Come home to
$15,000
}
You could WIN $15,000 worth of furnishings, home electronics and groceries . . . from Visions Electronics, Save-On-Foods and The Brick. Contest runs May 7 to May 31, 2009. Check out MetroVancouver’s new homes and play along each week to increase your chance of winning.
Find out what homebuyers like about ParkLane Homes’ community, SouthPort ›› p.5
May 7, 2009
Green is a key focus in new home building
What’s inside:
Thinking about the environment comes first for many local developers
G
reen is big in Greater Vancouver homes. Many local developers have been incorporating green, or sustainable, standards into their home designs for years, but now, there’s a made-in-Canada certification system that tells consumers their home is built with the environment – and energy cost-savings – in mind. Built Green is an industry-driven voluntary program that promotes green building practices to help reduce the impact that development has on the environment. At Adera Development Corp., vicepresident of marketing and sales, Eric Andreasen, notes that all of Adera’s current properties are Built Green certified homes – including a south Burnaby development entitled simply Green. With phrases such as “eco-friendly” and “reducing your carbon footprint,” on everyone’s lips, Andreasen says going green is a sign of the times. “Responsible behaviour is becoming an important factor in the world we live in,” he says. “There’s awareness and willingness to participate in sustainable practices.” Judy Rohatyn agrees. Rohatyn, who is Vesta Properties Ltd. sales and marketing manager, points to one of Vesta’s new developments, Milner Heights, which is located on 208 Street and 70 Avenue in Langley. A Built Green certified development as well, Rohatyn notes that a highlight of the Milner Heights development is its Green Streets, which are designed to control stormwater volume, the rate of water discharge to downstream creeks, and overall
5/5/09 9:21:10 AM
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Vesta Properties Ltd.’s new townhomes offer value for buyers at Augusta ›› p.9
Innovative in function and design, Centro in Richmond is tower living at its best ›› p.13
Located in South Burnaby, Adera Development Corp.’s Green is a collection of one-, twoand three-bedroom homes created to promote energy conservation and sustainable living.
water quality. “Homeowners love these features and view living in an environmentally friendly community as a lifestyle choice,” Rohatyn says.
She notes Green Streets create unique, landscaped boulevards that do not go unnoticed by visitors, and says the design CONTINUED ON P.2
Mortgage questions? Two top financial experts from Prospera Credit Union share their thoughts ›› p.14
2 • New Local Home | May 7, 2009
Buying a Built Green certified home means instant energy consumption savings for the homeowner, less impact on the environment, and a better resale value in the future.
innovation Going green saves money
Off the front: “Responsible behaviour is becoming an important factor in the world we live in... there’s awareness and willingness to participate in sustainable practices.” – Eric Andreasen
Eco-friendly living CONTINUED FROM P.1
A rooftop patio at Adera’s The Brownstones, a Built Green project. Benefits of a Built Green home: ■ Lower fuel/energy and water costs ■ Indoor air quality addressed ■ Increased comfort ■ Lower maintenance costs ■ Increased market and resale value ■ Lower environmental impact www.builtgreencanada.ca Green can mean rebate Buying an eco-friendly home can mean more money in the wallets of homeowners – on top of the energy cost savings they’ll automatically pocket, year after year. If purchasing a Built Green BC Gold label home, a 10 per cent premium refund and elimination of the extended amortization surcharge may be available when CMHC (Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation)-insured financing is used, with little to no down payment. The Canadian Home Builders’ Association says this amounts to $550 in savings for a $200,000 mortgage with a five per cent down payment, and an additional $1,200 in savings if that mortgage is amortized over 40 years. For homeowners, the refund and extended amortization are available when: ■ a house meets the requirements of a CMHCeligible energy efficient building program (like Built Green Canada) ■ when a house has an energy rating of 77 or above, as determined through an NRCan (Natural resources Canada) residential energy assessment ■ when a house with an energy rating of less than 77 is renovated to increase the rating by at least five points and to a rating of at least 40; or ■ when, for a highrise condominium unit, the building is constructed to be 25 per cent more energy efficient than the Model National Energy Code for Buildings (MNECB), in which case a letter attesting to this must be obtained from Natural Resources Canada or the project engineer. http://ecoaction.gc.ca/buildings www.cmhc.ca
evokes the feeling of “being close to nature” with less environmental impact. Whether for cost savings or for the conscience, Andreasen says there’s several reasons to think green where homebuying is concerned, including the fact the provincial government has made efforts to make the environment a priority. And that’s B.C.’s chance to be an international example on sustainability, he adds, especially with the 2010 Winter Olympic Games just around the corner. While thinking about the environment is “simply, the right thing to do,” Andreasen notes that Built Green certified homes also offer what he calls a triple bottom line to the consumer. First, there’s the direct financial benefit of energy savings, which can save the homeowner 31 to 35 per cent in energy consumption costs “Homeowners “right out of the see the value gate.” in the resale Those energy savings come from down the road, such design eleespecially as ments including more companies energy efficient appliances and moand individuals tion-sensor lights turn toward in the bathrooms. making ecoThe second advantage Andreasen conscious lists is the personal decisions.” benefit – the fact the consumer feels he is helping the environment – while the third is a social component, or the feeling of being a part of a larger, like-minded, sustainable community. Plus, Andreasen and Rohatyn both point to another bonus of buying a Built Green Home. “Homeowners see the value in the resale down the road, especially as more companies and individuals turn toward making ecoconscious decisions,” Rohatyn says. And, Andreasen notes, energy will likely only get more expensive in the future. While homeowners of all kinds are asking about eco-friendly building, Andreasen notes that the first-time homebuyers seem to be especially interested in the sustainable aspects of their home, and adds many actually seek out builders through the Built Green program. Often, “they’ll come in and look first for the
environmental component before anything else.” Built Green is an excellent program for homebuyers to examine, he says, not only because it covers such a broad spectrum of sustainability, but also, because it ensures standards are met and provides transparency for the consumer. To find out more about Built Green, visit www.builtgreencanada.ca
Above, Adera’s The Brownstones are a Built Green certified project. Below, a Green Street at Vesta’s Milner Heights, which is also a Built Green certified development.
editor@newlocalhome.com
Editor: Tricia Leslie • 604-575-5346 • editor@newlocalhome.com Advertising Sales - Black Press National Sales • Adrian Saunders • 604-575-5812 • adrians@blackpress.ca Online Advertising • Nicole Hutchinson • 604-575-5826 • nhutchinson@blackpress.ca Circulation/Business Development: Steve McIvor • 604-575-5822 • smcivor@blackpress.ca Designer: Brad Smith • bsmith@blackpress.ca New Local Home is published once a week by Black Press Group Ltd. (Suite 309 - 5460 152 Street, Surrey, B.C. V3S 5J9) 350,000 copies are distributed free across Metro Vancouver. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited.
New Local Home | May 7, 2009 • 3
4 • New Local Home | May 7, 2009
Coquitlam House Price Comparison for May 2009 $800,000
$760,320
$750,000 $700,000 $650,000
$682,395
$600,000 $550,000
NEW Morningstar Home
7 Year Old Home
New Local Home | May 7, 2009 • 5
Best of both worlds Enjoy privacy, convenience where you live
Close, yet so far away SouthPort: Live in secluded splendour near all amenities
NOW SELLING
ParkLane Homes’ SouthPort (at left, exterior; above, dining room) is located in a hidden piece of paradise in South Surrey. While the new master-planned community is sheltered by towering heritage trees and borders the Nickomekl River, it remains close to major transportation routes and the U.S. border. It is also minutes away from local beaches, shops, businesses and recreation sites.
Location, location, location. An oft-used adage related to real estate, this phrase emphasizes the importance of where a property is located. At SouthPort in South Surrey, ParkLane Homes sales manager Bruce Martin says that adage definitely applies to the single-family (detached) home development. Bordered by a Boundary Bay tributary, the Nickomekl River, Nico-Wynd Golf Course and Crescent Road, SouthPort is secluded in its serene beauty, surrounded by towering heritage trees. Just down the road are Historic Stewart Farm, Crescent Beach and Blackie Spit, while White Rock’s beaches are close by. Boundary Bay and its rivers are considered among the best places in the Lower Mainland for kayaking and viewing bird life – and it’s CONTINUED ON P.6
6 • New Local Home | May 7, 2009
Inside, outside living Beaches and trails close to SouthPort homes
Above, the kitchen in one of ParkLane Homes’ SouthPort development in South Surrey. Single-family houses are still selling in the secluded subdivision.
‘Anything you want to do is minutes away’ CONTINUED FROM P.5
on the North American flyway for more than 300 migrating species. Swimming, sailing, walking and yoga classes on the beach are normal activities in the area. Walking and biking trails abound in the area, including the historic Semiahmoo Trail, the first wagon road in the area that is now a popular hiking trail that meanders through the region. Crescent Park, Sunnyside Acres Urban Forest Park and South Surrey Athletic Park are all located nearby, while local shops, boutiques, bistros, schools and businesses are a mere stroll away. As well, major transportation routes including Highway 99 are within minutes’ drive, as is the U.S. border crossing (Peace Arch). “It feels like a private community that’s close to everything, but still secluded,” Martin says. “It’s a spectacular location with fantastic homes, and anything you want to do is five to eight minutes away.” The homes are designed in a style that combines the West Coast and some of the world’s most sought-after seaside villages, from the casual elegance of Cape Cod to Britain’s genteel seaside resorts. Warm West Coast materials including cedar and stone, add richness and depth, while outdoor fireplaces, private courtyards and graceful patios encourage residents to take advantage of the outdoor lifestyle. Interior attractions include gourmet kitchens and spa-inspired bathrooms, hardwood floors and granite countertops. With a total of 71 homes, Martin says
SouthPort is about half sold now, with 18 homes moving in just the past three months. All homes are at least three bedrooms plus den, Martin says, with some four bedrooms and den still available. Homes start at $671,900, and there are still some waterfront homes for sale. Quite often, people will drop in to visit SouthPort on their way to Crescent Beach, and will stay longer than planned because they love what they see, he says. “Especially on a sunny day, everyone who walks through here is in awe. People who drive in on their way to the beach just to take a look end up buying here.” Find out more at www.parklane.com editor@newlocalhome.com
The bathroom (above, left) and living area in a SouthPort home showcase some of the highlights: spa-inspired bathrooms, overheight ceilings, hardwood floors and private patios.
TO F W AS N TE H O ST M S E EL IN L CL ING AY TO N
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New Local Home | May 7, 2009 • 7
ARBOUR
TOWNE
NATURE’S WALK
TATE
Released in the Spring of 2008, these riverside rowhomes in Port Coquitlam were the fastest selling rowhomes in the Tri-Cities.
Winner of the 2007 UDI Award for Best Ground Oriented Multi-Family Residential Community, Towne is a collection of Georgian city homes in the Oakridge area of Vancouver.
Winner of the 2005 UDI Award for Best Ground Oriented Multi-Family Residential Community, there is still very high demand for the resales of this Georgian rowhome community in Panorama.
A follow-up to the highly successful KEW community, TATE out-sold every other townhome community in Surrey’s Clayton Village.
Well-located, well-designed, and well-priced. O UT SO LD
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Beats location, location, location every time.
Three and four bedroom Georgian rowhomes bordering Victoria Park and Leigh Elementary School. Part of an emerging new neighbourhood plan.
Two, three, and four bedroom rowhomes overlooking Carnoustie Golf Course with views to the Coastal Mountains. A collection of tranquil well-connected homes.
Stunning four bedroom waterfront duplexes and aordable two bedroom plus den redbrick rowhomes. The last waterfront opportunity at Osprey Village.
Two, three, and four bedroom rowhomes set on a gently sloping hillside with sunny southern exposure. The fastest selling rowhomes in the Tri-Cities.
COQUITLAM
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PORT COQUITLAM www.mosaichomes.com
PITT MEADOWS www.mosaichomes.com
COQUITLAM www.mosaichomes.com
*For a limited time only. Pricing subject to availability; see Sales Sta for details.
www.mosaichomes.com
8 • New Local Home | May 7, 2009
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THE VESTA COLLECTION – HOMES THAT FIT YOUR LIFEST YLE Experience superior craftsmanship, quality and value with a Vesta home in any of our home styles in our quiet master-planned communities in Cloverdale and Langley.
Our neighbourhoods are unique hilltop locations, close to all amenities and surrounded by nature. Visit our great new communities and view our fully furnished showhomes.
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5/5/09 7:56:43 AM
New Local Home | May 7, 2009 • 9
A lifestyle for everyone Townhomes surrounded by parkland, close to amenities
Augusta (above and below right), built by Vesta Properties Ltd., is a central yet sequestered townhome community that is tucked away among the green spaces and parks of Cloverdale.
Sense of community at Augusta Spring means superb value at Vesta Properties Ltd.’s new townhome development It’s a community that is set in a natural park setting, yet it’s still minutes to local shops, schools, recreation and commuting routes. At Augusta, a new townhouse development located just off Fraser Highway and 176 Street in Cloverdale, homeowners are surrounded by more than 20 acres of parkland on a gently sloped terrace. Part of a master-planned community known as Provinceton, Augusta townhomes are a part of a neighbourhood where more than 200 families have already purchased new
homes and moved in. Built by Vesta Properties Ltd., Augusta consists of 111 two- and three-bedroom townhomes ranging in size from 1,485 square feet to 1,948 sq. ft, and feature spacious, open plans, gourmet kitchens, attached garages, nine-foot ceilings on the main floor and large, fenced backyards on most homes. One aspect of Augusta that separates it from other communities, says Vesta sales and marketing manager Judy Rohatyn, is that it is a low-density neighbourhood. “Augusta has only 15 units per acre. Usually, there are 25 or more units per acre,” she notes. “I think with all the open spaces, the overall feel is that it’s not as congested as other neighbourhoods.” There’s plenty of parking at Augusta, she
adds, and now, especially since prices have been reduced for Augusta’s “spring fling” campaign, Rohatyn says the value is virtually unbeatable.
Augusta townhomes range in price from $315,000 to $399,000, but Rohatyn says the best price right now is a three-bedroom plus den for $319,000. With more than 65 per cent of Augusta sold, Rohatyn cautions that units are going fast – especially to first-time homebuyers who like what they see. Six homes have sold in the past two weeks alone, she notes. “Augusta is all about value – it really is the best value.” Not only does Vesta build quality homes, Rohatyn says, but when new homebuyers move in, they automatically become part of the entire Provinceton neighbourhood. CONTINUED ON P.10
10 • New Local Home | May 7, 2009
Low density living More space, more parking at Augusta Value for your money CONTINUED FROM P.9
The backyards are fully fenced and larger than most townhouse developments, she says, and they give more privacy to the homeowner. Patios open right into the backyard as well, so it “feels more like a house.” The entire neighbourhood is pedestrian-friendly and features trellised meeting areas, quiet pathways, sidewalks and green boulevards, plus two
Augusta townhomes (in photos) feature the best value for homebuyers’ money, says Vesta Properties Ltd. sales and marketing manager Judy Rohatyn. She notes the development is low-density – only 15 units per acre (the usual is 25-plus units per acre) and less congested than others, with plenty of parking.
park spaces within the community. Interior and exterior design, security and comfort factors are all top-notch, Rohatyn notes, and encourages potential homebuyers to come and see Augusta for themselves. “Many happy homeowners already call Augusta home. We’d like to see more.” Visit www.vestaproperties.com for more information about Augusta townhomes.
New Local Home | May 7, 2009 • 11
Why you should buy Purchasing a home: now is better than later Good news for first-time homebuyers If you are wondering about buying your first home, here’s some good news from the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association. This is a great time to purchase a home, so take a first step and start exploring your opportunities now. Mortgage rates are at historical lows, which means it costs much less to carry a mortgage. On a month-to-month basis, the cost of homeownership may compare very well to renting a home. Why help someone else pay off their mortgage when you can invest in your own financial security? Consult with a mortgage specialist and find out how best to achieve your goal of owning a home. Visit new home sales centres and talk with builders and sales agents. The new home market offers a wide selection at highly competitive prices. From the quality of construction to stateof-the-art technology and the latest designs and products, there is tremendous value in today’s new homes. Builders will explain all your options and assist you in creating the home that’s just right for you and your budget. Buying a brand-new home has a lot of important financial and lifestyle benefits for
The housing market has moved from volatile to stable, giving new homebuyers more confidence.
first-time homebuyers. First, you won’t have costly home repairs or replacements anytime soon – this is a big
and come with many green options that make them easier on your pocketbook as well as easier on the environment. Enjoy new home comfort. Designed for modern life, a brand new home is easy to maintain and takes little upkeep. It’s a great place to come home to after work, and for entertaining family and friends. Experience the joy and pride of ownership. There is no feeling like buying your first home. Home buying just became a little more affordable with the federal government’s income tax benefit of up to $750 for first-time homebuyers for costs associated with a home purchase. And under the Home Buyers’ Plan, firsttime buyers can now withdraw up to $25,000, or $50,000 for a couple, tax-free, from their RRSPs for use in the purchase of a home, up from $20,000. When you add it all up, it makes a lot of sense to investigate homeownership now. For more information on new homes, visit www.gvhba.org
advantage if you are on a tight budget for a few years. Save on energy costs. New homes are also more energy-efficient
Source: Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association
1646 sq ft 3 BDRM + DEN Starting at
$319,000
Best townhome value!
Compare our homes to other communities and see why our value is so exceptional.
176 St.
7 17
. St
68 AVE.
70 AVE.
2” Blinds Included
Gas Fireplace & Furnace
2.5 - 4 Baths (Powder room on main floor)
5 Appliances Included
64 AVE.
Access off Fraser Hwy. & 182 St.
SPRING GRAND OPENING!
.%7 02)#).' &2/- s 2 SHOWHOMES OPEN 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm (except thursday & friday)
Augusta-half.indd 1
Low Density Neighbourhood (15 units per acre compared to 25+ per acre) Choose from 4 plans (1485 - 1948 sq. ft.)
Lots of Parking
182 St.
N
TO LAN GLEY 180 St.
FRASER HWY.
Granite Kitchens
18199 70 Avenue, Cloverdale
Tel 778.571.1088
Large private fenced yards off main floor
Visit us online at www.augustaliving.ca
4/21/09 10:14:11 AM
12 • New Local Home | May 7, 2009
Come home to
$15,000
You could WIN $15,000 worth of furnishings, home electronics and groceries . . . from Visions Electronics, Save-On-Foods and The Brick. Contest runs May 7 to May 31, 2009. Check out MetroVancouver’s new homes and play along each week to increase your chance of winning.
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ÄSi ÄSimply fill out the entry forms below with your contact info and drop off each at the applicable show home. For new home locations, see their ads in this edition. Only one entry, per week, per new home development. Contest closes May 31/09.
______________________________________ name
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For full contest rules please go to the contest link on www.newlocalhome.com.
Home_contestpage-TEMPLATE2 1
5/5/09 12:23:03 PM
New Local Home | May 7 , 2009 • 13
Living life Centro-style Tower offers views in a central Richmond location Rize Alliance Properties Ltd. Address: 7080 No. 3 Road, Richmond Home-types: tower homes (loft homes/sky homes) and townhomes Price: from $334,900 Online: www.rizealliance.com
Located in Richmond, Rize Alliance’s Centro offers tower and townhome living. THE DEAL: Centro is 160 units in a 16-storey building, with 174,000 square feet of residential space and 3,000 for retail. Featuring tower living in SkyHomes and LoftHomes, as well as townhomes, this new community in the heart of Richmond connects homeowners to the city’s shopping, dining and cultural activities in the north, and to the quiet bedroom communities in the south. Centro is a conduit between commercial and residential neighbourhoods “for city people who appreciate rural harmony and convenient urban access.” Many SkyHomes feature spectacular views of the North Shore Mountains and Gulf Islands, and expansive windows maximize views and natural light. SpaCentro, a high-quality spa on the seventh floor, offers such amenities as a sauna, teahouse and a SkyGym. OUTSIDE: Dog lovers will notice Centro’s green dog walks – and designated parkade dog walks in case of rain. The rooftop deck offers residents a chance to grow their own vegetables, with community garden plots. There is also a barbecue pit for entertaining, a Zen garden for meditating, and a children’s play area for youngsters. The parkade is well-lit and features security gates. INSIDE: Sizes of residences vary from 887 to 1,141 square feet. Bathrooms feature soaker tubs, handset imported tile, and water-efficient dual flush toilets. Gourmet kitchens are highlighted with Caesarstone countertops and stainless steel appliance packages. Homes come equipped with front-load, energy efficient stacked washers and dryers, and individual room controlled electric zone heating.
>>Nearby amenities Transit: Close to YVR (Vancouver International Airport) and several major transportation routes Shopping: Richmond Centre, Lansdowne Shopping Centre, local boutiques and shops Recreation: Gateway Theatre, Richmond Museum, Brighouse Park, Minoru Park, Minoru Aquatic Centre, Richmond Nature Park
NOW SELLING
Centro’s SkyHomes, LoftHomes (tower units) and townhomes combine the advantages of a single-family detached home with the security and lowmaintenance lifestyle of a highrise. Multi-level floor plans include flex space to accommodate the changing needs of growing families. Private enclosed garages allow the opportunity to store bikes, golf clubs and tools. Centro was brought to life by the same award-winning design team that designed Richmond City Hall, which is located diagonally across the street: architects Hotson Bakker Boniface Haden and landscape architects Phillips Farevaag Smallenberg. HBBH is also the brain trust behind Granville Island in Vancouver.
14 • New Local Home | May 7, 2009
coffee with... Making the best of mortgages Fixed rate or variable? Every situation is different, but you can research before deciding TRICIA LESLIE
O
wning a house usually means financing a mortgage to pay it off. But there are several choices as to what kind of mortgage a homeowner may
want to get. While a variable rate mortgage generally allows the borrower flexibility in times where a fixed rate might not be the best choice, a fixed rate mortgage can offer peace of mind over the statistical edge of a variable. At Prospera, a credit union with branches throughout the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and Interior, financial experts say every mortgage situation is different. “The advice we give really depends on each person’s scenario. With a first-time homebuyer, I’ll ask, ‘What lets you sleep at night?’” says Prospera vice-president of branch operations Dan Whalley. Often, he says, the first few years of owning a home can be challenging, so a fixed term will be recommended, to ensure the
homeowner has the stability of knowing what each monthly payment will be. Historically, he adds, statistics show that variable rate mortgages save the average consumer money, if they are willing to ‘go with the flow’ of ups and downs.” However, with the Bank of Canada showing a strong commitment to keep inflation rates down, and looking at interest rates over the Dan Whalley past eight to nine years, it is likely Canadians will experience a low interest rate environment (under 10 per cent) for years to come, says Prospera vice-president of treasury and financial analysis Michael Kerdachi. Kerdachi says the average customer of a five-year retail mortgage will go for a fixed rate. “I think it just gives that level of confidence.” Both Whalley and Kerdachi agree that, with housing prices down in Greater Vancouver, and with the current low interest rates, now is a great time to think about buying a home – or perhaps, refinance a previously existing mortgage. “These are the lowest (interest) rates we’ve seen in our lifetime – certainly, from a cost
perspective, they’re determine if they’re already the best we’ve seen,” paying a mortgage they’d like Whalley says. to change, or looking for a Kerdachi agrees. new loan. “It starts to make While most lending instituit possible for new tions have to follow the same homebuyers to enter general criteria, Whalley the market,” he says. and Kerdachi say Prospera’s Whalley, who has lending staff are encouraged 32 years of banking to fully understand the entire experience under his scenario each customer faces, belt, recalls the days and to find a solution that of the early 1980s, solves all parties’ objectives. Michael Kerdachi when interest rates Plus, Kerdachi says, staff at were as high as 18 to local Prospera branches bet22 per cent. ter understand what is happening with the He remembers some Prospera members housing market at the local level – not only would actually come in and say, “Here’s my in B.C., but in the same city where the homekeys,” because they did not think they would buyer is hoping to purchase a house. be able to hold onto their home with such Staff will know the reputation of differrates. ent neighbourhoods, and help the consumer “We didn’t want to take their home. We based on extremely local knowledge, he wanted them to still own their home, so we adds. would try to work something out, and ask “A lot of decision-making takes place at them, ‘What can you afford?’” the branch level.” But that was then and today’s market is Plus, financial staff will go the extra mile to educate each client about their options, “totally different,” Whalley says. and why they might want to make certain Still, he notes that the Prospera financial decisions, Whalley notes. advisory team will take the time to find out “Education is a big part of what we do.” about each customer – or potential customer – when they come to visit. They’ll ask what brings clients in for editor@newlocalhome.com the visit, find out what their goals are, and
What you can do when buying new If you have never bought a brand-new home, or it’s been a long time since you last worked with a new home builder, you are in for a pleasant surprise. Today’s home builders offer a very personal buying experience – one that treats home buying as a partnership between the builder and the home purchaser. Sales consultants are trained to help homebuyers through the buying process. Customer relations representatives look after your needs during construction. Client communication is an important part of a company’s processes, and the primary goal is customer satisfaction – ensuring that your new home purchase is an enjoyable and satisfying experience. According to the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association, while every company has its own approach, here is what the typical home buying experience is like.
nets, countertops, faucets, and so on. This is an exciting and enjoyable part of the buying experience—your opportunity to personalize your home and get exactly what you want. Builders offer a range of products, and will usually have a trained coordinator or designer available to assist you with selections.
The walk-through Shortly before the builder is ready to hand over the home, you will be asked to go through the home from top to bottom, inside and out. This is another highlight—seeing your home completed and your dream turned to a reality. The purpose of the walk-through, or pre-delivery inspection as it is known in some areas, is to verify that everything has been done according to plan. Anything outstanding will be noted and completed before or right after move-in. The builder will also explain the operation and maintenance of the systems and products used in your home.
Choosing your home Most new home builders sell from model homes and plans. The job of the sales consultant is to help you become familiar with the builder’s range of homes and lots, features, upgrades and prices. The consultant will also want to get to know you, what you need and want in a home, and how much you are willing to invest, so they can help you arrive at the best decisions. It usually takes a number of visits to reach final decisions. During this time, the sales consultant will help you work through your choices, and find solutions to any special requests you may have. When you are ready to sign the agreement, the sales consultant or builder will go through the contract with you in detail. They will also explain the next steps, so you know what to expect in the months coming up.
After-sale service There’s a lot to consider before choosing and buying a new home.
The pre-construction meeting Before construction of your home begins, the builder will go over the working drawings and the construction process with you. This is done to eliminate errors and ensure that everyone is in agreement. They will explain the blueprint and verify any changes you made to the standard plan. This is also your opportunity to meet the site manager who will be supervising the work on your home.
During construction Builders know it can be difficult for home-
buyers to sit back and wait patiently for their homes to be built. You are excited, want to know what is going on and begin to make plans for moving in. Most builders schedule a series of site visits at various stages of construction. You may also get updates by phone or e-mail. A few builders install a web cam on-site so you can check on your home 24/7.
Colour selections At some point before or during construction, you will be asked to make your selection of finishing products – tiles, flooring, cabi-
The customer experience doesn’t stop when you move into your home. Expect to hear from your builder from time to time, checking to see how you are enjoying your new home, or reminding you of milestones in your warranty coverage. Some will also ask you to complete a customer satisfaction survey to get your opinions on your home and the buying experience— crucial feedback that will allow the builder to keep improving their products and their services. For more information, visit www.gvhba. org Source: Great Vancouver Home Builders’ Association
New Local Home | May 7 , 2009 • 15 (1)
Squamish
(2) North Shore
(6)
(4)
(7-8)
(5)
Vancouver
(12)
(9)
Tri-Cities
(11) (14) (13) (16) (15)
(3)
(10) Burnaby/New Westminster
(31)
Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows
(32) (17)
(30) (29)
(19) (20)
(38)
(33)
(28)
(27)
Surrey
Richmond (18) North Delta
(39) (37)
(41)
(35) (36)
(44)
(34)
(45)
(42)
(46)
Langley
(43)
(24) (40) (23) (25)
(21) (22)
(26)
White Rock/South Surrey South Delta
On Tour Squamish (1)Skye-Soleil-Acqua Presentation Centre, 121 Lonsdale, North Van. 604-904-2240, 604-616-1215
(2)Furry Creek-Ocean Crest 415- Furry Creek Dr. 604-315-0172
Port Coquitlam
New Westminster
(39)Seasons & Prelude at Milner Heights
(15)Links
(31)Victoria Hill
208th St & 72nd Ave. 604-539-9484
2418 Avon Place, Port Coquitlam. 604-460-9907
McBride Ave. 604-523-0733
Surrey
(32) Q at Westminster Quay
(40)Augusta at Provinceton
Renaissance Square @ Quayside Drive. 604-515-9112
18199 70th Ave, 778-571-1088
(33)Red Boat
(41)Springfield Village
Ewen Ave & Furness St., Queensborough. 604-520-9890
8678 156 Street. 604-591-1121
Port Moody (16)Heritage Woods 300 Panorama Place, Port Moody
Richmond (17)Alexandra Gate Cambie-Garden City. 604-279-8866
Vancouver
(18)Centro
(3)Carrington
7180 No.3 Road-Bennett. 604-270-8305
Oak Street & 45th Ave. 604-266-6500
(4)Pacific UBC Westbrook Village. 604-221-8878
(5)Aura
(19)Prado No.3 Road & Lansdowne. 604-276-8180
(20)Hennessy Green
(6)Branches on the North Shore 1111 E 27th Street. 604-988-8489
(44)The Highlands at Sullivan Ridge
8385 Delsom Way. 604-581-8144
60A Ave & 146th Street. 604-538-2125
(36)Cardinal Pointe
(45)The Estates at Vistas West
10605 Delsom Crescent, Delta
16327 60th Ave. 778-574-1380
(21)Highland Park
23015 Billy Brown Road. 604-888-2176
(46)Tate 18983-72A Avenue, Surrey
160th & 24th Ave. 604-542-8995
(22)Glenmore at Morgan Heights (23)The Brownstones
Wilson & Beresford. 604-456-0688
Morgan Heights. 604-538-9897
(8)Brentwood Gate-The Varley
(24)Wills Creek
1960 Beta Ave. 604-205-7228
160th & 32nd Ave. 604-542-6200
(9)Altaire
(25)Morgan Heights 26th Ave & 164th Street. 604-531-1111, 604-420-4200
(26)Ocean Park 2026-128th Street. 604-538-2345
1170 Pinetree Way & Northern Ave. 604-464-5856
Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows
(11)The Foothills
(27)Falcon Hill
Burke Mountain. 604-944-3188
23719 Kanaka Way. 604-466-5723
(12)Tatton
(28)Crest at Silver Ridge
Victoria Drive, Coquitlam. 604-696-1502
22850 Foreman Drive. 604-466-9278
(13)Whitetail Lane
(29)Solo
1357 Purcell Drive. 604-552-3003
11749 223rd Street. 604-467-0800
(14) Belmont
(30)Turnstone
1456 Avondale Street. 604-461-7113
14-19490 Fraser Way, Pitt Meadows
Map_pgTEMPLATE_May7 revised 1
70th & 180th Street. 604-818-3702
(35)Radiance at Sundance
(38)Bedford Landing
(7)Jewel
(10)Levo
(43)Woods at Provinceton
South Surrey-White Rock
161A St. & 24th Ave. 604-542-8863
Coquitlam
2729-158th Street. 604-541-4246
7445 Scott Road. 604-590-5483
Langley
Burnaby
9222 UniverCity Crescent. 604-298-1182
(42)Kaleden
(34)Trend
9800 Odlin. 604-303-6840
5437 Willow Street & West 38th Ave. 604-264-6477
North Shore
Delta
New homes, like this one – at Belmont at the Foothills in Coquitlam (Morningstar Homes) – are attracting buyers throughout the Lower Mainland.
5/5/09 12:33:46 PM
16 • New Local Home | April 30, 2009
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