April is here, and a new month brings new beginnings! Spring is the perfect time to explore our townhomes, semis, and single-family homes and find the one that’s right for you. Whether you’re looking for a move-in-ready home or planning your dream build, let this season be the start of something new. It’s time to spring forward into homeownership!
Sales Update
Spring Into a New Home This April!
Spring is here, bringing new opportunities in our communities.
We are happy to share that sold signs have been popping up in the latest phases of Harvest Run, Miller’s Pond, and Eagle Ridge. As the season of new beginnings, now is the perfect time to explore Quick Possession Homes or secure a lot to build your dream home.
Additionally, townhomes are still available with improved pricing, making it an excellent time to find the right home for you in Harvest Run.
With fresh opportunities available, now is the time to take the next step. Contact our team at contact@dougtarryhomes.com to learn more about available homes, lots, and townhomes in our vibrant communities.
Until next month...
the Sales team
Explore the possibilities Floorplan Options
Each month, we’re excited to showcase how flexible and adaptable your future home can be with us.
Customize your Northgate home to suit your lifestyle with a covered area. A covered area adds both functionality and comfort to your home, providing protection from the elements while creating a versatile outdoor space for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying the fresh air year-round.
The Northgate: Optional Covered Area
Marketing Update
As another month comes to a close, we’re reflecting on all the exciting events and milestones that took place at Doug Tarry Homes. From industry awards to community engagement, it’s been a month full of progress, recognition, and meaningful connections.
Last month, Doug, Mike, and Suzie attended the EnerQuality Building Innovation Forum + Awards, where Doug took the stage as a panel speaker, sharing insights on the future of sustainable homebuilding. While there, we were beyond proud to be named:
• ENERGY STAR® Builder of the Year (Mid-Volume)
• Net Zero Builder of the Year
These prestigious awards recognize our ongoing commitment to energy-efficient, highperformance homes that prioritize comfort, savings, and sustainability for homeowners. A huge thank you to our dedicated team and homeowners for believing in The Doug Tarry Difference and making this achievement possible!
We also hosted an Open House Blitz, showcasing a variety of our Quick Possession Homes. Despite the rainy weather, we had a fantastic turnout, and we are grateful to everyone who took the time to visit. A special thank you to Janet Vanmaanen from RBC, who was on-site to discuss Green Mortgages and how they can support energy-efficient homeownership. If you missed her, we highly recommend giving her a call to learn more!
In celebration of International Women’s Day, Suzie and Leigh attended the Women in Construction Luncheon, an inspiring event that recognized the strength, leadership, and achievements of women in the homebuilding industry.
Welcome to Our New Newsletter Subscribers! Did you enter our newsletter sign-up contest last month? Or perhaps this is the first Doug Tarry Homes newsletter you’re reading—if so, welcome!
Thank you for being part of our journey, and we can’t wait to share more with you soon!
Until next month!
the Marketing team
Quick Possession Feature of the Month
MOVE-IN-READY BUNGALOW IN ST. THOMAS
St. Thomas, ON – Doug Tarry Homes is excited to showcase this month’s Quick Possession Feature, a beautifully designed semi-detached bungalow the Easton in our Harvest Run community. With 1,200 square feet of thoughtfully planned living space, this home is ideal for those seeking comfort, convenience, and a scenic setting.
Backing directly onto a park, the bungalow offers a tranquil view and an open-concept layout designed for modern living. The kitchen is a standout feature, boasting quartz countertops, a matching backsplash, under-cabinet lighting, a walk-in pantry, and a spacious island—perfect for both everyday meals and entertaining guests.
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom home is fully finished and move-in ready, making it an excellent choice for buyers looking for a quick and hassle-free transition into a new home. Priced in the low $600,000s, this property combines quality craftsmanship with an unbeatable location.
For more information or to schedule a viewing, interested buyers can contact: Jackie DaSilva by calling 519-207-6222 or emailing jdasilva@dougtarryhomes.com
Doug Tarry Homes continues to provide high-quality, energy-efficient homes in St. Thomas, Ontario, helping buyers find the perfect place to call home.
Harvest Run
EXCITING NEW LOT RELEASE AT HARVEST RUN – NOW AVAILABLE ON HARROW LANE!
The ever-growing Harvest Run community has just unveiled its highly anticipated new phase on Harrow Lane. This latest release offers a variety of lot sizes, ranging from 36 feet to 50 feet, with several pie-shaped lots providing extra space and privacy. Plus, some of these premium lots back onto Centennial Road and come complete with a wood fence along the backyard.
This phase will feature a stunning selection of single-family homes and semi-detached homes, with prices starting from the low $600s and up. Whether you’re a growing family, a first-time buyer, or looking for a beautiful space to settle into, Harvest Run has options to suit your lifestyle.
Ready to build your dream home? Contact Jackie at 519-207-6222 or via email at jdasilva@dougtarryhomes.com to learn more about these new opportunities. Don’t miss out on securing your perfect lot at Harvest Run!
Avenue Collection
EXCITING NEW SEMI-DETACHED HOMES NOW AVAILABLE ON MANOR ROAD
Looking for the perfect blend of style, comfort, and convenience? Doug Tarry Homes is thrilled to announce the release of beautiful new semi-detached homes on Manor Road, priced in the low $600s.
These thoughtfully designed Elmwood models check all the boxes with:
• 3 spacious bedrooms
• 2.5 bathrooms
• A luxurious primary suite featuring a walk-in closet and a private ensuite
• An inviting open-concept layout perfect for modern living and entertaining
Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer, growing your family, or looking to downsize without compromise, these homes offer everything you need — and more!
Interested in learning more? Contact Jackie today at 519-207-6222 or via email at jdasilva@dougtarryhomes.com for additional details. Don’t miss your chance to secure one of these stunning homes on Manor Road! Your dream home is just a call or email away!
Eagle Ridge
HAWK’S GATE NOW SELLING
The wait is over – beautiful new building lots available along Hawk’s Gate in the countrylike setting of our Eagle Ridge development. Offering 45ft, 50ft, 55ft and 60ft lots.
Looking for extra garage space? We have building lots that can accommodate a storage bump out in the garage, or a full 3-car garage on some floor plans.
Let’s chat about a new build in our beautiful Eagle Ridge development. Call Cathy Fox or Andy O’Reilly today for more details 519-266-4561 or stop in to our model home at 1 Firefly Lane.
Eagle Ridge
Sold signs are already popping up on Hawk’s Gate!
Every detail matters in our new home construction. Check out this electrical panel on Firefly Lane!!
Why You Should Buy a New Home in Canada Before Tariffs Increase Costs
With rising tariffs on construction materials looming, buying a new home in Canada now could save you thousands of dollars. Many homebuyers delay their purchase in hopes of better deals, but waiting too long could mean significantly higher prices. Here’s why acting now is a smart financial move.
1. Tariffs Will Increase Construction Costs The Canadian government has been considering and implementing tariffs on imported construction materials like steel, aluminum, and lumber. These tariffs are meant to protect domestic industries, but they also drive up the cost of building new homes. As a result, homebuilders will pass these costs onto buyers, leading to higher prices for newly constructed homes.
2. Home Prices Are Already Rising The Canadian real estate market has been experiencing steady price increases, particularly in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. Factors such as demand outpacing supply and increasing land costs are already pushing prices up. When you add in tariff-induced construction costs, the price of a new home could skyrocket.
3. Mortgage Rates Could Increase The Bank of Canada adjusts interest rates based on economic conditions. If inflation continues to rise due to tariffs and supply chain issues, mortgage rates may follow suit. Higher mortgage rates mean higher monthly payments and increased long-term costs for buyers.
4. Limited Inventory of New Homes Many builders are already facing delays due to material shortages, supply chain disruptions, and labor issues. As costs increase, some developers may reduce the number of new homes being built. Lower inventory means more competition for available properties, further driving up prices.
5. Lock in Pre-Tariff Pricing Purchasing a home now allows you to lock in today’s prices before tariffs take full effect. Many builders offer pre-construction pricing, meaning you can secure a home at a lower cost before new taxes and material price increases are factored in.
Conclusion There is no time better than NOW to Purchase a Doug Tarry Home. With rising home prices, potential mortgage rate increases, and limited inventory, waiting too long could mean paying significantly more. If you’re considering a home purchase, now is the time to act before the market shifts even further.
Miller’s Pond
As we welcome the month of April, we’re not just excited about the season change, but also the much-anticipated spring market! Did you know that April is named after the Latin word “aperire,” which means “to open,” symbolizing the opening of flowers and new opportunities? It’s the perfect time to consider a new home as the world around us begins to bloom!
Did you know you can find Net Zero Ready and ENERGY STAR labels in all our homes! These stickers are a symbol of energy efficiency and sustainability, ensuring a home that's not only comfortable but also environmentally responsible. We're proud to deliver a home that helps reduce energy costs and supports a greener future.
2025 St. Thomas Home Show
I am excited for my first St. Thomas Home Show which will take place from April 11th-13th at the Joe Thornton Community Centre. It was so much fun to take part in the Lifestyle Home in London earlier this year and encourage you all to come out and visit us!!
Miller’s Pond
Exciting New Semi-Detached Plans Coming to Miller’s Pond!
We’re thrilled to announce two incredible semi-detached plans coming soon to Miller’s Pond: The Kensington and The Elmwood! These homes offer exceptional value and are designed with both style and functionality in mind, making them the perfect fit for a variety of lifestyles.
The Kensington – a charming 1,290 sq. ft. 2-storey semi-detached! The main floor features an open dining area and kitchen with a convenient breakfast bar, flowing seamlessly into a spacious great room ideal for family gatherings. Upstairs, you’ll find three cozy bedrooms and a full bath, offering the perfect layout for everyday living.
Miller’s Pond
The Elmwood – a stunning 1,520 sq. ft., 2-storey semi-detached! The main floor greets you with a welcoming foyer leading into a powder room, followed by an open-concept dining area, kitchen, and a spacious great room. Large windows fill the space with natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere. Upstairs, you’ll find three bedrooms, including a master suite with an ensuite bath, as well as a full bath to service the other rooms.
Miller’s Pond
Excitement is building as lots in Millers Pond are filling up fast! Here’s one happy homeowner marking her lot as SOLD!
But don’t worry—there are still some fantastic lots available!
Pop into the model home and let’s chat about your next home!!
Take Me Out To The Ball Game!!!
I am excited for what we all expect to be a very active Spring Market in Miller’s Pond. I am also excited for…baseball season!! I am fortunate enough to still play myself and look forward to seeing all the action over at the Doug Tarry Sports Complex just across the road from Miller’s Pond.
Did you also know the earliest record of a baseball game being played in St. Thomas, Ontario dates back to1869. A place called “The Diamond at Pinafore Park” opened in 1898, making it one of the oldest ballfields in Canada. In the 1950s, the ballpark was named after Bob Emslie, a former major league player-turned umpire. Currently the home of the St. Thomas Tomcats and the St. Thomas Cardinals, I would encourage you go check this beautiful piece of history right here in St. Thomas.
Lake Margaret Estates SOLD
Own in Lake Margaret Estates!
56 Hickory Lane – $769,495
Introducing the Stonehaven – a stunning 1,937 sq ft, two-story home that combines modern design with ultimate convenience.
Key Features:
• 3 spacious bedrooms
• 2.5 beautifully designed bathrooms
• Master suite on the main floor for easy access
• Main floor laundry for added convenience
• Open-concept kitchen, dining, and great room – perfect for entertaining
• 2-car garage for all your storage and parking needs
• Located in the highly sought-after Lake Margaret Estates
Don’t miss out on your opportunity to own the last home in this highly acclaimed community.
Contact Drew Caspi 519-207-3066 or dcaspi@dougtarryhomes.com
New Elevations!
Doug Tarry Homes continues to expand our offerings with new elevations designed for modern living! We’re excited to introduce the Danbridge B and Edenbrook B, two stunning additions that bring fresh design and thoughtful features to our home collection. If you like what you see, reach out to our sales team to learn more about these new options and find the perfect fit for your future home.
THE Danbridge B
THE Edenbrook B
Careers
Doug Tarry Homes has earned a national reputation for crafting award-winning, energy-efficient homes. As a forward-thinking organization, we’re constantly pushing the boundaries of high-performance sustainability in the industry. To continue our growth and success, we’re seeking individuals who share our passion for sustainability and innovation to join our workforce.
When you become part of the Doug Tarry Homes team, you’ll enjoy competitive compensation packages that include bonuses, health and dental benefits, a wellness spending account, and opportunities for professional development. We believe in investing in our employees and supporting their growth.
Explore the exciting job opportunities we have available below, or visit our website for more detailed information. If you’re ready to be part of a dynamic team that’s at the forefront of sustainability and energy efficiency, apply today by sending your application to hr@dougtarryhomes.com . Your future with Doug Tarry Homes awaits!
Visit our website for more information on these job opportunities.
Abode Business Development Associate
Upcoming Events
Sportscard Sale, Trade, and Buy
April 5, 2025
There will be 30 tables of sports cards of all types! Join in on this event hosted by Frankie’s Sportscards & Fan of the Sport. Fun door prizes and FREE coffee & baked goods
$3 admission per person - children under 16 free Fundraiser: Proceeds to Our Place Respite
Organizer: Central United Church 135 Wellington Street, St. Thomas, ON
Easter Vendor Market
April 12, 2025
Easter Vendor Market
Come and check out the 30+ local artists and vendors, as The Creative Hub hosts an Easter Vendor Market!
Be sure to stop by with some family and friends!
Location: St. Anne’s Centre 20 Morrison Drive, St. Thomas, ON
St. Thomas Home Show
April 11-13, 2025
We look forward to welcoming you to this year’s Home Show where you can see an incredible selection of exhibitors. There will be something for everyone. Enjoy a coupon for a free Wendy’s burger and a bag of fresh popcorn.
Location: Joe Thornton Community Centre 75 Caso Crossing, St. Thomas, ON
St. Thomas Kinsmen
Easter Egg Hunt
April 19, 2025
9:30 the Easter Bunnies arrive for photos, and 10am sharp the hunt begins. 3 areas for 3 age groups will be announced before the hunt, and the Kinsmen will spread 750lbs of Chocolate eggs for the kids to find! Be in the park by 9:30 to get parking and to the main pavilion, as the hunt is done in minutes, so if your late, there is t anything left!
Location: Pinafore Park 95 Elm Street, St. Thomas, ON
Featured Small Business Meet Our Team
Owen Hardy Marketing Assistant
• I was born and raised in St. Thomas and the youngest of 4 siblings
Welcome to The Court House, a premier indoor pickleball facility, featuring six professional grade pickleball courts, a fully equipped bar & lounge, and a swag shop filled with exclusive Court House merch and equipment.
Location: 115 Dennis Road, Unit 1, St. Thomas
Call: 226-546-2516
Web: www.courthousepickleball.ca/
• I like to watch sports with family and friends
• I enjoy eating out with friends
Community Partner
KIELSTRA SIDING & WINDOWS
Office 519-631-1012
Email: info@kielstra.ca
Address: 43296 Southdale Line, St Thomas, ON N5R 6G1
Since 1963, Kielstra Siding & Windows has been a local, family-owned business serving St. Thomas and surrounding areas. Trusted by both your neighbors and by local builders, Kielstra Siding & Windows is the preferred source for reliable, professional installation of quality siding, eavestrough, windows, and doors.
Decor Trends
Colour temperature refers to the colour of light, which is scientifically measured by the temperature at which a material emits radiation matching the color of a specific object. Traditional lightbulbs produce light by heating a wire, while LEDs generate light by exciting a material with electricity. The material used in LEDs affects the color of the light, and LEDs also have a CRI (Colour Rendering Index), which shows how accurately they display colors. Most LEDs have a CRI between 80 and 90, making them better for indoor use compared to fluorescent lights, which have a lower CRI.
Natural light changes throughout the day, shifting from warm to cool and back to warm. This pattern helps regulate our circadian rhythm, our internal body clock. Light influences our mood and energy levels by triggering hormone release. We feel most alert during bright sunlight, and as the sun sets, our bodies begin to relax. Artificial light that mimics the sun’s changes can improve our well-being.
Warm light helps us relax, as our bodies associate it with the evening. Cool light signals daytime and encourages activity. When selecting light, it’s important to match the color to the space’s use. For focused tasks, use light in the 3500K to 4100K range, similar to daylight. For relaxing, choose light in the 2000K-3000K range, like sunset or candlelight. For spaces with mixed uses, adjust the light to match the sun’s natural shifts throughout the day.
Cool White light (5000K and above) creates a bright, focused atmosphere with a bluish tint, often used in warehouses and industrial spaces. Bright White (5000K) is vibrant, while Daylight White (6500K) mimics natural daylight, perfect for art studios and large spaces. Neutral White (3500K–5000K) enhances colors and is often used in retail, offices, and showrooms for a balanced feel. Warm White light (below 3500K) adds an amber tone, making spaces feel cozy and inviting, commonly found in homes and restaurants. Soft White (3000K) is often used in bathrooms and kitchens for a relaxing ambiance.
To match natural daylight, lights in the 3500K to 4100K range are ideal during the day, while 3000K offers a warmer feel in the evening.
Warm regards,
Home Designer Team
Do Net Zero Homes Save You Money?
CHBA ASKED US HOW BUILDERS AND HOMEOWNERS CAN OPTIMIZE THE FINANCIAL
COST OF A NET ZERO HOME. HERE’S A SNIPPET OF THE ARTICLE...
As the effects of climate change redefine how we think about our energy consumption, more home buyers and homeowners are prioritizing home energy efficiency by purchasing a Net Zero Home or renovating their home to Net Zero. But for those who are still exploring their options, a major question asked by customers is: Can a Net Zero Home really be cost-effective for the average buyer?
Misconceptions about the cost of a Net Zero Home Many Canadians still believe that Net Zero Homes are a luxury. And yes, like many new products and advancements, at first, they were much more expensive than homes that just meet the building code. But as technology has developed and building science knowledge has become more widespread with more builders voluntarily adopting energy efficient building practices, Net Zero Homes are increasingly becoming more affordable. The initial investment into a Net Zero Home pays off in lower utility bills, greater comfort, healthier living, and a higher quality lifestyle.
Doug Tarry Homes pointed out, with a Net Zero Home’s added durability and resilience, you save significant money on maintenance costs, while improving the value of your home compared to code-built homes – which also gives it an added advantage in the market when you sell your property.
Overall, while you might spend more upfront for a Net Zero Home, the benefits will outweigh the costs over the long-term both through lower utility bills and maintenance costs and through healthier, more comfortable living.
Designers Corner
THE DESIGN TEAM WAS HARD AT WORK AND ARE EXCITED TO SHARE WITH YOU THE NEWEST CORNER LOT PLAN, THE DRIFTWOOD!
This 2 storey home totals 1702 square feet and was designed for families looking for more comfort in a modern home. This model offers 4 bedrooms, with the Master Bedroom on the first floor, and 2 bathrooms, providing living space for all members of the household. The garage being next to the home yet still attached, allows for a larger living space and a unique front elevation design that we’ve never offered before. Another new feature is the laundry/mudroom being on the main floor next to the garage, which provides functionality in families daily lives. The Driftwood plan is an invitation to experience a relaxed lifestyle in a house designed exclusively for our corner lots.
Warm regards, the Home Designer Team
Home Tight
DID YOU KNOW???
Home Tight’s sealant is GreenGuard Gold Certified – guaranteeing Ultra-Low Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) and is completely safe for schools, hospitals, and your home.
GreenGuard is a standard from UL Environment, an independent institution that scientifically measures environmentally safe indoor air quality, and strives to, “…protect human health and quality of life by establishing standards and certification programs to reduce exposure to chemicals and to improve indoor air quality.” The standards used during the tests are some of the most stringent standards in the world, using national and international standards.*
Aerobarrier is a safe and effective way to make your homes more energy efficient! Find out more at hometight.ca
Living in a thoughtfully planned neighbourhood with great amenities near by? No thank you. The whole “neighbourhood support” thing is so overrated. Why bother with friendly neighbours or local events when you can enjoy the silence of isolation? Who needs meaningful connections, or a community surrounded by nature? A little loneliness never hurt anyone anyways.
Recipe of the Month
Fried Fish with Tartar Sauce
SAUCE INGREDIENTS:
1 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup sweet pickle relish
4-1/2 teaspoons lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
Directions
FISH INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons lemon-pep per seasoning
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- Lemon wedges
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley 1-1/2 cups ice water
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
Oil for deep-fat frying
- 2 pounds walleye fillets, cut into 6 pieces
1. In a small bowl, combine sauce ingredients; cover and refrigerate until serving.
2. For fish, in a shallow bowl, combine flour, lemon pepper, baking powder, garlic salt and parsley flakes. Combine ice water and 2 tablespoons oil; whisk into dry ingredients just until smooth.
3. In an electric skillet or deep fryer, heat oil to 375°. Dip fillets in batter, turning to coat; allow excess batter to drip off. Fry fillets, a few at a time, until golden brown and fish just begins to flake easily with a fork, 5-7 minutes on each side. Drain on paper towels. Serve with sauce and lemon.
Recipe courtesy of Taste of Home
A message from our President
BUYING LOCAL
There’s been a lot of talk lately about the ongoing trade war and what it could mean for our industry. While we are certainly keeping an eye on the overall effects and especially how it may impact jobs across the board, here at Doug Tarry Homes, our philosophy has always remained the same: buy local wherever and whenever we can.
Part of the reason for that is simple. The factory worker in China, who may very well be a good, hardworking person isn’t likely to buy a home from Doug Tarry Homes. But the person working at the Masco plant making the Delta faucets we use? They might already live in one of our homes, or they may be a future homeowner. That connection matters.
When we support local manufacturers and suppliers, we’re doing more than just placing an order. We are helping to strengthen the economy right here at home. Every dollar spent locally helps sustain jobs, families, and the overall well-being of our community.
With that said, that’s not to say we don’t consider pricing. We absolutely do. Products must be reasonably priced and competitive, as we owe that to our homeowners and to the business itself. But where all things are equal, or even close, we will always lean toward supporting those who support us.
For us, it’s not just about building homes—it’s about building a stronger, more connected community.
