INSIDE: BARRIE/INNISFIL & BRADFORD
homes&C CoNDos T O D AY ’ S
NEW HOME BUYER’S GUIDE SErviNg TOrONTO & YOrk rEgiON OCT 5 - OCT 18, 2017
disTribuTiOn: 195,000
New Freehold Homes in Barrie starting in upper $300’s
For Sale October 2017.
Today’s Homes York • Thursday October 05 to Wednesday October 18 2017 • 2
Euro Traditional
cover story
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bear creek ridge opens this month to offer much-anticipated new freehold homes
t’s been a long time coming in Barrie, and Pratt Homes is addressing the pent-up demand for new freehold homes by launching sales at Bear Creek Ridge this month. This new family neighbourhood is located at the corner of Salem and Essa Roads, in the southwest section of the City. This location is a sensation. Residents will live around the corner from the Holly Recreation Centre. The community is also a 10-minute drive to the downtown core, where they can enjoy an eclectic selection of restaurants and nightlife.
designs are framed in dynamic exteriors that range in style from traditional to modern, and even hybrid, resulting in distinctive yet harmonious streetscapes, and prices start in the upper-$300,000s. YES! That’s right. Compare that with GTA prices, and the value is incredible. Purchasers can select from a wide variety of designs. Condominium bachelor/bachelorette suites range in size up to a 1,454 square foot, three bedroom, two bath layout. Enjoy secure underground parking and balconies that enable barbecuing. If a townhome is your preference, choose from Metro Towns (with garages) and Euro Towns (with European-style carports). All townhomes are three storeys, have twoand three-bedroom options with dens, private balconies, and are fully above ground. Fully detached homes range in size from 1,900 to 3,000 square feet.
Metro Traditional
Four swimmable beaches with walking trails along the waterfront beckon with opportunities to commune with nature. Plus, the GO station makes it convenient for commuters to get to their destinations from downtown. Southwest Barrie is a mere 45 minutes to the Greater Toronto Area, and is a similar distance north to skiing at Blue Mountain in Collingwood, Muskoka’s cottage country, and the largest freshwater beach in the world at Wasaga Beach. In addition, avid golfers know the Barrie area for some of the best courses anywhere. Designed for the spectrum of the home-buying public, Bear Creek Ridge offers freehold towns, freehold detached homes and condominiums. It is the first freehold community to be offered in Barrie in two years, and interest is already enthusiastic. Brand new floorplan
Pratt Homes has been building fine new residential communities in Barrie for six generations, since 1890. Over the past few months, Pratt Homes developed and released its new brand evolution from “Barrie’s Largest Builder since 1890” to designing homes and neighbourhoods with the stages of family life cycles in mind. According to Marketing Director Todd Palmer, “We want families of all ages to feel that we are taking care of them. Bear Creek Ridge is a perfect example. We’re truly offering something for everyone.” From size to essential features and 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
finishes, the professionals at Pratt Homes pay meticulous attention to beauty and functionality. Last winter, Pratt Homes was nominated for a Tarion Customer Satisfaction Award, which recognizes the firm’s dedication to exemplary customer service.
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
Metro Hybrid
Considering its ideal location, amazing assortment of new home designs and phenomenal prices, Bear Creek Ridge is sure to sell quickly. To enjoy a sneak peek before the Grand Opening, register today at BearCreekRidge.ca.
Euro Hybrid 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.
3 • Today’s Homes York • Thursday October 05 to Wednesday October 18 2017
Today’s Homes York • Thursday October 05 to Wednesday October 18 2017 • 4
BARRIE, INNISFIL AND BRADFORD
DON’T MISS
Live, work, play and thrive in ideal surroundings Upcoming EvEnts in BarriE Saturdays in October october tasting trail Sample offerings from many downtown restaurants to support local charities $10 for a Tasting Trail passport listing participating destinations.
YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO LIVE IN STOUFFVILLE’S PREMIER CONDO. NOW UNDER CONSTRUCTION
– OVER 80% SOLD!
Modern Condo Living 7 storey building adjacent to conservation lands, 878 sq. ft. to 1,645 sq. ft. with balconies. A condominium with a variety of spacious and unique plans Residences starting from the
Dorothea Helms Connects people and ideas, and can be reached at writer@wsws.ca
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h, the many attributes of Southern Ontario: gorgeous pastoral topography, vibrant urban centres, charming small towns. The municipalities that lie just outside of York Region’s border are attracting more residents seeking new homes packed with value. Barrie, Innisfil and Bradford are examples. Here are some upcoming events that offer great opportunities to explore these popular residential destinations.
The City of Barrie www.barrie.ca
Less than an hour’s drive from Toronto and only minutes from York Region, Barrie offers year-round, four-season, resort-style living. This City is home to sandy beaches, water sports opportunities, golf courses, parkland and trails along Kempenfelt Bay.
The Town of Innisfil www.innisfil.ca
Innisfil has become a residential hotspot, and why not? The Town boasts 43 km of Lake Simcoe shoreline, scenic community parks, a 9-km stretch of the Trans-Canada Trail, plus a diverse collection of amenities. Commuters find access to Highway 400 convenient as well.
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.
November 18 santa claus parade & Downtown tree-Lighting Festival 5 to 10 p.m. “Musical Madness” theme featuring fabulous lights. Departs from Tiffin and Lakeshore, up Tiffin to Bradford Street, north to Dunlop, then through Downtown Barrie.
At Innisfil’s Studio Tour, Beth Evans will be appearing with five other artists at Knock School on 10th Sideroad! (Photo courtesy of Innisfil Studio Tour www.innisfilstudiotour.ca)
The Town of Bradford West Gwillimbury www.townofbwg.com
Bradford West Gwillimbury is home to the world-famous Holland Marsh and holds an annual event called “Carrot Fest.” The Town’s main intersection is King’s Highway 11 and Highway 88, and is home to comprehensive modern amenities – the perfect spot for raising a family.
The October Tasting Trail in Barrie offers the opportunity to sample great food from local restaurants! Photo courtesy of Downtown Barrie (www.downtownbarrie.ca)
Upcoming EvEnts in innisFiL October 14 giant gift & craft sale at sandycove acres 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., 908 Lockhart Road, The Wheel clubhouse. Browse through crafts made by residents of Sandycove: knit items, stuffed toys, jewelry, quilts, cards, woodworking, more. November 4-5 innisfil studio tour Now in its 25th year, 17 artists will exhibit in nine locations throughout Innisfil, plus the Youth Art Show at the Innisfil ideaLAB & Library. Do some holiday shopping discover everything from fine art paintings to photography, handcrafted soaps and silver jewelry.
Upcoming EvEnts in BraDForD WEst gWiLLimBUry November 18 santa claus parade 6:30 to 8 p.m. This parade under the stars begins at Bradford High School and travels east on Holland Street to the Bradford & District Memorial Community Centre. Find out more at www.bwgsantaclausparade.com. December 1 celebrate christmas 6:00 to 8:30 p.m., BWG Leisure Centre Tree lighting and carol singing in Sunshine Square, then into the Leisure Centre for free Leisure Skating at 6:40pm, pictures with Santa and an opportunity to make seasonal crafts. Free hot chocolate and cookies.
5 • Today’s Homes York • Thursday October 05 to Wednesday October 18 2017
Union Station
Pearson Airport
York University
Vaughan Mills
GO ANYWHERE FROM HERE Situated in Maple, GO.2 offers large family-friendly suites and townhomes and top quality features and finishes. GO.2 is directly adjacent to the Maple GO station - a mere 30 minutes from downtown. This prime location ensures you can get almost anywhere, anytime, in nearly no time.
From the mid $300,000’s One Townhome remains $903,900 Limited time saving offers, plus 20% deposit before closing
MAJOR MACKENZIE DR W
Exclusive Listing Brokerage, Royal LePage - Your Community Realty. Brokers Protected. Illustration is artist concept E.&O.E.
DUFFERIN ST
pembertongroup.com
EAGLE ROCK WAY
MCNAUGHTON RD E
905.553.1430
MCNAUGHTON RD
KEELE ST
Presentation Centre Now Open 1860 Major Mackenzie Dr., Unit 7 & 8
Today’s Homes York • Thursday October 05 to Wednesday October 18 2017 • 6
LOOK AT CONDO AMENITIES REALISTICALLY
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Dorothea Helms Connects people and ideas, and can be reached at writer@wsws.ca
ew home shoppers who are considering making the move to a condominium have a lot of things to consider, including the monthly maintenance fee. This financial layout covers a wide variety of items including the cleaning, maintenance and repair of the amenities in the building, as well as concierge service and security monitoring. Residents benefit in a number of ways.
Enjoy the ease of lifestyle For those simplifying their lifestyle by moving from a large, maintenance-heavy low-rise home, having the amenities taken care of for them is great news. On the other end of the spectrum, first-time buyers and families who have hectic work and personal lives can free up what little leisure time they have for … well … leisure. Today’s common spaces in condos are beautifully appointed and offer a level of luxury most buyers likely could not otherwise afford. Save on driving and other costs Having a fitness facility right in your condominium means you can dispense with driving to a club and paying membership fees. With access to equipment and exercise space so handy, you are more likely to stick to your fitness regimen. Plus, you meet like-minded neighbours in whichever of the amenities you frequent, whether it’s the gym, pool, billiards room, theatre or even the pet spa! Many of our new condos also feature retail/ commercial venues on the ground floor, which is the epitome of convenience.
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Keep your suite private Love to entertain, but hate messing up your private living space? Host parties in the building’s multipurpose party room, which usually includes a kitchen, dining space, and often a walkout to a glorious landscaped terrace. Treat friends to popcorn in the theatre or to a game of pool in the activity area. The grandkids may love to join you for a swim in the pool or a barbecue on the rooftop terrace. The possibilities are limitless, and when the festivities are over, you can retreat to your beautiful private suite. Feel more secure The appeal of condominium living has widened to include single women and families who recognize the value of the concierge providing what the late author/activist Jane Jacobs called “eyes on the street.” It’s reassuring to know that someone is screening who enters and leaves the building – someone who can intercede deliveries, etc. for you.
the maintenance fee, remember what this monthly cost benefits you. If you own a low-rise home, consider what it would cost to have someone mow the lawn, shovel snow, clean the pool, etc. would cost above and beyond your other monthly costs. You may be surprised at how economical a condo can be. The amenities in a condominium are there for the use of every resident, from those in the most compact suites to penthouse owners. In essence, they are a part of your living space that you happen to share. They’re exciting, fun and all just an elevator ride away!
When you look at your finances and wonder about
Year-to-date Gta New Home SaleS StroNG deSpite Quiet auGuSt
ales of new construction homes in the GTA were down in August, but the year-to-date sales are still very strong, the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) announced in September. There were just 795 new homes sold in August, according to Altus Group, BILD’s official source for new-home market intelligence. Low-rise single-family homes, which include detached and semi-detached houses as well as townhomes, accounted for only 114 of the homes sold, while 681 were multifamily homes, condo apartments in high-rise and mid-rise buildings and stacked townhomes. BILD President and CEO Bryan Tuckey said August is typically a slow month and cautioned against reading too much into the drop. “One month does not a trend make. Late summer is a quiet time for real estate, and most builders wait until September to launch developments and bring new product to market,” said Tuckey. “We are expecting fall to be very busy, and 2017 could still be a record year of new home sales driven by the incredibly strong condo market.” While August sales were down 69 per cent from August 2016
and 62 per cent below the 10 year average, year-to-date sales are still ahead of last year at this point and 28 per cent above the 10 year average. The overwhelming majority of the 31,749 new homes purchased so far this year were multi-family units, condo apartments in high-rise and mid-rise buildings and stacked townhomes. Just 20 per cent of year- to-date sales were low-rise single-family homes. “The longer-term decline in single-family’s share of new home sales has now kicked into hyperdrive – dropping from about one-half in 2015, to one-third last year, to less than onesixth in recent months,” said Patricia Arsenault, Altus Group’s Executive Vice President of Research Consulting Services. “While underlying demand suggests the pendulum should start to swing back a bit towards the single-family side, in reality it will be stopped in its tracks unless there is a significant increase in new single-family product making it to the market.” The supply of new housing increased marginally in August, but it is still far below what is considered a healthy level. At the end of August there were 6,608 multi-family homes and 1,880
single-family low-rise homes available for purchase in builders’ inventories. With the small increase in the supply of homes available in builders’ inventories there was a corresponding slight decrease in prices. The average price for available new single-family low-rise homes was $1,289,298, down from July’s $1,316,693. However that is still 38 per cent more than a year ago when the average price was $931,506. The average price of available multi-family homes in the GTA in August was $644,327, down from July’s average of $665,041, but still 34 per cent more than a year ago. The price decrease for available new condo apartments in the GTA was due to slight declines in both the average unit size and the price per square foot of available units. The average unit size in August was 859 square feet, whereas in July it was 871 square feet. The average price per square foot was $750, down from July’s $764. In August 2016, the average price per square foot was $595 and the average unit size was 808 square feet.
August New-Home Sales by Municipality: August ’17
High-Rise
Low-Rise
Total
Region
2017
2016
2015
2017
2016
2015
2017
2016
2015
Durham
17
73
17
38
202
113
55
275
130
Halton
22
150
57
7
57
93
29
207
150
Peel
94
153
69
34
82
378
128
235
447
Toronto
493
1568
662
8
18
12
501
1586
674
York
55
175
185
27
120
281
82
295
466
GTA
681
2119
990
114
479
877
795
2598
1867
7 • Today’s Homes York • Thursday October 05 to Wednesday October 18 2017
Today’s Homes York • Thursday October 05 to Wednesday October 18 2017 • 8