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A POSITIVE OUTLOOK
PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
EDITOR
New Home + Condo Guide
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Heart-pounding excitement and heartbreak - June had been a wild roller coaster ride for the city, with the Edmonton Oilers’ stirring Stanley Cup Finals run! Although it was a disappointing end to the hunt, the one thing that is undeniable is that the saga of the 2025 NHL season brought a lot of eyes to the city and how it celebrated as a community, how passionate its fans are, and how it’s a place one would be proud to call home.
But that’s not all that’s bringing more people to Edmonton and the rest of Alberta. A strong economy, and relatively affordable housing continue to attract a record-number of immigrants from other provinces and abroad. At least in that regard, Edmonton continues to top the rest of the country.
Daytona Homes, for one, is thriving in this hot market as their line of stylishly functional homes continue to attract. Even better is the package they can offer their buyers in developing legal secondary suites. In the cover story inside, Daytona Homes outlines what exactly this extra living space can mean to you.
Next, we have a feature that can guide new homebuyers in choosing between a buying a pre-sale home or a quickpossession one. Industry experts tell us what to expect when choosing one over the other, and like anything in life, timing is everything. Then we explore the city of Beaumont and see why it’s one of the fastest growing municipalities in the province. We also talk with land developers to see how they create appealing streetscapes in today’s new communities.
Spring has certainly been exciting in Edmonton, whether you’re a hockey fan or a new homebuyer, the city has a lot to offer. And for the latter, we are truly the best guide out there.
See you in the showhomes.
+ How residents benefit from sculpted streetscapes.
Page 28
+ get social Interact with us on social media: nexthome
Homes, Kimberley CustomBuilt, Pacesetter Homes, Parkwood Master Builder, San Rufo Homes
Location: SW corner of Whitemud Dr. & Guardian Rd.
10. SECORD
By: Hopewell Residential Communities
Builders: Daytona Homes Master Builder, Innovations by Jayman, Jayman MasterBUILT, Prominent Homes, Hopewell Residential, Streetside
Location: North of Whitemud Drive on 215 Street
11. STEWART GREENS
By: TROIKA
Builders: Daytona Homes, City Homes, Kirkland Homes
Location: Bounded on the east by Anthony Henday Drive and on the north by Stony Plain Road
12. ROSENTHAL
By: Melcor Developments Ltd.
Builders: Akash Homes, Homes by Avi, Landmark
1. THE CALIFORNIAN PARKLAND
By: Abbey Lane Homes
Location: 2035 Grantham Crt.
2. GROVENOR MANOR
By: Pelham Master Builder
Location: 10126 - 144 St.
3. SECORD CHALET
By: Hopewell Residential Communities
Location: 5 - 320 Secord Blvd.
4. VIP AT CALIFORNIAN PARKLAND
By: Abbey Lane Homes
Location: 2035 Granthan Crt.
5. STAFFORD GREENS (STAFFORD GREENS II COMING SOON)
By: Alldritt Properties
Location: 7508 Getty Gate
Legacy Homes, Cantiro Homes, Pacesetter Homes, San Rufo Homes, Streetside
Location: 215 Street & Whitemud
13. RIVERS EDGE
By: Christenson Group
Location: 3090 Cameron Heights Way
14. JADE
By: Carrington Communities
Location: 1008 Rosenthal Blvd.
15. WOODHAVEN EDGEMONT
By: Rohit Land Development
Builders: ART Homes, Blackstone Homes, Gill Built Homes, Super Tec Homes
Location: South on 199 Street, west on Edgemont Blvd
16. STILLWATER
By: Mattamy Homes
6. WEBBER GREENS
By: Melcor Developments Ltd.
Builders: Bedrock Homes, Landmark Homes, Lincolnberg Master Builder, Fekete Homes, Canyon Spring Homes Location: 96 Ave & 206 Street
7. THE UPLANDS AT RIVERVIEW
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Coventry Homes, Daytona Homes, Homes by Avi, Jayman BUILT, Kimberley Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Sterling Homes, Streetside Developments, Akash Homes, Victory Homes, Parkwood Homes, Homes by Saga and Park Royal Homes Location: 199 St. & 27 Ave.
8. THE PROPERTIES OF DONSDALE
By: Alldritt Land Corporation LP
Builders: Open Location: 178 Street south to Lessard Road, turn on Danbury Boulevard
Location: 2110 199 Street
17. EDGEMONT PLACE
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Akash Homes, Rohit Homes, Sterling Homes, and StreetSide Developments
Location: Lessard Road & 202 Street
18. CAMERON HEIGHTS
Builders: Marcson Homes
19. RIVERS EDGE
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Parkwood Master Builder, Look Master
Builder, Landmark Homes, Homes by Avi, Sterling, Pacesetter, Coventry, Jayman BUILT, Impact Homes and StreetSide Developments
Unlocking the full potential of a home is what every homebuyer wants, and with Daytona Homes, making that dream a reality is always the goal.
From functional floorplans designed with the homeowner in mind to sleek, stylish finishes and income-generating secondary suites, Daytona Homes delivers it all. With more than 30 years in the industry, Daytona has earned a reputation for providing both value and comfort.
Daytona Homes is attuned to the needs of Alberta’s housing market, particularly in Edmonton,
where demand for secondary suites continues to grow. It’s a need Daytona is well prepared to meet.
“Secondary suites are more important than ever in today’s housing landscape,” says Jill Williams, Business Development Manager at Tacada, Daytona Homes’ parent company.
“With rising home prices, interest rates, and living costs, legal rental suites offer homeowners a practical way to offset mortgage payments and make homeownership more attainable.”
ADDING VALUE
A legal secondary suite helps maximize the full potential of the home. “Whether it’s generating monthly rental income, housing extended family, or increasing the long-term value of your property, a secondary suite adds both financial flexibility and future resale appeal,” says Williams. “For many of our buyers, it’s a strategic investment that turns their home into a wealth-building asset from day one.”
The City of Edmonton defines a secondary suite as a separate dwelling located within a single-
attached, single-detached, semidetached, backyard house or row house. It must include its own living room, kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom, and have a separate entrance, either from a shared indoor landing or directly from outside.
Daytona Homes builds beautiful legal secondary suites that meet code and provide a safe, stylish, and functional second home within the home.
DEMAND SURGE
Karen Pacheco, a mortgage broker at Mortgage Architects, says she has seen a growing demand for secondary suites.
“There is definitely a strong demand for secondary suites in Edmonton. Buyers are realizing they can increase their home’s value and significantly reduce their mortgage payments by renting out a legal suite,” Pacheco says.
She recommends considering suite development during the initial home build, or at minimum, having utility roughins added. “It’s best to have the secondary suite done by your
builder to ensure that everything meets code.”
That’s a service that Daytona Homes is happy to provide.
“At Daytona Homes Edmonton, we offer legal basement suites in select new builds — fully selfcontained units with their own kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces,” Williams says.
“While most clients opt for a legal basement suite, we also offer above-garage suites, and some homeowners choose to include both to maximize rental potential. Our goal is to provide flexible, functional options that meet the needs of today’s homeowners and real estate investors.”
COST FACTORS
Depending on the size, the cost of adding a legal basement suite to a new Daytona build typically starts around $65,000, Williams explains.
“For homeowners looking for a more private rental option, we also offer over-the-garage suites. While they require a larger investment, garage suites offer the benefit of no shared walls between the homeowner and the tenant, which adds privacy and appeal.”
Garage suites have proven popular in communities like Alces, where Daytona builds laned homes with detached garages that can accommodate suites above.
Pacheco adds that depending on whether the suite has one or two bedrooms, homeowners can typically charge between $1,100 to $1,500 in rent. “That’s a sizeable portion of your mortgage. For example, a $780,000 home may carry a $3,500 monthly mortgage payment, and renting out a legal suite can substantially reduce that amount.”
SHOWHOMES YOU SHOULD SEE
Most of Daytona Homes’ showhomes in Edmonton include developed secondary suites to showcase the home’s full potential. Notable examples include the Tahoe IV in Crystallina
Nera (northeast Edmonton) and the Macan in The Uplands at Riverview (west Edmonton). The Tiguan II showhome in Rosemont, also in the west end, features an over-the-garage suite.
“These suites typically range from 500 to 700 square feet and include one or two bedrooms, a full kitchen, bathroom, living and dining area, and in-suite laundry. Each basement suite is built with a separate entrance that leads directly to the basement,” says Williams.
“These models are ideal for those looking to generate rental income or create flexible living solutions in Edmonton’s growing and sought-after communities.”
WIDER AVAILABILITY
It’s now easier than ever to find Daytona Homes in Edmonton, especially with their continued expansion into new communities like Alces in southeast Edmonton.
“This year, we’re expanding into new communities, launching innovative models, and continuing to offer flexible floorplans and move-in ready homes. Daytona Homes is here to help more Edmonton families find their perfect home at the right time and the right price,” says Colin Wilson, Sales Manager at Daytona Homes.
DAYTONA HOMES IS CURRENTLY BUILDING IN THE FOLLOWING COMMUNITIES:
• West Edmonton: Edgemont, Ellis Greens, Rosemont, The Uplands at Riverview
Builders: Coventry Homes, Concept Homes, Homes by Avi, Impact Homes, Pacesetter Homes, SlokkerWest, Carrington Condos
Location: 137 Avenue North on 97 St. West on Griesbach Road
9. KINGLET GARDENS
By: Rohit Land Development
Builders: ART Homes, Blackstone Homes, Rohit Communities, Victory Homes
Location: Northwest corner of Yellowhead Trail & 215 Street
3. THE CONNAUGHT AT GRIESBACH
By: Cassel Properties Ltd.
Location: #110, 560 Griesbach Parade NW, access off Valour Way NW.
#InsideEdmonton
by SALINA YARA HALABI Edmonton
WHAT’S HAPPENING
On June 14, Cantiro Homes hosted a Sunlit Search Open House event where visitors were invited to experience the thoughtful design of their Family Flow 24 showhome in the community of Castlebrook. This showhome is a part of Cantiro’s Life Collection, which features homes that have been designed with people’s unique lifestyles at the centre of every decision. The event provided an opportunity for home buyers to envision life in Castlebrook — a mature, family-oriented community perfectly situated near 97th Street and the Anthony Henday. With Cantiro Homes in Castlebrook now 75 per cent sold out, this is the perfect time to secure a home in this established community. To learn more visit cantiro.ca
Get Your Festival Fix
1
Whether you’re in it for the rides, the entertainment, the food, or the fireworks, this summer’s events are serving up nonstop fun for families, friends, and everyone in between.
Edmonton International Street Performers Festival
From July 4 -13, The International Street Performers Festival is set to take over Churchill Square! Featuring incredible local, national and international street performers, this vibrant event brings a variety of performances including comedy, music, and a variety of mesmerizing performances for attendees to experience.
2
Taste of Edmonton
Western Canada’s largest outdoor food festival is back from July 17-27! Satisfy your cravings and celebrate 41 years of indulging in Edmonton’s delicious restaurants and food trucks. It’s a festival of culinary delights and spectacular sips, paired with live music going on all day and night!
3
Great Outdoors Comedy Festival
From July 18 to 20, Edmonton’s Kinsmen Park becomes the ultimate comedy destination. The Great Outdoors Comedy Festival features a powerhouse mix of household names and fresh local acts, delivering non-stop laughs over three unforgettable nights.
4 K-Days
Experience Edmonton’s most anticipated summer festival from July 18 to 27 at the Edmonton EXPO Centre & Exhibition Grounds. You’ll find exciting attractions for all ages here – thrilling rides, live music, tasty Midway treats, and nightly fireworks that light up the summer sky (always a crowd favourite!).
CANTIRO HOMES 75% SOLD OUT IN CASTLEBROOK
DID YOU KNOW?
The Freewill Shakespeare Festival is on until July 20 at the Louise McKinney Riverfront Park! Tickets and details at freewillshakespeare.com
Blatchford
On Saturday, June 21, the city’s most talked-about sustainable neighbourhood hosted their Blatchford Block Party, welcoming new home seekers, families, and curious Edmontonians for an afternoon of discovery. Visitors strolled through beautifully crafted showhomes by Encore Master Builder, Landmark Homes, StreetSide, and NX Build, each one offering a peek at what it means to live in a community designed for sustainability from the ground up. Think thoughtful architecture, highefficiency features, and spaces that feel modern, functional, and connected. A guided community tour kicked off at 1 p.m., giving guests the inside scoop on what
Élan in Beaumont
The community of Élan marked the arrival of summer with its Summer Solstice Festival on Saturday, June 21 – featuring a lively afternoon that brought together families, friends, and future homeowners for a celebration of the season in the heart of Parc Réunis. Guests were encouraged to bring their picnic blankets and lawn chairs, and enjoy the park’s open green spaces, and a live DJ kept the summer vibes going, setting the tone for an afternoon filled with community spirit and easygoing fun. At the center of the action was the festival passport challenge – a creative way to explore showhomes by Cantiro Homes, Crystal Creek Homes, Homes by Avi, Hopewell Residential, and Sher-Bilt. Guests
makes Blatchford tick – from energy-efficient systems to a neighbourhood layout that puts people first. In true block party fashion, there was great food and good vibes! Food trucks Drift and Love, Molly kept appetites satisfied, and the EPCOR “Glass of the Sask” water truck reminded everyone to hydrate. Live music from Lindsey Walker and Kootenay Pass added the perfect soundtrack to the day, while little ones enjoyed face painting and inflatable games. The Blatchford Block Party felt like a glimpse into what city living could be –more connected, more conscious, and a lot more fun! Learn more at blatchfordedmonton.ca
who collected a stamp from each home were entered into a draw for a Yeti ROADIE ® cooler – the perfect summer companion!
There was plenty to enjoy for all ages, with face paintin, balloon art, crêpes and frozen treats from Yelo’d Ice Cream. The festival also gave visitors a chance to appreciate what makes Elan and Beaumont so unique. With its blend of FrancoAlbertan charm and proximity
to Edmonton, the community offers the best of convenient city living and small-town comforts. And right in the heart of it, Parc Réunis stands out with features like free community Wi-Fi, made possible through a partnership with TELUS – just one example of the thoughtful amenities designed to support connection and community. Discover more about the community at myelan.ca
NORTHEAST
7. MANNING VILLAGE
By: Cameron Communities
Builders: Cameron Homes, Kanvi Homes, Park Royal Homes, Lincolnberg Homes, Sterling Homes
Location: Manning Drive and 153 Avenue
8. M cCONACHIE CROSSING
By: Maclab Development Group
Builders: Conna Master Builder, Pacesetter Homes, Sangam Homes, Finesse Homes
By: Carrington Communities
Location: 142 Ebbers Blvd. NW.
By: Genstar Development Co.
1. ELEMENTS MANNING
2. CRYSTALLINA NERA
Builders: Coventry Homes, Daytona Homes, Akash Homes
Location: 82 Street & 175 Avenue (Crystallina Nera Drive)
Builders: Bedrock Homes, Excel Homes, Pacesetter Homes
Location: North on 82nd Street and 180th Avenue
Builders: Bedrock Homes, Coventry Homes, Homes by Avi, Jayman BUILT, Morrison Homes, Lyonsdale
Homes
Location: 178 Avenue & Meridian Street NW
BEAUMONT
1. DANSEREAU MEADOWS
By: Anthem Properties
Builders: Anthem, Montorio Homes, and Park Royal Homes
Location: West of 50 St., take Rue Montalet to 60 Ave.
2. RUISSEAU
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Look Master Builder, Cranston Master Builder and Victory Homes
Location: 46 Ave & 66 Street
3. ELAN
By: Dream
Builders: Cantiro Homes, Crystal Creek Homes, Homes by Avi
LEDUC
1. MEADOWVIEW
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Cranston Homes, Victory Homes, and Art Homes
Location: HWY 2A and Pioneer Road
2. WOODBEND
By: Carrington Land Developments LTD
Builders: Alquinn Homes, Bedrock Homes, Coventry Homes
Location: 798V+W2 Leduc, AB
3. SOUTHFORK
By: Tamani Communities
Builders: Homes by Avi
Location: Highway 2A & 50th Street
4. ROBINSON
By: Cantiro Communities
Builders: Bedrock Homes,
Location: South of Rolly View Rd. on C.W. Gaetz Dr.
5. WEST HAVEN PARK
By: Melcor Developments Ltd.
Builders: Encore Master Builder, Homexx Corp.
Location: West on 50th Ave., South on West Haven Blvd.
6. BLACK STONE
By: Maclab Development Group, Cameron Communities
Builders: Cranston Homes, Caliber Master Builder, Look Master Builder, Lincolnberg, Prominent Homes Edmonton, Triumph Fine Homes, and Marcson
Location: Grant MacEwan
& 38
BEAUMONT BLENDING
Behind the easy-going, idyllic charm of Beaumont lies a secret – it is one of the fastest growing municipalities in the country. And with all the new residential developments providing more new home opportunities, it will likely remain so into the future.
Beaumont, just a short drive south of Edmonton, is the fastest growing municipality in the Edmonton metropolitan region with a population of over 21,000 as of 2022, showing a nearly 20 per cent jump between 2016 and 2021. This makes Beaumont the third-fastest growing municipality in all of Alberta, below only Cochrane and Airdrie.
Despite its explosive growth, Beaumont retains an undeniable charm that is enriched by its unique history as a FrenchCanadian colonial town.
BIG CITY AMENITIES AND RURAL CHARM IN
by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
Beaumont began in the 1890s as a tiny, 10-acre French colony. It still embraces this unique heritage, with the downtown area reminiscent of a postcard-perfect French village with brick pathways and historic buildings.
Today, Beaumont is one of Alberta’s four official bilingual municipalities. Some locals speak French as their first language, local schools offer bilingual education, and even the street signs are in French.
Beaumont oozes with small-town charm. There’s an abundance of walking trails, playgrounds, local restaurants, schools, and new construction and well-established homes.
A GOOD PLACE TO CALL HOME
Beaumont, Alberta, is an enticing place to call home. Straddling
small-town charm and big city convenience, it’s a close-knit community that offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes newcomers feel like they belong. Furthermore, the city is known for its friendly residents, who value community spirit and create a hospitable environment for both families and individuals.
Besides its small-town spirit, there’s also its awesome amenities. The city government says it is committed to providing a high standard of living, and this is evident in its wide array of facilities and services in town.
The local shops and restaurants enhance the quality of life with their unique offerings and personalized service, making every visit a delightful experience. There are plenty of outdoor opportunities to live an active,
City of Beaumont
healthy lifestyle in the city’s numerous parks and open spaces.
Also of note is the city’s robust infrastructure, including reliable public transportation and wellmaintained roads.
Those looking to start a new life here will be encouraged by the varied housing options offered, as well as the growing number of new communities that all offer a good quality of life that only Beaumont can offer.
BEAUMONT TODAY
Today, new residents have fallen in love with the city because its outdoor lifestyle is as alluring as the scenery. The town has over 250 acres of parklands, a dozen baseball diamonds, over a dozen soccer fields, outdoor rinks, inline rinks volleyball courts outdoor basketball courts and winding paths between most of them, finding these active areas is as much fun as playing in them.
Growing its recreational amenities is something the City has focused on. At the heart of those efforts is the Beaumont Sport and Recreation Centre (BSRC). It is a multi-use facility located in the heart of Beaumont.
Featuring a NHL sized arena, hard court gymnasium, turf field house, aquatics centre, two-lane walking track, various multi-purpose spaces, The Arch Climbing Centre and a fitness centre expansion.
There are also a number of shopping opportunities in and around town too, including the
Montalet Shopping Centre. If you’re looking for something more unique, the Southwest Edmonton area is just 10 minutes away, as is the massive Southgate Centre.
One of the city’s best-known restaurants in town is Chartier, a Quebec French style restaurant in the centre of downtown Beaumont. Check out its very own Beaumont Smoked Meat Sandwich with its smoked and slow-cooked brisket on a soft white roll (gluten-free options available) with house-made pickled cucumbers.
NEW COMMUNITIES
New residential opportunities are coming up as well, all offering easy-living amenities and homes suited for today’s lifestyles. These include Dansereau Meadows by Anthem in the northwest; Le Reve by Redco Developments to the north; Ruisseau by Qualico Communities in the southwest, and Azur Beaumont by Avillia Developments to the west.
City of Beaumont
Élan
Élan
City of Beaumont
Élan, developed by Dream, is also located along the western edge of Beaumont. It recently won the 2024 CHBA National Awards for Best New Community.
“Élan is the culmination of over half a decade of active engagement with the local community,” says Jonathan Chan, general manager of Dream’s Edmonton Land division.
“Beaumont has such a strong identity, and it was important to us to live up to the potential of that and not just bring more Edmonton to communities outside its borders,” says Chan. “Everything from the emphasis on inviting porches to the quality of the public spaces is purpose-built for bringing residents together. We wanted to get it right.”
Élan checks all the boxes that these buyers are looking for with stylishly affordable homes from its founding builders that include Art Homes, Cantiro, Homes by Avi, Hopewell, and Sher-Bilt. Available are semi-detached (duplex), laned, and front-drive garage homes, and now also pond-backing walkout homes.
Homes vary in width and detailing along a single street to help avoid a cookie-cutter look - allowing simple, timeless styles to breath and more complex architectures to truly shine. But, as in all other Dream communities, the cohesive vision for Élan is about connections.
SOMETHING SPECIAL
To heighten the sense of connectivity, Élan’s central Parc Réunis at the heart of the community offers incredible, imaginative woodbuilt playgrounds designed to offer physical challenge and beneficial play.
Park benches and picnic tables empower people to linger and enjoy being out in the community under the shade of the pergolas. Sports courts and outdoor exercise equipment give adults more to
do while kids run around and play. And on hotter summer days, venture over to Beaumont’s Four Seasons Park, just a 6-minute drive away, and take in an afternoon at the splash park.
Dream knows it has something special in Beaumont. “Beaumont offers an escape to the hustle and bustle of city life, where
you can slow down and make the most of every moment. Exceptional trails, parks, and recreation facilities plus a charming downtown with shops, restaurants and breweries offer places for people to connect, have fun, and contribute to the positive impact in their local community,” Chan says.
City of Beaumont
Élan
Élan
1. CAVANAGH
By: Cameron Communities, Maclab Development Group, Melcor
Builders: Cameron Homes Master Builder, Excel Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Rohit Communities, Sterling Homes Location: Accessed via Ellerslie Rd. and 103A St., adjacent to Queen Elizabeth II and Gateway Blvd.
2. ALLARD
By: Anthem Properties
Builders: Caliber Master Builder, Kimberley Homes, White Eagle Homes, Parkwood Master Builder Location: Take 41 Avenue to Allard Boulevard
By: Homes by Avi, Excel Homes, Brookfield Residential, Daytona Homes Location: 2371 Chokecherry Close SW
5. CAVANAGH
SINGLE FAMILY HOMES
By: Rohit Communities
Location: 232 Cavanagh Common SW
6. THE COLLECTIONS AT CREEKWOOD
By: Delcon Creekwood
Builders: Mattamy Homes, Klair Custom Homes, First Avenue, Alquinn Homes, DKH Homes, Mill Street Homes, City Homes, Hillview Homes Location: 41 Avenue SW at 141 Street
By: Windermere Ambleside II Ltd.
7. AMBLESIDE IN WINDERMERE
Builders: Averton Homes, Triumph Homes, Open Location: Terwillegar Dr. and Anthony Henday Dr.
8. CRIMSON IN CREEKWOOD CHAPPELLE
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Sterling Homes, Pacesetter Homes, Prominent Homes
Builders: Averton Homes, Bedrock Homes, MacLachlan & Mitchell Homes
Location: Grove Drive, East of Century Road
7. JESPERDALE
By: Melcor Developments Ltd
Builders: ReidBuilt Homes, Encore Master Builder
Location: North of Grove Drive
8. STONESHIRE
By: Melcor Developments Ltd.
Builders: Canyon Springs Master Builder, Stonegate Developments, Lang Built Homes
Location: Longeview Drive & Fairway Drive
9. MCLAUGHLIN
By: Melcor Developments Ltd
Builders: Bedrock Homes, Look Homes, Pacesetter Homes Location: Westgrove Dr & McLaughlin Dr
10. GREENBURY PARK
By: Cantiro Homes
Builders: Cantiro Homes, Bedrock Homes
STONY PLAIN
1. THE BRICKYARD
By: Old Town Development Corp.
Builders: Alquinn Homes
Location: West of 50th Street & 50th Avenue
2. WESTERRA
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Coventry Homes, Sterling Homes, Alquinn and Pacesetter
Location: Westerra Drive off 48th Street
3. SILVERSTONE
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Alquinn, Coventry, Sterling, Pacesetter and Victory
Location: Silverstone Drive and 44 Avenue
4. SOUTHCREEK
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Pacesetter Homes, Alquinn Homes, Sterling and Coventry
Location: Fairway Drive & South Creek Drive
THINK QUICK:
THE LOW DOWN ON PRE-SALE AND MOVE-IN READY HOMES TRENDING
Build from scratch or move in quick in a move-in ready home, that is the question being asked by a lot of homebuyers today. Is there a difference? Not much, in the sum of things, but like everything else in life, timing is everything.
Building a pre-sale home means building from scratch where the buyer gets to choose everything from the floorplan to the finishes. In many ways, it is the ideal many homebuyers hope for, but not everyone has the time to wait for construction to finish. This is where the movein-ready or quick possession home (also called spec home) comes in, as it is probably the best option for someone on a tight timeline.
The builder spec home has been a tried-and-true industry standard. A move-in-ready or spec home is
by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
industry speak for a home that is built before a homebuyer makes a purchase. It is constructed using builder specifications (hence, “spec”) and most are move-in ready or at least available for a quick possession.
SPEC HOME ADVANTAGE
But what is the difference between building a home of your own from scratch or buying a premade one? Turns out there really isn’t much.
Both are new homes that no one has lived in before. The main difference is the time of possession. Building a new home can require a lot of patience. These days it can take more up to 10 months (sometimes longer) to move into a pre-sale home, and not everyone has the luxury to wait that long. Homebuilders offer
spec homes as a perfect solution to the timing problem buyers may have. This also allows builders to keep their team of tradespersons employed and busy.
“Spec homes offer a fantastic opportunity for new homebuyers who are looking to move quickly without compromising on quality,” says Tara Van Horn, Director, Marketing & Communications at Coventry Homes.
“These homes are already constructed or near completion. This means you can see and walk through the actual home you’re buying, ensuring there are no surprises.”
Excel Homes Marketing Manager, Kristina Plank, says that if time is of the essence to the homebuyer, then a move-in ready home might be the most advantageous option.
Excel Homes — Oakley
“Spec homes are already under construction or nearly movein-ready, allowing buyers to take possession much sooner compared to the six-plus months a pre-sale build might take,” she points out.
Brookfield Residential also have a healthy inventory of movein ready homes on the go, and Marketing Manager Jenna Rilling says they provide the perfect opportunity for buyers looking for a quick move.
“Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or have had a life change (new job, growing family, etc.), quick possession homes let you transition sooner and settle faster,” Rilling says.
SPECIFICATIONS OF A SPEC HOME
New homebuilders have extensive knowledge of design trends and the most popular finishes in the market, and this knowledge is applied to each spec homes they build.
“Excel Homes carefully preselects trendy finishes and cohesive design palettes, eliminating the stress of having too many choices that can sometimes overwhelm homebuyers,” Plank says.
“In a market with rising home prices and fluctuating interest rates, purchasing a spec home offers peace of mind and price certainty.”
For Van Horn what some may lose in customization options with a pre-sale home is made up by convenience in a spec home. “Unlike building a home from scratch, which allows for full customization of floorplans and finishes, spec homes are designed by our expert team and built with popular layouts and features that suit a wide range of lifestyles,” Van Horn says. “Buyers can still enjoy a brand-new home with beautiful finishes just without the decision fatigue.”
Rilling says quick possession homes by Brookfield Residential are styled by professional interior designers, so the selections chosen are timeless, beautiful and are proven to be durable. “It is also a more simplified process with less stress, and everything has been decided making the process smoother.”
She adds that many of their most popular upgrades have already been thoughtfully included in their quick possession homes. “From on-trend flooring and stylish cabinetry profiles to functional features like basement suites in select models, we’ve taken the guesswork out of the process.”
COMPETITIVE PRICING
Pricing between a pre-sale and a quick-possession home are on par most of the times, but there are some things buyers must be aware of.
“In general, the pricing between a spec home and a presale home is comparable, although it really
Coventry Homes
Excel Homes — Bentley
depends on the specification level, upgrades, and location,” Van Horn says. “One key difference is that the price of a spec home is fixed and known upfront, which offers peace of mind and makes budgeting easier. With a presale, the final price can vary depending on the structural and design selections a buyer makes throughout the process.”
Van Horn adds that there can be a cost advantage when purchasing a spec home as builders can often negotiate better pricing on materials and labor, which can translate into savings for the buyer.
Plank has a different take, saying a pre-sale home can seem more cost effective at first, since buyers choose the finishes, but upgrades can also add up quickly. “Spec homes, on the other hand, may come at a slightly higher upfront price due to their move-in ready status, but they often include popular upgrades. In the end, the overall cost is often comparable, but spec homes offer the added advantage of immediate value and faster possession.”
Rilling says prices really depend on what features are put into each home. “All homes by Brookfield
Residential are thoughtfully and efficiently priced to ensure you receive exceptional value without compromising on quality, style, or features.”
AVAILABILITY ACROSS EDMONTON
The Coventry Group Company offers spec homes in many of the Edmonton region’s most popular new communities.
Currently, Coventry Homes has over 50 spec homes available across Edmonton and the surrounding area at different stages of build, Van Horn says. This includes a mix of single family detached, duplexes and townhomes, ensuring there’s something for every buyer and budget.
“We continue to build spec homes because they serve a crucial need in the market. Many buyers don’t have the luxury of time to wait 9–12 months for a custom home, especially those relocating, growing their families, or needing to align with the school year. Having a strong inventory of spec homes allows us to meet demand quickly, while still offering homes that reflect our commitment to quality and design,” she says.
Excel Homes equally offers a huge selection of spec homes across five Edmonton communities: Edgemont, Vita Crystallina, Keswick Landing, The Orchards, and its newest community, Alces.
Coventry Homes
Excel Homes — Rosewood
“Our spec home lineup includes front garage homes, laned homes, and duplexes, providing a variety of options for different lifestyles and budgets. We continue to build spec homes to meet Alberta’s growing demand. With high in migration and quick market turnover, many buyers are eager to secure a home before interest rates or prices rise,” Plank says.
“Spec homes provide immediate value, faster possession, and eliminate the uncertainties of starting from scratch, while also allowing us to build more efficiently,” she adds.
Rilling says Brookfield Residential has quick possession townhomes, front garage duplexes, starter and front garage homes. “Our inventory includes a range of home styles and interior selections to help you find the perfect fit without the long wait. Building quick possession homes is essential to ensuring we can accommodate our buyers’ unique needs, timelines, and budgets.” They are available in the communities of Paisley, The Orchards, Edgemont and Chapelle Gardens.
MOST REQUESTED UPGRADES
If buyers still can’t decide between a pre-sale and a spec home, maybe more information on what kinds of upgrades are the most popular can help make the decision easier. After all,
these popular upgrades are what builders use most of the time in their spec homes already.
Plank says the upgrades they are seeing strong demand for is the side entry to the basement, basement suite rough-ins, or even a fully finished basement suite (where permitted).
“These features are ideal for generating rental income or supporting multi-generational living. Another popular addition is a main floor bedroom with a full bathroom a thoughtful option for families looking to accommodate aging parents or extended family members with ease and comfort.”
As far as aesthetics goes, Plank notes that buyers need to focus on upgrades that improve daily living and long-term value like kitchens, flooring, or a basement suite.
“Structural changes should come first since they’re harder to add later. Think about your lifestyle and budget, and don’t hesitate to ask your Sales Team for guidance on what’s most popular and practical.”
For Brookfield Residential, the most popular upgrades typically revolve around the kitchen as it is the heart of the home. Upgrades to cabinetry, appliances and flooring are always very popular. Brookfield Residential ensures that popular upgrades have been added to many of their homes. “For a limited time, additional upgrades like full landscaping and decks or garages, are included
with every Brookfield Residential single-family home,” Rilling adds.
At Coventry, Van Horn says the most requested upgrade involves cabinetry. “Cabinetry changes remain our most popular upgrades. From additional pot and pan drawers in the kitchen, banks of drawers in bathroom vanities, to custom feature drawers such as a garbage pull-out are all smart upgrades to do as they are not easily added or changed after.”
On the style side, Van Horn notes that black and brushed gold plumbing fixtures and cabinet hardware are in high demand. “These bold accents give any space a more curated, contemporary feel.”
And finally, stained railings are a beautiful way to add warmth and richness to a home’s interior, especially when matched to flooring or cabinetry finishes, she adds.
Her advice in picking the upgrades is simple. “Start by identifying what matters most to your lifestyle. Do you love to cook? An Executive kitchen might be worth the splurge. Do you have pets or young kids? Durable flooring should be high on your list. We also recommend considering resale value, upgrades like enhanced kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring tend to hold their value well.”
Find out more at coventryhomes.ca and at excelhomes.ca.
Brookfield Residential
1. CITADEL VILLAGE
By: Christenson Group
Location: St. Albert Trail & Erin Ridge Drive
2. BOTANICA
By: Boudreau Developments Ltd.
Location: 105 Bellerose Drive
3. MIDTOWN
By: Averton
Location: 51-5 Rondeau Drive
4. CHÉROT
By: Rohit Land Development
Builders: Bedrock Homes, Blackstone Homes, Kimberley Homes, Rohit Communities, San Rufo Homes, Victory Homes
Location: Northwest of Township Rd 540A & Ray Gibbon Dr
5. RIVERSIDE
By: Genstar
Builders: Ace Custom Homes, Cami Comfort Homes, Cantiro Homes, Coventry Homes, Homes by Avi, Impact Homes, San Rufo Homes, Urbanage Homes Location: 156-200 Rankin Drive
By: Cantiro Homes
CREATING A COMMUNITY THROUGH SOOTHING, SCULPTED STREETSCAPES
by PEPPER RODRIGUEZ
Tree-lined avenues, wellmaintained medians, inviting entry features, they are the resonating images of suburban tranquility in Edmonton. But coming up with a vision that will resonate with homebuyers is a lot of hard work.
Land developers not only plan the amenities and assemble a trusted and reliable builder group to create a family-friendly
community, but the vision is not complete without paying attention to the streetscape. After all, curb appeal is not just a buzzword, it’s what the land developers live for.
Key in determining how the community’s streets will appear are the architectural controls that developers use to determine the lasting look of the community. Developers
say having these architectural controls can help protect and enhance property values of the community by ensuring that there is a cohesive look throughout the neighbourhood, without being repetitive or looking cookie cutter.
“We believe a good streetscape is more than just a visual impression – it’s the foundation for a vibrant, connected, and livable community,” says Nick Young, Land Development Director at Cantiro.
Leanne Ure, Senior Project Manager at Rohit Land Development, says a good streetscape “creates visual harmony through cohesive design, varied architecture, and thoughtful details like tree-lined streets and front yard landscaping.”
A good streetscape should align with the kind of lifestyle and values the community is intended to support, according
Blatchford
Cantiro – Alces
to Tom Lumsden, Blatchford Redevelopment Manager. “So, what that looks like in Blatchford is sustainability, getting around without getting behind a wheel, planet-friendly living, and residents connecting with nature and each other.”
ELEMENTS OF CURB APPEAL
“A well-designed streetscape brings together architectural variety, greenery, thoughtful pedestrian access, and infrastructure elements like lighting and signage,” Young continues. “It creates a welcoming atmosphere that invites people to walk, connect, and take pride in where they live. All these attributes strengthen the sense of community and long-term value when choosing a Cantiro Community as home.”
Ure also points out that a good streetscape creates a sense of pride in the community. “At Rohit Communities, we believe beautiful streetscapes build pride in ownership and strengthen neighborhood connections,” Ure adds. “Every element matters – from seasonal plantings and address plaques to light standards and street blades –all working together to create vibrant, welcoming communities where residents feel proud to come home.”
The outside of your home – and the street that it sits on – is what most people see, Blatchford’s Lumsden says. “Naturally, you want them to look good. But beyond
that, you also want them to be functional and support how you live and what’s important to you.”
MAKING AN ENTRANCE
Entrance features are another aspect of the streetscape that developers pay attention to. “Entrance features are evolving in both form and function – they act as a community’s first impression,” Young says.
He acknowledges that while the grand, iconic entrance features of the past delivered a strong sense of arrival, they often came with significant maintenance challenges. “Today, we aim to strike a balance – creating entrance features that are visually impactful and aligned with the community’s identity, while also being thoughtfully designed for long-term sustainability and stewardship.”
Ure likewise stresses the importance of the entrance feature, likening it to the community’s “first smile” that sets the expectations for everything that follows.
“From Kinglet Gardens’ organic materials that reflect the surrounding wetlands to refined architectural details, these design choices announce you’ve entered a purposefully crafted community. They preview what residents and visitors can expect: thoughtful design, meaningful connection, and a true sense of home.
Kinglet Gardens’ entrance earned recognition as the Sign Association of Canada’s 2023 Best StandAlone Sign winner.”
Lumsden says that in most new communities, the entrance features are designed around welcoming people who are coming in by vehicle. “In contrast, with its focus on supporting a vehicle-free lifestyle, Blatchford’s entrance features are designed to welcome pedestrians and cyclists.”
Blatchford also tries to acknowledge its unique history as Edmonton’s former airport. “These two elements combine to create an impressive pedestrian entrance feature. Called ‘Arrival Gate’, its design incorporates structural supports to reflect the kind of struts used in biplanes.”
MAKING CURB APPEAL MATTER
Cantiro is one of Edmonton’s most prolific land developers and homebuilders, known for creating award-winning communities and developments that stand the test of time. At the heart of their approach is a commitment to designing environments that enrich daily life and foster a deep sense of belonging.
“Curb appeal goes far beyond the aesthetics of a single home –it’s about creating a welcoming, cohesive environment that enhances the everyday experience of residents,” says Young. “When a community looks and feels well cared for, it encourages pride of place, strengthens neighborhood connections, and contributes to overall well-being.”
In communities like Riverstead at Keswick in the southwest and Alces in the southeast, Cantiro has prioritized lasting curb appeal through timeless architectural design, lush landscaping, and streetscapes that invite people to slow down and enjoy their surroundings. “It’s about designing places where people feel good coming home, where families can thrive, and where the environment supports a high quality of life,” Young adds.
Rohit – Kinglet Gardens
Cantiro’s communities have earned significant recognition, including back-to-back Best Community wins at the 2022 and 2023 BILD Edmonton Metro Awards for The Hills at Charlesworth. The community also received international acclaim with the 2020 RTPI Award for Planning Excellence for its sustainable design. Most recently, Alces was named a finalist for Best New Community in 2025.
Find out more at cantiro.ca.
THE UN-COOKIECUTTER DEVELOPER
Rohit Land Development prides itself in creating unique and interesting streetscapes. “We do our best to stay away from the ‘cookie cutter’ label,” Ure says, and creating eye-catching avenues through their communities is how they distinguish themselves.
“Curb appeal directly impacts home value, ownership pride, and sense of community. A wellmaintained streetscape creates positive first impressions and signals that residents care about their neighborhood. For buyers –especially families and first-time homeowners – it means joining an established community that feels welcoming from day one,” she says.
In their northwest community of Kinglet Gardens, Rohit’s architectural controls ensure quality through coordinated materials, color palettes, and varied elevations that create diversity without repetition. “We emphasize landscaping, strategic setbacks, and tree planting to establish rhythm and flow,” Ure says.
At the heart of Kinglet Gardens sits an award-winning playground and community garden designed to resemble a rose from above – garden plots form the head, connecting trails create the stem, and playground elements represent the leaves. A naturalized stormwater facility provides peaceful sitting areas, completing this thoughtfully integrated community space. Find out more about Kinglet Gardens at kingletgardens.com, and more about Rohit at rohitgroup.com.
HISTORIC LEGACY
Blatchford is redeveloping the site of Edmonton’ former airport close to the downtown into a truly singular community. “The community’s architecture supports the community’s overall goals, including requiring builders to design their homes to support a highly walkable, people-first community,” Lumsden says.
Blatchford is designed for energy efficient homes that are placed in high density – three to four times the density of a traditional suburban community.
Designing an even more desirable streetscape is twice as important in a neighbourhood
that’s centred on encouraging pedestrian traffic. Lumsden says the townhomes and other high-density multi-family homes offered here supports the creation of corridors and pathways that connect the homes to green space. “In fact, residents are actually never more than a few minutes away from a park or green space”
The homes in Blatchford have small setbacks, which means they’re built close to the street. “This helps to create a more engaging and active streetscape to make walking more enjoyable. The streets and public areas are designed to support community connection and a vibrant street life – there’s even pedestrian-only streets and homes designed to front onto parks and other green spaces,” he says.
“Homes also have porches or patios to encourage interaction with family, friends and neighbours. And in keeping with Blatchford’s planet-friendly focus, there are no front driveways or garages here. Instead, residents either park underground or behind their home.” Find out more at blatchfordedmonton.ca.
Blatchford
Cantiro – Alces
Rohit – Kinglet Gardens
FORT SASKATCHEWAN
FORT SASKATCHEWAN
1. SOUTHFORT MEADOWS
By: Strata Developments
Builders: Cona Homes, Landover Homes, Remley Homes, Stoneridge Homes
Location: Southfort Drive & Meadowview Drive
2. FOREST RIDGE IN WEST PARK
By: Qualico Communities
Builders: Pacesetter Homes, Homes by Santos, Victory Homes, Alquinn Homes
