INSIDE: CONDO’S, TOWNS & SEMIS
homes&CoNDos T O D AY ’ S
NEW HOME BUYER’S GUIDE SErviNg TOrONTO & YOrk rEgiON JUNE 29 - JULY 12 2017
A NEW
distribUtioN: 195,000
vision
FOR LUXURY LIVING
COMING THIS SUMMER TO DOWNTOWN AURORA
52’ & 6I’ CUL-DE-SAC HOMES PRICED FROM $2.2 TO OVER $3 MILLION ALLEGROAURORA.COM
Today’s Homes York • Thursday June 29 to Wednesday July 12 2017 • 2
cover story
Discover your ‘Forever home’ at allegro in Downtown aurora
P
repare for a symphony of luxurious new home choices when Geranium introduces Allegro this summer. Imagine a master-planned community of unparalleled 52- and 61-foot cul-de-sac homes nestled within a scenic property between Yonge and Bathurst Streets, steps to Downtown Aurora. Ideally situated, Allegro is a comfortable walk to shopping, restaurants, schools, parks and services. Commuters will find travel is easy with Highway 404 minutes to the east; Highway 400 a short drive west; and GO Transit also nearby. The surrounding neighbourhood is mature and established, and in keeping with the area’s cachet, Geranium collaborated with award-winning Hunt Design Associates to create a superb portfolio of residences that will exist in harmony with their prestigious setting. Purchasers attracted to Allegro will appreciate being able to select from exteriors in the Ontario Country, Tudor, English Manor and Beaux Arts architectural styles. A variety of masonry, stone, stucco, and siding plus embellishments, along with multiple colour-coordinated exterior packages, will ensure variety within the stunning streetscapes. In all, there will be 13 different model types to choose from, with many offering optional layouts. The two-storey and
bungalow-with-loft floorplans include the very best attributes of the three recent luxury home collections Geranium has built. For example, spacious kitchens and breakfast areas that flow into great rooms are grouped so as to make the most of views to the back gardens and Geranium’s signature outdoor covered loggias. To further enhance interaction with the outdoors, patio doors range from 6 to 16 feet in width. Living and dining rooms are combined or separated, depending on the model selected, further adding to the custom feel of this home collection. Allegro designs will offer 4 or 5 bedrooms each with ensuite or shared ensuite baths, and a master ensuite complete with a free-standing tub and glass-enclosed shower stalls. Mud room entries from two- or three-car garages add practicality, as do second-floor laundry rooms.
installed with meticulous attention to detail. For more insight on Geranium’s approach to home building, view the Construction & Craftsmanship video on the company’s website Geranium.com. Register today at allegroaurora.com to be among the first to learn more about Allegro in Downtown Aurora.
Gracious interiors are by Bryon Patton & Associates and include many items usually found only in custom homes. Finishing choices of large format porcelain tile, engineered hardwood flooring, oak staircase, elegant cabinetry with granite countertops and undermount sink in kitchens. Plus a state-of-the-art SubZero/Wolf appliance package in stainless steel finish. Adding volume throughout, 10-foot main floor and 9-foot second floor ceilings and oversized windows will invite in glorious natural light. Optional features can include outdoor kitchens, elevators, dog washing areas, coffered and waffle decorative ceilings and extra fireplaces. With striking exteriors, flexible designs and outstanding finishes in a sought-after locale, Allegro is the perfect community for discerning purchasers seeking their ‘forever homes.’ Floorplans will range from approximately 3,100 sq. ft. to just under 4,400 sq. ft. Prices will begin from $2.2 million to over $3 million. Celebrating 40 years in business, Geranium has envisioned many master-planned communities including more than 8,000 homes in Ontario. Geranium has a reputation as a company dedicated to providing top-quality construction and high caliber finishes, TO bOOK YOur AD, CAll YOur TODAY’s hOMes & CONDOs sAles TeAM: :
homes&C CoNDos
Shelley Thompson
T O D AY ’ S
YOUR NEW HOME BUYER’S GUIDE
sthompson@yrmg.com 416-500-5982
Publisher:
GeNerAl MANAGer:
905-853-8888 dana.robbins@metroland.com
905-853-8888 ssauve@metroland.com
Dana Robbins
Shaun Sauve
Monika Madden
mmadden@yrmg.com 905-717-0382
Illustrations are artist’s concept. Members of B.I.L.D. BUILDING A GREATER GTA
ADVerTisiNG PubliCATiON/ DireCTOr Of ADVerTisiNG: sPeCiAl feATures eDiTOr:
Amanda Smug
Dorothea Helms
905-853-8888 asmug@metroland.com
905-852-9294 writer@wsws.ca
Building Industry and Land Development Association
Visit their website at: www.bildgta.ca
Today’s Homes & Condos and its advertisers are not responsible for errors made in advertisements or editorial. All prices are correct at press time, however, due to the lead time required to publish Today’s Homes & Condos, prices and other conditions may have changed. Please note prices and conditions are subject to change without notice.
luxury IS WALKING TO
YOUR FAVOURITE
COFFEE SHOP.
REDEFINING LUXURY IN DOWNTOWN AURORA. A master-planned offering of exceptional 52’ and 61’ cul-de-sac homes set between Yonge and Bathurst in Downtown Aurora. Just steps from schools, shopping, dining, parks, and more. Quality craftsmanship. Meticulous attention to detail. Superlative finishes. Luxury and location in perfect harmony. This is Allegro. Priced from $2.2 to over $3 million
COMING THIS SUMMER REGISTER TODAY ALLEGROAURORA.COM
geranium.com Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Rendering is artist’s concept. Brokers protected. E.&O.E. June 2017.
3 • Today’s Homes York • Thursday June 29 to Wednesday July 12 2017
SOMETIMES
Today’s Homes York • Thursday June 29 to Wednesday July 12 2017 • 4
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MIDDLE HOMES IN HIGH DEMAND
here has been a lot in the media lately about the shortage of new low-rise homes, particularly single-detached residences, across the GTA. We are also hearing about the shortage of “middle” housing, which refers to semi-detached homes, townhomes and stacked towns. High- and mid-rise condominiums are a definite alternative for those who find single-detached homes out of their financial reach, but many buyers still prefer a low-rise lifestyle. The demand for new semis and townhomes is understandable, especially with the average price of a single-detached home sitting at over $1 million. Semis and townhomes are more “affordable,” which simply means more people have the financial resources to buy them.
This level of upkeep also keeps your investment protected, eliminating the worry about whether neighbours look after their properties as well as you do.
Of course, it comes at a price: the maintenance fee. Rather than dismiss a low-rise home with a condominium component because of this fee, look at it fairly. Think about low-rise owners who pay lawn services, landscapers and snowplow owners to take care of exterior maintenance duties. Condo fees are well worth the price.
The good news is that builders are designing new semis and condos so well that they “live” like detached residences. In addition, people are realizing that layout is more important than the number of square feet. Architects have opened up spaces and eliminated centre hallways, making every square foot usable. With more than 45 years of industry experience, I can tell you that new home designs continually evolved to meet the needs of our changing demographics, which is one of the many reasons to buy new over resale.
Whether freehold or condo, townhomes and semis remain popular choices; still, there aren’t enough of these “middle” homes to satisfy demand. Why? I wish I could offer an easy answer, but the situation is complex. At the base of it all is a lack of land in the GTA for low-rise building. The 2006 Ontario Growth Plan for the Golden Horseshoe area has limited residential construction to the point that prices have soared and supply is scarce. The complexities of development are enormous, and the process is clogged by bureaucratic and political red tape. Adding to the situation, baby-boomers are not downsizing from their large low-rise homes at the rate that was expected.
Some semis and townhomes are located in communities with a condominium component. The word “condominium” refers to a property where the residences are individually owned, and some elements are possessed jointly by the residents and managed by an owners’ association. This frees up leisure time from exterior maintenance, snow shoveling and the like. Talk about the best of both worlds — low-rise living with more time to enjoy it!
The moral of the story is that when new semis and townhomes become available, buy sooner rather than later. In my opinion, whatever you decide to purchase at whatever price, a new home or condominium of any style is still a solid financial and lifestyle investment.
Hugh Heron is Principal and Partner in the Heron Group of Companies, President of Heathwood Homes and Chair of The Mikey Network, as well as a former Member of the Board of Directors of Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, and a Past President of the Toronto Home Builders’ Association and the Ontario Home Builders’ Association.
CONDOS THE NEW HOMES OF CHOICE FOR ALL AGES A
cross York Region and beyond, new condominium communities are popping up at a time when low-rise housing is in short supply and priced out of the financial range of a lot of buyers. These outstanding high-rise and mid-rise choices offer wonderful opportunities to enjoy carefree living in convenient surroundings. Years ago, condos were mainly geared to empty-nesters and retirees looking to right-size their lives, but today, everyone from first-time buyers to professional couples, families with children and older buyers are opting for this viable alternative to low-rise. There are many reasons for the explosion of interest in condominiums over the past decade. Of course, price is one of them. Nowadays, finding low-rise homes available for sale and affording them present challenges across Toronto and the GTA. In the relative scheme of things, condominium suites are still financially attainable for those who prefer owning over renting. They appreciate the opportunity to earn equity from their financial investment. Location, location, location is always paramount, and now, with condos being built close to public and other transit options, and with transportation routes expanding, people can work anywhere in the GTA and enjoy a reasonable commute. With Highways 7, 400, 401, 404, 407, plus Yonge Street and other major north-south streets easily accessed from York Region, the possibilities are limitless. Condominium popularity in York Region also has to do with aging homeowners who want less maintenance in their lives, but want to stay in the areas they know and love. They no more have to look to Toronto for a condo.
And let’s talk about the condominium lifestyle. Today’s new residences are home to wonderful amenities that essentially extend owners’ living space. Gone is the need for a large dining room, when you can book the multi-purpose or party room for big gatherings such as showers and graduation get-togethers. Many condos also have private dining rooms with adjacent kitchens. Fitness facilities in the building mean there is no need to pay to belong to a gym – and by eliminating the need to drive to a club, people may tend to exercise more. Depending on the condo, you will also find swimming pools, games rooms, theatres, rooftop barbecue terraces and more and just think, these areas are cleaned, maintained and repaired by someone other than you! These are gathering places where residents meet each other and become friends, as well as neighbours. I even know of some condos that feature a resident services director who organizes group activities and social events. Oh, and remember I mentioned families? We are seeing more developers adding in kids’ areas for play and exercise. And speaking of families, the choices in layouts are expanding to accommodate their needs. You will find everything from studios and one-bedroom suites to three-bedroom layouts. I have worked in the GTA condo industry for decades, and I can tell you we hear from a lot of purchasers that they love living in a condominium. In fact, for many, the benefits are even better than they had imagined!
Barbara Lawlor is president and CEO of Baker Real Estate Incorporated, winner of the pinnacle 2017 Riley Brethour Award from BILD, and an in-demand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com
5 • Today’s Homes York • Thursday June 29 to Wednesday July 12 2017
Today’s Homes York • Thursday June 29 to Wednesday July 12 2017 • 6
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phase 4 now open at sandiego homes’ lakeside living in innisfil
new release and brand new incentives are making a splash in Innisfil, where SanDiego Homes offers beautiful bungalows and detached homes situated within a fiveminute walk to the lake! Most lots are 50 to 60 feet wide, and purchasers now receive 10-foot main floor ceilings, triple-glazed windows, taller basement ceiling heights, and smooth ceilings throughout as standards. With prices starting from $850,900, the value is incredible. Lakeside Living in Innisfil offers the best of all possible worlds – easy access to the lake, plus proximity to a wealth of local amenities. Innisfil has become a hot residential destination, as it is home to 43 km of Lake Simcoe shoreline, parks, recreation facilities, trails, excellent schools and shopping venues. Highway 400 is close by, making trips to Barrie and the GTA convenient.
On top of all of that, SanDiego Homes is a registered ENERGY STAR® new home builder. The homes in Innisfil will come equipped with an array of ENERGY STAR features such as a 95 per cent equal or better high-efficiency furnace, electronic programmable thermostat, heat recovery ventilator for increased indoor air quality and reduced energy consumption, more insulation, and an ENERGY STAR-rated air conditioner. Last year SanDiego Homes was recognized as a Finalist for ENERGY STAR Builder of the Year by enerQuality. The company was also a Finalist in the Canadian Home Builders’ Association Housing Excellence Awards for its bungalows. SanDiego Homes was founded by husband-and-wife team Diego
and Sandra Rizzardo, who have 50 years of combined experience and family background in home building and land development. This family business now includes a third generation of Rizzardos, as their three university graduate children have joined the team. The Rizzardos are passionate about providing homeowners with inspired designs, superb quality craftsmanship and exemplary customer service. SanDiego Homes’ Innisfil Presentation Centre is located at 1101 Quarry Drive. Hours are Monday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Friday by appointment; Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 705-436-5445 or visit SanDiegoHomes.ca.
Among SanDiego Homes’ designs are 10 bungalow plans that range from 1,300 to 2,400 square feet – perfect for empty-nesters and seniors. Those who prefer a two-storey home will find layouts from 2,400 to 3,700 square feet in size. In keeping with this upscale neighbourhood, these homes’ exteriors feature generous combinations of brick and stone, along with spacious porches. Peaked gables, accent windows and dramatic arches are among the striking architectural highlights you will find in varying combinations. In addition to the current incentives, the luxurious standard features in these homes include (all as per plan) a direct-vent gas fireplace, main floor stained oak staircase and stained oak handrail, metal railing pickets, a large cold room, separate access stairs to the basement, plus kitchens with 40-inch tall upper cabinets, granite countertops, and pantries and islands where shown as per plan. Rare in new communities today, SanDiego Homes offers purchasers the option of making changes, including structural changes, to their chosen designs. It’s almost like getting a custom home.
The 2,015 square-foot Strathmore is a popular design from SanDiego Homes
I
t’s officially summer! With the school year coming to an end, kids will be spending more time outside, especially in their backyards. But parents, be cautious: your backyard, when left unkempt, can lead to bumps and bruises that take away the fun. Luckily, there are ways to kid-proof yards so children can run free without getting hurt. Invest in safe, durable materials. It’s important to use durable materials no matter what the project. Whether you’re building a deck or patching up a slatted fence, it’s important that materials stand the test of time. Try to find products that have been treated to protect against insects, water exposure and fungal decay. Products such as MicroPro Sienna pressure treated wood are sturdy and resistant to degradation, and minimize the emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which may lead to allergic reactions. Smooth out rough edges. Rough surfaces can result in splinters or bad scrapes, so sand down rough areas on decks and furniture made of wood. For natural stone landscapes, use smooth shaped rocks rather than large chiseled ledge stones, or if necessary use an angle grinder to contour any existing sharp spots that pose as a danger. An interlock brick yard may be low maintenance, but soft or grassy ground cushions trips and falls. Look out for wear and tear. Wet weather and cold temperatures can damage patio furniture, leaving them shaky and at risk for collapse. During the offseason, store furniture in sheltered, dry environments, or cover them up with a tarp to reduce any weather-related damages.
*
EIYVOUR D C E ON
REST
R TE
IN
By: Chris Palmer
When warmer weather comes around, be sure to carefully inspect play structures for loose fasteners or rust, especially around major connections, as we all know kids like to climb things. Sweep for harmful plants and critters. In addition to climbing, many children like putting things in their mouths. The berries of flowering plants can often look like a tempting snack. It’s best to avoid these plants when gardening in your child’s younger years, to prevent an upset stomach, or keep them trimmed and put up a barrier of some sort so that kids can’t reach them. Parents should also prune prickly plants that can cause cuts. Once you’ve got your flowers under control, check for crawling critters in the tight spaces of your deck and furniture. Some bugs can leave bites on your little ones, so don’t feel too bad when you clear them away with a pressure washer. Set boundaries. Depending on what your backyard features, there are some things that might need a bit more attention. Pools, fire pits and divots in the lawn should be fenced off and only accessible when adults are around. For an unobtrusive and aesthetically pleasing option, these areas of the yard can be sectioned off with hedges, box planters or ornamental fencing.
SPACIOUS NEW DESIGNS Don’t miss out – OVER 70% SOLD!
Stouffville 7 storey building adjacent to conservation lands, 878 sq. ft. to 1,900 sq. ft. all with balconies or terraces A condominium with a variety of spacious and unique plans Residences starting from the
500’s
$
Chris Palmer was a finalist in HGTV’s Canada’s Handyman Challenge Season 2. Today, Chris showcases How-To’s on morning shows, on stage at Home Shows and in various magazines. For more outdoor project inspiration and DIY How-Tos, make sure to check out handcraftedbychrispalmer.com.
VISIT OUR LUXURIOUS MODEL SUITE*
royalpinecondos.com Sales Office: 5402 Main St., Unit #7 Stouffville, Ontario, L4A 1H3 905-591-8600 hamptonplacecondo@gmail.com
STOUFFVILLE
Sales Office Hours: Monday - Thursday: 1pm to 6pm Friday: BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 12pm to 5pm *See sales representative for details. Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. Rendering is artist’s concept.
7 • Today’s Homes York • Thursday June 29 to Wednesday July 12 2017
5 ways to kid-proof your yard this summer
% ITS E 5EPOS
FOR YOUR MONEY.
MORE DESIGN FOR
FROM THE MID
The
300’S
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Final Release Of Towns & Semis From The PKHBA Builder Of The Year In Peterborough, only Parklands by award winning Mason Homes offers you a choice of freehold townhomes and semis with three distinctive architectural styles including Arts & Crafts, Colonial and Victorian. Each home is priced right for today and, because it’s Energy Star® rated and Mike Holmes Approved, it will continue to save you money in the years ahead. With trails, parks and ponds at your door, excellent shopping, schools, recreation, transit and more just steps away, and easy access to Highway’s 407 and 404 for your GTA commute, you can have it all at Parklands!
35
3
Lily Lake Rd. Parkhill Rd. W
Chemong Rd.
7
Fairbairn St.
Lindsay Rd.
7
N
Hilliard St.
Designed Better. Built Better. Priced Better. Parklands by Mason Homes.
Ackinson Rd.
Today’s Homes York • Thursday June 29 to Wednesday July 12 2017 • 8
MORE HOME YOUR LIFESTYLE!
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PETERBOROUGH
QUALITY LIVES HERE
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to Port Hope
BROADWAY TOWNS & SEMIS FROM THE MID $300’S
PARKLANDS SALES CENTRE HOURS
115
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Mon. - Thursday: 10.00 am - 6.00 pm Weekends: 10.00 am - 6.00 pm
1-866-443-7900 | (705) 741-3676
MASONHOMES.CA
Illustrations are artist’s concept. Sizes, prices and specifications are correct at press time and subject to change without notice. E. & O. E. June 2017