NLHR090528.indd

Page 1

r en9te o t EK 1/0

L WESES MAY 3

FINCOANTEST CLO

You could WIN

$15,000

}

Come home to $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.

Coffee With explores the changing face of the housing market in one of B.C.’s fastest growing cities: Surrey ›› p.14

May 28, 2009

Housing: steady as she goes Prices will go up or down, depending on two reports

ontest-entrypoint FRONTmay28.indd 1

5/26/09

Langley City Mayor Peter Fassbender is excited about the new Golden Ears Bridge, scheduled to open to traffic June 16.

Rob Newell photo

Bridging the gap New Golden Ears Bridge will mean less traffic, more real estate opportunities KOLBY SOLINSKY It was January, 2006 when Premier Gordon Campbell and the province unveiled the Gateway Program, a $3-billion plan to open up B.C.’s and Greater Vancouver’s transportation network.

Included in the plan was TransLink’s now-soon-to-be-completed Golden Ears Bridge, which will connect Greater Vancouver’s eastern regions north and south of the Fraser River. At the time, Campbell said, “Congestion is having an increasingly negative effect on B.C.’s economy, communities and families.” He further estimated that a bad day takes a commuter two hours to get from Burnaby to Langley and also forces traffic onto residential streets in Surrey and Delta. Many believe the Golden Ears Bridge will most certainly solve these problems, and

it has been lauded by city developers and residents alike in its surrounding areas. This can only mean the best for new home development in Maple Ridge, Langley, and the entire region (which includes Surrey, Delta and Pitt Meadows), because easier transportation means improved business, more travel, and greater connectivity. Accordingly, new homes have been popping up as more people flock to the cities around the bridge, seeing it as a region in the midst of tremendous growth. CONTINUED ON P.2

An unpredictable economy means the housing market is also less predictable. 8:39 AM Two different forecasts released in the past week highlight that uncertainty. In its secondquarter forecast released May 19, the Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation lowered its expectations for new home construction, sales and prices, for this year and next. Yet a B.C. Real Estate Association forecast released Tuesday, May 26 says housing market conditions in the province have improved more rapidly than expected. As a result, the BCREA Peter Simpson revised its home price forecast upwards. The average price of a home in B.C. is expected to decline eight per cent to $420,600 in 2009, as opposed to the 13 per cent originally predicted. “The majority of the decline in home prices has already occurred,” says BCREA chief economist Cameron Muir. “Balanced markets are emerging in Victoria, Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. There’s now little downward pressure on home prices in these areas.” Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association CEO Peter Simpson was not surprised by either forecast. Some GVHBA members have sold all of their current homes, and are starting to look at the possibility of new developments, he notes. “Sales are starting to pick up. We’re hearing that from our builders,” Simpson says. Other GVHBA members will likely assess their current projects and sales and take note of any standing inventory they might have before deciding to put a shovel in the ground on a new project, but Simpson says GVHBA members CONTINUED ON P.2


2 • New Local Home | May 28, 2009

No time like the present to buy a new home CONTINUED FROM P.1

are “cautiously optimistic” about the housing market’s future. He says last week’s downgraded CMHC housing market outlook wasn’t all that astonishing. “Nobody was surprised by the (housing) starts. I think there were more than a few of us who thought the first (quarter) forecast was too optimistic,” Simpson says. “We knew we were going to have fewer starts this year. Unfortunately, we’re comparing whatever starts we have with a very strong year last year.” The past two years have been the strongest for the housing market in the Greater Vancouver area since 1993, Simpson notes, with 2007 coming in as the strongest since then, and 2008, the second-strongest. The CMHC forecast calls for a province-wide 43 per cent decline in housing starts compared to 2008, and predicts that builders will start on 19,725 new housing units this year and 21,700 in 2010. In 2008, 34,321 new homes were built in B.C. In Metro Vancouver, housing starts are expected to drop more than 40 per cent, from 19,591 in 2008 to 11,000 new units in 2009, then increase to 11,500 in 2010. The CMHC report says average housing prices in Greater Vancouver are expected to decline about 13 per cent this year, from $593,767 in 2008 to $516,000 this year, then another 2.3 per cent decrease to $504,000 in 2010. Metro Vancouver housing resales are expected to drop nearly 13 per cent this year to 22,000 transactions, then rise by about 14 per cent to 25,000 in 2010. A number of factors contributed to the decrease in forecasted numbers, says CMHC senior market analyst Robyn Adamache, with an uncertain economy making it tricky to give accurate forecasts. “(The downgraded forecast) is partly due to the fact that we’ve had a pretty sustained downturn in employment since this time last year,” Adamache says. However, the combination of lower prices and historically low interest rates is prompting new home buyers to get into the market now, she says. Simpson concurs. “If you’re in the market for a house, I can’t think of a time where there’s been a better opportunity,” he says.

Polygon Homes founder honoured at black-tie gala Michael Audain was honoured last Thursday night in Vancouver at the Business Laureates of B.C. Hall of Fame gala dinner and induction ceremony. As founder and chairman of Polygon Homes Ltd., Audain was recognized for building the company into one of the province’s most respected and successful home builders, with more than 18,000 homes constructed throughout the Lower Mainland. Additionally, he has been the President of the Urban Development Institute, Chairman of the Business Council of British Columbia, and a member of the Canadian Council of Chief Executives.

Portrait Homes’ Troy Steine says the new bridge will make Maple Ridge more accessible – for people, and for real estate.

Off the front: “...this is the right part of the Lower Mainland to be investing for the future.” CONTINUED FROM P.1

This optimism is not surprising – after all, Ancient Troy may be the only example of a city that has not benefitted from greater accessibility. According to Langley City Mayor Peter Fassbender, the bridge represents a whole new swath of opportunity for urban growth. “I think the new bridge has reinforced in the minds of developers that this is the right part of the Lower Mainland to be investing for the future,” he says. “We’re excited for the whole region – South of the Fraser and the Northeast sector – because I think it’s going to be a major link in overall transportation.” Both the City of Langley and the Township of Langley have – with the rest of Greater Vancouver – been a center for all kinds of new residential developments over the past few years, from single-family and multi-family homes to condominiums and townhouses. While development peaked in 2007, the desire to live in Greater Vancouver has not subsided. Styles continue to catch the eye, as well, with developments such as the colonial rowhome architecture of Mosaic’s Tate in Surrey and the stonewalled, craftsman exterior of Portrait Homes’ Silver Ridge community in Maple Ridge serving as examples of the region’s diverse buying options. The Silver Ridge development has been recognized at length for its homes, garnering 63 major industry provincial awards so far. And the Golden Ears Bridge only serves to improve other housing operations in Maple Ridge, giving those who are looking for a new home

Rob Newell photo

with a small-town feel ample selection. Jewel,’” says Maple Ridge Mayor Ernie Daykin. “With the new bridge coming in, we are “We really have the best of both worlds, in really anticipating that it’s going to add to the that it’s an hour to be down to the Canucks allure of areas like Maple Ridge and across the game or the theatre, or 45 minutes going the water into Langley,” says Troy Steine, marketother way you could be at Pitt Lake.” ing and sales manager at Portrait Homes. Daykin, who owns Windsor Plywood on “It’s going to dramatically shorten the comRiver Road (in Maple Ridge), is enthusiastic mute times because not everyone works in for business opportunities as well – which Maple Ridge... and people coming from the will naturally spur new home development. north working on the Surrey, Langley side, it “[With the Golden Ears Bridge], if you’re allows them to come through.” living in Maple Ridge, you now Additionally, Maple Ridge have a 15-minute drive to Port could see a mini-housing boom “We (Maple Ridge) Kells instead of an hour,” he as more people discover its liv- really have the says. “It’s going to save people a ability, attraction, and unknown best of both minimum of an hour a day or two flair. hours a day.” worlds, in that “We all believe that Maple Daykin says that Maple Ridge Ridge will really be one of the is paying respect to its urban it’s an hour to most accessible regions in the boundary, however, and will not be down to the whole Lower Mainland,” says just “gobble up” farmland to build Steine, “which means it’s going Canucks game or houses. The city has no plans to to have a very positive increase the theatre, or 45 carve up it’s ‘Mayberry’-like feel on property values.” that is responsible for much of minutes going Those involved in Maple it’s charm, either. However, new the other way you home development looks to thrive Ridge’s growth agree it may have previously been too far out could be at Pitt for home buyers looking at Maple of the area for some, but that is Ridge, and the new bridge only Lake.” set to change. enhances this. “Outside of work hours, it’s a “I think it’s going to be the very serene place and it’s very quiet and family entire real estate market in general,” he says. oriented,” Steine says. “It’s been one of the “I think it’s going to improve access to the rest most unique projects I’ve been involved with, of the region. It’s really what Maple Ridge has in that it has so many things unto itself.” been waiting for for 40 to 50 years.” Steine is referring to Maple Ridge’s all-ages Meanwhile, south of the Fraser River in population and its abundance of trees and Langley, prospects remain optimistic as well. mountains that are normally more stereoWhile Langley has been fortunate over the typed for other areas of Greater Vancouver. past few years in seeing its population grow, With the construction of the Golden Ears the bridge opens the city up to more people, Bridge, as more and more people are beginmore business and more exposure. ning to notice the duality of Maple Ridge’s “Because of the wealth of opportunities we attraction – a quiet, neighbourhood commuhave, from our shopping and restaurants, and nity that is mere minutes from getting on the a lot of the activities we have here, it’s going to connector to go downtown. be a great opportunity to invite people from “I went to an Urban Development Institute the northeast to become a tourist here,” says meeting and a breakfast two or three weeks ago about Maple Ridge, and the tagline was, CONTINUED ON P.13 ‘Maple Ridge: An Investment and Livability

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 28, 2009 • 3


4 • New Local Home | May 28, 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

:VSK 3HZ[ >LLR

belmont 28th.indd 1

5/26/09 12:01 PM


New Local Home | May 28, 2009 • 5

The sky is the limit...

Miramar Village: it’s a way of life Silver Lining Sale gives homebuyers a chance to save in two Bosa Properties communities Some live for vacations. Others live them every day. This hint of a promise to potential new home buyers on Bosa Properties’ Miramar Village website ensures a closer look at the residences available in the White Rock urban village highrise community. Perched atop the Semiahmoo Peninsula in the sunny seaside city, the development is one of Bosa Properties’ most luxurious and sophisticated projects. A mix of exclusive condominium residences and retail shops and services, the community surrounds a public plaza that is the heart of the village. Two more highrises are planned for the location, to complete the village, and when complete, the amenities offered will include a pool, a hot tub and a gym. A community centre built by Bosa Properties and run by the City of White Rock just opened in tower A (21 storeys). Filled with meeting rooms, a lecture hall, and a studio where yoga and Pilates are already popular, the centre gives the community a place to come together. With the beach nearby, and cafes, restaurants, boutiques, grocers and other businesses

and services just steps from the front door, Miramar Village offers more than a home: it offers a way of living. “It’s really the lifestyle,” says Bosa Properties sales manager Shannon Vrlak. “People like to be close to shops, and to current and future amenities.” The highrise community is also minutes away from local bus routes and major transportation arteries, including Highway 99 and the Peace Arch border crossing into the United States. While the beach is a big draw, Vrlak says the panoramic views available from Miramar Village residences are a huge attraction as well. People from all over Greater Vancouver and Alberta have already bought homes in the two highrises, which are 17 and 21 storeys. Potential homebuyers from the United States have also shown interest in the community. Many have already bought residences – while the development is 87 to 90 per cent sold, Vrlak says there are still opportunities for homebuyers: a small and ever-decreasing collection of two bedroom and two-plus den CONTINUED ON P.6

The views from Bosa Properties’ Miramar Village in White Rock are just part of the whole package. The highrise community offers style, sophistication, and amenities at the front door.


6 • New Local Home | May 28, 2009

Views, amenities attractive at Miramar

Urban village lifestyle is within easy reach Bosa Properties has negotiated an unparalleled mortgage package that gives buyers monthly payments equal residences are still available, plus to just one per cent interest for the one 21st-floor penthouse. next three years. With the current low interest rates, “When you couple this unbelievable it’s an attractive time to buy a new mortgage package with the fact that home – and people are doing just that. prices have been reduced “We’re certainly seeing drastically, you have a more and more activity,” level of relative afford“...you have a Vrlak says. ability that has not been And Bosa Properties level of relative seen here in the Lower is making it even more affordability that Mainland for decades,” attractive to buy now – with its Silver Lining Sale, has not been seen says Bosa Properties CEO Bosa. which starts May 30. here in the Lower Colin Bosa will be releasing all For a limited time, Mainland for of its inventory in the two home buyers can purcommunities, which could chase a brand-new home decades.” mean a savings of up to in two of Bosa Properties’ $195,000 at Miramar; up to $130,000 newest communities at significantly for Edgemont; and up to $140,000 at reduced prices. Claremont. Those communities are Miramar “These two spectacular urban vilVillage and Westwood Village in Colages are in superb locations, offer quitlam (Claremont and Edgemont). industry-leading finishes and specificaClaremont and Edgemont at Westtions, and provide the attention to dewood Village are Phases 2 and 3 of the tail and quality that are the hallmarks highrise community, which blends of a Bosa Properties home,” says Bosa. sophistication and charm. For more information about the The luxurious highrises at Westsale or any of Bosa’s communities, visit wood are set in a naturally inspired www.bosaproperties.com or vall 604urban village, with shops, nature trails 540-2672. and amenities all close at hand. CONTINUED FROM P.5

A select few homes remain to be sold in Bosa Properties’ Miramar Village in White Rock (above).


New Local Home | May 28, 2009 • 7

&- 0%.&4 &/ . 0 01 ) 8 /0

Well designed by nature. A Parkside Collection of Georgian Rowhomes TATTON offers the perfect blend of thoughtful design and a tranquil neighbourhood setting. These three and four bedroom rowhomes border Victoria Park and Leigh Elementary School. With MOSAIC’s reputation for unique design and quality, an accessible price makes TATTON a rare ďŹ nd.

PRICED FROM

$

TATTON HOME STORE, OPEN 12-6PM (EXCEPT FRIDAYS) ÂŹ )PMUCZ 4USFFU $PRVJUMBN

XXX UBUUPODPRVJUMBN DPN Pricing subject to availability, see Sales Sta for details.


8 • New Local Home | May 28, 2009

OUR FAMILY OF SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

,900 525

ing a s ta r t

ADD YOUR PERSONAL TOUCH

$

Foxridge Homes welcomes you to Burke Mountain Heights, an exclusive collection of 26 single family homes in a setting with breathtaking views, priced from $599,900 +GST. At Burke Mountain Heights, you don’t have to choose from limited, set colour schemes, you can customize your single family home in our on site Design Centre to make it your very own.

t

PANORAMA HILLS

PRESENTATION CENTRE 15038 - 59 Avenue, Surrey Open daily noon to 5pm, except Friday

STUNNING DESIGNS EXCEPTIONAL VALUE

152 ST

WWW.BURKEMOUNTAINHEIGHTS.COM

60 AVE 150 ST

778 881 7900

604.543.9302 panorama@qualicogroup.com

148 ST

With classic finishings and generous floorplans, the homes at Panorama Hills offer exceptional attention to detail and quality. Exquisitely designed with large windows, broad decks and spacious floorplans, the homes at Panorama Hills offer a place where you and your family can grow.

Visit us at 3398 Don Moore Drive, Coquitlam Open from noon - 5pm daily except Friday

+ GS T

59 AVE No. 10 HWY

Desirable Location, Discerning Homes

Expand Your Horizons at Vista’s West

SHOW HOME NOW OPEN

Cul-de-Sac a nd Par k Homes Now Avail able

Only 34 Finely Cr afted luxury single fa mily homes on L arge Estate Lots.

STARTING AT

STARTING AT

$729,900

$499,900 PLUS GST

PLUS GST

2 SHOW HOMES OPEN DAILY noon to 5pm

OPEN DAILY noon to 5pm, except Friday

www.liveatvistas.com

16327 – 60 Avenue, Surrey 778-574-1380 estates@liveat vistas.com

6093 – 164 Street, Surrey 778-571-1389 info@liveatvistas.com

www.foxridgeliving.com

Our Showhomes are open.

Qualico-Foxridge_May28FINAL.indd 1

Nuvo is the perfect choice for a select few.

Priced from $390,900 PLUS GST www.nuvoliving.ca 778-294-1201

32 ave.

160 st.

Next to nature, this beautifully designed enclave of 43 three bedroom homes, inspires relaxation and tranquility. Nestled beside 4 acres of serene forest, the homes at Nuvo are large, bright and sunny, with large windows and private patios welcoming the outdoors in. Nuvo is suited to your style in every way imaginable. Nuvo features high-end finishings: • Hardwood floors • Stainless steel appliances • Granite counter-tops • Kohler fixtures Sizes range from 1769 sq. ft up to 2002 sq. ft and Nuvo is located just minutes from every possible convenience. Come in today and visit our 2 stunning, furnished showhomes

152 st.

E FN G E< J ?8JOK <C < C@ E >

Welcome the new season WITH A WELCOMING NEW SPACE.

15454 - 32 AVENUE, S. SURREY

5/25/09 4:02 PM


New Local Home | May 28, 2009 • 9

A river runs through it...

Bedford Landing, named after the Fraser River’s Bedford Channel, has attracted people for centuries, from First Nations tribes to gold prospectors.

Rob Newell photo

A ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ community Fort Langley’s Bedford Landing blends history with style, location, convenience For more than 7,000 years, people have been drawn to the banks of the Fraser River at Fort Langley’s Bedford Landing. Sto:lo, Kwantlen and Katzie First Nations tribes were the first to live in the area, taking advantage of the area’s natural resources and the abundance of salmon in the river. Explorer Simon Fraser was the first to follow the massive river to the Pacific Ocean in the early 1800s; thus, the waterway now bears his name. Fort Langley was first built as a trading post by the Hudson’s Bay Company at Derby Reach, and was later moved to its present location to protect that company’s resources. When gold was discovered in the Fraser River, Fort Langley became famous as the starting point of the Fraser Canyon gold fields, as steamdriven paddle wheelers brought a profusion of gold fever-stricken fortune hunters. Now, a 78-acre community offers homebuyers the chance to live in an area rich in history, right on the banks of the mighty Fraser. Entitled Bedford Landing – named after the Bedford Channel that flows past its front door and the landing where early explorers and prospectors first stepped ashore – the ParkLane Homes community was planned to become “a community for life,” says ParkLane Homes marketing manager Krista Shirreff.

“Our goal was to make Bedford Landing a ‘once-in-a-lifetime’ community, the perfect combination of contemporary living, rural beauty and the comfortably classic feel of a great small town,” she says. Of the nearly 80 acres that makes up Bedford Landing, 38 acres are dedicated park land, Shirreff notes. It is also the only local community bordered by a river, a golf course (Fort Langley Golf Course), and an urban centre. Shops and services along Fort Langley’s Glover Road are within a few minute’s walk to the new neighbourhood, as is the new Fort-to-Fort riverside trail. Popular with walkers, runners, cyclists, rollers and horseback riders, that trail links to the community’s broader network of greenway trails – the regional system between Fort Langley and Derby Reach – and it will also become a part of the Trans-Canada trail system. Last November, a new canoe and rowing clubhouse on the Bedford Channel that was built by ParkLane Homes was unveiled, and used for the Western Canadian University Rowing Championship. A company that has built more than 5,500 homes in 90 communities throughout the Lower Mainland since 1980, ParkLane Homes has won more than 250 provincial and CONTINUED ON P.10

A bedroom in a Bedford Landing residence allows plenty of natural light inside through windows and doors.


10 • New Local Home | May 28, 2009

A community for life

Scenic and convenient location CONTINUED FROM P.8

national awards for its design, construction and innovation, Shirreff says. Bedford Landing homes themselves have been designed to look like they were built over time, with striking streetscapes featuring classic arts and crafts architecture, as well as carefully planned landscaping and fencing. Currently, three- and four-bedroom homes in Bedford Landing’s Cedar Mill (from $529,900) and Greenway ($739,900) series are selling, as well as homes from the Rivershore series – fourbedroom residences with stunning river views, starting from $849,900. Personalized Designer Series homes on the waterfront are also selling, starting from $1.6 million (by appointment only). ParkLane Homes is also previewing Waterfront: a collection of 70 apartment and eight townhome residences on the waterfront, designed for adults over 45, starting from $234,900. The grand opening for the Waterfront apartment and townhome series is May 30 (Saturday). Visit www.bedfordlanding.com or visit the two sales centres: single-family – 23015 Billy Brown Rd., Fort Langley, open daily from noon to 5 p.m., call 604888-2176; or apartments – 9275 Glover Rd., Fort Langley, call 604-888-2793.

Bedford Landing kitchens feature trendy, open design, long-lasting materials and popular stainless steel appliances.

Rob Newell photo

Bay windows in the living area are featured in some of ParkLane Homes’ Bedford Landing residences. The Fort Langley community is built along the Fraser River, in an area rich in history.


New Local Home | May 28, 2009 • 11

ACT NOW FOR PRE-COMPLETION PRICING ON THE NEWEST RELEASES AT SILVER RIDGE! With a wide range of single family locations now available, a wide range of prices from the low 400’s to the low 600’s and the opportunity to customize your interior finishings, this may indeed be the most timely real estate opportunity for you this year. Discover the unique values and features found in a Portrait Home. These alpine-inspired residences stand apart for their innovative design, impeccable craftsmanship, extremely spacious floor plans and spectacular view settings.

Best Residential Community!

Be among the first to see our newest release...Visit us today!

22845 137th Avenue, Maple Ridge Open Every Day: Noon - 5:00 pm

NOW OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK TO HELP SERVE YOU BETTER!

portraithomes.ca | 604-466-9278 The developer reserves the right to make modifications and changes to the information contained herein. Prices exclude GST and are subject to availability. E. & O.E.


12 • New Local Home | May 28, 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.

}

FINA

LS WE

CONT E

T CLO

EK to

SES M

AY 31 /

09

ente

r

o ewLocalH moCard_N $5000Pro

For You

$

5000

PROMOT

at The Exclusively

Brick

IONAL

D BRICK CAR Valid towards your next new hase. furniture purc

HOW TO

ENTER

Ä Si Simply 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 _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

For full contest rules please go to the contest link on www.newlocalhome.com. _________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

Home_contestpage-may28 1

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

_________________________________________________ name _________________________________________________ telephone _________________________________________________ email

5/26/09 11:29 AM


New Local Home | May 28, 2009 • 13

Bridge to open early CONTINUED FROM P.2

Fassbender. “Most people on both sides of the river realized that we needed a relief from the volume of traffic that was going both ways,” he says, parallel to Campbell’s sentiment from 2006. Fassbender’s outlook for Langley has also been enhanced with the bridge’s construction. He says greater mobility for Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows residents through Metro Vancouver will improve business prospects in both of the Langleys, as more people are drawn to his region. “The wineries in the Township are going to benefit, and we (in the city) are going to benefit in our restaurants and shopping, as well,” he says. “It’s another injection of a very positive direction for the future.” Of course, the bridge’s success will be determined “People will by its effects on both sides of develop the river, and city officials are steadfastly predicting that the where they will bring more people, believe there’s bridge and more new homes. going to be a “People will develop where they believe there’s going to be market.” a market,” Fassbender says. According to TransLink’s economic model, he’s spot on. TransLink vice-president of major construction projects Fred Cummings says that 22,000 people are predicted to be moving into the immediate area within close proximity to the bridge. Cummings also estimates that the Golden Ears Bridge will be responsible for 1,450 new residential units in Langley, 1,600 new residential units in Surrey, and 4,000 new residential units north of the Fraser. “When you’ve got better transportation, and better mobility, people are attracted to the geographical area,” he says. “Those people wouldn’t move there if it wasn’t for the bridge.” Perhaps the greatest spinoffs, however, are not limited to one or two cities. After all, it seems everybody is excited for the personal benefits that the bridge will afford them. “It’s not about winning and losing, but it’s about enjoying what the region has as a whole,” says Daykin. “Even the fact that I can go down to the beach at White Rock for more fish and chips is exciting.” For Peter Simpson, CEO of Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association, the feeling is mutual. “Personally and professionally, I’m looking forward to it,” he says. “It’s a long time coming. We should look at this example and build more bridges – in Europe, there’s a bridge on each block.” While Greater Vancouver may not take on the look of Prague just yet, it’s more than certain that our area is growing and redesigning itself for the better. “The most significant growth is going to be in the east [of Greater Vancouver],” says Fassbender, highlighting a perceived paradigm shift. “From the sounds of the statistics in terms of future growth in the province, we’re all going to enjoy the fruits of that growth in all of the communities.” A pedestrian-only party happens on the bridge on June 14. It opens to traffic June 16.

Above, the Golden Ears Bridge under construction in April 2008 (Rob Newell photo). At the top of the page, a TransLink rendering shows what the bridge should look like once it is completed.


14 • New Local Home | May 28, 2009

coffee with...

Face(s) of Surrey growing, changing Official Community Plan is a canvas of future growth and development in the burgeoning city KOLBY SOLINSKY If Chicago is the “City of Broad Shoulders,” Los Angeles is the “City of Angels” and Philadelphia is the “City of Brotherly Love,” then maybe Surrey is the “City of Many Faces.” After all, it is comprised of seven unique districts, stretching from the Fraser River in the north to 0 Avenue in the south, and from Delta in the west to Langley in the east. That’s the physical size of Richmond, Burnaby and Vancouver combined. South Surrey brings the beach and the border and Cloverdale offers country neighbourhood charm, while Fleetwood, Newton and Guildford’s suburbs provide a path to the downtown city centre and Whalley regions, as well as connections to Highway 1 and the Skytrain. It’s no surprise, then, that Surrey is so appealing to both new home buyers and developers. “Surrey is very attractive for young families because we’ve got lots of schools and most of

them are fairly recent or new,” says Jean Lamontagne, Surrey’s general manager of planning and development. “When you look at the demographic, it’s a very young population.” Additionally, the city is well known for it’s parks and recreation centres, including new ones city council approves on a regular basis. “When you speak with the user groups like soccer, hockey, or football [organizations], they’ll say that by far, we have the best facilities in the region,” he says. As well, Surrey’s taxes are among the region’s lowest and housing prices are affordable, which can explain a lot of its recent growth. In fact, in 25 to 30 years, it’s probable that Surrey’s population could be the largest in the province. “When you look at the affordability, the size and price of a house in Vancouver versus here in Surrey is quite a bit of difference,” Lamontagne says. “You can probably get a house with a backyard for a lot less.” Yet, as Lamontagne notes, a third of Sur-

AT

A residential neighbourhood features Japanese cherry trees in full bloom in Surrey.

rey’s land is agricultural reserve and farmland. “I think that’s something to keep and council has made sure it’s protected,” he says. “I think because of that, (it has) created communities that all have their distinctive flavour.” By relying on that outlook – which gives South Surrey the waterfront and Guildford and Fleetwood easier highway access – all roads point to diverse stock for new home buyers. And the city’s size is a large reason for this. “People can stay in Surrey by moving from one neighbourhood to another,” Lamontagne says. “The city centre is emerging as a more high-density, high-rise type of downtown and that’ll draw people with [Simon Fraser University] there.” As well, the developing Grandview Corners and Morgan Crossing area (on 24th Avenue in South Surrey) offer both new residence and shopping centres. Development continues all over the city, he

PROV I N C E T O N

says, adding that it’s impossible to nail down one or two areas of development. And the amenities seem endless. Surrey has good posting on education (with Simon Fraser University, Kwantlen University and Kwantlen Trade School), senior care facilities, bike-friendly roads, and the vibrant Surrey Arts Centre. Everything has been outlined in the city’s Official Community Plan, a statement of objectives and policies to guide development and planning decisions. “That’s the canvas of the future growth and development of the city,” says Lamontagne. “It’s changing the view of suburbia – it’s a bit more mixed-used and a bit more compact.” It’s a useful concept, considering that Surrey’s demographics are as diverse as its seven districts. Still, as the city continues to grow and develop at a rapid clip, we should expect to see its housing outlook only brighten further.


New Local Home | May 28, 2009 • 15 (1)

Squamish

(2) North Shore

(6)

Port Moody Port Coquitlam

(4)

(7-8)

(5)

Vancouver

(9) Coquitlam

(3)

(12)

(15)

(11) (14) (13) (17) (16)

(10) Burnaby/New Westminster

(33)

Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows

(34) (18)

(32) (31)

(20) (21)

(39)

(35)

(30)

(29)

Surrey

Richmond (19) North Delta

(40)

(42)

(37) (38)

(45)

(36)

(46) (47) (48)

(43) Langley

(44)

(27) (40) (24) (26) (22) (26)(23) (28) 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

Vancouver (3)Carrington Oak Street & 45th Ave. 604-266-6500

(4)Pacific UBC Westbrook Village. 604-221-8878

(5)Aura 5437 Willow Street & West 38th Ave. 604-264-6477

Port Coquitlam

(32)Turnstone

Surrey

(16)Links

14-19490 Fraser Way, Pitt Meadows

(41)Augusta at Provinceton

2418 Avon Place, Port Coquitlam. 604-460-9907

New Westminster

18199 70th Ave, 778-571-1088

Port Moody (17)Heritage Woods 300 Panorama Place, Port Moody

Richmond (18)Alexandra Gate

7445 Scott Road. 604-590-5483

16327 60th Ave. 778-574-1380

(20)Prado

(37)Radiance at Sundance

(47)Tate

No.3 Road & Lansdowne. 604-276-8180

8385 Delsom Way. 604-581-8144

18983-72A Avenue, Surrey

(21)Hennessy Green

(38)Cardinal Pointe

(48)Vista’s west

9800 Odlin. 604-303-6840

10605 Delsom Crescent, Delta

6093 - 164 Street, Surrey. 778-571-1389

(23)Glenmore at Morgan Heights

Langley

(49)Panorama Hills 15038 - 59 Avenue, Surrey. 604-543-9302

(39)Bedford Landing 23015 Billy Brown Road. 604-888-2176

(40)Seasons & Prelude at Milner Heights 208th St & 72nd Ave. 604-539-9484

161A St. & 24th Ave. 604-542-8863

(24)The Brownstones Morgan Heights. 604-538-9897

(25)Wills Creek 160th & 32nd Ave. 604-542-6200

(26)Nuvo

Coquitlam

15454 - 32 Avenue, South Surrey. 778-294-1201

(10)Levo

(27)Morgan Heights

1170 Pinetree Way & Northern Ave. 604-464-5856

26th Ave & 164th Street. 604-531-1111, 604-420-4200

(11)The Foothills

(28)Ocean Park

Burke Mountain. 604-944-3188

2026-128th Street. 604-538-2345

Victoria Drive, Coquitlam. 604-696-1502

Maple Ridge/Pitt Meadows

(13)Whitetail Lane

(29)Falcon Hill

1357 Purcell Drive. 604-552-3003

23719 Kanaka Way. 604-466-5723

(14) Belmont

(30)Crest at Silver Ridge

1456 Avondale Street. 604-461-7113

22850 Foreman Drive. 604-466-9278

(15) Burke Mountain Heights

(31)Solo

3398 Don Moore Drive, Coquitlam. 778-285-6299

11749 223rd Street. 604-467-0800

Map_pgTEMPLATE_May28 1

(45)The Highlands at Sullivan Ridge

7180 No.3 Road-Bennett. 604-270-8305

Burnaby

(12)Tatton

70th & 180th Street. 604-818-3702

(46)The Estates at Vistas West

160th & 24th Ave. 604-542-8995

9222 UniverCity Crescent. 604-298-1182

Ewen Ave & Furness St., Queensborough. 604-520-9890

(44)Woods at Provinceton

(36)Trend

(22)Highland Park

(9)Altaire

(35)Red Boat

2729-158th Street. 604-541-4246

(19)Centro

1111 E 27th Street. 604-988-8489

1960 Beta Ave. 604-205-7228

Renaissance Square @ Quayside Drive. 604-515-9112

(43)Kaleden

60A Ave & 146th Street. 604-538-2125

South Surrey-White Rock

(8)Brentwood Gate-The Varley

(34)Q at Westminster Quay

8678 156 Street. 604-591-1121

Delta

(6)Branches on the North Shore

Wilson & Beresford. 604-456-0688

McBride Ave. 604-523-0733

(42)Springfield Village

Cambie-Garden City. 604-279-8866

North Shore

(7)Jewel

(33)Victoria Hill

Single family home, Wallmark homes, Morgan Heights.

5/26/09 11:49 AM


16 • New Local Home | May 28, 2009

/< C<>@31323<B32 =>>=@BC<7BG T`][ ]\S ]T 01¸a []ab `Sa^SQbSR V][S PcWZRS`a

A75<7471/<B A/D7<5A 47</<17<5 4]` ]dS` T]c` RSQORSa bVS 0]aO \O[S VOa PSS\ ag\]\g[]ca eWbV V][Sa ]T SfQS^bW]\OZ _cOZWbg O\R dOZcS /\R abO`bW\U ;Og ! bV eWbV ]c` AWZdS` :W\W\U AOZS bVS dOZcS g]c¸ZZ ¿\R W\ O 0]aO >`]^S`bWSa V][S eWZZ PS b`cZg c\^`SQSRS\bSR

A/D3 C> B= !

0]aO>`]^S`bWSa Q][

A/D3 C> B= '#

A/D3 C> B= "

$ " #" $%

*1% mortgage payments based on 25% down, for ďŹ rst 36-months of ďŹ ve year term. Prices exclude GST, and are subject to change. Savings amounts and prices correct at press time. The Silver Lining Sale is in effect for a limited time, and may not be available to those that delay. E&OE.


Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.