission is to construct superior quality homes while providing exceptional service to our customers and valuing the work performed by our employees and subcontractors.” a{ h }{ B e {

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By CArson ArThur Landscape Designer, Author and Television Host of Green Force on HGTV and Global's Room to Grow

grow a beautiful yard, the natural way

o

ne of the best ways to keep your yard truly green is by using compost effectively. Many gardeners have started to move away from chemical fertilizers and are moving toward ecological choices, such as composting as a way to reduce waste and make the garden greener.

Composting is Nature's way of recycling; the process decomposes and transforms organic material into nutrient rich soil. A perfectly good compost pile can be built out of nothing fancier than leaves and grass clippings. Other “ingredients” can include: fruit and vegetable scraps, yard trimmings, paper, wood, and organic kitchen waste that are not protein based. Think about adding some soil if the compost container or pile isn't in contact with the ground, because soil

977 McDonald Street The Experience You Want Regina, SK S4N 2X5 The Service You Expect Phone: (306) 721-7544 The Value You Deserve www.enerconroof.com 72 You’re home Fall 2012

organisms do the decomposing work.

It usually takes six months to a year to get soil from the composting process; a good way to speed up this process is to regularly mix your compost to allow air into the pile. Once the

not everything is compostable but one of the best sources of compost is lawn by-products. mulching mowers with bag systems are ideal at collecting this. process is complete, follow these three tips to use your new soil effectively: 1) Topdressing: This is a great way to ensure your lawn will be the envy of the neighbourhood. First, aerate the entire area before topdressing with compost using an aerator - most garden centres will have aerator units for rent. After you have completed this process spread ½” of compost overtop using a rake and water thoroughly.

2) VegeTable gardens: By incorporating roughly 1” of compost into the soil with a rototiller or by hand to a depth of roughly 5”, you set up the vegetable garden to be a nutrient-rich spot for bountiful growth. However, be sure not to apply too much compost as some vegetables will not grow well if there are too many nutrients present.

3) Mulching: This is another form of composting in which a layer of organic material is added on top of the soil. It mimics what happens on the forest floor where leaves drop to the ground, break down over time and then are taken back up into the plants as food. It is a slow but efficient way of both composting and preventing air-born weeds from spreading. An excellent source for mulch can be found by using a mulching mower, gardeners can collect and shred every blade of grass or fallen leaf in a convenient detachable rear bag that makes redistribution easier. These clippings are an excellent source of nitrogen for your favourite plants. n

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Furniture FA R B E Y O N D

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Turn up the

Y izzle

our kitchen is the heart of your home, and in recent years has become the showpiece of your house, as floor plans have become much more open, revealing the rooms that used to be a hidden corner.

in your kitchen

By julie folk

So when you’re building and piecing together the gleaming granite, beautiful tile and carefully constructed cabinetry, the workhorses should complement the design and shine in their own right.

Technology has greatly advanced in all kitchen appliances, as have the way we fit appliances into our kitchens. A new home is built for you and your lifestyle, and your appliances should work accordingly.

When you first enter a store such as Continental Factory Direct to look at appliances, you will be met by an associate such as Store Manager Len Willer or Builder Sales Co-ordinator Bob Soubolsky.

They are committed to finding the appliances that will fit you and your lifestyle.

The ProCeSS The steps of choosing your appliances differs slightly depending on whether you are custom building your home, or if you are fitting your appliances into a standard plan.

“Built-ins are a really neat feature, including wall ovens, cooktops and fridges. You can have a flush-mount product, which is really clean and beautiful,” said Willer.

Your builder and cabinet maker will need to know dimensions of your chosen appliances as soon as possible. Appliances are usually ordered about three months prior to the build.

When you are building your appliances into the cabinetry (rather than fitting them into an open space), your supplier will talk to your home builder to determine dimensions and specifications.

If you are fitting your appliances into a stock kitchen plan, free standing products or slide-ins are other options. In these cases, it is important to bring the dimensions with you while looking for your new appliances. Dishwashers, ovens and ranges are typically a standard size, so the best starting point is the refrigerator. Once you have chosen a fridge, Willer said they then provide suggestions as to which dishwashers, ranges and microwave ovens would best match the brand of fridge you have chosen.

Phone: (306) 352-6617 | Toll Free: 1-877-352-6617

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76 You’re home Fall 2012

Some builders have appliance packages included with the house but you may choose to upgrade various pieces.

refrigeraTorS

lauNDrY

While the most popular refrigerator style in Regina is still French doors with a bottom freezer, many of these types are now coming with a fourth drawer for produce.

As main floor laundry is becoming standard, more importance is placed on the look of the washing machines and dryers. Colours are moving from basic white to red or silver. Front loads and top loads each have their merits, depending on your preference. There are now energy efficient top-loaders that offer the same efficiency of a front-loading washer and dryer. The one advantage of frontloaders is that they can be stacked.

Another trend is a commercial-looking fridge and freezer, standing side-by-side, each 18 cubic inches. They can be built right into the cabinetry.

raNgeS aND VeNTilaTioN “Induction is a big thing now,� said Willer. “Because it works on magnetics, it’s cool to the touch. Kids won’t burn their hands on it.

It’s very fast, and very energy efficient – it’s just incredible.�

“Many people are doing a nice set on the main floor and a compact laundry on the second floor for towels and sheets,� said Soubolsky. n

While induction is the new buzzword in ranges, gas is another option for cooking. If you are going with a gas stovetop, you will have to consult with your builder to have it plumbed in.

Many new innovative ideas in cooking are resulting from television channels such as TLC, HGTV or the Food Network, which showcase how high-end appliances can perform.

Equally as important as the range is ventilation. “Cooking oils, cooking grease – taking that out of your home is often overlooked,� said Willer. “Better ventilation keeps that out of your closet and your clothes.�

DiShwaSherS Dishwashers remain fairly standard, with options including choices in the interior materials and design, the placement of the buttons, and the level of noise it emits. A trend is the number of dishwashers in a home. Many people are building in two dishwashers in their kitchens – one for dirty dishes, one for clean – while others are incorporating dishwashers in the basement or great room.

BuilT-iNS There are now many options in kitchen design, as a custom kitchen or cabinetry can allow for built-in appliances. “You can have combinations of built-ins,� said Willer. “In one piece, you can have a warming drawer, oven and microwave oven. Double wall ovens are also popular, with many choosing to place them side-by-side at counter height.�

One Home At A Time 1UEBEC 3T s WWW PBCUSTOMCABINETSREGINA CA s 306-543-6112 You’re home Fall 2012 77

RRHBA Member Directory 1 Stop Vacuum Centres

City of Regina

Fries Tallman Lumber (1976) Ltd.

aaa spray foam

CjL Construction Ltd.

frontier masonry ltd.

Access Communications

Classic Canadian Homes Ltd.

G.R. Distributors Inc.

Advance Door Systems

Clear Vistas Management Corporation

Gang Nail Trusses & Building Components

AECOM

CNG Stone Products Ltd.

Geiger Homes Ltd.

Alford Floors & Interiors (1967) Ltd.

Coast Wholesale Appliances LP

Gellner Homes Ltd.

All Weather Windows

Cold Busters Insulation Services

Genivar Inc.

Allman Homes & Realty Ltd.

CONEXUS Credit Union

Gentek Building Products Ltd.

AmeriSpec Home Inspection Service

Continental Factory Direct

GES Global Experience Specialists

Ardel Steel

Convoy Supply Ltd.

Gilroy Homes Inc.

Armada Construction Corporation

Cornerstone Masons Ltd.

Glacier Glass Service Ltd.

Arrow Plumbing & Heating

CrackMaster Concrete

Golden West Radio (800 CHAB/COUNTRY 100/mix 103)

ASL Paving Ltd.

Crawford Homes (1991) Ltd.

Habitat for Humanity Regina

Aspen Granite

Creative Door Services Ltd.

Halcyon Spas

Aspen Homes Ltd.

Creative Kitchens Ltd.

Harmony Builders Ltd.

Associated Engineering Ltd.

Crown Appraisals - Randy Toth

Harris Rebar

Association of Regina REALTORS Inc.

Crown Shred & Recycling Inc.

Harvard Developments Inc.

Audio Warehouse

Culligan Water Conditioning

haztech fire and safety services inc.

Authentic Developments Inc.

Cypress Homes Ltd.

henderson insurance inc.

Bank of Montreal

D & S Homes Ltd.

Home Solutions

Bar T Construction & Pre-Stainer Ltd.

Dakine Home Builders Inc.

Huntwood Custom Cabinets Ltd.

BathFitter Regina

Daytona Homes Regina Ltd.

HYBRID Construction

Baywest Projects sask Inc.

Deiana General Construction Ltd.

Hydeman Property Management Ltd.

Best Price Railing Ltd.

Delta Regina

Better Business Bureau of Sask. Inc.

Deveraux Developments

Information Services Corporation of Saskatchewan

Biofoam Spray Foam Insulation & Coatings

DGL Suncoast

Brandt Tractor Ltd.

Doing It Right Construction & Welding

Brock White Canada

Dominion Lending Centres/Team Kehler Inc.

brown communications group inc.

Dundee Developments / Homes by Dundee

Budget Blinds

easy wall & ceiling

budget car & truck rental

Edward Jones Investments

Ingrid Ruud Decor8…ing consultant Inland Concrete Div of Lehigh Hanson Inland Metal Mfg. (1994) Ltd. Innovation Renovation & Roofing Inc. I-XL Masonry Supplies Ltd. J & C Custom Cabinets Ltd. Jastek Master Builder

Builders’ Plumbing and Heating

Emco Corporation

calvert construction ltd.

Emerald Park Homes Ltd.

Canada Mortgage & Housing Corporation

Enercon Products Ltd. a beacon roofing supply company

Canadian Condominium Institute southern saskatchewan chapter

Enterprise Saskatchewan

K.M. Burgess Agencies Ltd.

EnviroFoam Insulation Regina

Kanuka Thuringer LLP

Canadian Home Builders’ Association

Evans Development Group Inc.

Karina Developments Ltd.

Canadian Home Builders’ Association - Saskatchewan

Everflow Eaves & Exteriors Inc.

Kaycan Ltd.

Evolution Insulation Inc.

KC Renovation Warehouse Ltd.

exit realty fusion

Kelturn Drywall Ltd.

Exterior Finishers Direct Inc.

Kenroc Building Materials Co. Ltd.

f.y. construction inc.

Kim Shaheen Financial Inc.

Fanny’s Furniture & Kitchens

Kitchen & Bath Classics

Federated Insurance

Kitchen Craft Cabinetry

Fenk Construction Ltd.

Klean King Vac Ltd.

Fiorante Homes and Commercial Ltd.

KMP Law

Fix Building Products

kpmg llp

Canadian Western Bank Canridge Roofing CAP Masonry Capital Ford Lincoln casa stucco & plastering inc. caveman stone products inc.

Centum Canada Mortgage Direct Ltd. Century 21 dome Realty inc.

Century West Homes Ltd. CertaPro Painters chateau regina hotel & suites Chippers Contracting Ltd. CIBC Mortgage & Lending Cindercrete Products Ltd. 78 You’re home Fall 2012

JELD-WEN Windows and Doors JGN Kitchen Cabinets JIC storm-tite Windows & Doors

Floform Countertops

Kratz Homes Ltd.

Floors By Design Ltd.

kraus canada inc.

FM Residential Designs & Consulting Inc.

Krazy Kiley’s

Focus Corporation

krn residential design ltd.

folio fine arts consultants

Lafarge North America

RRHBA Member Directory stuart olson dominion construction ltd.

Larry’s Sheet Metal

PV Disposal

Leader Post - Div of Postmedia Network INC.

Queen City Glass (1961) Ltd.

Lennox Ind. (Canada) Ltd.

R.N.G. Marketing Inc.

Lifestyle Cabinetry/Cabinet Outlet Inc.

RBC Royal Bank

Loraas Disposal Services Ltd. Lowe’s Canada

Realty Executives Dale Ripplinger & Associates

mackins construction

Regina & District Chamber of Commerce

Sunset Bay Leisure

MacPherson Leslie & Tyerman LLP

Regina Construction Association

McKercher LLP

Regina Geothermal Solar Inc.

superblinds & draperies of regina

Midwest Surveys Inc.

Regina Regional Opportunities Commission

Mikron Homes & Construction Ltd.

Regina Soffit & Eaves Ltd.

Miller Thomson LLP

Regina Window & Exteriors

Mintz & Wallace C.A.’s

Reimer Custom Homes & commercial Inc.

Monarch Homes (1970) Ltd.

Renewed Kitchens

MPM Construction Services Ltd.

Richardson Lighting

Stucco by Tom (2010) Inc. Sun Life Financial sun west construction ltd. sundog developments ltd.

Superior Cabinets superior fd coatings ltd.

TD Canada Trust Terra Developments Inc. The Brick The Lung Association of Saskatchewan the mortgage centre - design mortgages

Munro Homes Ltd.

Rick’s Custom Cabinets & Renovations Ltd

Myrah Appraisals

Ripplinger Homes

N.I.S. Contractors Ltd.

Robinson Residential Design Inc.

National Home Warranty Group Inc.

Rona Home & Garden

New Home Warranty Program of Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce

Town & Country Plumbing & Heating (2004)

Saskatchewan Construction Safety Association

Trademark Homes Inc.

nordwest stucco ltd.

North Prairie Developments Ltd.

Saskatchewan Housing Corporation

North Ridge Development Corporation

Saskatchewan Research Council

Northern Fireplace Ltd.

SaskEnergy

Northern Tar & Tile Ltd.

SaskPower

Northern Tropic Solariums

SaskTel

Nu-Fab Building Products

Schandre Estates Inc.

Oak Park living

ScotiaMcLeod - Prairieview Wealth Management

Olive Waller Zinkhan & Waller LLP

Security Building Supplies

Olympic Paving Stone Inc.

SecurTek

on av inc.

Shatkowski Homes

Operation Dirt (2006) Inc.

Shaver’s Sash & Door Ltd.

optimum roofing inc.

Sherwood Co-op Home Centre

Overhead Door Co. & Door Store

Shield Integration Ltd.

P.B. Custom Cabinets Renovations & Millworks

Shoemaker Drywall Supplies

Pacesetter New Homes Ltd.

Sign A Rama - Regina

Palandri Cabinets Paradise LeisureScapes

SK Environmental Industry & Managers Association

Paramount Plantscapes Ltd.

SlabMaster Ltd.

Parkland Carpet One

South Country Equipment Ltd.

Phantom Screens

southland roofing inc.

pinkwood ltd.

Spray Guard Air Tight Solutions Inc.

Ply Gem Canada Inc.

Spray Jones

posh patio deck covers inc.

Spraywest Inc.

Power House Electric Ltd.

spring green homes ltd.

precise temp insulation ltd.

Stantec Consulting Ltd.

Prime Fasteners

Steel Craft Door Sales & Services Ltd.

Professional Plumbing & Heating Inc.

Stellar Electric Ltd.

Progressive Home Warranty Solutions Inc.

Sterling Plg, Htg & A/C Ltd.

Nimbus Water Shop

Roofmart Prairies Ltd.

Sierra Construction Ltd.

The Rusty Shovel Landscape Shop Thomas Sand & Gravel Timberstone Distribution Regina

Travelodge Hotel & Conference Centre Trithart Homes Truss T. Mfg. Ltd. Ultimate Insulation United Drywall Ltd. Uponor Ltd. Usonia Homes Inc. Van Der Velden Masonry Ltd. Varsity Homes Ltd. W.F. Botkin Constr. Ltd. Ready Mix Div. Wappel Construction Ltd. West Harvest Inn Regina westcan mechanical sales ltd.

Westmount Developments Ltd. Westridge Homes Ltd. WestSource Wheatland Fireplace Wheatland Roofing Inc. Wiens Stucco Wire Ltd. Wilco Contractors Southwest Inc. Willows Tulloch windfield construction ltd.

Wood Country Wood Ridge Flooring Ltd. Yagar Developments Inc. zarkor construction ltd.

Bold listings indicate members advertising in this issue

Sthamann Homes Inc.

You’re home Fall 2012 79

Welcoming

AmerIspec home m inspecTion service

embership in the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association (RRHBA) garners consumer confidence, and rightfully so — to become members and maintain that standing, businesses must agree to abide by the RRHBA Code of Ethics and maintain standards that have been established by the Association.

It was the desire for respect in the marketplace that first attracted Dave and Celine Novak, owners of AmeriSpec Home Inspection Service, to the RRHBA. “The main thing was the professional recognition. I think, when people are looking to hire someone, they see that you are a member of an association like that and they have more faith in you,� said Celine. “That, and being able to network with other businesses, was what sort of drew us in.�

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But once AmeriSpec became an RRHBA member, the Novaks discovered that the Association provided many more benefits, including multiple opportunities to promote their business. “We have been given some good advertising opportunities and discounts for the Spring Home Show, and we are in the membership directory which is handed out at the show. We have been able to do presentations for businesses within the membership that do renovations, including a breakfast presentation to them about the EnerGuide program,� she said. “We also advertise in the RRHBA’s You’re Home Magazine.�

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The Novaks were also pleasantly surprised by the information and educational opportunities that are provided by the RRHBA. “They keep you up-to-date with a lot of things that are going on in the industry — regular emails, newsletters, educational supper meetings, those sorts of things. We’re always kept informed on what educational opportunities there might be,� said Celine. “Each business that’s in this Association – their focus is going to be different, so to have that one association that’s keeping tabs on everything that’s going on and keeps the members up-to-date is a big asset.�

The Novaks were pleased to find that, when AmeriSpec became a member of the RRHBA, it also automatically became a member of the provincial and national home builders’ associations.

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"EWJDF ZPV DBO CBOL POŠ All personal lending products and residential mortgages are offered by Royal Bank of Canada and are subject to its standard lending criteria. *Offer may be withdrawn, extended or changed at any time, without notice. Not available in combination with any other rate discounts, offers or promotions. Applicable to residential mortgages only. RBC will pay up to a maximum $300 switch out fee charged by your current financial institution. RBC will not pay any prepayment charge levied by your current financial institution. Minimum $100,000 mortgage ($75,000 in Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Atlantic Provinces) to qualify for this offer. Other conditions apply. Ž Registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. RBC and Royal Bank are registered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. TM Trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. 45808 (08/2010) 80 You’re home Fall 2012

Although AmeriSpec is an international company whose head office is in Ontario, the Regina franchise, which serves much of southern Saskatchewan, is owned and operated by the Novaks, who were born and raised here. The main focus of the local company is now pre-purchase home inspections and energy evaluations for the Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses (SEGH) program. The company also performs thermal imaging and helps new home builders and buyers design homes to increase EnerGuide for new homes ratings.

Dave and the other inspectors on AmeriSpec’s staff have undergone extensive training to become certified in the home inspection business.

Dave is a member of The Canadian Association of Home & Property Inspectors (CAHPI). n

Qualify for up to $5,000 in grants and make your home more energy-efficient.

With Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses, you can make a positive change for your home and our future.

The Saskatchewan EnerGuide for Houses program runs from April 1st, 2011 to October 31st, 2013, and helps homeowners lower their energy bills and costs as well as their impact on the environment. Our highly trained and certified energy evaluators can help you qualify for provincial grants and cut down on your energy use and costs. The Government of Saskatchewan will even cover half the cost of your pre- and post-retrofit energy evaluations, and we will take care of all the paperwork for you.

Call us today to find out more about our services at (306) 565-1703 or visit us online at www.amerispec.ca/regina

closing remarks

By Stu Niebergall, executive Director regina & region home Builders’ association

home ownership the overarching Dream of renters

T

here are more than a few housing experts out there suggesting that new young home buyers are rethinking their housing choices and concluding that they would prefer to be renters in Canada’s downtown, and living a downtown lifestyle. The rationale is that the next market of new young home buyers, who have watched the U.S. housing market crash and are concerned about the high cost of housing in Canada, are opting to be renters. These experts suggest that young citizens who are entering the housing market do not see the economic benefit of owning a home and would prefer to pay rent to give themselves more flexibility. In addition they do not want to attach their investments to a volatile housing market.

What these pundits are suggesting, however, is not supported by the facts. The data says something very different. Take the recent TD Bank survey that indicates 84 per cent of people 18 to 34 years of age intend to buy a home at some point in the future. A TD Canada Trust condo poll in the Vancouver area found that 64 per cent of Vancouver residents cited affordability of condos compared to single detached homes as the biggest attraction for condos but even in Vancouver, those surveyed still had a high intent to purchase.

Canadians do not collect a lot of data on this subject, but we only need to look south to find all sorts of insight into this subject.

From a historical perspective, the percentage of home ownership in the U.S. has only increased over the decades. In 1940, only 44 per cent of Americans owned a home, however, by 1960 this grew to 61 per cent. Today, even as the U.S. market is just now starting to recover from the largest housing correction in its history, the percentage of those owning a home is still at 65 per cent, which is high by historical standards. It is funny that after the middle class have spent decades aspiring to achieve home ownership as a basic North American value, that some would suggest that it is not fashionable anymore.

Recently, TRULIA.com, a top site for home buyers, sellers and renters released the results of its biannual American Dream Survey that tracks American attitudes towards home ownership. It found that 70 per cent of Americans view home ownership as part of their personal American dream. Despite what has happened in the housing market over the past several years in the U.S., 78 per cent of home owners described their home as the best investment they have ever made.

82 You’re home Fall 2012

What is also interesting is at the same time, when you look at the housing recovery, albeit a small one, it has been in part driven by millennials or generation Y who are the under 35 demographic.

Additional findings show that for young renters, 88 per cent stated that they aspire to be home owners. This new generation of home buyers will play a crucial role in ensuring a stable real estate market in the U.S. and in Canada.

This is consistent with other studies that have been conducted.

For example, Dr. Peter Howley of Dublin, Ireland found that the majority of apartment owners in downtown areas of Ireland’s largest cities wanted to move to single family, presumably detached housing products, in the suburbs. Other studies have shown that generations X and Y value making new home purchases in more walkable and bikeable communities whether in the downtown area or suburbs of urban areas.

What is so terrific about what is happening in Regina today is that when renters are ready to make the move to home ownership, there are more choices for them than ever before. As we have seen from this edition of You’re Home, Regina has condominiums of all kinds under construction in the downtown area and in the new neighbourhoods that are being developed on our city’s edge.

Indeed, community developers are becoming creative in designing new neighbourhoods to include product that can accommodate the first time home buyer.

In addition, community developers are designing their new neighbourhoods with a wide range of connected pathways and streets that are designed to accommodate more ways of getting around that includes both walking and biking, which will be attractive to the new generation of home buyers. Hopefully as the City of Regina completes its new Master Transportation Plan this will create better opportunities for mass transit in Regina’s newest neighbourhoods as well, as this is also a factor in attracting these first time home buyers.

What is certain is that renters are wanting to transition to home ownership. Whether they do this in our city’s downtown area or on the urban fringe, one thing is clear. Regina developers, by creating neighbourhoods that can accommodate and are attractive to first time home buyers, and Regina builders, through the host of options they are making available, are both working hard to allow the dream of home ownership for first time buyers to translate into reality. n

ENJOY LIVING SMART IN THIS COMFORTABLE AND CONVENIENTLY LOCATED COMMUNITY IN NORTH WEST REGINA.

MODERN. PRACTICAL. SMART.

FUNCTIONAL. COMFORTABLE. AFFORDABLE.

LIFE Happens in a home

Dad’s Classroom

You’re home fall 2012

Fall 2012 harbourlanding.ca

The official magazine of the Regina & Region Home Builders’ Association

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347.8100

DAYTONA 779.2288

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205.2502

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