NewHome+Condo Guide – Vancouver – November 25, 2023
The first and only complete guide to pre-construction homes and condos
MEDIA CONSULTANTS
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 2023 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.
PRESALE AND RESALE UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
MARLENE EISNER
EDITOR
New Home + Condo Guide
EMAIL: marlene.eisner@nexthome.ca
æ Sign up to receive digital editions and newsletters to your inbox!
Buying a home is a wonderful — and emotional — experience. While you may be familiar with the ins and outs of looking for a re-sale home, purchasing a pre-sale home in many ways is a very different experience. Before starting your pre-construction home-buying journey, it’s a good idea to understand the differences. That’s where we come in.
For example, with a re-sale home, you meet the owners and tour the property, leaving with a clear impression of what that home could look like if it were yours. With a pre-sale home, where you will be the first owner once the project is built, you will meet with a member of the sales team at the presentation centre of the development and see only a showroom or mock-up of your future home.
Another difference is what happens after you make the decision to buy a home. Turn to page 18, where industry expert Brittany Reimer guides you through what to expect after you sign a contract, from deposits and the down payment, to the move-in. And regardless of whether you are buying presale or resale, you’ll want to know about mortgage default insurance. Our mortgage expert, Alisa Aragon-Lloyd, outlines what this special insurance is and when and why you may need it. Turn to page 14 and see how it can affect your bottom line.
There are also other great articles in this issue to help you in all areas of homeownership, including a neighbourhood profile of South Cambie, how to take care of your favourite holiday-themed indoor plants, and some great tips on 2024 decor trends.
Thank you for picking up this copy of New Home + Condo Guide. Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you.
TWITTER: @MarleneEisner + Salina’s corner: 2024 home decor edits Page 22 + get social Interact with us on social media:
HOT PROPERTIES
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
CEDARBROOK
Home type: Townhomes
Developer: Westbow Group
On the map: Chilliwack
Web: liveatcedarbrook.ca
Info: Cedarbrook townhomes in Chilliwack offer the perfect balance of urban living and the great outdoors, complete with stunning views and an abundance of natural beauty, right at the doorstep. Designed with functionality and style in mind and spanning across 18 buildings, these homes feature open-concept layouts, 10-ft.-high ceilings, and large windows to let in plenty of natural sunlight. The exterior colour palette is inspired by the colours found in nature, for a seamless blend between the homes and the surrounding landscape. Register today.
GUILDEN
Home type: Lowrise condominiums
Builder: RDG Guildford West Development Ltd.
On the map: Surrey Web: guildenliving.com
Info: Invest in the future of Surrey with a vibrant selection of studio, one-, two, and three-bedroom condominiums located in the coveted neighbourhood of Guildford. You will love living here because Guilden promises that you will discover the unparalleled lifestyle experience of a highly connected location and a home that is as dynamic as you. Register today.
SILVA 3
Home type: Condos
Developer: Wanson Group
On the map: Surrey Web: silvasurrey.com
Info: Meticulously designed homes in the heart of Surrey with a wide selection of
floorplans, from junior one-bedroom and one-bedroom to one-bedroom plus den, two bedrooms and junior three-bedroom. Silva 3 is a haven of relaxation, where quiet hues and calming textures evoke nature’s stone and wood. Smart use of space means brilliant storage solutions in cabinets and accent shelves. Well-equipped bathrooms and ensuites feature spa-inspired tile floors, semiframeless glass showers and modern fixtures. Register today.
SKYWATER AT MOVALA
Home type: Midrise
Developer: Stober Group
On the map: Kelowna Web: Movala.ca
Info: Skywater at Movala is one of the most walkable new communities in Kelowna, situated next to Gyro Beach, and across the street from vibrant Pandosy Village, providing effortless access to Kelowna’s best boutiques,
galleries, markets, and restaurants. Choose from one-, two- or three-bedroom luxury residences and townhomes, which feature some of the largest terraces in the Okanagan. Light-filled and spacious, interiors are anchored by contemporary colours, quartz countertops, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and premium appliances. Register today.
BUILDERS IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO INCLUDE YOUR PREVIEW REGISTRATION, NEW RELEASE OR SITE OPENING IN THIS FEATURE, KINDLY EMAIL THE DETAILS TO EDITORIAL@NEXTHOME.CA
GUILDEN
SKYWATER AT MOVALA
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
9. CURV
6. THESIS W 49 Ave & Cambie St liveatthesis.com
7. SHIFT 35th Ave & Quebec St. aragon.ca/shift
8. THE CONSERVATORY 6080 Gray Avenue 604-821-8291
12 PARK 1698 West Georgia Street anthemproperties.com
13. GRYPHON NOVA Oak & 67th 604-620-8295 gryphonnova.com
14. ITALIA 2323 Fir Street itlaiabysolterra.ca
15. MARCO POLO
W16 BY OLSON KUNDIG
Poised to raise the bar on iconic living in Cambie Village, W16 is coming to the corner of Cambie and W16th Avenue. Built by Wesgroup and designed by Olson Kundig, an architectural firm with a long history of creating oneof-a-kind, world-class structures, this collection of 53 exquisite homes will breathe new vitality into this popular and prominent Vancouver neighbourhood.
“W16 will be a striking, distinctive building that is experimental yet elegant and unites architecture, individual and nature,” says Olson Kundig’s founder, Tom Kundig.
Blurring the lines between art and architecture, the seven-storey
ICONIC WEST SIDE
structure will bring together building performance and inspiring design to effortlessly enhance the way contemporary, savvy urbanites live, work and travel.
Meticulously proportioned to optimize both the building’s footprint and each home’s functionality, the façade incorporates a simple material palette that complements the neighbourhood’s timeless character. Bronze panels, sleek glass and street-level textured brick create an eye-catching look that matches the scale of the surrounding area, adding unique dimensions and enhanced livability. “I think it is important not to compete with the landscape—built or natural,” Kundig notes.
HONOURING LOCAL
For W16, Wesgroup wanted to shape something special in the thriving and much sought-after Cambie Village community. So, they also chose to engage with a team of local, creative visionaries to create a multi-layered experience for those who will call W16 home.
Founded in 2013, Matthew McCormick Studio is celebrated for its experimental design ethos and the artistry that drives its bespoke work. Its innovative Line Light will be featured above every kitchen island.
Like all Matthew’s products, these eye-catching fixtures are designed in Vancouver and
created by a talented network of manufacturing partners committed to bespoke craftsmanship.
Informprojects, one of Canada’s leaders in high-end European cabinetry, became a natural partner for the building’s millwork. Stosa Cucine is the story of how one man and his family have been producing quality Italian kitchens for more than 55 years. Their designs are internationally recognized and appreciated for innovation and style. Through Informprojects, they will
supply the sophisticated kitchen and bathroom cabinetry.
CONNECTED TO LIFE
W16 will become the first residential development in the heart of Cambie Village for many years. And buyers are delighted by the proximity to… well, to everything. Downtown Vancouver is just minutes away, and when you’re heading out to distant lands, YVR is a short, direct drive. When nature calls, the world-famous VanDusen Botanical Gardens and
w16byOlsonKundig.com
Queen Elizabeth Park are nearby, as well as Douglas Park and the famous Seawall.
All this, and there’s still the friendly, inviting ambience that’s made Cambie Village a sought-after pocket of Vancouver’s West Side.
W16 offers just 53 one-, two-, and three-bedroom homes. Don’t miss this rare opportunity. Be sure to register today at w16byOlsonKundig.com to stay up-to-date.
SOUTH CAMBIE A NEIGHBOURHOOD WITH PANACHE
by MICHELLE HOPKINS
South Cambie’s borders include Elizabeth Park to the east and the tonier Shaughnessy on the west. It is located between the busy northsouth corridors of Oak and Cambie streets and stretches from West 16th Avenue in the north to West 41st in the south.
THE VIBE
South Cambie might be one of the smallest of Vancouver’s neighbourhoods but it’s got panache! Since the Canada Line went in, this former sleepy enclave burst onto the scene as a cultural melting pot
waiting to be discovered. It’s saturated with a variety of upscale, bohemian and chic boutiques, bakeries, bars and restaurants.
THE LIFESTYLE
Favourite hangouts run the gamut. Whether it’s enjoying nature’s best, a fashionista’s dream or anything in between, South Cambie is emerging proud and strong after years of growing pains (think Canada Line nightmares)! In the southern-most part you have a beautiful boulevard with oversized trees known as Cambie Heritage Boulevard, and there’s Queen Elizabeth Park up on
Little Mountain. There’s also an antidote for serious shopaholics — Oakridge Shopping Centre or funky boutique shops along the Canada Line.
MEET THE NEIGHBOURS
With the high cost of housing and dwindling supply, a growing and aging population and an exodus of youth who can’t afford to live in the city, South Cambie residents are now affluent upwardly mobile young professionals and families, as well as empty nesters with deep pockets. Here’s the breakdown: Roughly, 55 per cent claim a European
background while approximately 38 per cent are of Asian descent. English was the mother tongue for 46 per cent of residents, and Chinese at 26.4 per cent.
IN THE AREA
Besides its crown jewels, Queen Elizabeth Park and Nat Bailey, South Cambie is renowned for its topnotch hospitals, great educational institutions, the posh Oakridge
Shopping Centre, and let’s not forget great ethnic eateries, funky watering holes and distinctive boutique shops.
PLANES, TRAINS AND AUTOMOBILES
The much-anticipated completion of the $2-billion Canada Line dramatically transformed the neighbourhood and has gotten residents out of their cars, while making it easy to get to YVR. Cyclists
HOT SPOTS
WALRUS DESIGN
This funky, contemporary lifestyle boutique is where you’ll find anything from a cannabis candle to laser-cut birch plywood coasters and everything in between.
LEMONADE GLUTENFREE BAKERY
This sweet spot is a hit with both locals and merchants. For those with a serious sweet tooth, don’t be frightened off by glutenfree … everything is sinfully delicious!
rule in Vancouver and the city has made it a priority to create many dedicated bike lanes.
DOLLARS & SENSE
Increased density and transit access contributed to a shift in house prices, with homes tripling in price. Getting into this neighbourhood is not cheap but the city has approved a number of condo projects, making living here slightly more affordable!
MORTGAGE DEFAULT INSURANCE
WHAT IS IT AND WHY DO YOU NEED IT?
Mortgage default insurance is commonly referred to as mortgage insurance. It is often mistaken for homeowner/property insurance or mortgage life insurance. Homeowner/property insurance protects your home and its contents against damages, including loss, theft, fire, or other unforeseen disasters. Mortgage life insurance is designed to repay any outstanding mortgage debt in the event of your death or long-term disability.
Mortgage default insurance increases purchasing opportunities for anyone who has a low down payment, since saving for a 20 per cent down payment can be difficult in today’s housing market. If you are looking to purchase a home, there are two types of mortgage options: Conventional mortgages, which are loans with a minimum of a 20 per cent down payment; and high-ratio mortgages, which are loans with less than a 20 per cent down payment.
In Canada, mortgage insurance is required by the federal government for all high-ratio mortgages. The insurance protects the mortgage
EXAMPLE OF A PREMIUM CALCULATION FOR A HOME PURCHASE:
Default insurance cost: $19,000 Total mortgage amount: $494,000
lender (for example, a bank) only against a loss caused by nonpayment of the mortgage by you, the borrower, and it is not a protection for you. However, the mortgage insurance enables you to purchase a home with a minimum down payment of five per cent if the purchase price is less than $500,000. If the purchase price is more than $500,000, you are required to put five per cent on the first $500,000 and 10 per cent on the balance. So, for example, if the purchase price is $650,000, then you must have at least $40,000 as the down payment.
Mortgage default insurance is provided by insurers such as the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC), Sagen, and Canada Guaranty. Each mortgage insurer has its own criteria for evaluating the borrower and the property, and it decides whether or not a mortgage can be insured. The lender, not the borrower, selects the mortgage insurer. So, it is possible that the mortgage application can be approved by the lender but might not be approved by the insurer.
The mortgage default insurance premium is a one-time charge, and it is paid by you to the lender. The premium can be paid in a single lump sum at the time of closing, or it can be added to your mortgage amount and repaid over the amortization period (i.e. the life of the mortgage). The cost of default insurance is
calculated by multiplying the amount of the funds that are being borrowed by the default insurance premium, which typically varies between 0.60 per cent and 5.85 per cent. Premiums vary depending on the amortization period of the mortgage, the loanto-value ratio, the size of the down payment, and the product.
It is important to note that for insured mortgage loans, the maximum purchase price or asimproved property value must be below $1 million. You can port the mortgage loan insurance from an existing home to a new home and you may be able to save money by reducing or eliminating the premium on the financing of the new home.
Since there are different products available from individual lenders and are subject to lender’s guidelines, it is important to talk to a mortgage expert who can analyze your situation, present several options, and help you decide which product works best for you.
Alisa Aragon-Lloyd has been a mortgage expert for more than 11 years. She has her own company, Bridgestone Financing Pros, powered by DLC Origin Mortgages and is on the board of directors for the Homebuilder Association of Vancouver (HAVAN) and an award-winning member.
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
Introducing The North, a limited release of 67 exclusive residences defined by bold architecture, spacious interiors and the convenienc e of central Port Haney living. Life at The North means mountain views, river walks, retail amenities and transit access, all steps from home.
Price d for first-time buyers, the North combines thoughtful, pragmatic design w ith residence s on the cusp of nature.
The North. Delivering Life in Balance to Maple Ridge.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER THE
CONTRACT IS SIGNED DEPOSITS, DOWN
PAYMENTS AND MOVE-IN
You’ve bought a pre-sale home — congratulations! But the question “now what?” may naturally cross your mind. Closing the purchase of a presale home can feel intimidating to even the most seasoned homebuyer. There are a few areas everyone should be familiar with, so all the boxes are checked to reduce any homebuyer anxiety.
Below is a review of some simple steps you’ll need to take to ensure a smooth transition into your presale home, so you can focus on the excitement of new homeownership.
1. SUBMIT A DEPOSIT
Once your offer is accepted, you’ll be asked to submit a deposit that holds the home while you execute your final due diligence. Deposits are typically five to 10 per cent of your unit price, although deposit and payment structures vary based on the development. This deposit is safeguarded by what’s called a rescission period. For a period of
seven days, your pre-sale home is secured for you. During this time, you reserve the right to cancel the purchase before those seven days are up. This period is where you double-check all important details such as financing before officially sealing the deal.
Most deposits are designed in a graduated deposit structure, which is an installment payment schedule. However, not all deposit payments follow the same schedule and amount breakdown. Different developers may use individualized structures according to what is best for the seller and the purchaser.
2. SPEAK WITH A LAWYER OR NOTARY
A real estate lawyer or notary will help you with the finer and final details of your purchase. They arrange the transfer of funds between yourself and the development and ensure that all legal matters are handled correctly. They also ensure that you fully understand your contractual obligations and the obligations of the developer.
3. SECURE YOUR FINANCES
It’s important to note that the pre-sale deposit does not
necessarily negate the need for a down payment. Paying a deposit to the developer and paying a down payment to qualify for a mortgage loan can be two unrelated pieces, as a mortgage lender may request additional funds outside of the presale deposit. Pre-sale purchasing can require different budgeting than resale homes. The good news is, when purchasing a presale, mortgage payments do not begin until the building is complete and the new owner can take possession.
Because deposit payments vary in their structure and schedule, understanding the terms and timelines of your pre-sale purchase is critical. Ensure your realtor, agency or developer will notify you when key payments are due and that your calendar is set to remind you. For more in-depth information about deposit structures, look to your realtor to discuss your options and opportunities.
While you likely would have been pre-approved for financing ahead of time, now is the time to reconnect with your mortgage broker to ensure that this specific purchase is approved. Let them know if you’ve had any changes in income or purchasing power. Once your mortgage is approved, make note of the deposit and payment schedules and be prepared to fulfill your financial obligations.
4. EXECUTE THE WALKTHROUGH
A deficiency walkthrough is the crucial last step in your homebuying process before you obtain ownership of your pre-sale home. This is usually your first opportunity to see your nearly ready new home. Prior to completion, you should receive a “Notice of Completion Date” from the developer’s agent. This typically
occurs 10 days prior to completion, but timing can vary.
After the walkthrough, you will be presented with a list of any noted deficiencies for you to acknowledge. Usually, the developer will then fix these issues before your move-in date. It is always recommended that you bring your realtor along to review the list with you prior to signing.
5. TAKE POSSESSION AND MOVE INTO YOUR NEW HOME
After the deficiencies are addressed, your new home will be ready for you. A few days prior to the established possession date, reconnect with your lawyer or notary to finalize the transaction. They will register the property to your name and your mortgage will begin. With these final details, you can accept the keys to your new home. Enjoy seeing your pre-sale vision come to life and get ready to move in!
PROFESSIONAL ADVICE
If you have any questions about the process from purchase to possession of your pre-sale home, speak with your real estate agent or a sales centre representative associated with the development in which you are looking to buy. Both of these professionals can provide tailored information for your specific purchase.
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.
NEW TO THIS CANADA? HERE’S HOW TO QUALIFY FOR A MORTGAGEI
https://bit.ly/35S2sEc
CREATE WEALTH THROUGH REAL ESTATE
https://bit.ly/wealththroughrealestate
DEBUNKING PRECONSTRUCTION MYTHS
https://bit.ly/3HH5Dfw
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER THE CONTRACT IS SIGNED https://bit.ly/presalecontract
Want more great articles like these delivered directly to your inbox? SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER: nexthome.ca/newsletter Visit our website:
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
Sophisticated style, bold design and signature details are on the radar for all things home in the new year. Discover some of the most anticipated trends and get inspired to update your home for a chic 2024.
Refined comfort
Quiet luxury meets hotel escape for a trend that’s all about making home feel like a place where you can relax and treat yourself. Think elevated bedding, spalike bathroom updates, and investing in appliances or details that make daily rituals a little more of a special experience.
Colour coating
A maximalist approach to colour will vamp up the energy in any room. Take the drenching approach by filling a space with a monochromatic tone for a clean yet impactful effect. Or choose a vibrant palette of harmonious shades and layer them for a more eclectic finish.
A personal note
This year, take the time to focus on the details that will make your home feel exclusive to you. From monogramed accessories to clever nods to the places and people that inspire you, it’s all about telling a unique and personalized design story in your home.
Ode to nature
Natural elements continue to play a prominent role in interior design and decor. Whether it’s incorporating botanical prints, using sustainable materials, or creating a secret garden within your home, connecting to nature is here to stay.
Fabulous flooring
Typically expected to lean toward a simpler and more neutral look, flooring trends are pushing the unexpected and are anything but basic. Checkered tiles, herringbone hardwood, and lively area rugs are just a few of the endless ways to make a statement with your room’s foundation.
A few of the seasonal plants that are popular this time of year are orchids, cyclamen, poinsettia and amaryllis. Caring for these indoor plants is fairly simple as most of them are low maintenance.
ORCHIDS
Orchids are not hard to grow (one myth dispelled!). In fact, we find
many people who are good at ignoring their plants, grow orchids very well. The most common orchids are epiphytic and lipophilictype cymbidium orchids, which means they grow in trees or on rocks in tropical climates. In your home, they prefer indirect light and cool, but not cold temperatures — 17 to 24 degrees Celsius is best. A cool, bright window works well. Fertilize once a month with an orchid fertilizer. It’s best to let the roots get dry between watering. When you do water, soak the roots by leaving the pot in the sink over night.
CYCLAMEN
Easy to grow, cyclamen don’t demand much attention. Like orchids, they enjoy cool temperatures and indirect but bright light. Fertilize with 20-20-20 once a month. Available in pink, red, white and a variety of lipstick-bright colours, they can continue to bloom for up to four months. Many of the new introductions over recent years have featured wonderful colour combinations and the solid-coloured plants are available in vivid shades of red, pink, and white that will knock your eyes out.
Amaryllis
You do not need a green thumb to take care of cyclamen. Water this plant when the soil feels dry. Gradually cut back on watering as the flowers fade and the plant goes dormant in the spring.
While in bloom, place it in a bright window. While dormant, keep it in a cool dark place with good air circulation. Avoid getting the soil wet while the plant is dormant, as the root tuber can rot. Cyclamen will emerge from dormancy in September. Start watering and fertilizing regularly at this point. Move the plant to a bright room but keep it away from direct sunlight until it blooms.
Cyclamen need relatively high humidity, especially during the dry winter months. Mist it with water every day or two and keep in the coolest room in your house for best performance. Doing this will ensure it survives and blooms next winter.
POINSETTIA
This is the number one seasonal flowering plant at this time of year. Originally from the desert of Mexico, this tells you that they like to be dry between watering applications. They do not like drafts from open doors and mostly, they enjoy the brightest natural light you can offer. Note that the bright red “flowers”
are not flowers at all, but coloured leaves. The flowers are smallish and yellow, appearing in the middle of a leaf cluster on the top of the plant. When you buy a poinsettia, look for one that is not in “flower” to ensure the longest possible bloom time. To care for these tropical plants, place them near a sunny window and keep the temperature constant, around 18-23 degrees Celsius. Water the plant when the soil surface feels dry to the touch. In low humidity seasons, such as the winter, this could be as often as once a day. However, do not let it sit in water, as this will kill it. Most poinsettia problems are due to overwatering. Remove the plant from the decorative wrap when you first bring it home and place the potted plant in a saucer where the water can drain freely through the bottom.
AMARYLLIS
You may buy amaryllis as a bulb or a flowering plant depending on the time of year. Right now, both are available at most garden retailers. The bulbs are fun and very easy to grow. Plant the amaryllis bulb in a pot
about 2 cm wider than the bulb, using quality, well-drained potting mix. Place in a bright room near a sunny window. Warm temperatures hasten blooming. When it does bloom, usually about six to eight weeks after you pot the bulb up, pull the plant back from bright light to prolong the blossom time.
Don’t lose patience if it takes its time to push up a stem and bloom. Sometimes they are just a bit lazy. Remember to look for a quality bulb: The larger the bulb, the greater the number of flowers and flower stems. Make sure that it is firm, like a good onion. A long, sweet journey.
Mark Cullen is a member of the Order of Canada. He reaches more than two million Canadians with his gardening/ environment messages every week. Ben Cullen is a professional gardener with a keen interest in food gardening and the environment.
Orchid
Poinsettia
Cyclamen
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. SOUTH VILLAGE AT LATIMER VILLAGE 20018 83A Ave 604-371-0698 vestaproperties.com
ABBOTSFORD
13. THE RAIL DISTRICT 2774 Montrose Avenue 604-850-0040 raildistrict.ca
BC 99 & Copper Dr 604-980-0016 britanniabeachliving.com
8. SEA AND SKY 604-559-7918 hellosquamish.com
9. REDBRIDGE 1606 Scott Crescent redbridgesquamish.com
10. FINCH DRIVE 1050 Finch Drive 778-990-1129
NEW
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 Coming Soon
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