The first and only complete guide to pre-construction homes and condos
DON’T JEOPARDIZE YOUR MORTGAGE
THREE UNEXPECTED EXPENSES
SELECT GARDEN SUITES
Spring into Action!
FOR A LIMITED TIME RECEIVE A DECORATING ALLOWANCE UP TO $20,000 ON A GARDEN SUITE
Introducing The North, a limited release of 67 exclusive residences defined by bold architecture, spacious interiors and the convenience of central Port Haney living. Life at The North means mountain views, river walks, retail amenities and transit access, all steps from home.
Priced for first-time buyers, the North combines thoughtful, pragmatic design with residences on the cusp of nature.
The North. Delivering Life in Balance to Maple Ridge.
PRESENTATION CENTRE & DISPLAY SUITE: #120-22638 119 AVENUE, MAPLE RIDGE BC OPEN 12–5PM SAT–WED
PRICING STARTING AT $377,900
MEDIA
Dave Bird
604.319.7102
dave.bird@nexthome.ca
Ricardo Hernandez
604.319.7103
ricardo.hernandez@nexthome.ca
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR
Amanda Pereira
EDITOR
Marlene Eisner
CONTRIBUTING EDITOR
Sara Duck
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Susan M Boyce, Michelle Hopkins
EXECUTIVE MEDIA CONSULTANT
Jacky Hill
SALES & MARKETING COORDINATOR Gary Chilvers
DISTRIBUTION distributionteam@nexthome.ca
ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES
accountingteam@nexthome.ca
DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA Lauren Reid–Sachs
GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER
Alicesa Pullan
GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR
Hannah Yarkony
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Yvonne Poon, Mike Terentiev
Published by
nexthome.ca
Advertising Call 1.866.532.2588 ext. 1 for rates and information. Fax: 1.888.861.5038
Circulation Highly targeted, free distribution system aimed at real estate buyers using street level boxes and racking, plus door-to-door insertions in key audience segments. Call 1.866.532.2588 to discuss distribution opportunities.
Copyright Notice All copyright and other intellectual property rights in the contents hereof are the property of NextHome, and not that of the individual client. The customer has purchased the right of reproduction in NextHome and does not have the right to reproduce the ad or photo in any other place or publication without the previous written consent of NextHome. Contents of this publication, in hard copy format as well as online, are covered by copyright law, and offenders will be prosecuted.
Copyright 2024 All rights reserved. Reproduction, storage in a retrieval system or transmission, in any form or by any means, whether electronic, mechanical or otherwise, in whole or in part, without prior written permission of NextHome is strictly prohibited.
Editorial Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the editor by email to editorial@nexthome.ca. The views and data expressed by columnists do not necessarily represent those of the publication.
Terms and Indemnification Advertisers and contributors: NextHome is not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes, or misprints. By approving your content and/or submitting content for circulation, advertisers and contributors agree to indemnify and hold harmless NextHome and its parent company from any claims, liabilities, losses, and expenses (including legal fees) arising out of or in connection with the content provided, including but not limited to any claims of copyright infringement, unauthorized reproduction, or inaccuracies in the content. Advertisers acknowledge that they have the necessary rights, permissions, and licenses to provide the content for circulation, and they bear full responsibility for the content’s accuracy, legality, and compliance with applicable laws upon approval. Contributors acknowledge NextHome reserves the right to omit and modify their submissions at the publisher’s discretion.
MONEY MATTERS
MARLENE EISNER
EDITOR
New Home + Condo Guide
EMAIL: marlene.eisner@nexthome.ca
TWITTER: @MarleneEisner + Personal Finances
Sign up to receive digital editions and newsletters to your inbox!
What does your dream home look like? A cool condo in the sky, a classically designed townhouse with a rooftop terrace or a single-family home with a picket fence and a backyard garden? No matter what kind of home you desire, it’s important to be prepared financially to turn that dream into a reality.
If you’re like most new homebuyers, your first thoughts go to saving money for a down payment. And while this is certainly a critical piece of the homebuying puzzle, it is really just the tip of the financial iceberg. Once you’ve secured a down payment and found that special place to call home, you’ll want to make sure you have enough funds to cover your closing costs. If you are unsure of what’s included in closing costs, turn to page 22, where our financial expert, Jesse Abrams, writes about three unexpected costs associated with buying a first home — including closing costs.
Once you feel secure on the financial end, you’re going to need a preapproval for a mortgage, something you should get before hunting for a home. While it’s not usually a difficult process, you’ll want to know what you should not do to jeopardize the mortgage approval process. Turn to page 14 and read what mortgage expert, Alisa Aragon-Lloyd, has to say.
As always, this issue is filled with other interesting and informative articles to help you on your homebuying journey, including new releases and the benefits of purchasing in a master-planned community.
Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.
Three unexpected expenses to consider when buying a new home Page 22
+ get social Interact with us on social media: nexthome
BURNABY – NEW WESTMINSTER
16. SOLO 4 2131 Willingdon Avenue 604-298-8800 soldistrict.com
17. CONCORD METROTOWN Nelson Ave & Kingsway concordmetrotown.com
It’s been more than two decades in the making. Now, patience and perseverance have paid off, and sales at Bassano are anticipated to begin later this spring.
Located on the cusp of Burnaby’s Brentwood neighbourhood, this iconic collection of four residential towers designed in collaboration with Arcadis Architecture holds a special significance for the Boffo family.
“Bassano del Grappa is a small village in northern Italy close to where the company’s founding family members
Custom cabinetry and built-in wardrobes, dramatic slab backsplash, a full-sized Bertazzoni appliance package, as well as Gessi fixtures throughout—everything is imported from Italy and brought to life by Trepp Design Inc. COVER STORY
grew up, and it still holds a cherished place in their hearts,” says Karen West, director of sales and marketing. “This new community is designed to be true to those origins, an authentic ‘Made In Italy’ experience and a legacy to Burnaby, the city where the Boffos first began building homes.”
Like all homes from this awardwinning builder, Bassano’s one-, twoand three-bedroom residences are designed from the inside out to give maximum beauty and livability. “This is our fourth project to showcase
Boffo’s signature G Plan, available either in a two- or three-bedroom configuration,” Karen says, adding that the wide and shallow footprint not only feels more like a singlefamily home, but it also allows plenty of flexibility for furniture placement.
CELEBRATE LIFE
Boffo’s deep-rooted commitment to creating amenities that encourage social interaction and wellness is taken to new heights at Bassano. The variety and size—more than 41,000 sq. ft. of indoor/outdoor space in total—are nothing short of breathtaking. “Our focus is always to provide multiple types of gathering spaces, inviting, elegant spaces that are an extension of each home that help foster connections with family and friends,” Karen says.
It all starts with a soaring, twostorey lobby, a perfect space to meet friends for a morning coffee, fire up your laptop in one of the work-share lounge’s individual soundproof pods, or give the perfect client presentation in the boardroom.
Explore the expansive family lounge area on the ground floor. Here’s a few hints: An indoor/outdoor children’s play area, billiards, media room, catering kitchen and dining area. Or step outdoors into the community’s lavishly landscaped 23,000-sq.-ft. park for a friendly bocce competition, followed by an al fresco barbecue on
the covered terrazzo with dining and lounge seating.
When you’re ready to break a sweat, check out the second level health club with its fully equipped gym, yoga and barre studio, infrared sauna and steam room. Getting fit just doesn’t get any easier.
Impressed? Well get ready for the true pièce de resistance: A 43rd level rooftop lounge and 3,800-sq.-ft. wrap-around terrace. A more adult-
oriented amenity, spectacular views in every direction, cocktails, and sunsetgazing by the firepit are sure to become a popular evening tradition.
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to experience the joyful lifestyle when Italy arrives in Burnaby. Register now at BassanoByBoffo. ca for more information. Private previews for Bassano’s inaugural first tower start this spring.
BRENTWOOD
BURNABY
A LAID-BACK VIBE
A quiet, pretty pocket of Burnaby, this small neighbourhood is located between Lougheed Highway in the south, Hastings St. in the north, Springer Ave. in the east and Willingdon Ave. in the west. It’s a place of condos, modest homes, pleasant parks and friendly folks, and the stretch of Hastings St. offers small-business shopping at its best, from bakeries to ramen.
LIFESTYLE
It’s the best of both worlds in Brentwood: You’ve got a mellow residential area bordered on the north
by a nearly corporate-free shopping district. The houses are older—i.e. better looking—and quite compact, with cozy cul-de-sacs here and there. The southern boundary consists of Brentwood Town Centre, which is balanced by the presence of a Skytrain station in the same spot.
THE VIBE
Laid back is the best expression to sum up Brentwood: There’s very little noise north of the town centre, and the mood is sedate. It’s a nice walk to the commercial district on Hastings, where there are lots of places to
chill—and chilling is what you’ll see on a sunny day, with legions of residents enjoying coffee and biscotti outside cafes or ambling leisurely through a grocery trip.
MEET THE NEIGHBOURS
According to the City of Burnaby’s neighbourhood profiles, this is a relatively young community, with the largest age bracket being 20-44. Second in the age stats is the 45-64 bracket. The area is ethnically diverse, with nearly half the population consisting of immigrants. It’s a middle-class neighbourhood, with
families housed in neat condos and little one-level homes.
IN THE AREA
Brentwood Park is a spacious, lush area for a stroll with the dog or fun with the kids; you might happen on some Tai Chi exercising as well. Adjoining it is Brentwood Preschool, and nearby are three places of worship: The Sanctuary, Holy Cross Church and Brentwood Park Alliance Church. Other amenities in the neighbourhood include Beecher Park and Alpha Secondary School.
PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES
Lougheed Highway at the south is a major thoroughfare, but Hastings St. up top, while a main street, is quite mellow in terms of traffic,
and Willingdon Ave. isn’t very busy either. Together, the bordering roads provide great transportation in and out of the neighbourhood. Public transportation is great, with multiple bus lines on Willingdon and Hastings and the Brentwood Town Centre Skytrain Station. Bike options are not great.
THE GOOD, THE BAD & THE REST
What’s not to like? With two commercial centres at opposite ends and nothing but peace and quiet in between, it makes for the perfect environment for families. And hey, if the suburbs are too quiet for you, the Skytrain will whisk you into Vancouver. The minus column is pretty empty, but one item in it is the relative lack of proper sidewalks.
HOT SPOTS
CHEZ CHRISTOPHE
Everybody say, “mmmm.” Christophe’s creations are heaven for the taste buds, and as a Swiss-trained chocolatier, he brings expertise and refined taste to his work. The creations are truly inspired.
This is a cut above your average sushi spot. These guys get creative, with sashimi plates that are as beautiful to look at as they are scrumptious to eat. Special items include a fresh oyster dish—delicious.
BON
Italian baking! One look at the Wedding Cake Gallery and you know these guys are solid pros. Their pastries are also superb, and they have some very inspired cookie creations.
BON BAKERY
TAKE SUSHI
FACTORS THAT CAN AFFECT THE APPROVAL PROCESS
ALISA ARAGON-LLOYD
You saved enough money for the down payment for your new home and now you are excited to buy a property. You also spent
a considerable amount of time looking for the right home and your mortgage has been approved. However, did you know that significant changes to your finances can affect your mortgage approval? In fact, lenders can cancel your mortgage approval any time before it closes if your financial situation changes. Which brings us to the point of this article: The mortgage
“ ” … lenders can cancel
your mortgage approval any time before it closes if your financial situation changes.
approval process is about more than having the down payment.
Some of the other factors lenders also consider are your income, employment history, credit history and property, among other things. Most lenders request that credit bureau reports are pulled within 30 days of the mortgage approval, and they may even request a new one between the mortgage approval and funding date, especially when there is a long period between the two.
HELPFUL TIPS
Keep these factors in mind during the time between when your mortgage is approved and when you receive the funds of your mortgage.
• Don’t buy a new car or trade-up to a more expensive lease. At this time, it could create an issue, as the car
payments could put you at the top of your debt servicing. An increase/ additional payment may make you ineligible for the mortgage you need.
• Don’t quit your job or change jobs. Even if it’s for a better-paying job, there will likely be a probationary period. If in doubt, call your mortgage expert and he or she can let you know if this may jeopardize your approval.
• Don’t change industries, decide to become self-employed or accept a contract position even if it’s within the same industry. Any changes could definitely jeopardize your mortgage approval.
• Don’t transfer large sums of money between bank accounts. Lenders get especially skittish about this one because it looks like you are borrowing money. Be ready to document cash transactions or money movements.
• Don’t delay paying your bills on time, even ones that you are disputing. This can be a legitimate deal-breaker. If the lender pulls your credit record just prior to the closing and sees a collection or a delinquent account, the best you can hope for is that they make you pay off the account before they will fund your mortgage. You don’t want to have to scramble to pay off a debt at the last minute or even worse, put your approval at risk!
• Avoid opening new credit cards or applying for any new type of credit. Just wait until after your funding date.
• Don’t co-sign a loan for anyone. You may completely trust the person you are co-signing for and know they can make the payments. However, as a co-signer, you are legally responsible for making any of the payments if they are not made. This could affect your ability to meet your mortgage payments.
• Don’t accept a cash gift without properly documenting it – even if it is from proceeds from a wedding. If
“
” It is important to do your due diligence and know as much as possible and make informed decisions on your path to homeownership.
you have a bunch of cash to deposit before your funding date, give your mortgage expert a call before you deposit it.
• Don’t buy furniture on the “Do not pay for XX number of years plan” until after funding. Even though you don’t have to pay now, it will still be reported to your credit bureau, and will become an issue, especially if your mortgage approval was tight on the debt service ratios to begin with.
DUE DILIGENCE
Buying a home and getting approved for a mortgage is not meant to be a difficult process. It is important to do your due diligence and know as much as possible and make informed decisions on your path to homeownership. If you are in doubt, it’s always best to call your mortgage expert before making a move that could jeopardize your approval.
Alisa Aragon-Lloyd obtained her Mortgage License from the University of British Columbia and has been helping her clients since 2011. She has her own company, Bridgestone Financing Pros powered by DLC Homeline Mortgages and is on the Board of Directors for the Homebuilder Association of Vancouver (HAVAN).
VANCOUVER – DOWNTOWN VANCOUVER
1. CLARIDGE HOUSE 498 West 41st Avenue
604-941-8305 polyhomes.com
2. GRYPHON HOUSE 6191 West Boulevard 604.620.8295 gryphonhousevancouver.com
3. WEST WIND 2620 Acadia Road 604-260-8446
10. GRACE
7. SHIFT 35th Ave & Quebec St. aragon.ca/shift
8. THE CONSERVATORY 6080 Gray Avenue 604-821-8291
9. CURV 1059 – 1075 Nelson Street thecurv.ca
13. GRYPHON NOVA Oak & 67th 604-620-8295 gryphonnova.com
14. ITALIA 2323 Fir Street itlaiabysolterra.ca
15. MARCO POLO 6409 Cambie Street 604-620-8295 marcopolobygryphon.com
Your urban serenity
Qualify up to 35 year amortization (typically offered up to 30 years) with firm approval for the entire construction period and more benefits through RBC Green Home Mortgage®. Lower your monthly mortgage payments today.
Take advantage of the program and own a sustainable home with the Passive House standard at Templeton today Choose from 2 & 3 bedroom condos and townhomes available from $879,900 and enjoy the superior living comfort Passive House design provides
EMBRACING INNOVATION
THE FINALISTS IN THE 2024 HAVAN AWARDS FOR HOUSING EXCELLENCE
The highly anticipated 2024 HAVAN Awards for Housing Excellence, presented by FortisBC with Patron Sponsor BC Housing, has recently unveiled its finalists, marking a significant milestone in the realm of Metro Vancouver’s home construction and design. Hosted at the Gallery Also at the Kent in Vancouver, this year’s event commemorates its 15th
anniversary with an impressive lineup of contenders across 60 coveted categories.
With an unprecedented 455 entries, the competition was fierce, showcasing the industry’s finest craftsmanship, innovation and dedication to excellence. This year, there are finalists in two new categories, introduced to reflect the recent legislative changes aimed at fostering diverse housing options within communities: Best Multi-Plex Unit and Best Multi-Plex Development.
The addition of these categories underscores a pivotal shift in policy, acknowledging the urgent need
for innovative solutions to address the growing demand for housing, while preserving the character and integrity of existing neighbourhoods. In an era where housing affordability and accessibility are paramount concerns, these new categories shine a spotlight on projects that embody the principles of the ‘missing middle’ housing concept – offering alternatives to traditional single-family homes without compromising quality of life or community cohesion.
In the ‘Best Multi-Plex Unit’ category, finalists such as Darkness and Light by Alair Vancouver with Skladan Architecture + Design
RON RAPP
Darkness and Light
Builder: Alair Vancouver with Skladan Architecture + Design Studio Finalist: Best Multi-Plex Unit
Photo Credit: Barry Calhoun
Studio; Shared Luxury by Palas Homes with Elite Premium Home Design Ltd.; Shared Wins by Brahm Development Corporation with Architrix Design Studio Inc.; and Birds Wing by Naikoon Contracting with ONE Seed Architecture + Interiors, showcase the versatility and ingenuity of multi-generational living solutions. These projects demonstrate how thoughtful design and strategic planning can transform single-family lots into vibrant, inclusive communities that cater to the diverse needs of residents.
Darkness and Light, for instance, reimagines a single-family lot as a multi-generational sanctuary, offering identical layouts on each side for a seamless living experience. This duplex exemplifies modernity and brightness, celebrating unity and functionality with its simple yet elegant design. Similarly, Shared Luxury and Shared Wins embrace the ethos of shared living, providing residents with luxurious amenities and spacious accommodations, while fostering a sense of community and connection.
In the ‘Best Multi-Plex Development’ category, finalists such as Stargaze by Hael Construction; Otto by Tera Development; Splendid by Adisa Homes; and Darkness and Light by Alair Homes Vancouver, showcase innovative approaches to density without sacrificing quality or livability. These developments represent a departure from traditional housing typologies, offering a diverse range of housing options within a single neighbourhood.
Stargaze, for example, illustrates design-forward density with its main residence, basement suite, and laneway home configuration. This project serves as a model for increasing housing supply, while promoting sustainability and community integration. Similarly, Otto and Splendid offer creative solutions to urban infill, providing residents with well-designed, affordable housing options that enhance the fabric of the surrounding neighbourhoods.
As we celebrate the achievements of this year’s finalists, we invite you
to explore the full range of projects that represent excellence in home construction and design. From innovative duplexes to forwardthinking multi-plex developments, each finalist brings a unique vision for the future of housing in Metro Vancouver. Join us in honouring these trailblazing projects and their contribution to our vibrant and diverse communities.
The winners of the 2024 HAVAN Awards for Housing Excellence will be announced on May 4 at the Parq in Vancouver. To explore all the finalist projects and learn more about the HAVAN Awards, visit havan.ca/awards.
Representing the home building industry in Metro Vancouver since 1974, the Homebuilders’ Association Vancouver (HAVAN), a not-for-profit society is proudly affiliated with the provincial and national Canadian Home Builders’ Associations. Visit www.havan.ca Follow Ron @HAVANofficial or email ron@havan.ca
Stargaze
Builder: Hael Construction Finalist: Best Multi-Plex Development
Photo Credit: 360HomeTours.ca
HOT PROPERTIES SURREY – LANGLEY – ABBOTSFORD – MISSION
SURREY
1. PIANO 105A & City Parkway concordpiano.ca
2. PARK GEORGE 9908 King George Blvd 604-583-9866 parkgeorge.com
3. DISTRICT NW University Drive & 105 Avenue thind.ca
4. CENTURY CITY HOLLAND PARK 13583 98 Avenue centurycitysurrey.com
5. PURA 105 Ave & 132 St mypuracondo.com
6. AMAYA LIVING 106 Ave & 140 St amayaliving.ca
7. SEQUOIA 133 Street & 104 Avenue sequoiawestvillage.ca
8. THE BEVERLY 17538 100 Avenue 778-400-4773 escapetothebeverly.com
19. THE RAIL DISTRICT 2774 Montrose Avenue 604-850-0040 raildistrict.ca
3 UNEXPECTED EXPENSES
TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING YOUR FIRST HOME
JESSE ABRAMS
If you’re planning to purchase a home as a first-time buyer, it’s likely you’ve devoted your blood, sweat and tears
to building up your down payment. Let’s say you’ve finally saved enough cash to buy your first home purchase. To ensure you get this process started on the right foot, it’s essential that you consider the other expenses that come with this investment beyond your down payment.
CLOSING COSTS
With most first-timers focused on a down payment, they sometimes forget about the expenses that come at the end of the homebuying process, also referred to as closing costs. These are the total fees and expenses homebuyers need to pay
to finalize a home purchase, and they can add up quickly. Closing costs typically range from 1.5 to 4.0 per cent of a home’s purchase price. For example, if you’re buying a property worth $720,000, you could pay anywhere between $10,800 to $28,800 in closing costs. Generally, closing costs are paid when the property title is officially transferred from the seller to the buyer; however, there are some cases when these costs are incurred before the closing date.
Closing costs include appraisal fees, which provide an estimate of the property’s value and typically range from $250 to $350; home insurance to protect against the threat of fire or natural disasters; land transfer tax, which is a provincial tax calculated based on the home purchase price; closing adjustments, which account for costs not included in your original home purchase price, such as a hot water tank rental; title insurance to protect against title fraud; and real estate lawyer fees.
HOME INSPECTION
When you’re on the brink of buying your first home, do not overlook the importance of a home inspection, even with a pre-sale home. Part of your total closing costs, the average cost of a home inspection ranges between $500 to $1,000. While it might appear like an additional expense in the grand scheme of your purchase, it has the potential to save you thousands of dollars down the line, along with peace of mind. The size and structure of your new home will generally dictate the cost of the inspection.
A home inspection is crucial, as it can expose potential costly repairs or maintenance issues that you might have to deal with in the future. Not to mention, many lenders require a home inspection to assess the property’s condition before approving your mortgage. More than just
ticking a box for your lender, a home inspection helps to ensure you are making an informed decision.
PROPERTY TAXES
Another expense for new homeowners to consider is property taxes. These taxes are calculated based on a percentage of your home’s value, can vary based on the city you live in and need to be paid on an annual basis. If you’re buying a resale home, you may have to repay the previous homeowner at closing if they paid the property taxes in full for the year.
Before buying, it’s important to research the property tax rates in your area and understand how they might affect your annual expenses. In some cases, property taxes can be included in your monthly mortgage payment, but in other situations, you may be required to pay them all at once. Overlooking this expense is an
unpleasant surprise, that’s why it’s important to factor them into your budgeting from the start.
Jesse Abrams is a co-founder at Homewise, a mortgage advisory and brokerage firm. thinkhomewise.com
Understanding and preparing for these “other” expenses can significantly ease your transition into homeownership. It’s not just about having enough for your down payment, but also being financially prepared for these additional expenses. Ensuring you have a comprehensive understanding of the total cost of buying a home will help you budget better and avoid any financial stress as you enter this new and exciting chapter of your life. +
1. WEST 505 Nelson Street westbybeedie.com
2. SYDNEY
545 Sydney Ave. 778-948-0333 sydneybyledmac.com
3. VUE Foster Ave & Whiting Way vueliving.ca
4. SOPHORA AT THE PARK #101 - 1135 Pipeline Road 604-942-8416 polyhomes.com
Some places are so special you never want to leave. They exude a timeless beauty and comfort that can’t be replicated. Ladner Village, with its historic storefronts and friendly ambiance, is one of those places.
Bridge & Elliott by Headwater uniquely emerges in the midst of this charm, intersecting contemporary design with a classic community. The collection of studio, one, two, and three bedroom homes channels a fresh perspective on Ladner living. A meaningful experience like this doesn’t often appear. Live someplace cherished.
FIND YOUR NEXT HOME
This
PREVIEWS & REGISTRATIONS
AVIVA WILLOUGHBY
Home type: Townhomes
Developer: Zail Properties
On the map: Langley Web: avivaliving.ca
Info: Spacious, vibrant and central, Aviva’s limited collection of 68, two- (plus den), three- and four-bedroom townhomes offer elevated living in Langley’s Willoughby neighbourhood. Thoughtfully planned, spacious interiors are designed for growing families, with lots of room to accommodate a work-from-home office, playroom or home gym. Open concept floorplans, contemporary finishes throughout including wide-plank, laminate flooring and nine-ft. ceilings in main living areas and spa-inspired ensuites. Register today.
KORA
Home type: Condominiums
Developer: Strand
On the map: Coquitlam Web: ownkora.com
Info: The final chapter in the Oakdale collection. Inspired by the contours of West Coquitlam, Kora embodies a lifestyle of centred living. One,- two- and threebedroom homes are crafted with timeless design and unobstructed mountain views. An unforgettable amenity experience includes the signature Strand Sky Spa, a fully equipped gym, calming sauna and steam room, rooftop yoga studio and private golf simulator. Register today.
PARKWAY 2
Home type: Condominiums
Developer: Bosa Properties
On the map: Surrey
Web: parkway.bosaproperties.com
Info: Drawing the city’s life and colour into its urban heart, Parkway is a complete downtown Surrey community designed to be open and energizing. Standing 52 storeys tall, Parkway 2 is the second tower, and now available, offering studio, one- and twobedroom homes, built to fit your needs now, and down the line. Register today.
SLATE AND ASH
Home type: Condominiums
Developer: Pennyfarthing Homes
On the map: Vancouver
Web: slateandash.ca
Info: Sixty-two, one,- two- and threebedroom refined modern westside residences that mark the seventh and final chapter in the Pennyfarthing Cambie Collection. Distinctive architecture strikes a balance between timeless and modern design aesthetics. Showcasing modernity and sophistication in its design, Slate and Ash exemplifies boutique living with abundant amenities in an idyllic neighbourhood just moments from Oakridge and Cambie village. Register today.
OF PURCHASING A HOME IN A MASTER-PLANNED COMMUNITY
In the world of real estate, condominium homes have become increasingly popular housing options, especially in master-planned communities. These communities offer a unique blend of convenience, comfort and community living that can be truly enticing for potential homeowners. If you’re contemplating your next housing investment, here are some of the notable benefits of purchasing a condo in a masterplanned community.
AMENITIES GALORE
One of the most significant advantages of condo living in a master-planned community is access to a plethora of amenities. These communities often feature recreational facilities, such as swimming pools, fitness centres, pickleball courts, TikTok studios, walking trails and more. Residents can enjoy all these amenities without the hassle and maintenance responsibilities that come with owning a standalone property.
ENHANCED SECURITY
Condo living in a master-planned community typically offers superior security measures, including gated access, surveillance systems, and onsite security personnel. This creates a safe and secure environment for you and your family, granting peace of mind that is priceless.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Master-planned communities are designed to foster a sense of belonging and community
spirit. Residents often participate in community events, making it easier to form friendships and social connections. Condo living encourages interaction with neighbours, facilitating a close-knit community experience.
LOWER MAINTENANCE
Condos in master-planned communities often come with shared maintenance costs. This means that you won’t have to worry about costly repairs or maintenance tasks, such as roof replacements, exterior painting or landscaping. The condominium board and property management team typically handle these responsibilities, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free lifestyle.
AFFORDABILITY
In many cases, condos in masterplanned communities can be more affordable than single-family homes in the same area. This makes them an attractive option for first-time homebuyers or those looking to downsize without compromising on location or amenities.
PRIME LOCATION
Master-planned communities are strategically located, often close to major highways, shopping centres, schools and healthcare facilities. This provides residents with easy access to essential services and ensures that you’re never too far from the things you need.
INVESTMENT POTENTIAL
Condos in master-planned communities can also be a lucrative investment. These communities tend to appreciate over time, offering potential for a good return on investment if you decide to sell in the future. Additionally, they often have
stable rental markets, making them appealing to investors looking to generate rental income.
The bottom line is that purchasing a condo in a master-planned community offers a myriad of benefits, including access to amenities, enhanced security, reduced maintenance burden, a strong sense of community and a great return on investment. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, downsizer or an investor, these communities provide an attractive and convenient lifestyle choice.
So, if you’re in the market for a new home, explore the advantages of condo living within a masterplanned community. You might just discover your ideal home in the perfect location.
Debbie Cosic is CEO and founder of In2ition Realty. She has overseen the sale of more than $15 billion worth of real estate. With Debbie at its helm, In2ition has become one of the fastest-growing and most innovative new home and condo sales companies. in2ition.ca
SOUTH SURREY – WHITE ROCK
1. ALTUS WHITE ROCK 1526 Finlay Street 778-294-7794 altuswhiterock.com
2. THE BOROUGHS 2070 Oak Meadows Drive 604-531-6767 theboroughs.ca
3. DOUGLAS GREEN 358 - 175A Street 778-862-8002
4. SOUTHAVEN 3300 King George Blvd. 778-551-1856 southvaven.ca
5. THE LANDMARK AT FOSTER MARTIN 1475 Foster St 604-531-7111 fostermartin.ca
9. BRITANNIA BEACH BC 99 & Copper Dr 604-980-0016 britanniabeachliving.com
10. SEA AND SKY 604-559-7918 hellosquamish.com
11. REDBRIDGE 1606 Scott Crescent redbridgesquamish.com
12. FINCH DRIVE 1050 Finch Drive 778-990-1129
NEW HOME & CONDO DEVELOPMENTS
These listings are meant to offer a comprehensive overview of new home and condo developments currently being marketed throughout Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.
ABBOTSFORD
Court MR
604-621-5888 Now Selling
Downtown Gate TH 604-357-1943 Coming Soon
Falcon Ridge SF 604-309-0540 From $789,000
High Street Village LR/TH highstreetvillage.ca Now Selling
JEM LR jemliving.ca Coming Soon
Laurel on Mill Lake LR laurelmilllake.com Coming Soon
McKenzie Mews TH mckenzie-mews.com Coming Soon
Montvue LR montvueliving.ca Coming Soon
Onyx at Mahogany LR 778-255-7099 Now Selling
The Peak at Mountainview TH mymountainview.ca Call
The Rail District TH raildistrict.ca Register Now
BURNABY
O2 Metrotown HR o2metrotown.com Now Selling
Arbour MR/TH 604-559-5795 Now Selling
Azure at Southgate HR azureatsouthgate.com Now Selling
