NewHome+Condo Guide – Vancouver – February 04, 2023
The first and only complete guide to pre-construction homes and condos
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A MORTGAGE BROKER?
THE SHIFT TOWARD BUILDING NEAR TRANSIT HUBS
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WHO’S ON YOUR HOMEBUYING TEAM?
MARLENE EISNER
EDITOR
New Home + Condo Guide
EMAIL: marlene.eisner@nexthome.ca
TWITTER: @MarleneEisner
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These days, with so many mobile apps and online “experts” offering up information on the best way to find and buy a home, it’s easy to imagine the process is something you can do on your own. Of course, there is a lot to be said for doing your own research, but savvy homebuyers know the importance of working with a good team of professionals to have the best experience possible.
One area all potential and current homeowners must deal with is finding a lender to approve a mortgage. Even if you already have a mortgage, it may be up for renewal and with rising interest rates, you might want to shop around for the best rate. This is where a mortgage broker comes in.
These professionals specialize in finding the best mortgage possible to suit your specific needs. Because they are associated with a variety of lenders, they can advise you on how to get the best value. And, the services of a mortgage broker are free — they get paid by the lender. To learn more about the role of a mortgage broker, turn to page 24. Our mortgage expert, Alisa Aragon-Lloyd, explains all the details so you can make an informed decision.
If you’ve already been approved for a mortgage and are searching for a new home, consider looking at a new development situated close to a public transit hub. On page 20, industry expert Brittany Reimer describes the shift toward transit-oriented developments and why choosing to live in one can be a smart move.
Thank you for picking up this copy of New Home + Condo Guide. As always, it is filled with interesting articles to help you find, decorate and enjoy your new home. Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.
#InsideVan
by MICHELLE HOPKINS Vancouver
YEAR OF THE RABBIT: The fifth annual Oakridge Park Lunar New Year Celebration, a collaboration between Westbank and QuadReal Property Group, is on now until Feb. 12 at the Fairmont Pacific Rim hotel. From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, the Year of The Rabbit is being celebrated with several family events, such as children’s ballet classes with the award-winning Goh Ballet, complimentary Lunar New Year family portraits, a floral arrangement workshop, as well as musical performances. In addition, there is a Food Hall in The Lobby Lounge & RawBar. “Chef Masayoshi’s 2023 Lunar New Year offering will give guests a glimpse of the inspiration behind the many culinary experiences we have planned at Oakridge Park. We hope you enjoy,” says Ian Gillespie, founder and CEO, Westbank.
Free seminar for homebuyers
Dominion Lending Centers’ senior mortgage broker Yolanda Fequet, along with realtor Andrea Mader, will host a free seminar Thursday, Feb. 9 from 6 to 8 p.m., titled Secrets to Buying Your First Home. The informational tutorial will be held at
Oakwyn headquarters, 3195 Oak St., Vancouver. Fequet will discuss what first-time homebuyers need to do to qualify for a mortgage, while Mader will provide tips on how to find the right neighbourhood for buyers’ needs. A guest speaker will also be
on hand to explain the fastest way to save for a down payment. There will be wine and cheese, a Q&A, as well as a draw for a door prize. To register, visit eventbrite.ca/e/ secrets-to-buying-your-first-hometickets-517134662697.
DID YOU KNOW?
On Jan. 24, the BC government announced it will make small adjustments to strata regulations, including changing the minimum amount developers or strata owners must contribute to their contingency reserve fund (CRF).
More festivities
More than 500 people showed up Jan. 22 for Wesgroup Properties inaugural Lunar New Year celebrations at Vancouver’s River District One Town Centre. Visitors were entertained by a traditional lion dance, were gifted red envelopes, and took in lots of festive decor. “We were happy to have so many people turn up to our first in-person Lunar New Year celebration in several years,” says Joey Coupland, vice-president of sales, Wesgroup Properties, adding the company only expected around 200 visitors. “There is a subtle sense of optimism returning to real estate as evidenced by the large crowd that visited us at River District this past weekend.”
Big, bigger and biggest savings
With interest rates rising, Wanson Group unveiled its big, bigger and biggest campaign to help prospective buyers get into one of its remaining Silva 2 one- or two-bedroom condos. Running now until April 1, 2023, buyers can save $5,000 on a one-bedroom home, $10,000 on a junior two-bedroom, and $15,000 savings on a two-bedroom. In addition, Wanson Group is offering a 10 per cent deposit and no thirdparty assignment fee or family assignments fees. More than 65 per cent sold, Silva 2 is a four-storey building featuring 79 parkside condos in Surrey’s Newton neighbourhood, a two-minute walk to the King George Boulevard bus stop that connects riders to SkyTrain.
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
5. AMBER
604-871-8600 aragon.ca/amber
6. THESIS W 49 Ave & Cambie St liveatthesis.com
7. SHIFT 35th Ave & Quebec St. aragon.ca/shift
8. THE CONSERVATORY
10. GRACE Ash & W30th gracewestside.com
11. FORM 1558 West 6th Ave formbyanthem.com
12 PARK 1698 West Georgia Street anthemproperties.com
13. GRYPHON NOVA Oak & 67th
The shape of a new era CURV
Coming soon at the high point of downtown Vancouver on Nelson Street between Burrard and Thurlow Streets, CURV is poised to redefine luxury and urban sophistication.
Designed in partnership with Henson Group, this iconic, 60-storey residential tower will be Brivia Group’s first to be situated in Vancouver and a unique addition to the city’s dynamic West End neighbourhood. Bold yet ultimately inviting, CURV is also the first project in North America designed by world renowned architect Tom Wright, known for the seven-star hotel Burj Al Arab in Dubai. When complete, CURV will not only be Vancouver’s tallest luxury residence, but also the world’s tallest Passive House design and the most energy-efficient structure of its
type ever built. The Passive House standard is celebrated around the globe for its ability to reduce energy and emissions, using just 1/10th of the heating and cooling energy required by traditional residential towers. Plus, these homes are ultra-quiet year-round, provide exceptional air quality, and are super-insulated with advanced quality windows. Good for you, good for the environment.
RAISING THE BAR ON LUXURY Inside, CURV will redefine luxury living with state-of-the-art design and features. Here, you can relax and savour the very best this world-class city has to offer. And with views in every direction, your toughest choice may well be which panorama you want to wake up to every morning.
Amenities are extensive and diverse. Here are just a few hints: A children’s outdoor play area; a state-of-theart fitness centre and yoga room on the 60th floor that provide inspiring views as you work out; a 61st-level rooftop deck with a Sky Spa, outdoor chef’s kitchen and dining area; social lounges with TV screens; a hotel-inspired lobby with 24-hour concierge; as well as secure bike and parcel storage areas.
CURV will be located at 1083 Nelson Street and will offer a total of 358 condominium homes starting on the 21st floor. To be among the first to tour CURV’s prestigious presentation centre at 510 Burrard, register online at thecurv.ca today. Stay tuned for more information, coming soon.
WEST END VANCOUVER
ONE OF THE CITY’S SHINING STARS
The west end of Vancouver lies downtown, bounded by Stanley Park in the west, West Georgia Street to the north, Burrard Street to the east and Pacific Avenue to the south.
It is a luminous and richly diverse kaleidoscope of hangouts for the urbanite, the socialite and the sport enthusiast. Although glass skyscrapers abound, there are tree-lined streets and lanes and garden oasis cared for by volunteer “green thumbs.” If you like walking, cycling or jogging, it’s a Mecca. For architecture lovers, there’s
by MICHELLE HOPKINS
a whole block of heritage homes dubbed Mole Hill, or art junkies will go for the funky, sometimes quirky, public art installations.
VIBE
Along with its eccentricities, the west end is the second oldest and most diverse neighbourhood in the city. It’s really one of the city’s shining stars! At one time, the west end was dominated by white wealthy elite! Today, Davie Street is famous for its gay nightclubs and the city’s best queer bars; Robson
Street has its luxurious and expensive shops and restaurants, and Denman Street its intimate and great ethnic eateries. In addition, there’s so much greenspace, it’s attracted young urban families, too. This effervescent mix is why so many people want to live here and visit.
IN THE AREA
The west end has two schools, Lord Roberts Elementary and King George Secondary, the historic St. Paul’s Hospital (which has the
distinction of being one of the first hospitals in the country to treat HIV/ AIDS patients and is a world leader in clinical research), libraries and a community centre.
DOLLARS & SENSE
Increased density and the appeal of living downtown have boosted the prices of real estate substantially over the last decade. Getting into this neighbourhood is not cheap; a condo/ apartment will cost you, on average, more than half a million and up. There aren’t many single-family homes here, and the relatively few are, by and large, heritage homes are in the multi-million dollar range.
THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE REST
There’s not a lot of bad things to say about the west end, except
if you drive … it’s a nightmare.
Surrounded by world-class parks and beaches, bustling with shops and eateries, minutes away from the downtown core, Coal Harbour and more, can anyone come up with another negative comment? It is is home to the raucously fun Gay Pride Parade, the Honda Celebration of Light International Fireworks competition and the Polar Bear Swim!
PLANES, TRAINS & AUTOMOBILES
This is one of the most walkable communities, yet it is within easy access to the Canada Line and transit. Many residents have tossed their car keys to opt for Car2Go … when and if they ever leave this little slice of heaven.
HOT SPOTS
STANLEY PARK
Voted Best Park in the World 2014 by TripAdvisor, this beloved urban park is a 400-hectare rainforest almost completely surrounded by water. Walk, hike, cycle, eat, drink, lounge on the beach or visit the First Nations totem poles … I could go on and on!
WATER TAXI
There’s no better way to see the west end than by water. Hop on the colourful little ferry taxi and explore the area. A suggestion is to purchase a Hop On, Hop-Off day pass and really take in the spectacular scenery.
THE SYLVIA HOTEL
Built in 1913, this grand dame is a landmark heritage building standing proudly on English Bay. Covered in vines with an iconic neon sign, it boasts a fabulous cocktail lounge with live music thanks to talented local artists.
THE SHIFT TOWARD BUILDING HOUSING
NEAR PUBLIC TRANSIT HUBS
BRITTANY REIMER
Does access to public transit play a vital role in your life? If yes, then you’re not alone; public transit is
important to many people. That’s why TransLink has committed to quadrupling its rapid transit offerings, expanding bike lanes and more in its Transport 2050 strategy that lays out plans for the next 30 years. Because of this, many developers are looking to build in areas that provide access to everything homeowners need
within walking, cycling and publictransit distance to where they live
The expansion of major public transit presents many opportunities for development in the Greater Vancouver area. There are new initiatives that speak directly to the need for increased density and affordability. One notable example
is the Broadway Plan, that aims to combat the lack of affordable housing in Vancouver by integrating housing, jobs, and amenities near the new Broadway Station, spanning from Mount Pleasant to Kitsilano.
TRANSIT SCORE
The walk score has been an attractive component for many homebuyers. Being connected to amenities, schools and parks are assets. Coupled with the walk score now is a transit score, a calculation of the distance to the nearest transit stop and route, and the frequency and type of route. Vancouver is home to an accessible and convenient public network of buses, trains, the SeaBus, and the
West Coast Express commuter train, so it’s no surprise its citywide transit score is 74, the second best in Canada, behind Toronto. The convenience of accessibility is resulting in many of the new developments within walking distance of public transit seeing a notable price premium.
CHANGE IN BUYER DEMOGRAPHIC
Proximity to transit has long been a desirable feature of purchasing a new home or investment property, but this has heightened with a changing buyer demographic. Younger buyers are placing a considerable emphasis on the transit score and less on the number of available parking
spots, choosing to leave the car at home or participate in the car-share economy rather than car ownership. Density and transit go hand-in-hand, so developing housing and other amenities around transit is critical.
OTHER ADVANTAGES
Walkable, bikeable, transitfriendly, and mixed-use urban communities enhance the character of neighbourhoods. These features create housing and employment diversity and enriched lifestyles for locals. Brentwood, Marine Gateway, New Westminster and the new Burquitlam are great examples of areas evolving around local SkyTrain stations. According to TransLink, Brentwood is a global example due to its dense offering of restaurants, goods, services, public spaces and homes.
There is often a higher resale value on units that are conveniently located near a major transit route as homes close to transit are likely to sell faster than those that are not. Neighbourhoods around transit promote healthier lifestyles, are favourable for local businesses and often offer a higher quality of life within their connected communities along with that positive resale value. More sustainable modes of transportation result in housing options and job opportunities, and public transport and housing around transit nodes play a vital role in the future of our region.
So, seeing the housing industry and municipalities work together to shape housing and transit will be important moving forward.
Brittany Reimer is managing director of MLA Canada’s Fraser Valley branch. Brittany uses her experience, relationships and passion for the real estate marketing industry to help push MLA into a new frontier.
OUT OF TOWN
NANAIMO
1. GIBSONS EAGLE VIEW 875 Gibsons Way eagleviewheights.com
3. EDGEWATER AT POIRPOISE BAY 5915 Beachgate Lane onnie.com
LANGFORD
4. THE SCENE 2746 Peatt Road 236-259-4202 livethescene.ca
5. ELIZA AT ROYAL BAY 365 Latoria Boulevard elizacondos.com
THE PEOPLE HAVE SPOKEN AND ELIZA IS A SUCCESS
At over 60% sold you don’t want to miss the chance to own one of these beautiful homes in Royal Bay. Designed by award winning Proscenium Architecture & Interiors your new condo at Eliza includes:
• air conditioning
• curated chef-inspired kitchens
• access to common rooftop patio
• over height ceilings with open floorplans
Here in the seaside community of Royal Bay you’re only steps away from walking trails, bike paths, beaches, as well as the convenience of The Commons retail village, for all your daily needs.
2-Bedroom Condos starting from only $579,900
• EV ready, secure underground parking Find out why so many people have already decided to call ELIZA home.
WHAT IS THE ROLE OF A MORTGAGE BROKER ?
ALISA ARAGON-LLOYD
When you are buying your first home and getting your first mortgage, it can be an overwhelming experience, even more so with the current economy
and regular changes on how to qualify for a mortgage. If you are like most people, you may think to get a mortgage, your only option is to speak with the professionals where you do your daily banking.
If you are thinking of buying a home, have you ever considered an alternative to your bank, and working with a mortgage broker?
DO PEOPLE EVEN USE A MORTGAGE BROKER?
Many homeowners prefer to have a mortgage broker on their homebuying team. In fact, in 2022, a mortgage consumer survey conducted by CMHC (Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation) found that 51 per cent of those surveyed relied on a broker to take
care of their mortgage negotiations.
Ninety-five per cent of survey participants used a mortgage broker to get the best rate, and 86 per cent of mortgage consumers were satisfied with their broker experience.
REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD CONSIDER WORKING WITH A MORTGAGE BROKER:
• Mortgages are a broker’s area of expertise
When you need a mortgage or are refinancing your existing one, you will have questions such as: Where do I start? Which lender is the best fit for my needs? Which lender can offer me the best value? What are the
real differences between mortgages?
Which terms and features are the best for my unique needs?
A mortgage broker has the answers to those questions. He or she works — and has experience working with — up to 200-plus lenders including big banks, credit unions, and other lenders that only work with brokers. A mortgage broker understands the benefits of the various rate options, is familiar with the different types of mortgages, and finds the best mortgage for your unique needs. In comparison, if you approach your bank for a mortgage, it can only offer you a limited choice of its own products.
• Finds solutions that fit your unique needs
Your mortgage broker will help you navigate the confusing and overwhelming road of the different rate types, mortgage options, and terms, while helping you find the best solution for your current circumstance and your long-term plans. A mortgage expert takes the time to understand your financial needs and situation. In addition to all of this, he or she will help you avoid unnecessary risks and can save you money.
• Helps you save time and money
Buying a house is time, energy, and emotionally consuming. Finding the right home and the best mortgage that is right for you can take hours, days, and even weeks if you were to do it yourself. A mortgage broker does most of the legwork for you. They will research mortgage options, process your application, obtain the required documentation, and negotiate on your behalf. This means less disruption to your daily life and more time to focus on your home research and enjoy the process of homeownership.
• Multiple options for every client
Banks and lenders have their own unique guidelines and programs. A mortgage expert can assist you with different situations. They are able to help if you don’t have sufficient funds for the down payment and/or closing costs, or if you are self-employed or own your own business that could make it difficult to verify your income, or if you have credit blemishes.
• The services are free
A mortgage broker is paid by the lenders, not by the person using their services. There is no cost to you, the client.
A HELPING HAND
If are looking to buy a home, or even if you wish to renew your current mortgage, why not explore the option of using a mortgage broker? They may be able assist you in your road to homeownership.
TRENDING NOW
6 COMMON MISTAKES EVERY BUYER SHOULD BE AWARE OF
https://bit.ly/3HhEnoV
FIREPLACE OPTIONS FOR ANY RESIDENCE
https://bit.ly/3HwVqn5
HOW TO DEAL WITH NOISY NEIGHBOURS
https://bit.ly/30kVJAe
9 IMPORTANT QUESTIONS WHEN BUYING FOR THE FIRST TIME
https://bit.ly/3Hlp3aJ
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FIND YOUR NEXT HOME
This page features a few of the latest properties to keep your eye on in the Metro Vancouver area.
PREVIEWS & REGISTRATIONS
FRAME
Home type: Condominiums
Developer: Coromandel Properties and Peterson Group
On the map: Vancouver Web: liveatframe.com
Info: Drawing the architectural story in, homes at Frame are shaped by light and eyeline. Offering homes ranging from oneto 3.5-bedrooms, there are two coordinated colour palettes available. Interiors instill a
sense of calm through wood, stone and crisp, black detailing, while amenities are designed to make life more seamless, spanning multiple levels with ample space to unwind, entertain and exercise. Register today.
HUE
Home type: Condominiums
Developer: Marcon
On the map: Port Moody Web: hue.marcon.ca
Info: The homes at hue are a delicate balance of design, technology and esthetics, a playful exploration of light, colour and art in Port Moody. The base is rendered in masonry, which contrasts the corrugated metal cladding of the upper residential levels, while both clear and colored glass balconies are playfully arranged to achieve visual interest. Ranging from junior one bedroom to spacious three-bedroom homes. First phase sold out, second phase now selling. Register today.
RAPHAEL
Home type: Condominiums
Developer: Landa Global
On the map: Vancouver Web: landaglobal.com/raphael
Info: Offering 35 one-, two- and threebedroom residences with a style that is tastefully articulated by merging design sensibilities from the past and present. A sophisticated lobby experience welcomes residents and guests with tasteful elements of classic design, including graceful archways, marble patterns and brass accents. Register today for the final release.
SOUTH YARDS
Home type: Condominiums
Developer: Anthem Properties
On the map: Burnaby Web: southyardsbyanthem.com
Info: Introducing South Yards, a highly anticipated master-planned community featuring 2,500 homes and 60,000 sq. ft. of vibrant commercial and retail space, surrounding a one-acre urban park. Located just one block south of the Skytrain, experience downtown Brentwood like never before. Register today.
RAPHAEL
BURNABY – NEW WESTMINSTER
1. OASIS AT CONCORD BRENTWOOD 4863 Dawson Street concordoasis.com
2. JUNEAU 604-299-9191 juneaubyamacon.com
3. CEDAR CREEK 7166 14th Street 604-529-8868 liveatcedarcreek.com
8. O2 METROTOWN 6620 Sussex Ave o2metrotown.ca
9. AZURE AT SOUTHGATE CITY 7662 18th Street 604-544-8800 azureatsouthgate.com
10. THE STANDARD Metrotown thestandardbyanthem.com
6. BRITANNIA BEACH BC 99 & Copper Dr 604-980-0016 britanniabeachliving.com
7. SEA AND SKY 604-559-7918 hellosquamish.com
8. REDBRIDGE 1606
redbridgesquamish.com
dreams SUITE
Top tips to create a restful bedroom to promote a good night’s sleep
It’s estimated that one in two Canadian adults have trouble going to sleep or staying asleep. A staggering statistic, right? We all know that sleep plays a crucial role to support brain function and physical health. To encourage a good night’s sleep, it makes sense to create an environment that promotes a restful atmosphere.
Here are five simple and impactful ideas for creating a “dreamy” bedroom.
by TRISHA ISABEY photos TREVOR COOPER
Lighting
Approach your bedroom brightness solutions in layers. First, start with blackout blinds or curtains. They come in a wide range of styles and budgets and will reduce light exposure, tricking your circadian rhythm into producing melatonin, which sends you to sleep.
Next, ensure your ambient light is suitable for the space. This refers to general lighting and includes natural sunlight and overhead fixtures.
Now, layer in your task lighting, focusing on specific “zones” in the room, such as your bedside table. LED lighting may be something to consider in your bedroom, as it can cast different shades in a space. Blue tones have been proven to be calming, setting the scene for a tranquil nighttime routine.
Bedding
When choosing your bedding material, natural fibres are the best. Consider linen, cotton, and silk, which are superior in look and feel. For instance, linen naturally regulates your body temperature, which is ideal for both summer and winter. And single-ply cotton sheets with a thread count of 300 to 400 are simply divine. Of course, these types of sheets will cost more, but trust me, they will be worth it.
Furniture
When decorating a bedroom, I like to include a few pieces that satisfy the esthetics and the function of the space. The first is an upholstered headboard. For those who want to sit in bed to read, watch television or plug away on their laptop, an upholstered headboard offers comfort, while lending a touch of luxury to the room.
Second, furniture with storage is essential. It’s hard to fall asleep when
your room is messy or cluttered, with no space to tuck things out of sight. Choose side tables with drawers, a dresser with ample storage space, and even a bed with built-in drawers on the bottom – all these items can contribute to a neat, tidy, and restful atmosphere.
Finally, we spend one-third of our lives in our bedroom, so having a mattress specific to our sleeping and physical needs is so important. When choosing a mattress, consider what position you sleep in and the firmness you need.
Area rugs
Area rugs not only add visual interest to a space but can also help absorb sound and add much warmth underfoot. Size matters when choosing the right rug for a bedroom. A rug that measures nine by 12 ft. is ideal, leaving an eight-inch gap between the nightstand and the rug. In a smaller bedroom, an eight-by-
10-ft. rug will work, with nightstands positioned directly on the rug. Leave at least 18-in. of rug peeking out at the foot of the bed. And, as a final rug reminder, select one that you can clean easily – natural fibres work well.
Room temperature
What does design have to do with bedroom temperatures? Remember, a room that is too hot or cold is not conducive to restful sleep. The ideal temperature for sleep is about 18.3C. A cool environment can help promote zzz’s. Look around the room. That heat-throwing fireplace looks lovely but may not be the most practical.
New fireplaces on the market can vent the heat outside or, better yet, into a different room. It’s also a good idea to invest in a smart thermostat, which lets you monitor the temperature via your smart phone or computer, ensuring your bedroom stays at the perfect temperature for sleeping.
Trisha Isabey is the creative director and principal designer for award-winning Isabey Interiors. The Kelowna-based design firm has excelled for over a decade creating thoughtfully curated designs. The design team offers a diverse range of design services throughout Western Canada and nationally. Isabeyinteriors.com @isabeyinteriors @furnishbyisabey
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
LANGLEY
8. ALDERGROVE TOWN CENTRE 3100 272 Street atcliving.com
9. HAYER TOWN CENTRE 76 Avenue & 200 Street 604-800-9662 hayerbuildersgroup.com
10. THE HIVE AT WILLOUGHBY 206222 80 Avenue 778-686-8572 thehivewtc.com
11. WESTBROOKE AT WILLOUGHBY 604-385-3540 foxridgehomesbc.com
12. HEATH 80 Ave & 206 St heathliving.com
ABBOTSFORD
13. THE RAIL DISTRICT 2774 Montrose Avenue 604-850-0040 raildistrict.ca
2. LUXE LANSDOWNE Lansdowne Road & Number 3 Road luxelansdowne.com
3. PARK RESIDENCES II AT MINORU PARK 6333 Mah Bing Street 604-563-8899 parkresidences.ca
4. RC RICHMOND 6331 No. 3 Road 604-788-6608
5. GALLERIA 8555 Capstan Way 604-233-7748 concordgalleria.com 1
THE GREAT BACKYARD
BIRD COUNT
MARK AND BEN CULLEN
During the long dark days of winter, Canadians look for illumination. The temptation to find more light might be to turn on your TV or iPad. But there is another way to shorten winter, and that is by turning to nature instead. The native birds that stay during the winter in our climate provide a window into something extraordinary.
THE GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT
The Great Backyard Bird Count takes place from Feb. 17 to 20 and is your chance to get in on the action, because there is indeed, “action”. The annual four-day event attracts more than 250,000 participants worldwide — 40,000 of them in Canada. Participation is simple. Log on to birdscanada.org and click on the Great-Backyard-Bird-Count link. Sign up and you are in. Now all you do is count birds and if possible, name them and record the results on the website. If you are unsure of the type of bird, there is an excellent section
on the Birds Canada website that helps you to identify them. Between the two of us, we have nine bird feeders on our properties and we feed our feathered friends a mixture of quality corn-free seed, pure black oil sunflower seeds, nyjer seed for the little songlets like nuthatches, suet for chickadees and woodpeckers, and bird-quality peanuts for woodpeckers (always salt-free).
HOW IT WORKS
You can count birds from the comfort of your own home, go outside and count them or walk the trails of a park
or conservation area. The point is not where you see the birds, but how many and the species.
The information is used to help scientists around the world understand the range of birds, threats like climate change and habitat loss, and it helps Birds Canada demonstrate where conservation action is working to conserve nature.
Engage friends and family in the activity and challenge them to see who can identify the most birds and species in the four days.
Winter will never seem shorter.
Here are our favourite birds this time of year and how best to attract them.
RED-BELLIED WOODPECKER
Known best for its brilliantly coloured red head. The red belly is harder to see but it is there. Feed the same as Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers.
BLUE JAYS
No need to wait for the season opener (Toronto baseball joke) as the Jays are lurking in your nearest cedar hedge waiting for peanuts. In the shell or out of the shell, bird peanuts are like candy to Blue Jays. Black oil sunflower seeds also work well. Members of the crow family, Blue Jays are smart, noisy, and bossy. When they are around, most other birds step aside.
CARDINAL
You must love the outstanding colour of the male Cardinal contrasted against the snow. A true winter wonder worth watching. Feed the same as Blue Jays.
NUTHATCHES
One of the few birds that travel on a tree trunk downwards head-first. It is the kid on the monkey bars that has no fear. Entertaining. Nyjer seed and black oil sunflower seeds.
CHICKADEES
Cute, friendly (you can train it to take seed from your open hand) and chirpy, the Chickadee gets its name from its song, which is unmistakable from quite a distance. Black oil sunflower seeds are best.
DOWNY AND HAIRY WOODPECKERS
Downy, the smaller of the two, and Hairys look alike, but have a different stature. Suet is a sure attractant as are raw peanuts out of the shell. Again, salt-free as salt is not good for birds. Look for the distinct red flash on the back of the head of the males and the black and white markings on feathers that look like a black and white TV on the fritz.
Mark Cullen is a member of the Order of Canada. He reaches more than two million Canadians with his gardening/ environment messages every week. Receive his free monthly newsletter at markcullen.com Ben Cullen is a professional gardener with a keen interest in food gardening and the environment. You can follow both Mark and Ben on Twitter @MarkCullen4, Facebook @MarkCullenGardening and Pinterest @MarkCullenGardening.
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