GTA Condo Life - November 4, 2023

Greater Toronto’s COMPLETE CONDO GUIDE

Greater Toronto Area Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

FRONT COVER

INSIDE:

CREATIVE STORAGE SOLUTIONS FOR SMALL SPACE CHALLENGES

HOW TO NAVIGATE A MORTGAGE REFINANCING

LAND ON THE

NORTHSHORE

Boutique condo living in the most desirable address. Where Lasalle meets the Harbour on the North Shore of Burlington. National Homes introduces an exclusive opportunity to live in an award winning community. Walkable amenities, cafes and restaurants. Minutes from the GO Station.

1, 2 & 3 BEDROOM CONDOS FROM THE $500S

2023 OHBA WINNER PROJECT OF THE YEAR

NOW OPEN AT 484 PLAINS RD. E . BURLINGTON Aldershot

Plains Rd E

Burlington

490 Plains Rd E

Brant St

Burlington Golf & Country Club

King Rd

MYNORTHSHORE.CA

407

403

Falcon Blv d

MONDAY TO THURSDAY 12PM TO 6PM SATURDAY & SUNDAY 12PM TO 5PM, CLOSED FRIDAY

NorthS ho re Blv dE

QEW

Downtown Burlington

Lake Ontario

*Prices and specifications are subject to change. Map is not to scale. Rendering is artist’s concept. Exclusive listing Brokerage: Baker Real Estate Incorporated, Brokerage. Brokers Protected. E.&O.E.

Joseph Brant Hospital

SOME SECRETS ARE MEANT TO BE REVEALED Club 285 Condominiums is a 10 storey boutique midrise building coming soon to the corner of Marlee and Hillmount Avenue. Live just steps away from Glencairn station - the neighbourhood’s connection to everything from nearby Yorkdale Shopping Centre to the energetic downtown core.

Yorkdale-Glen Park is Toronto’s best kept secret, and Club 285 is the beginning of the urban renaissance this area is about to experience.

JOIN THE CLUB

CLUB285LIVING.COM

BROKERS PROTECTED. ILLUSTRATIONS ARE ARTIST’S CONCEPT. DETAILS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE E. & O. E.

NOV. 4–DEC. 2, 2023

CONTENTS COVER STORY

14 GALLERY SQUARE CONDOMINIUMS CONNECT, INSPIRE, THRIVE IN DOWNTOWN MARKHAM

DEPARTMENTS

6

Master planning

Contributors

8

In the Spotlight

GTA new home market returns in September; more news on pages 9, 10 and 11

Condo Life Online

Catch up between issues at nexthome.ca

44 Maps & Amenity Charts COLUMNS

17

4

Addressing housing affordability in the GTA

Editor’s Note

7

12

24 TRREB Report

Stat Chat

25

Real Estate Pro

Thanksgiving-holiday season takes on special meaning in Canada

26 Personal Finance 28

Western View

Building a diverse future for the residential construction industry Adjusting HST rebate thresholds would provide relief for newhome buyers

22

Home Realty

34 Decor

23

Legally Speaking

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

41

Top 10

Cosying up by the fire

36 Big Style

Creative storage solutions to solve small space challenges

Windows in your world Space saver

FEATURES

18

In Conversation With…

Mariam Aboutaam, Director, Sales, Marketing, Interior Design, Kylemore

30 Lifetime Developments Q Tower – private residences on Toronto’s most coveted waterfront

50 Industry Report

INSPIRATION

Four things to look for in your new home contract

Home Decor

Navigating a mortgage refinance in an unpredictable economy

100 new condos: Insights from an industry expert Here’s your homework ‘assignment’ for this month

38

32

Altree Developments Get in the know at Toronto’s best-kept secret – Club 285 Condominiums

EDITOR’S NOTE

MASTER PLANNING

WAYNE KARL EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Condo Life Magazine

EMAIL: wayne.karl@nexthome.ca TWITTER: @WayneKarl

+ get social 6

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

These are interesting times in the housing industry, and thus for homebuyers. As we’re in the fourth quarter of the year already, and approaching 2024, it’s a natural time to look ahead.

Polybagged with this issue of Condo LIfe is our 2023 Builders’ Annual, which, like our sister publications HOMES and Active Life, as well as our website nexthome.ca, is designed with one goal in mind – to help you.

There’s a lot to consider and many issues to make sense of and navigate when you buy a home. This is where our products come in – to help put it all in perspective, so you can make informed homebuying decisions.

Content in the Annual is designed to help educate prospective homebuyers on everything you need to know, and then when you’re ready, where, what and from whom to buy. We enlisted more than a dozen industry experts to provide insight and expertise on the issues and opportunities in the GTA, which, you should know, is historically one of the most desirable and best performing housing markets in the country.

And in this issue of Condo LIfe, we offer our usual coverage of industry news, insightful expert columns and other content – all intended to be among your resources for your homebuying journey. Together, in both publications – whose content eventually also makes its way onto nexthome. ca – you can learn about the various new home product available to you, including the increasing importance of master-planned communities.

When it comes to building and buying homes, especially in a challenging environment for increasingly discerning consumers, there is no room for anything but the best. And the GTA new home market has lots of that.

Meanwhile, in the coming months, we’re hoping to see more federal, provincial and municipal housing policies emerge that, ultimately, facilitate more of this activity.

Ontario’s homebuilding and homebuying future depends on it.

Interact with us on social media: nexthome

CONTRIBUTORS PERSONAL FINANCE | JESSE ABRAMS Jesse Abrams is Co-Founder at Homewise, a mortgage advisory and brokerage firm based in Toronto. thinkhomewise.com

SENIOR VICE-PRESIDENT, SALES, NEXTHOME

Hope McLarnon 416.708.7987, hope.mclarnon@nexthome.ca DIRECTOR OF SALES, ONTARIO, NEXTHOME

Natalie Chin 416.881.4288, natalie.chin@nexthome.ca

TRREB REPORT | PAUL BARON Paul Baron is President of TRREB, and a career real estate executive with more than 30 years of experience. He is the Broker of Record for Century 21 Leading Edge Realty Inc., which he founded in 1993. trreb.ca

SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANT

Nina Downs 1-888-532-2579, nina.downs@nexthome.ca EDITORIAL DIRECTOR

Amanda Pereira EDITOR-IN-CHIEF – GREATER TORONTO AREA

Wayne Karl, wayne.karl@nexthome.ca

WESTERN VIEW | MIKE COLLINS-WILLIAMS Mike Collins-Williams, RPP, MCIP, is CEO West End Home Builders’ Association. westendhba.ca.

HOME REALTY | DEBBIE COSIC 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

CONTRIBUTORS

Jesse Abrams, Paul Baron, Mike Collins-Williams, Debbie Cosic, Sara Duck, Barbara Lawlor, Linda Mazur, Ben Myers, Bren Petrunick, Lisa Rogers, Jayson Schwarz, Dave Wilkes EXECUTIVE MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Jacky Hill, Michael Rosset VICE-PRESIDENT, MARKETING – GTA

Leanne Speers

MANAGER, CLIENT RELATIONS

Sonia Presotto

MANAGER CUSTOMER SALES/SERVICE

REAL ESTATE PRO | BARBARA LAWLOR Barbara Lawlor is President and CEO of Baker Real Estate Inc., and an indemand columnist and speaker. A member of the Baker team since 1993, Barbara oversees the marketing and sale of condo developments in Canada and overseas. baker-re.com

DECOR | LINDA MAZUR

Marilyn Watling

SALES & MARKETING CO-ORDINATOR

Gary Chilvers

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Josh Rosset DISTRIBUTION

distributionteam@nexthome.ca ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES

accountingteam@nexthome.ca

Linda Mazur is an award-winning, nationally publicized designer and Principal of Linda Mazur Design Group. With almost two decades of experience this in demand multi-disciplinary design firm is known for creating relaxed, stylish spaces and full-scale design builds within Toronto, the GTA and throughout Canada. lindamazurdesign.com @LindaMazurGroup

DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA

STAT CHAT | BEN MYERS

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER

Ben Myers is President of Bullpen Consulting. Ben provides pricing recommendation, product mix, and valuation studies on new residential housing developments for builders, lenders and property owners. bullpenconsulting.ca

Lauren Reid–Sachs

VICE-PRESIDENT, PRODUCTION – GTA

Lisa Kelly

PRODUCTION MANAGER – GTA

Yvonne Poon

Alicesa Pullan

GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Mike Terentiev

BIG STYLE | LISA ROGERS Lisa Rogers is Executive Vice-President of Design for Dunpar Homes (dunparhomes.com). Lisa has shared her style and design expertise on popular television programs such as Canadian Living TV, House & Home TV and as a regular guest expert for fashion and image, health and wellness and design on CityTV’s Cityline. Follow Lisa’s blog at craftedbylisa.ca

LEGALLY SPEAKING | JAYSON SCHWARZ Jayson Schwarz LL.M. is a Toronto real estate lawyer and partner in the law firm Schwarz Law LLP. He can be reached by visiting schwarzlaw.ca or by email at info@schwarzlaw.ca or phone at 416.486.2040.

BILD REPORT | DAVE WILKES Dave Wilkes is president and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), the voice of the home building, land development and professional renovation industry in the GTA. For the latest industry news and new home data, follow BILD on Twitter at @bildgta or visit bildgta.ca



Sign up to receive digital editions & newsletters to your inbox!

Official Media Partners:

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 network aimed at real estate buyers using street level boxes, racking and Toronto Star in-home delivery.

Canadian subscriptions 1 year = 13 issues – $70 (inc.

HST). Canada Post – Canadian Publications Mail Sales Product Agreement 40065416.

Copyright 2023 All rights reserved. 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.

Editorial Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the editor at editorial@nexthome.ca.

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.

nexthome.ca 7

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

GTA NEW HOME MARKET RETURNS IN SEPTEMBER The GTA new home market returned in September, reversing three months of decline, the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) reports.

There were 1,885 new home sales in September, which was up 303 per cent from September 2022 and 32 per cent below the 10-year average, according to Altus Group, BILD’s official source for new home market intelligence.

“September sales surged as pentup demand pulled buyers from the sidelines,” says Edward Jegg, research manager with Altus Group.

“Purchasers were lured by lower prices, rising inventory and easing concerns around future interest rate hikes.”

Condominium apartments, including units in low-, mediumand highrise buildings, stacked townhouses and loft units, accounted for 1,290 units sold in September, up 207 per cent from September 2022 and 29 per cent below the 10-year average.

There were 595 single-family home sales in September, up 1,140 per cent from September 2022 and 37 per cent below the 10-year average. Single-family homes include detached, linked and semi-detached houses and townhouses (excluding stacked townhouses).

Total new home remaining inventory increased, compared to

the previous month, to 19,141 units.

It included 16,342 condominium apartment units and 2,779 singlefamily lots. This is the first time since 2019 that inventory levels have exceeded the 10-year average and represents a combined inventory level of almost seven months, based on average sales for the last 12 months. A balanced market has nine to 12 months of inventory.

Remaining inventory includes units in preconstruction projects, in projects currently under construction and in completed buildings.

“While we are starting to see a resurgence in the market, one month does not make a trend,” says Justin Sherwood, senior vice-president of

communications and stakeholder relations at BILD. “Now is the time for stability. Stability in government housing policy ensures the industry operates in a predictable market to bring the housing supply to this rapidly growing region it desperately needs and stability in interest rate policy will allow new home buyers to purchase with confidence.”

Benchmark prices decreased slightly in September compared to the previous month. The benchmark price for new condominium apartments was $1.03 million, down 10.5 per cent over the last 12 months.

The benchmark price for new singlefamily homes was $1.56 million, down 15.6 per cent over the last 12 months.

SEPTEMBER NEW HOME SALES BY MUNICIPALITY HIGHRISE

LOWRISE

TOTAL

REGION

2023

2022

2021

2023

2022

2021

2023

2022

2021

Durham

526

10

246

110

6

304

636

16

550

Halton

43

57

222

185

10

51

228

67

273

Peel

66

43

207

176

17

250

242

60

457

Toronto

538

241

1,481

1

0

71

539

241

1,551

York

117

69

412

123

15

430

240

84

842

GTA

1,290

420

2,568

595

48

1,106

1,885

468

3,674

SOURCE: ALTUS GROUP

8

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MORE SUPPLY IN THE CONDO MARKET FOR Q3 2023: TRREB The GTA condominium market became more balanced over the past year, according to the Toronto Regional Real Estate Board (TRREB).

While Q3 2023 condo unit sales were up year-over-year, growth in listings outstripped growth in sales. The result was the average price edging lower providing some relief in the face of higher borrowing costs.

There were 4,415 condominium apartment sales reported through TRREB’s MLS system in Q3 2023 – up 6.2 per cent compared to the same quarter in 2022. Over the same period, new condo unit listings were up by 28.8 per cent.

“The condominium apartment market is an important entry point into homeownership for first-time buyers,” says TRREB President Paul Baron. “A better-supplied market has led to more choice for these buyers, resulting in more negotiation power and lower selling prices on average.

A pause in price growth has helped mitigate the impact of higher monthly mortgage payments.”

In the third quarter of 2023, the average selling price for a condominium apartment GTAwide was $716,145 – down slightly compared to $720,628 in Q3 2022.

In Toronto, which accounted for approximately two-thirds of condo

sales, the average selling price was $736,566 – down from $750,087 in Q3 2022.

“While condo market conditions have become more balanced over the past year-and-a-half, we will

GTA CONDO AVERAGE PRICES, Q3 2023/22 Market

Q3 2023

Q3 2022

TRREB total

$716,145

$720,628

Halton

$717,614

$727,793

Peel

$635,422

$615,173

Toronto

$736,566

$750,087

York

$725,672

$686,959

Durham

$574,636

$556,495

Other

$556,845

$586,781

likely start to see a tightening in the market in the second half of 2024,” adds TRREB Chief Market Analyst Jason Mercer. “The GTA population is growing at a record pace and the consensus view is that we will start to see some relief in terms of borrowing costs beginning in 2024 and even more so in 2025.”

The One Stop Shop for Builder Storytelling mcouatpartnership.com

SOURCE: TRREB

nexthome.ca 9

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

BUILDING INDUSTRY CONCERNED OVER RECENT ONTARIO GOVERNMENT DECISION The Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD) says it is “extremely disappointed” with the recent announcement by Ontario Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Paul Calandra, and calls it a setback for the Greater Toronto Area’s GTA future housing and employment spaces supply.

“It can take a decade or more to bring new housing supply to the market,” says Dave Wilkes, BILD president and CEO. “(This) announcement to introduce legislation that, if approved, will rescind regional official plans and reverse urban boundary expansions in

52pick-up.com

10

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

the regions of York, Peel and Halton.

It will make the objective of building 1.5 million homes in the province by 2031 impossible.”

The housing affordability crisis in the GTA has been driven by the lack of housing supply in the face of perennially strong demand, BILD says. The official plans for York, Peel and Halton made additional land supply available through urban boundary expansions to enable the addition of housing and employment spaces with a mix and density consistent with what the market is looking for. Repealing these official plans will put regional and municipal decision-making relative to new development into a state of confusion, uncertainty and paralysis. The repercussions of this unfortunate decision will effectively delay the addition of new housing and employment spaces throughout the next decade.

“It is our understanding that the provincially approved official plans were subject to an extensive and exhaustive transparent public and stakeholder consultation process, which included postings to the

Environmental Registry of Ontario,” says Wilkes. “Any adjustment made to the approved plans by the government were done to uphold the provinces’ own objectives for increased housing supply, choice and balanced growth. Given the precedent of these decisions and the variability of government decisionmaking, why would any business choose to invest in the province?”

As much as five years or more of work and millions of taxpayers’ dollars went into the development of the regional official plans through the municipal comprehensive review process, BILD says. The recent announcement sets the addition of housing and employment spaces supply in Peel, Halton and York back decades and the forwardlooking impacts of this will be felt by prospective new-home owners for the rest of the decade.

BILD says its members remain committed to working with all levels of government to achieve the provincial objective of building the 1.5 million homes this province needs to accommodate present and future growth.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MORE CANADIANS CONSIDERING EXTENDING AMORTIZATION PERIODS, SWITCHING LENDERS Seventy-four per cent of Canadians with a residential mortgage set to renew within the next 18 months say they are concerned about the renewal in light of recent interest rate hikes, according to a Royal LePage survey conducted by Nanos.

Thirty-one per cent of all mortgagees in Canada say their lending agreement is set to renew within the next year and a half (16 per cent within 12 months and 15 per cent in 12 to 18 months). That means 3.4 million Canadians have a mortgage that is set to renew by March of 2025.

“Some Canadians with variable-rate mortgages have seen their monthly payments double or even triple over the last year and half, due to the Bank of Canada’s aggressive interest rate hike campaign aimed at tamp-ing down high inflation,” says Karen Yolevski, chief operating officer, Royal LePage Real Estate Services Ltd. “Those locked in to a fixed-rate mortgage, which most are, have been protected from those increases, at least for a short time.

While the central bank’s key lending rate is expected to come down in the medium term, the likelihood that we will return to rock-bottom rates of less than one per cent is very low. Upon renewal, fixed-rate mortgage holders will be faced with a new reality – higher monthly payments.”

ONTARIO INSIGHTS

In the province of Ontario, 35 per cent of residential mortgage holders will be renewing their lending agreement within the next year and a half (21 per cent within 12 months and 15 per cent in 12 to 18 months).

Of them, 74 per cent say they are concerned about their renewal.

“Many homeowners are concerned about their upcoming mortgage renewal,” says Shawn Ramautor, sales representative, Royal LePage Wolle Realty. “Banks are aware of this apprehension, and are preparing for many Canadians to shorten their next mortgage term or negotiate other changes. Homeowners are

considering all options on the table, including lengthening their amortization period in order to lower their monthly payments.”

According to the survey, 81 per cent of mortgagees in Ontario obtained their mortgage from a prime lender; 73 per cent have a fixed-rate mortgage (open or closed); and 21 per cent have a variable-rate mortgage (open or closed).

“Homeowners in Ontario with a fixed-rate mortgage have been lucky enough to dodge the interest rate increases of the last year and a half, but most understand that the time will come when they will renew their mortgage in a very different borrowing environment – a more expensive one,” adds Ramautor. “Mortgage holders are preparing in advance for this inevitable increase, shopping around for the best rate and weighing all their options.

Many buyers are still waiting on the sidelines, and will likely re-enter the market in late 2024, when rates are expected to start decreasing.”

NATIONAL HOMES AND BRIXEN DONATE $500,000 TO BRAMPTON HOSPITAL National Homes and Brixen Developments have joined to contribute $100,000 annually for the next five years, totaling a $500,000 donation towards the construction of Brampton’s new hospital for the William Osler Health System.

With a shared vision for a healthier and stronger Brampton, National Homes and Brixen Developments have committed to provide vital support to the city’s healthcare infrastructure. Their donation will play a role in the transformation of health care in Brampton and Etobicoke. Peel Memorial Centre for Integrated Health and Wellness

(Peel Memorial) will include a new multi-storey patient tower, new and enhanced outpatient services and day programs and the expansion of the existing Urgent Care Centre to 24/7 operations – enhancing healthcare services, improving patient care, and ensuring that the local community receives excellent state-of-the-art medical treatment.

“We can think of half a million reasons why we love Brampton,” says Jason Pantalone, president and CEO managing partner of National Homes.

“We’ve developed thousands of acres in Brampton and built roughly 6,000 homes there since 1992,” expressing

the company’s commitment to the city’s future.

Catch up between issues at

nexthome.ca

& enjoy these popular stories

AWARD-WINNING CONDO

Land on the Northshore at the winner of Ontario’s best new condo community of the year The results are in, and National Homes’ newest community, Northshore Condos, recognized as the winner of the best new condominium in Ontario.

CONDO MARKET

Luxury condo market in Toronto remains healthy amid general market challenges The luxury market in Toronto remains a bright spot among headwinds that challenge the condominium market across Canada, according to the ReMax 2023 National Condominium Report.

Q&A

In Conversation With... Cynthia Grassing, Vice-President of Sales and Marketing, Pratt Homes There aren’t many homebuilders in Canada that have been around for more than 130 years, but Pratt Homes in Barrie is one such company, started in 1890 and still going strong today.

We spoke with Cynthia Grassing, vicepresident of sales and marketing, to learn how Pratt has become “Barrie’s largest and most trusted builder.”

INSIGHT

How we can keep the homeownership dream alive The world of housing is changing, but we all deserve a roof over our heads – one that offers us comfort, security and a sustainable way of life. And there are many creative ways to do it.

OHBA AWARDS

OHBA names winners of 2023 Awards of Distinction The Ontario Home Builders’ Association has announced the winners of the 2023 OHBA Awards of Distinction, recognizing the creativity, innovation and excellence of builders, renovators, developers and service professionals within Ontario’s residential construction industry.

Visit nexthome.ca

or check us out on 12

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

@condolifemag

CondoLifeMagazine

@condolifemagazine

COVER STORY

DOWNTOWN MARKHAM CONNECT, INSPIRE, THRIVE

The next phase in Downtown Markham’s evolution is here, inviting all to connect, inspire and thrive in its spaces.

Gallery Square Condominiums is getting ready for occupancy, and leasing for the 100,000-sq.-ft. retail podium is under way. Planning has begun for event programming in the new square and internal private street.

And, if recent history has taught us anything, the activation of Gallery Square – at the very heart of Downtown Markham – will be transformative.

The ambitious, upscale residential towers of Gallery Square overlook a private street that features uniquely designed storefronts and an intimate square lined with restaurant patios set 14

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

around a central fountain. The square and sidewalks incorporate a subsurface heating system, powered by Markham District Energy, to allow for both a better pedestrian experience and year-round program of activities.

Imagine outdoor art shows, live music and street performers, a holiday market and more.

As in all Downtown Markham, art will appropriately feature prominently in Gallery Square, including an interactive outdoor digital installation

by British artist Dominic Harris, who uses technology to construct personal interpretations of the natural phenomena which surround us. His large-scale installation will act as a showstopping entrance to a permanent art gallery and event

space. Large metallic sculptures from Canadian artist Viktor Mitic will adorn the streetscape.

Art, often in unexpected places, has been important to developing the identity of Downtown Markham – a 243-acre district at the heart of Markham Centre, which not long ago was unused farmland.

“We said, ‘Let’s strip away the walls from the art gallery and bring art to the street and incorporate it in and as part of the buildings, streetscapes and parks,’”says Christopher Bratty, president of land development and acquisitions for The Remington Group and the driving force behind the collection.

“When walking through Downtown Markham, some people may notice

the art, some may not. It’s about interacting with the community and trying to create spaces that excite and inspire.”

“We build communities from the ground up,” adds Randy Peddigrew, executive vice-president of land development for The Remington Group.

Peddigrew has been instrumental in the planning of Downtown Markham, which he explains, was always seen as one of the first truly mixed-use developments in the emerging urban areas north of Toronto.

“We have come to understand the importance of getting people on the street,” says Peddigrew. “The vibrancy and livability of an area should be measured by the amount of people you see on the street. If you spend the time and effort on creating streets with great commercial spaces, art and landscaping, you will get people to walk.”

That vibrancy he describes has arrived. It was the inspiration for new branding with bright colours: Minion Yellow, Sky Blue and by pure coincidence, Barbie Pink. The new tagline for Downtown Markham or DTM in social channels, is “Connect, Inspire, Thrive.”

To Peddigrew’s point, the project witnessed a significant shift with the opening of The Origin buildings, which combined 100,000 sq. ft. of restaurant and retail with 80,000 sq. ft. of office space in two buildings at the corner of Birchmount Road and Enterprise Boulevard. The complex included the state-of-the-art 2,400seat Cineplex Cinemas Markham + VIP Theatres and a 24-hour Good Life Fitness. The buildings themselves were infused with art, from a parking garage exhibit to illuminated sculptures over entrances, to a sculptural column and a massive street art wall mural.

Outdoors, a plaza with parkette and water feature, representing part of the planned 72 acres of greenspace in Downtown Markham, provided a place to gather. As promised, Downtown Markham became the live, work and play community, fostering social interactions and community bonds.

Art Zoo, 2015, (RCAG) Michael Beaudry

Andy Warhol, 2015 (RCAG) Hank O’Neal

nexthome.ca 15

When Aviva Canada opened its new national headquarters, daily foot traffic materialized. The addition of The Signature Condominium Collection a couple years later added the 905’s first condo hotel with the Toronto Marriott Markham, one of the first hotels within Marriott’s North American portfolio to introduce an artful, modern design with state-of-the-art amenities, adding a much-needed element of luxury hospitality to the area.

And while these projects made an impact to the community, the arrival of York Condos in 2021 changed the streetscape dramatically. Not only did the award-winning project create a stunning gateway at the western edge of Downtown Markham; it animated the streetscape beyond expectation. The sidewalks are now busy day and night with people walking kids and dogs, visiting nearby restaurants and stores, going to work and taking advantage of public transit on their doorstep. To the north, a beautiful park provides connections to the protected greenspace of the Rouge River watershed.

Downtown Markham is thriving, welcoming office tenants Levi Strauss & Co. (Canada), Arthur

16

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

Gallagher Insurance and Flaherty McCarthy LLP to a roster that already includes the likes of Aviva, Honeywell and Under Armour. Also new to the community is luxury bed manufacturer Hästens, which opened its first North American flagship store in Downtown Markham this summer.

The iconic brand, official supplier of the Royal House of Sweden and first choice of celebrities, including Toronto’s own Drake, showcases a Grand Vividus model that retails for more than $850,000.

Peddigrew feels that the deliberate integration of uses, makes the neighbourhood especially attractive.

The connections are also key.

“The street and public spaces should be looked at as the connective tissue that hold the community together,” says Peddigrew. “Creating that ground floor environment makes the residents and visitors want to walk, they want to walk to see what’s around the corner.”

Around every corner in Downtown Markham, you’ll find something to delight. At a major intersection, a glass pavilion houses The Pride of Canada Carousel, a 50-ft. merry-goround made from recycled materials that feature 44 rideable sculptures.

Along Enterprise Boulevard, the City of Markham just recently installed “Living Lights” by Vancouver-based artist Jill Anholt. Inspired by the lupine flower native to the Rouge River, the two massive purple sculptures use solar grids during the day to collect the energy which illuminates them at night.

And in 2024, the opening of York University’s Markham Centre Campus is expected to give the community a busy eastern gateway. In its initial phase, the university will welcome 4,200 students to the 400,000-sq.-ft. facility and provide an additional 400 jobs to the community.

On the residential front, more excitement awaits.

The ever-evolving skyline will soon have another new addition with Downtown Markham’s next residential project. On the north side of Enterprise Boulevard, just east of Toronto Marriott Markham and Signature Condominium Collection, a 35-storey tower, the community’s first true highrise building, will soon come to market.

And a new transformation will begin.

For more information, visit remingtongroupinc.com.

ADVICE | STAT CHAT

100 NEW CONDO BUILDINGS: INSIGHTS FROM AN

INDUSTRY EXPERT BEN MYERS

living. New Canadians who were used to high-density housing were the first to buy into the concept of ownership apartments.

FOREIGN BUYERS AND MARKET DYNAMICS

The Toronto housing market has undergone significant transformation in the past few decades. With periods of booming sales to years of uncertainty and recovery. In a recent “Toronto Under Construction” podcast interview with Linda Mitchell Young, a seasoned expert with more than four decades of experience in the highrise development industry, Mitchell Young shared her insights into the dynamic evolution of the housing market in Toronto based on her experience in launching 100 new condo projects.

THE EARLY DAYS: A NEW AVENUE FOR MONARCH

Mitchell Young’s journey in the highrise development industry began when she was tasked by Monarch President John Latimer in 1995 to research the condominium business’s potential.

Monarch had primarily focused on single-family home building until then. In 1996, the company launched its first condominium project in Scarborough, with suites starting at just $165 per sq. ft. (psf).

THE INFLUENCE OF NEW CANADIANS

In the late 1990s, many soon-tobe Canadians fled Hong Kong due to the turmoil surrounding the end of colonial rule and the transfer of sovereignty to China, which boosted the Scarborough market. This influx of buyers gave an early indication of the growing demand for highrise

The Toronto Census Metropolitan Area (CMA) witnessed a surge in condominium apartment construction starts coming out of the early 1990s recession, growing from just 2,300 in 1996 to more than 12,700 in 2001. This period also marked the influx of foreign buyers into the market, leading to discussions about whether this was a potential issue (even back then).

With her extensive experience, says foreign buyers never concerned her, attributing it to a healthy market dynamic.

THE INVESTOR MARKET AND CHANGING BUYER GROUPS

In 2007, more than 22,000 new condos were sold in the GTA, with average pricing hovering around $425 to $500 psf. This phase marked a change in the buyer groups, with the “downtown lifestyle” becoming increasingly attractive, and a spike in investor activity was evident.

FINANCIAL CRISIS AND MARKET RESILIENCE

The global financial crisis in 200809 disrupted new condo sales for about six to seven months. Project financing, product evolution and buyer sentiment faced unique challenges during this period. The crisis led to changes in financing requirements, with lenders requiring that developers sell more than 80 per cent of the revenue in the building.

MARKET FEARS AND REALITIES

Then 2011 and 2012 marked another boom in the GTA’s condo market.

However, there were constant fears of an impending “U.S.-Style” meltdown.

Mitchell Young believes that these concerns of “oversupply” and buyers being “over-leveraged” were overblown. The market bounced back following periods of softness in 2009, 2013 and 2017 and will likely do the same following this year’s mini price correction.

THE RESILIENCE OF TORONTO’S HOUSING MARKET

Mitchell Young’s insights offer a unique perspective on the evolution of the GTA’s high-density housing market.

The pre-construction new condo market in Toronto has demonstrated remarkable resilience and adaptability from its early days to the present.

It is a challenging time to make a buying decision. Still, it is best to think long-term, and nothing is on the horizon suggesting that Toronto will oversupply the market any time soon. Demand will continue to outpace supply, and look for prices and rents to rise when forecasting the Toronto market over the next decade.

Good luck.

Ben Myers is the President of Bullpen Consulting, a boutique residential real estate advisory firm specializing in condominium and rental apartment market studies, forecasts and valuations for developers, lenders and land owners.

Contact him at bullpenconsulting.ca and @benmyers29 on Twitter.

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca

nexthome.ca 17

IN CONVERSATION WITH...

MARIAM ABOUTAAM DIRECTOR SALES, MARKETING, INTERIOR DESIGN KYLEMORE

by WAYNE KARL

Homebuyers today don’t just want a quality-built home, they also want all those little extras that help them enjoy their new abode. Yes, luxury is often part of it, but it’s more so practical inclusions such as flexible and multi-purpose spaces, smart layouts and forward-thinking items such as EV charging options.

In short, it’s about wellness, and one company excelling at it is Kylemore. We sat down with Mariam Aboutaam, director of sales and marketing, interior design, to learn more.

You have a pretty interesting title… What does your job entail, and how is it evolving?

Kylemore is a boutique luxury homebuilder, and the team is very hands-on. My background is in fine arts and design. As the sales, marketing and interior design director, my responsibilities include protecting, curating and evolving our brand, directing advertising, social media, publicity, event creation and cause marketing programs.

Essentially taking on the role of 18 condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

“visionary” ensuring our brand ethos, personality and essence is filtered through all departments within the company. I oversee the sales operations, through strategic practices and managing our sales team as well as our broker relations.

Interior design has always been a core focus of my role, and after working with a few different design teams, this naturally evolved into becoming the lead designer on completion of all model homes, as well as creating fully furnished and decorated inventory homes for sale.

The approach we take is to give buyers an opportunity to envision living in our homes. I’m proud to say that many of these suites and homes have been industry finalists and award winners across all our respective associations.

Since Kylemore was founded, we’ve had an in-house design studio, and we consider this an important part of the customer relationship process. My involvement with this aspect of the business has grown.

Today, I work with our in-house design team on product design and

development and curate the colour selections for our decor studio. I often meet our home purchasers and help guide their interior finishes selections. Engaging in this way gives me direct insight into purchasers’ expectations, lifestyle and dreams, which I believe helps to inform many aspects of our customer experience and product offering.

What are the biggest trends in your business these days, and what’s driving them?

I don’t really like to look at trends.

Our company perspective is to create communities that allow people to enjoy a lifestyle that is all encompassing. We ask the question: How can we enrich people’s lives from the built environment to social opportunities? And then we aim to provide these. Another important part of this is a positive customer experience which extends from the moment a potential homebuyer steps into our sales centre to the pre-delivery inspection and service period. Once you become a Kylemore homeowner, you are

What is your signature imprint at Kylemore? What feature or idea really says, “Yes, this is Mariam”?

I initiated and implemented Kylemore’s rebrand a few years back to focus on wellness in the homes and communities we shape.

What I mainly focus on is the direct experience the client has with the brand. When someone meets us for the first time, or sees our campaigns, or visits our spaces such as the presentation centre or model homes, all these touchpoints are filtered through the team I direct. Once a vision is created, we focus on the details to infuse each experience with the luxury and wellness components of the brand. When you have an experience with Kylemore, it’s coming from me.

considered a part of the family and become a member at Angus Glen Golf Club, as well as invited to join community events and hear first about sales launches.

Kylemore’s tagline is “Wellness.

Luxury. Reimagined.”

How does this translate to Kylemore product.

Kylemore’s approach is to keep the future residents in mind when designing our homes. Wellness can be clearly connected to the design and building of the homes and communities we shape. The convergence of wellness and luxury is our core brand, and it influences everything we do. Our community design prioritizes the location, proximity to amenities, as well as the preservation and enhancement of the natural outdoor environment. The architecture encompasses traditional

and modern characteristics with a mix of lot sizes creating beautiful streetscapes. Interiors are generously proportioned with many options such as loft suites, separate coach homes, and private in-law quarters.

Comfort and peace of mind are provided with future-proofing roughins such as EV charging, low VOC materials, top quality heating and cooling systems, and finely tuned construction methods. Add to this an array of finishes, such as 10- and nine-ft. standard ceilings, hardwood flooring, granite countertops and deluxe cabinetry plus a superb selection of upgrades. Lastly, taking wellness a step further, every purchaser of a home in Angus Glen South Village receives a free threeyear family membership to Angus Glen Golf Club. Together, these elements improve the quality of life for Kylemore residents.

What are you noticing from homebuyers these days that you weren’t, say, five or 10 years ago?

Today’s homebuyers are very knowledgeable. They keep our sales team on their toes with questions we may not have been asked a few years ago. Purchasers know what they want and are willing to take the time to ensure their home meets their family’s needs. Our buyers understand the homebuying process, as we are often not their first home.

We’re finding our homebuyers are younger, will live in their home for many years and appreciate that they can move-up or down within the Kylemore community. I believe buyers are paying more attention to what goes into building their home, items that you can’t necessarily see in a finished home, but that add comfort, value and durability.

That’s why the marketing and sales team worked to create a detailed illustration of a Kylemore home, listing many of these “hidden” elements. This helps us to tell the wellness story, and is something that differentiates us from the landscape of homebuilders nexthome.ca 19

And where do you see homebuyer needs going in the foreseeable future?

We were designing homes for Angus Glen South Village in Unionville, Markham when COVID occurred.

This event made us rethink our approach to include more flexible and multi-purpose spaces within the homes. For example, a main floor office that could easily function as a bedroom with optional adjacent bathroom, large gathering zones and yoga/meditation rooms are included in some of our layouts. We’ve also considered multi-generational living in many of our layouts, where a purchaser can choose an additional fully private suite, a fifth bedroom plan or a coach home with a separate living unit above a garage, for example. The much-used

utility spaces are often overlooked in design, and we want these to be enjoyed by the occupants. By thinking of how the modern family functions and spends time in their homes we provide space and privacy opportunities as well.

What’s next for Kylemore in this context?

In the near future, we have more phases of Angus Glen South Village – our major masterplanned community – to come.

So far, our focus has been on the lowrise component, but we are in the early design stages of the future condominium buildings.

Considerations here are size and features of the suites, as well as the amenities the future residents will appreciate.

on a personal note How do you spend time away from the office?

If I’m not working, you’ll find me at home with my two daughters. I spend quality time with them through meaningful experiences, as well as with extended family and friends. My kids and I share a profound love and appreciation for the arts. We are always creating, exploring and learning new crafts together.

I turned 40 this year – a big birthday. I recently decided to begin documenting my experiences through journaling each night. It’s both creative and cathartic. I also try to carve out time for wellness, which is not always easy but necessary, through working out, cooking and, my first love, visual arts. Being creative is in my DNA, I love sketching portraits and oil painting, as well as hunting for the next interior design book. I’ve also recently taken up golf, a skill which I hope to improve.

Who or what is your greatest inspiration for what you do?

The late Zaha Hadid, architect, artist and designer has always been a huge inspiration. Growing up, I studied art history and architecture. I feel a kinship to her as a Middle Eastern woman in a male dominated industry. I admire the incredible landmarks she created, while pushing the

20 condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

boundaries of architecture and urban design.

She was a true pioneer. Her legacy is remarkable.

Walking the streets of New York, especially the Highline, is always a marvelous experience and incredibly inspiring. I also like to pay close attention to progressive cities with respect to interior design.

Places such as New York, London, Milan, Paris and Stockholm all seem to have their finger on the pulse before we do. It’s always fun to bring innovative influences into our designs; I like to think its part of what makes me different.

What’s on your reading or TV binge-watch list these days?

I’m currently reading The Pivot Year, by Brianna Wiest; On Women and Leadership, a series of definitive articles on gender dynamics at work from Harvard Business Review; and The 48 Laws of Power, by Robert Greene.

The last HBO Series I finished was Succession. I have yet to find something as gripping to watch as that masterpiece. It was absolutely brilliant, from the writing/storytelling, ensemble cast, incredible acting and the many inspiring destinations we got to tour as the viewer, such as New York, the UK, Iceland, Croatia, Norway and Italy. TV Dramas are exceptionally well produced these days.

PURCHASING A PRE-CONSTRUCTION CONDOMINIUM? Make sure your builder is licensed.

It’s the law! Visit: obd.hcraontario.ca HomeConstructionRegu_HomeConstructionRegu_HalfPage.indd 1

2023-10-24 9:43 AM

YOU COULD WIN A

Retail Value

STANLEY® TOOLBOX FILLED WITH TOOLS!

300

$

Enter our Work Like a Pro Contest!

Enter Online • Go to renoanddecor.com/contests • Select this contest within the listing and click Enter to Win. For full contest details & rules visit the link above.

www.stanleytools.ca |

@stanleytoolsca

ADVICE | HOME REALTY

YOUR HOMEWORK ‘ASSIGNMENT’ FOR THIS MONTH

DEBBIE COSIC This generation of new-home buyers is reassessing an outdated homebuying blueprint, and considering unique alternatives when it comes to entering the housing market. In previous columns, I’ve talked about creative ways to come up with an auxiliary income, like dividing a larger house into smaller units, or adding an additional dwelling or a lane house on an existing property. I’ve also explored the need to revise rules and regulations as it relates to down payments and amortization.

Another possibility to consider is an Assignment. As it relates to real estate, the assignee assumes the rights and obligations of a property from an assignor. This Assignment, or reassignment, of a property can happen before the original purchaser takes possession. As a result, an Assignment can provide a way to profit from a real estate transaction, before you’ve become the owner of the property.

AGREEMENTS OF PURCHASE AND SALE

With ever-climbing housing prices, combined with financial stresses, along with the uncertainty that was generated as a result of the pandemic, select condominium buyers may be reconsidering their acquisition. Depending upon their strategy, some purchasers might have always intended to exercise a plan to assign their Agreements of Purchase 22 condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

and Sale (APS) to a third party. Others, who had planned to lease, or reside in, their condo may also be looking at assigning their APS. In some cases, a builder will promote this as an added bonus, or a fee may be charged. Stipulations would be outlined in the APS. If a purchaser wanted to exercise this option, they would need written permission from the builder, and it might depend upon the stage of construction. If the building is close to completion, the likelihood of the builder agreeing is much higher.

As with all real estate transactions, I recommend that you find a good real estate agent. An Assignment offers you options, and with the right representation this amendment should be included in your agreement so that you have a choice at the time of closing. There are also realtor platforms approved by builders that enhance the visibility of Assignments, such as AssignMate (onrios.com/ assignmate).

None of us can predict what the future holds. That’s why it’s so important to ensure that your investment is protected, and that safeguards are in place to do so.

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

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca

ASSIGNMENT BENEFITS • Assignments can be a lifesaver when a purchaser finds themselves in an unforeseen situation, such as a job loss, unexpected expenditures or the need to move to larger unit as a result of a growing family.

On the rare occasion when the purchaser has passed away, it may be necessary to plug into a life insurance program.

• In especially difficult circumstances, an Assignment might be your only option to ensure that you don’t lose your investment. And, quite possibly, benefit on a financial level.

• For those who can’t, or don’t want to, qualify for a mortgage, an Assignment is a great way to invest as you don’t have to close on the unit, or transfer the title.

• You can avoid dealing with tenants, while capitalizing on a real estate investment.

• You can also capitalize on real estate inflation, without having to pay a mortgage, maintenance fees or utilities.

• Assignments also provide purchasers with an opportunity to acquire indemand floorplans.

• Despite their financial uncertainty, younger homebuyers are investing in Assignments within emerging neighborhoods to seize potential price advantages and potentially leverage any transferable perks associated with the Assignment acquisition.

ADVICE | LEGALLY SPEAKING

FOUR THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN YOUR NEW HOME CONTRACT

JAYSON SCHWARZ, LLM

The length of a pre-construction contract will leave you reminiscing about the complications in Lord of the Rings. Schedules, addendums and page-long paragraphs can leave any reader feeling overwhelmed.

Here’s a guide to four important things to watch out for and make sure you understand.

1. IS IT ASSIGNABLE?

Your closing date will likely be years away, so consider that circumstances change, unforeseen events occur, and your position in life might change so much that as closing approaches, you may not wish – nor be able – to close.

An assignable contract will help you sleep better at night, because if life throws you a curveball, you can hit it right back by assigning your contract to a new buyer who can step into your shoes. If the market is anything like the last few years, you might even end up with some profit from the assignment.

If your contract is not assignable, you may have no choice but to close – and that will mean closing costs, builder’s adjustments, occupancy fees and mortgage approvals, and more cash down.

Review the assignment clause in your agreement. Not all assignment clauses are the same; some may require builder consent and approval, some may require that a significant

fee is paid, and some may have other restrictions attached.

to understand your rights as well as the builder’s.

2. EARLY TERMINATION CONDITIONS

4. COOLING OFF PERIODS

We’ve all heard the stories about projects being cancelled, and buyers facing the choice of having to pay more for their new home, or have their deposits returned.

Builders cannot cancel your contract for any reason, but they may do so if they cannot meet certain listed conditions in your contract, such as meeting a sales threshold or obtaining their own financing for construction.

Being informed may not prevent your contract from being cancelled, but you will be aware of important deadlines and the reasons for which your builder can cancel the project. Most of this information is contained in the Tarion Addendum that is attached to your agreement.

It is important that you read this and understand all your rights.

3. DELAYED CLOSING TIMELINE

Your closing is scheduled for, let’s say, 2025. It’s worth it, you tell yourself as you think about the next few years.

COVID slowed everything. What if your closing is delayed to 2026, 2028 or 2030? Highrise projects can be delayed a long time. Construction can be complicated, and your contract may allow your builder to delay the closing for several years to deal with those complexities.

In lowrise construction, there may be material shortages or other legitimate reasons for delay. Again, refer to your Tarion Addendum

New home purchase contracts are exceptionally long and complicated.

Condominium contracts come complete with a Disclosure Statement that can be extremely complex. You want to ensure that you are protected and informed, so taking it to an experienced lawyer for their review should be your next step. Reread articles, such as the ones on our website, speak to others who have purchased both types of products, and listen to focus on the things that are important.

Condominiums have a 10-day cooling off period that provides you a right in law to rescind the contract, if your expectations are not met.

Freehold purchases, on the other hand, are firm when you sign and you must close – unless you insert a conditional clause.

The best advice we can give you is to invest in a review with a knowledgeable professional to advise you. It may be the best investment you ever made. Remember, you are spending a large amount of money.

Do not scrimp in ensuring it is the right investment.

Jayson Schwarz, LLM, is managing partner of Schwarz Law Partners LLP. schwarzlaw.ca, info@schwarzlaw.ca

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca

nexthome.ca 23

ADVICE | TRREB REPORT

ADDRESSING HOUSING AFFORDABILITY

IN THE GTA

PAUL BARON

Toronto is facing heightened housing affordability challenges, and people looking to rent or buy need a mix of housing types that addresses the lack of affordable supply.

One of the ways the City of Toronto plans to address housing affordability is with the Expanding Housing Options in Neighbourhoods (EHON) initiative. The proposal promises to build more lowrise housing in residential neighbourhoods to meet the needs of our growing city. It also allows for a more balanced mix of housing types, such as townhouses, as well as building six-storey apartments along major streets.

24

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

This initiative has the potential to offer lower-cost housing types on residential land that was previously zoned strictly for higher-cost singlefamily homes.

When looking at other jurisdictions, such as Montreal, Portland and Minneapolis, they have all successfully implemented initiatives, just like EHON, to allow for more midrise residential buildings.

TRREB recommends that the City of Toronto take a progressive and flexible approach to neighbourhood character considerations when setting as-of-right parameters for multiplexes throughout the city, particularly in the more suburban areas. TRREB is recommending that the EHON initiatives be exempt from development charges, to encourage uptake, keep costs low and allow for these units to remain relatively affordable.

The federal and provincial Housing Accelerator Funds can also used to implement process improvements and shore up staffing needs.

Once in force, the City must undertake a public education campaign to put a spotlight on this and other EHON initiatives, highlighting the benefits to homeowners, neighbourhoods and the city overall.

Paul Baron is President of TRREB, and a career real estate executive with more than 30 years of experience. He is the Broker of Record for Century 21 Leading Edge Realty Inc., which he founded in 1993. trreb.ca

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca

ADVICE | REAL ESTATE PRO

THANKSGIVINGHOLIDAY SEASON TAKES ON SPECIAL MEANING IN CANADA

BARBARA LAWLOR

With our Canadian Thanksgiving over and a much-anticipated holiday season just around the corner, it seems like the perfect time to reflect on what we have to be thankful for. With so many areas of the world in turmoil, it is gratifying to live in a country where we can get up in the morning without worrying about bombs dropping on us and evacuation orders. Yes, our economy has been challenging, but as with everything, cycles go up and down. Recently, Statistics Canada reported that our country’s inflation rate decelerated to 3.9 per cent in September, which was down from four per cent in August. This was lower than many economists predicted.

If you need convincing about what a great country Canada is, just look at our immigration numbers.

We have one of the highest rates per population of any country in the world. This year, we anticipate our numbers will surpass those of 2022, when we welcomed more than one million newcomers, including international students and foreign workers with qualified Visas. And remember that about 45 per cent of these newcomers will come to Toronto and the GTA. They come for our high quality of life. They come for our relative safety, work opportunities and the world-class amenities they find here. And yes, they come for our

Bellwoods House Townhouses, by Republic

top-quality education facilities. In 2022, Canada welcomed a record 551,405 international students. That led to an end-of-year total of 807,750 international students holding valid study permits in Canada. Our country is well on track to welcome 900,000 international students this year.

This is great news for investors, especially now in this atmosphere when we are not allowed to sell to foreign buyers. Yes, there is an exemption on that ban but only up to 500,000. These students are guaranteed renters for investors.

Rents have continued to rise, going as high as $7 per sq. ft. in the best downtown Toronto neighbourhoods, and as high as $5 per sq. ft. in the west end of Toronto. The recent news from the federal government that construction of new rental apartments no longer requires the payment of GST will help, but more steps are required. Until then, condos are filling in that gap.

Canada is fortunate to have one of the most substantial and attainable real estate markets in the world, which is another reason why

so many immigrants settle here.

Our new-home buyers have more elaborate standard features and options than most other countries, including the U.S. And for a major cosmopolitan city, Toronto is still relatively affordable when compared with others around the globe. No matter what the economy does, in Canada, real estate has proven to be one of the best financial and lifestyle investments over the years.

So, as we approach yet another new year, let us be thankful for the wonderful and peaceful opportunities we have here, and for the immigrants who add so much to our rich tapestry of life.

Barbara Lawlor is CEO of Baker Real Estate Inc. A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of new home and condominium developments in the GTA, Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal, and internationally in Shanghai. baker-re.com

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca

nexthome.ca 25

ADVICE | PERSONAL FINANCE

NAVIGATING A MORTGAGE REFINANCE IN AN UNPREDICTABLE ECONOMY incurring an interest rate differential (IRD) if you decide to break your mortgage. Overall, rates are much higher than they were two years ago, however, fixed rates are currently quite a bit lower than variable.

JESSE ABRAMS In an environment of rising rates and inflationary pressures, there are many Canadian homeowners contemplating the decision to refinance. As inflation drives up the cost of living, property values are increasing too. Refinancing presents a strategic opportunity for homeowners to potentially tap into their home’s equity, increase their amortization to decrease monthly payments or switch their mortgage to fit the current state of the market.

Regardless of which option you choose, this is a long-term decision that needs to be weighed carefully against your long-term financial goals.

FIXED OR VARIABLE RATE?

Fixed-rate mortgages: A predictable choice Choosing a fixed-rate mortgage means locking in the current interest rate for the duration of your mortgage term. It’s stable, predictable and there will be no surprises when it comes to your monthly payments. For some, this can feel like a luxury given the record number of rate hikes since the start of 2020. However, there is a tradeoff. While stability is a pro, this type of mortgage comes at a premium.

Plus, switching to a variable rate down the line might be a challenge, and there’s always the possibility of 26

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

Variable-rate mortgages: A bit of a gamble Variable rates can sometimes be tempting to homeowners because they often start lower than fixed rates. However, in the current environment, variable rates are upwards of one per cent higher than fixed rates. A major factor to consider is that variable rates change based on the Bank of Canada’s decisions. As the economy goes up and down, your rate might, too. And if you’re someone that likes to budget and plan, these rate changes can definitely throw a wrench in your monthly budget.

It’s important to keep in mind that you are able to switch to a fixed rate or break the mortgage at a lower cost than a fixed – but this will depend on the terms and conditions of your mortgage contract as this could incur penalties. In the current environment, very few of our clients have been choosing a variable rate mortgage over the last six to 12 months.

Which path to choose?

With volatile inflation and increasing rates, many Canadians’ mortgage payments have skyrocketed. As a result, most are leaning toward fixedrate mortgages for peace of mind.

However, this doesn’t rule out the

flexibility and potential savings that once came with variable rates as rates come down in the future.

If you value stability, especially as a first-time homebuyer or if you’re being cautious given the current situation, a fixed rate might be right for you. On the other hand, if you’re a seasoned homeowner and can navigate changing rates, a variable-rate option could be more aligned. Rate changes could even provide more opportunities to save.

All that aside, the outlook for the rest of 2023 tells us that inflation isn’t going anywhere anytime soon.

That’s why our team at Homewise advises homeowners to do their research, consult with professionals such as those on our team and ensure their finances can withstand all market conditions before making any decisions. We have actually seen many Canadians go for a two- and three-year fixed rate mortgage recently (rather than most who choose a five-year) as there is an expectation among most industry professionals that rates will come down over the next two years.

So, getting a full picture of your options is the best way to make a smart decision both in the short and long term.

Jesse Abrams is Co-Founder at Homewise, a mortgage advisory and brokerage firm. thinkhomewise.com

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca

SPONSORED CONTENT

THE FUTURE OF REAL ESTATE PRESENTATION CENTRES

TIM NG

The world of new development sales is constantly evolving, and so are the expectations of potential buyers.

To stay competitive, real estate presentation centres are undergoing a significant transformation. The key to success lies in providing an immersive client experience, equipping potential buyers with essential information and leveraging technology effectively.

CREATING AN IMMERSIVE CLIENT EXPERIENCE

Gone are the days when a simple brochure and a friendly salesperson were sufficient to attract buyers.

Today’s clients expect more – they crave an experience that engages their senses and emotions. To meet this demand, presentation centres are increasingly focusing on creating immersive environments.

Design and ambiance play a pivotal role. Presentation centres are no longer sterile and transactional spaces; instead, they are becoming showcases of creativity and innovation. Solhouse 6035 in Burnaby, BC by Bosa Properties or Park Road in Toronto

by Capital Developments, are perfect examples of this. Clients step into spaces that are not just functional but also aesthetically pleasing. Lighting, furniture and sound is carefully curated to make clients feel comfortable and inspired. Large communal tables with defined workspaces create a co-working setting where realtors

can bring their clients and present at these presentation centres. This immersive environment can leave a lasting impression.

EQUIPPING CLIENTS WITH INFORMATION

While brochures and floorplans are still essential, the emphasis is shifting towards technology-driven solutions.

Animated virtual tours tap into the emotions of potential buyers, allowing them to envision their lives within the new development.

Interactive touchscreens and iPad kiosks put the buyers in control where they can compare floorplans, toggle views, explore the area and really immerse themselves into the lifestyle being offered. Theatre rooms with large, window-sized screens can also create an immersive experience for potential buyers.

With this detailed information, clients can ask pertinent questions, discuss their preferences with the sales team and make confident decisions.

LEVERAGING TECHNOLOGY FOR SALES

The integration of technology in presentation centres is not limited to client information. It extends to a broader spectrum of activities, enhancing sales, marketing and customer service.

Using the Blackline platform, with its robust reporting and data analytics, real estate professionals can anticipate client needs and tailor their marketing efforts more effectively. These technologies not only enhance efficiency but also ensure that no potential lead slips through the cracks.

Solhouse 6035 Presentation Centre, Burnaby, BC

Technology such as Blackline can also streamline the sales process itself by using digital signatures, electronic document management and automatic email follow-ups.

The future of real estate presentation centres is about creating immersive experiences that resonate with clients, equipping them with the information they need, and leveraging technology to streamline the sales process. As the industry continues to evolve, those who embrace these changes and invest in technology-driven solutions are likely to stay ahead of the curve.

Tim Ng is the Principal and Founder of ADHOC STUDIO and BLACKLINE, an industry-leading digital studio that combines real estate, art and technology.

To learn more about ADHOC’s awardwinning renderings and industry leading sales platform, BLACKLINE, visit adhocstudio.ca and blacklineapp.com.

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca

nexthome.ca 27

ADVICE | WESTERN VIEW

BUILDING A DIVERSE FUTURE

FOR THE RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY

MIKE COLLINS-WILLIAMS

The West End Home Builders’ Association Women in Industry (WIN) Committee aims to support, educate, connect and empower women in industry and to inspire girls and women of all ages to follow their dreams in any industry. Historically, women have been underrepresented in the residential construction, skilled trades and STEM industries due to societal and cultural stereotypes, as well as barriers related to gender bias. The WIN committee partners with local organizations to create a platform where women professionals can collaborate, create and transfer knowledge. Through networking and educational events, the committee brings individuals, companies and organizations together to provide education, advance gender diversity, increase workplace inclusion and celebrate the successes and contributions of women in the industry.

For a second consecutive year, the West End Home Builders’ Association partnered with Mohawk College and the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) for the WEBUILD educational showcase that took place on Oct. 11 at Mohawk College, Stoney Creek Campus of Skilled Trades. The event offered 100 young women and gender diverse individuals in Grades 7 and 8 the opportunity to learn about 28 condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

the rewarding career possibilities in the residential construction, skilled trades and STEM industries. The showcase consisted of a full day of interactive workshop sessions, tours of Mohawk Campus and an inspiring session with MP Lisa Hepfner and YORK 1 Business Development Director Christina Murray.

“We are honoured we have the opportunity to educate young women about the rewarding career opportunities within the industry, and we are thankful for the continuous support we receive from our members and community partners,” says Terri Johns, WEHBA president.

“The WEHBA Women in Industry (WIN) Committee will continue to advocate for positive, cultural change and gender diversity in the residential construction industry.”

The purpose of the WEBUILD Showcase is to inform young women in Grades 7 and 8 in the Hamilton District School Boards about the career opportunities in residential construction, and the academic pathways to get them started.

During the event, students had the opportunity to visit different booths hosted by community partners and WEHBA members of different trades and fields. The booths included hands-on activities in renovation (Heartwood Renovations), builder scheduling (Cachet Homes), HVAC (Dynamic Heating & Cooling), heavy-duty rraining and power tool demonstration (Milwaukee Tool), structural engineering (Mohawk College), millwork (Riverside Millwork Group), excavation simulation

(YORK1), plumbing (Guest Plumbing & Heating), electrical (OYAP) and equipment demonstration (YWCA).

The students participated in friendly competitions, workshops and had the opportunity to talk to professionals from the different trades and specialties. The event was made possible by the hard work and dedication of the WEHBA Women in Industry Committee, as well as the gracious support of WEHBA sponsors T. Johns Consulting, Starward Homes and Marz Homes. All proceeds from the event will go to a Mohawk College scholarship for women and gender diverse individuals in skilled trades.

Mike Collins-Williams, RPP, MCIP, is CEO West End Home Builders’ Association. westendhba.ca.

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca

CONTACT US TODAY

NOW OPEN

SOPHISTICATED LIVING IN THE HEART OF OAKVILLE 1, 2 & 2-BEDROOM+DEN SUITES Dundas and Trafalgar is buzzing. The newest landmark in downtown Oakville soars above the intersection, with incredible views of all that the city has to offer. Presented by Ballantry Homes, The Villages of Oak Park is a new, master-planned, multi-phased community coming soon to the neighbourhood of Oak Park. Select from luxurious 1, 2 and 2-bedroom+den suites. Enjoy the endless amenities offered to residents. Close to parks, trails, shops and restaurants, The Villages of Oak Park offers easy access to the QEW, Highways 403 and 407, and the Oakville GO Station. This is sophistication at a whole new level.

Limited Time Incentives & Extended Payment Structure Available

B A L L A N T RY H O M E S . C O M

Vince Guerra vince@ballantryhomes.com Adam Guerra adam@ballantryhomes.com SALE OFFICE HOURS Mon. – Thurs: 1pm – 7pm Sat., Sun. & Holidays: 12pm – 5pm Fridays: Closed

Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. Renderings are artist’s concept. E. & O.E.

SALE OFFICE LOCATION 20 Oak Park Blvd., Oakville

BUILDER PROFILE | TORONTO HARBOURFRONT

Q TOWER

PRIVATE RESIDENCES ON TORONTO’S MOST COVETED WATERFRONT The vibrant and ever-evolving city of Toronto is once again at the forefront of architectural innovation and urban luxury, thanks to a groundbreaking collaboration between two titans in the real estate development industry, Lifetime Developments and DiamondCorp. The result of their partnership is the highly anticipated 30 condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

Q Tower, a 60-storey residential masterpiece poised to redefine the city’s waterfront skyline. Situated in the heart of downtown Toronto, at 200 Queens Quay West, this exceptional project is more than just a real estate venture; it’s a promise of elevated living that goes above and beyond expectations.

TORONTO’S NEW ICON: Q TOWER

Standing tall in the coveted Harbourfront neighborhood, Q Tower encapsulates the very essence of Toronto’s allure. This sleek 60-storey marvel offers a unique trifecta: exclusive, protected views of the mesmerizing waterfront, the iconic CN Tower and the city’s breathtaking

really pushed us to come up with a sophisticated design, that we are extremely proud of.”

INTERIOR ELEGANCE: THE ARTISTRY OF U31

skyline. Internationally acclaimed Canadian architects, Wallman Architects, have brought its expertise to bear on Q Tower’s design.

“We are honored to be a part of this project, especially knowing how important this building will be, given its prime location,” says Rudy Wallman, principal of Wallman Architects. “The Toronto skyline, photographed from the lake with the CN Tower in the frame, is one of the most used visuals when describing our city, and knowing that our tower will forever be positioned immediately next to the CN Tower

The elegance of Q Tower extends to its interiors, which have been masterfully designed by U31, an award-winning interior architecture and design studio. Drawing inspiration from the British Monarchy and British design and fashion, U31 has struck a harmonious balance between opulence and modernity, creating spaces that are both inviting and visually stimulating. With contemporary style and subtle nods to regal sophistication, the Q Tower stands in a league of its own. But it doesn’t stop there. In a remarkable partnership, internationally acclaimed artist and photographer Michael Moebius brings his artistic brilliance to Q Tower. Known for his hyperrealistic illustrative portraits featuring celebrities blowing large bubblegum bubbles, Moebius’s work is a cultural phenomenon that has graced the covers of esteemed publications and the walls of celebrities such as Beyonce, Paris Hilton and Rihanna.

In a North American first, the image of Queen Elizabeth II herself, adorned with a bubble, takes centre stage as the artistic focal point of

Q Tower. Moebius’s infusion of art into living spaces adds character, emotion and inspiration that has never before been seen in North America. It aligns perfectly with the developers’ commitment to building interconnected communities that have an artistic fervor woven into every project.

ELEVATED LIVING IN TORONTO

“Q Tower epitomizes modern elegant living, offering residents spectacular million-dollar protected views of the iconic CN Tower and beautiful waterfront,” says Brian Brown, principal of Lifetime Developments. “With its perfect location, remarkable building and unique design, thoughtfully crafted interiors and the inclusion of celebrity artist Michael Moebius’s captivating ‘Bubblegum’ artworks, Q Tower sets a new benchmark for metropolitan city living. It’s the perfect complement to the landmark location, where residents can immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty of Toronto’s skyline and waterfront, to be part of Toronto’s rich global culture.”

For those who seek the pinnacle of waterfront luxury living in Toronto, Q Tower is the answer. Visit qtower.ca for more information and to register your interest. nexthome.ca 31

BUILDER PROFILE | YORKDALE

GET IN THE KNOW TORONTO’S BEST-KEPT SECRET AT CLUB 285 CONDOMINIUMS Toronto is a city that transforms itself every decade, giving rise to a new neighbourhood that offers a thriving environment full of energy and opportunities. As new businesses, trendy cafes, galleries and unique shops fill the streets, a renewed passion for the community is ignited.

Altree Developments is a leading North American residential and hospitality developer committed to providing homeowners with living environments that are not just structures but a place for people to live, work and play, reflecting this ever-evolving city’s vibrant and diverse spirit.

32

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

The allure of owning a Toronto address with a 416 area code can feel out of reach, and sometimes, news of an emerging neighbourhood spreads so quickly, it can be challenging to seize the opportunity at the right moment. But for those “in the know,” the Yorkdale-Glen Park area is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

WELCOME TO TORONTO’S NEXT BUSTLING HUB

Nestled in the heart of Toronto, the Yorkdale-Glen Park neighbourhood is a beacon of connectivity and accessibility – it’s a place where convenience meets community.

With easy access to Toronto’s major highways and the TTC’s Glencairn subway station steps away, this neighbourhood offers unparalleled convenience.

Whether you’re running errands, heading to work, or exploring all the city has to offer, this neighbourhood has something for everyone – everything from local shops along Marlee Avenue, premium retail stores at Yorkdale Shopping Centre to family-friendly parks and trails. When taking all of this in, the neighbourhood ‘s potential as Toronto’s next urban hub speaks for itself.

“My family and I have lived around the corner from the Yorkdale-Glen Park area for many years, and it is one of Toronto’s best-kept secrets,” says Zev Mandelbaum, founder and CEO of Altree Developments. “This neighbourhood is a community where people truly have everything they need to work, live and play.

Poised for a period of rapid expansion, this neighbourhood stands at the cusp of a significant transformation that will redefine its very essence.”

GET IN THE KNOW

Situated along Marlee Avenue at the corner of Hillmount Avenue is Club 285 Condominiums – an architectural gem, revealed by its sleek and stylish greyscale palette.

The building exterior features a mix of brick, precast and dark spandrel, exuding an air of modern class and elegance.

This modern 10-storey midrise building is more than meets the eye.

Every inch of the interior has been thoughtfully designed to create an atmosphere of comfort, community and class. With approximately 215 units ranging from studios to threebedroom suites, the interiors are finished with warm and welcoming materials, soft lighting and a sense of elevated sophistication.

This boutique property boasts exceptional interior design and top-notch amenities that cater to all your needs. Upon entering the spacious dining area, you’ll discover a hidden bookcase entrance that leads to a sophisticated whiskey-tasting room – perfect for hosting intimate gatherings with your loved ones.

The social lounge is a breathtaking space that exudes class and style, creating an ideal environment for unforgettable moments. During the day, the lounge is transformed into a buzzing co-working space that fosters creativity and collaboration among like-minded individuals. The gym and yoga studio offer stateof-the-art equipment and serene spaces to help you stay healthy and rejuvenated. The property provides

a well-appointed and comfortable lifestyle, where every detail has been meticulously crafted.

“Club 285 Condominiums offers residents a unique opportunity to be part of a connected community,” says Jordan DeBrincat, vice-president of Altree Developments. “With superb amenities and unparalleled convenience, it is the perfect place for modern living.”

JOIN THE CLUB

Club 285 Condominiums is the ultimate opportunity for buyers seeking to secure their place in Toronto’s next vibrant neighbourhood. With a connected and enriched community, residents can enjoy all the amenities they need within convenient proximity.

The neighbourhood promises a bright future full of economic opportunities, with new businesses, trendy cafes, galleries and unique

shops that will fill the streets. Join the Club to witness this transformation of the neighbourhood firsthand and become a part of an exciting and growing community. Take advantage of this chance to “get in the know” and be at the forefront of the city’s next big thing.

“Altree always strives to build new homes in growing areas with a bright economic future, and Yorkdale-Glen Park is a shining example of that,” says DeBrincat. “We are confident that the Club 285 Condominiums will only keep pushing forward the emergence of the GTA’s next indemand neighbourhood, and we couldn’t be more excited to offer our residents a chance to be a part of that promising future.”

For more information, register at club285living.com. Visit 280 Viewmount Avenue or search @club285cafe on Instagram.

nexthome.ca 33

INSPIRATION |

decor

COSYING UP

BY THE FIRE

by LINDA MAZUR

As the seasons change and the cooler days and nights are upon us, it’s the perfect time for cosying up by the fire. Fireplaces have a certain appeal in a home – they add a warm and inviting aesthetic, even when not in use, and are the perfect complement to any decor style. If you reside in a house, adding a fireplace to your home can be a done with relative ease. However, condo-dwellers may encounter a few challenges from space to accessibility, ventilation, to even finding an electric fireplace that looks like a real fire.

These days, condos and lofts are often outfitted with gas or even 34 condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

wood burning fireplaces. If your home is not this fortunate, however, all is not lost, as there are many different possibilities that will still give you the beautiful ambiance a fireplace creates while facilitating any structural or venting limitations you may be facing.

Electric fireplaces have come a long way since they first entered the market. Today, electric fireplace feature designs that use revolutionary ultrasonic technology to create true-to-life looking flames as well as smoke effects simulating a real wood-burning fire. Advancements in technology have also created the three-dimensional flame, which

is a fabulous and realistic design for an electric fireplace. The “open flame” electric fireplace insert is another great option that enables you to design with electric inserts at an entirely different level; creating stunning fireplaces from a traditional to modern aesthetic.

Choosing the right design and function for your fireplace is key to maximizing the usage and enjoyment of your investment. As space can sometimes be limited, the addition of a fireplace to your condo should be well planned. But adding a fireplace to your home is not simply about function. Let’s face it, a fireplace can be a stunning focal point in a space, and definitely sets the mood for that room. A fireplace can be a wonderful complement to a well-designed wall unit that offers you added storage as well as the fireplace feature. A twoway fireplace can be a great addition to a room dividing wall. Or it can be an amazing stand-alone focal point in a space as well. Are you looking

to create drama in your home by using a stunning piece of marble for your fireplace façade; or perhaps a more traditional approach works best for you with a warm wood mantel. Whichever way you choose to incorporate a fire feature in your home rest assured the choices are seemingly endless when designing the facade of your fireplace. From fun paneled wall details to amazing dimensional and textured wall tiles, to concrete, wood, marble and so much more have fun with your design selections to create a wonderful new feature in your home.

We are fortunate to have a multitude of electric fireplace and woodstove options available to us today that no longer restrict condodwellers from enjoying the seasonal charms and comforts of a roaring fire. Whether your tastes veer to the more traditional, or whether you’re out to make a bold statement, you undoubtedly have an abundance of options and design inspirations to draw on. With the seasons changing and the colder days fast approaching it’s time to create for yourself an inviting, relaxed space for those chilly nights ahead.

Linda Mazur is an award-winning, nationally publicized designer and Principal of Linda Mazur Design Group. With almost two decades of experience this in demand multi-disciplinary design firm is known for creating relaxed, stylish spaces and full-scale design builds within Toronto, the GTA and throughout Canada. lindamazurdesign.com @LindaMazurGroup

nexthome.ca 35

INSPIRATION |

big style

CREATIVE STORAGE SOLUTIONS TO SOLVE SMALL SPACE CHALLENGES

by LISA ROGERS

Moving into a smaller space doesn’t mean you have to eliminate those essentials that can make your home feel functional and comfortable. A big part of that is how you can still meet your storage needs when you have less room to play with. With the right strategies, living in a smaller space and storing well is easy. Here, I will show you how to organize your home correctly with creative storage ideas for small spaces.

36

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

RETROFIT YOUR CLOSET SPACE

One of the biggest challenges in smaller homes is that they often need more closet space, particularly regarding entryway storage. Where to drop off your coats, jackets, shoes and more? Instead of renovating the space to build a fully-formed, walk-in closet, retrofit a portion of your wall space with hooks and open shelves to create a customized closet space that can work for you and your family.

Avoid the look of clutter by using baskets or bins on the shelves to organize (and hide) your belongings.

HIDE YOUR STORAGE

When you live in a smaller home, you want to avoid disorder and mess.

(It can make your space feel even smaller.) To ensure a cleaner, clutterfree look, use furniture that can work double-duty and utilize hidden storage. A bedroom storage bench,

a stylish multipurpose credenza or a lift-top coffee table can keep all your items out of sight but still accessible.

DON’T FORGET YOUR NOOKS

Shelves don’t need to take up a lot of real estate to be impactful. In small spaces, a shorter length of open shelves can help with your storage stash needs, providing much-needed room to house your dishware, glassware or any cooking utensils you use most often.

OPTIMIZE VERTICAL SPACES

Vertical space can be found anywhere, regardless of your home size. Behindthe-door storage is an excellent (and often overlooked) space. Put it to good use with hanging wire baskets lining the back of the door to store small items you would otherwise have scattered elsewhere.

MAXIMIZE YOUR WALL SPACE

Install an entire wall of cabinets and drawers on one wall in your home, which would otherwise be an empty space. When it comes to small space organization, you must be clever about repurposing blank, unusable spaces.

BUY A PEGBOARD

A pegboard can be used to hang almost anything, and they are instrumental in the kitchen to hang your pots and kitchen tools or in your home office for organizational needs. Not only are they affordable and easy to install, but they will also free up a lot of space in your cabinets you would otherwise devout to these items.

INVEST IN NEW BEDSIDE TABLES

Traditional nightstands typically have a shelf and one small drawer in them.

While that still offers some storage, it’s not always enough. Rethink the

space and use actual built-in shelving as your bedside table: Yes, it takes up more square footage, but the return on investment is worth it, offering plenty more room to store bedroom items.

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF YOUR BED’S STORAGE POTENTIAL

Most beds are wide and long enough to utilize the space underneath them.

Whether you get a custom-made platform bed or try a bed frame with under-bed drawers, each option gives you ample space that’s out of the way and out of sight.

Lisa Rogers is Executive Vice-President of Design for Dunpar Homes (dunparhomes.com). Lisa has shared her style and design expertise on popular television programs such as Canadian Living TV, House & Home TV and as a regular guest expert for fashion and image, health and wellness and design on CityTV’s Cityline. Follow Lisa’s blog at craftedbylisa.ca nexthome.ca 37

home decor

Windows INSPIRATION |

by BREN PETRUNICK photos MIKE CHAJECKI

IN YOUR WORLD

Frame your views in style

38

T

houghtfully designed window treatments create a fabulous finishing layer to your space that enhances the overall design, while also offering a multitude of benefits. Not only are coverings recommended to provide light diffusion, privacy and insulation around windows, designers understand how this feature can be a dramatic focal point and another canvas on which to add colour and pattern to achieve a desired aesthetic.

Blinds: Hard slats or louvers made from wood, vinyl, bamboo or other materials attached to a window by a frame. Can be tilted to adjust the amount and angle of light allowed through.

Shades: These comprise a panel (or more) of fabric fitted to the top of a window by a frame and includes a lifting and lowering mechanism.

Drapes: This is formal, floor-length fabric hung by a rod that can be functional or purely decorative.

Curtains: Shorter than drapes (typically falling just below the windowsill), curtains usually feature a lighter fabric that is also hung by a rod.

Trending treatments

option. Designers often choose this effortlessly chic window treatment because of its ability to complement any interior aesthetic.

Another often-used element is to bring in a layered look, especially with window treatments.

The ‘what’ of window wear Let’s start our tutorial with a refresher on what the options are to cover your windows: Drapes, curtains, shades and blinds.

Choose wisely Custom window coverings add style and value to your home, but can also be a costly investment, so it’s important to make informed decisions from the start. It’s a good idea to prioritize window coverings early in a design project to ensure that every detail is given careful consideration, including style, function, weight, pattern and colour palette, as well as the hanging and operating mechanism.

While it’s tempting to dive into fabrics and materials, I always advise my clients to begin by considering function. What role will the window treatment play in the room? If you need to filtre light or offer privacy, elements such as window size and shape, ceiling height, and wall space around the window will impact your selection.

The roman shade is a casual yet classy choice, and a personal favourite of mine. The classic, tailored lines of a crisp white roman shade sewn from quality linen will always be a timeless

Pro tips for designing window coverings

1

2

3

Strive for consistency throughout the home. This doesn’t mean every room has to be the same, but you should have some consistent elements that connect rooms, whether that be colours, types of shades or the fabrics used. For instance, you may choose to install woven shades throughout the home and then layer on luxurious drapery panels in the living room and soft sheers in the bedrooms.

One element you should always add to custom drapery is a liner.

The lining will add fullness to drapes, protect your fabrics from sun damage and provide additional insulation around windows.

If you’re building a new home, schedule time with your electrician to discuss motorized options for window treatments.

The cost and ease of roughing in low voltage wiring at the early stage of your build will save you valuable time and money.

Stylish interiors To achieve this look, I prefer to begin with a base shade, such as a roller or roman shade, and then layer the window with sheers or drapes for added weight, pattern, colour and texture.

Textured shades, made from woven natural fibres, are another

popular choice. Materials used in woven shades, such as wood, bamboo or grass, are of interest because they add another layer of rich texture to a room. And the casual design can easily be paired with drapes or sheers for a custom and tailored finish.

There is no need to sacrifice on style when designing window treatments.

With a variety of options to choose from and an endless array of materials to use, the age-old battle of form versus function need not apply to your window coverings. A thoughtful approach will result in window coverings that do their intended job, while enhancing the beauty of every room in your home.

Bren Petrunick is the creative founder of award-winning Simply White Interiors. For two decades, the Niagara-based design firm provided stylish and uniquely personal interiors. Servicing Niagara, the GTA, and Ontario. swi.design IG: @simplywhiteinterior

40

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

Space

INSPIRATION |

top 10

saver

1

by SARA DUCK

Elevate a room while keeping it tidy with a stylish console table

INVERSE console table in white marble. $4,499. cb2.ca

2

3

4

SCOOP console table in black marble and oak.

METALWORK console in haze. From $599.

SILVIANO console table in iron. $1,899.

$2,999. cb2.ca

westelm.ca

crateandbarrel.ca

5

6

7

VALO console table in pine wood. $2,299.

FOUR-SHELF tempered console table in glass

MODERN FARMHOUSE rectangular console

crateandbarrel.ca

and metal. $300. bouclair.com

table. $1,949. potterybarn.ca

8

9

10

MICKELL storage console table. $1,499.

WILLOW console table. From $644.

EMIT console table in black marble and metal.

crateandbarrel.ca

westelm.ca

$1,899. cb2.ca nexthome.ca 41

CONDO PROFILES

Elements Condominiums

Barrie

developer: PRATT HOMES style: Midrise size: 700 sq ft – 1300 sq ft prices: starting in the $500’s features: • Biophilic Nature-Focused Design • Spacious Solarium Balconies • Foyer with Large Windows and Live Tree • Live Indoor Tree, Water and Fire Features in Foyer • Outdoor Waterfall Features • Exercise Room with a View • Social Seating Around Gas Firepits • Water Filtration and Air Purification Systems in Every Suite • Outdoor Gym, Track and Covered Bicycle Racks • Landmark Art Installations • Steps to Barrie’s South GO Station contact: sales@pratthomes.ca | elementscondos.ca location: 723 Mapleview Drive East

Gallery Towers

Markham

developer: THE REMINGTON GROUP style: Highrise size: 515 to 1,688 sq. ft. prices from: From the $600’s features: • 9 Ft and 10 Ft ceilings • The towers offer exceptional 1, 2 and 3 bedroom residences with den options and spacious terraces with 2 storey towns • Outdoor fitness studio, outdoor dog walk, dog wash station, games room and wet bar, canopied dining with bbq areas and lounge seating • Indoor amenities games lounge, dining and party room, state of the are fitness and more contact: downtownmarkham.ca location: Warden + Enterprise 42

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

Duo

Brampton

developer: NATIONAL DEVELOPMENTS AND

BRIXEN DEVELOPMENTS INC.

style: Highrise size: 26 storeys features: • Studio, 1 bed, 1 bed + den, 2 bed, 2 bed + den • Lobby, Gym, Co-Working Space • Kids Playroom, Party Room, Private Dining Room With Catering Kitchen • Rooftop with BBQ’s, Flex Lawn, Dining and Lounge Areas register at: duocondos.ca location: Steeles Ave. W and Malta Ave. just west of Hurontario First Release is Sold Out. Register for New Release.

Central Park

North York

developer: AMEXON DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION style: Highrise – 12-acre, master-planned community size: 436 - 1,200 sq. ft. prices from: from the $700,000s features: • 1 Bed, 1 Bed+Den, 2 Bed, 2 Bed+Den, 3 Bed+Den • Spacious layouts, terraces/balconies • Located in the Bayview Village neighbourhood • Leslie subway station and GO Transit at your door • Direct access to the East Don Parkland ravine • Central Park Common – a three-acre urban park offering year-round, outdoor event programming • 55,000 sq. ft. of resort-style amenities including coworking space, skating rink, indoor and outdoor saltwater pools, privately operated childrens’ daycare, EV charging stations in all parking areas contact: centralparktoronto.com • (416) 252-3000 location: 1200 Sheppard Avenue East

CONDO PROFILES

The Villages of Oakpark

Oakville

developer: BALLANTRY HOMES project name: The Villages of Oakpark style: Highrise size: 500 to 1506 sq.ft. features: • Easy access to the QEW, Highways 403 and 407, and the Oakville GO Station.

• Select from luxurious 1, 2 and 2-bedroom+den suites.

• Rich amenities include gym, party room, rooftop terrace, lounge, co-work space, 24/7 concierge.

• Geothermal and Ballantry Connect Smart Package contact: ballantryhomes.com location: 90 Oak Park Blvd, Oakville 1st Place Compact Kitchen Martin DeSousa

1st Place Small Kitchen Linnea Lions

2151 Kingston Road

Toronto

developer: ALTREE DEVELOPMENTS style: Modern Boutique Mid-Rise Building, 10 Storeys, 156 Units features: • Located in Cliffside Village – minutes from the Scarborough Bluffs. Surrounded by nature and urban conveniences.

• Unobstructed views of Lake Ontario with cascading terraces. contact: KingsideResidences.com location: 2151 Kingston Road 1st Place Medium Kitchen Beverly Binns

1st Place Large Kitchen Glen Peloso & Elizabeth Smith

Turn your DREAM into REALITY

Why Hire an NKBA Professional: • Skills to Design and Plan Safe and Functional Kitchens and Baths • Understand the Industry Environment, Future Trends & Consumer Lifestyles

• Operate and adhere to a strict code of ethics under the guidelines of the NKBA • Utilize Industry Information for Designing & Planning • Research Building Codes and Current Industry Practices

nkba.org/chapters/ontario-canada/

The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) is a non-profit trade association that promotes the professionalism of the kitchen and bath industry. Established in 1963 as a network of kitchen dealers, it has grown into the premier association of distributors, retailers, remodelers, manufacturers, fabricators, installers, designers and other professionals. The NKBA’s certification program emphasizes continuing education and career development and includes designers and professionals in all segments of the kitchen and bath industry. The NKBA has become a valuable resource for both professionals and consumers. nexthome.ca 43

HOT PROPERTIES | GTA

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME The latest properties in the Greater Toronto Area to keep your eye on BRAMPTON

MISSISSAUGA

1. Bristol place

12. Birch at Lakeview 199 Main St, North, Brampton Village Lakeshore & Dixie Rd. 2. Duo condos branthaven.com

Malta ave & Steeles Ave

13. Artform Condos

CALEDON 3. Mayfield Collection 2256 Mayfield Road.

Mayfieldcollection.ca

ETOBICOKE

21. 500 Dupont St. 500 Dupont St. lifetimedevelopments.com

22. Artistry Condos

43

292 Dundas St. W. tributeartistrycondos.ca

86 Dundas St. E. artformbyemblem developments.com

23. Panda Condos

14. Exhale Condominiums

24. 36 Eglinton Ave. W.

Yonge & Dundas. lifetimedevelopments.com

3

36 Eglinton Ave. W. Lakeshore Rd. East & Dixie Rd. lifetimedevelopments.com exhalelakeshore.ca 25. Linx Condominiums

4. Curio Condos 801 The Queensway marlinspring.com

NORTH YORK

5. Humberwood Heights

15. Central Park

50 Humberwood Blvd. tributecommunities.com

Sheppard Ave. East & Leslie St. amexon.com

6. Arcadia District

PICKERING

Bloor & Kipling arcadiadistrict.com

16. Vupoint Kingston Rd. & Liverpool Rd. tributecommunities.com

MARKHAM/ UNIONVILLE

OSHAWA

7. Panda Markham 8200 Warden Ave. lifetimedevelopments.com

8. Varley Condo Residences 20 Fred Varley tributecommunities.com

9. Canvas on the Rouge Donald Cousens Pkwy & Ninth Line flatogroup.com

1

2161 Yonge St. tributecommunities.com

50 Wellesley St. East pureplaza.com

4

28. No. 1 Yorkville

29. Theatre District Residences

TORONTO

Adelaide & Widmer pureplaza.com

13 1

14 12

30. Bijou on Bloor 2450 Bloor St. West pureplaza.com

19. Lawrence Hill Urban 31. The Briar on Avenue Towns Don Mills & Lawrence lawrencehillurbantowns. com

162 Enterprise Blvd. downtownmarkham.ca

20. 489 Wellington St. W.

11. Highmount

489 Wellington St. W. lifetimedevelopments.com

368 Briar Hill Ave. pureplaza.com

32. One Seventy Spadina & Queen St. West pureplaza.com

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

28

6

33. King West & Charlotte King St. West & Charlotte pureplaza.com

34. Forest Hill Private Residences 2 Forest Hill Rd.

44

2

Brampton

27. 50 at Wellesley Station

2425 Simcoe St N,Oshawa tributecommunities.com

111 River St. lifetimedevelopments.com

31

26. Y&S Condos

1 Yorkville Ave. pureplaza.com

10. Gallery Towers at Downtown Markahm

4077 Hwy. 7 highmountbykingdom.com

Danforth & Main tributecommunicties.com

17. U.C. Tower

18. 111 River St. Condos

5

foresthillresidences.com

35. Oscar Residences 500 Dupont St. W. at Bathurst oscarresidences.com

37. Allure Condominiums 250 King St. East emblemdevcorp.com

36. Kingside Residences 38. XO Condos Kingston Rd. & Danforth altreedevelopments.com

King & Dufferin lifetimedevelopments.com

16

9

8 7

41

11 14

10 16

15

24 32

36

35 42 26

21

25

28 22

23 39 34 40 30 27 37 18 38 29 20 33

CARTOGRAPHY: MARKETMAPS.COM

19

39. 225 Jarvis Street Condos

40. 316 Junction Condos

41. The Residences of Central Park

42. The Dawes at Main Street

Dundas St. East & Jarvis amexon.com

Campbell & Dupont 316condos.com

Sheppard Ave. East & Leslie centralparktoronto.com

Danforth & Main St. thedawes.com

+

VAUGHAN 43. Park Avenue Place 1&2 Jane St. & Rutherford Rd. solmar.ca

BUILDERS IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO INCLUDE YOUR PREVIEW REGISTRATION, NEW RELEASE OR SITE OPENING IN THIS FEATURE, JUST EMAIL THE DETAILS TO EDITORIAL@NEXTHOME.CA

nexthome.ca 45

HOT PROPERTIES | SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO AREA

Guelph

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME

2

The latest properties in the Southwestern Ontario Area to keep your eye on BURLINGTON

OAKVILLE

1. Affinity Condos

9. The Greenwich Condos at Oakvillage

Plains Rd. E. & Filmandale Rd. rosehavenhomes.com

2. Millcroft Towns Appleby Line & Taywood Dr. branthavenmillcroft.com

3. North Shore North Shore Blvd. & Plains Rd. nationalhomes.com

FORT ERIE 4. Discoverie Condos Signature Communities discoveriecondos.ca

10. Synergy McCraney St. E. & Sixth Line branthaven.com

11. Upper West Side at Oakvillage 351 Dundas St. E. upperwestsidecondos2.ca

12. Greenwich Condos at Oakvilage Trafalgar Rd. & Dundas St. branthaven.com

13. Villages of Oakpark

HAMILTON 5. 1 Jarvis

Dundas & Trafalgar ballantryhomes.com

1 Jarvis 1jarvis.com

STONEY CREEK

6. The Design District 41 Wilson Street thedesigndistrictbyemblem.com

7. Corktown

NIAGARA REGION 8. Lusso Urban Towns Martindale Rd. & Grapeview Dr. lucchettahomes.com

condolife magazine |

14. Casa Di Torre 980 Queenston Rd. branthaven.com

15. On The Ridge Lormont Blvd. & Chaumont Drive liveontheridge.ca

225 John Street South corktown.condos

46

Trafalgar Rd. & Dundas branthaven.com

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

Brantford

CARTOGRAPHY: MARKETMAPS.COM

Mississauga

13

Milton

9

11 12

10

Oakville

Burlington 1 3

Hamilton 6 7

5

14

15 8

St Catharines

Niagara Falls

Welland

4

nexthome.ca 47

HOT PROPERTIES | OUT OF TOWN NORTH

FIND YOUR NEXT HOME

The latest properties in the Out of Town North Area to keep your eye on

CARTOGRAPHY: MARKETMAPS.COM

1 2

Legend: HR = High Rise CTH = City Home MR = Mid Rise LO = Loft LR = Low Rise LW= Live Work PH = Penthouse RH = Row Home TH = Townhouse

MAP 1.

2.

48

LOCATION

SITE

TYPE

ADDRESS

CONTACT

Barrie .....................................Elements ..........................................................MR ...........................723 Mapleview Dr. East ...................................................................... pratt.ca Barrie .....................................Bistro 6 .............................................................MR ...........................Yonge St. & Mapleview Dr...................................................bistro6barrie.ca

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

Join us as we bring a relatively untouched, tired-looking 1960’s builder’s-box bungalow into the 21st century. ready-set-reno.ca PRESENTING PARTNERS

SolidCAD: Empowering design, engineering, construction, owners, and manufacturers to conquer goals with our comprehensive suite of services and software. Industryleading tools, expert consulting, and unique offerings ensure your success. Excel and lead with SolidCAD.

In our continuing Ready.Set.Reno! project series, we've partnered with a team of top renovation experts, manufacturers and industry leaders who will offer helpful insights to start you off on the right foot with your own renovation project!

ADVICE | INDUSTRY REPORT

ADJUSTING HST REBATE THRESHOLDS WOULD PROVIDE RELIEF FOR NEW-HOME BUYERS

DAVE WILKES

In September, the federal government announced it will remove the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the construction of new rental housing. The same day, the Ontario government announced it will work with the federal government to remove the province’s portion of the Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) from purpose-built rentals. These commendable changes significantly improve the financial feasibility of building new homes for rent. Already we have seen announcements of projects with thousands of new units in this much-needed category.

Given the significant impact that taxation can have on Canadians’ ability to attain housing, the federal government should now focus on keeping a 32-year-old promise to adjust the price thresholds for the GST/HST new housing rebate program.

The GST on new homes was introduced in 1991, replacing the previous tax regime. To compensate homebuyers for the tax increase, the federal government introduced a rebate program that would reimburse the difference between the GST and the old tax. The government said that about 95 per cent of new homes would be eligible for the rebate. To maintain housing affordability, it made an important pledge: To review and adjust the rebate thresholds at least 50

condolife magazine |

Nov. 4–Dec. 2, 2023

every two years to reflect changes in house prices. Unfortunately, no review has taken place in the 32 years that have passed, and no adjustments have been undertaken.

In 2010, the HST was introduced on new homes, replacing the GST and the Provincial Sales Tax (PST), but the federal rebate program and its thresholds remain the same. The promise to Canadians to ensure that the tax does not affect housing affordability remains unfulfilled.

Since 1991, the price of an average home in the GTA has increased from $250,000 to about $1.2 million, which means the federal government’s tax revenue has increased from about $12,500 per unit to nearly $60,000 per unit. That’s tens of thousands of dollars in taxes added to the cost of a new home, in addition to all the other government fees, taxes and charges that are passed on to new-home buyers as part of the purchase price.

Added up, these can constitute as much as 25 per cent of the cost of a new home in the GTA, contributing to

the affordability crisis.

The federal government has demonstrated it understands the impact of taxation on housing attainability. It should follow up its laudable efforts in encouraging rental construction with an adjustment to the thresholds for the GST/HST new housing rebate. It would put tens of thousands of dollars back in the pockets of new-home buyers and would honour the original intent of the rebate – to help preserve housing affordability for all Canadians.

Dave Wilkes is President and CEO of the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD), the voice of the homebuilding, land development and professional renovation industry in the GTA. For the latest industry news and new home data, follow BILD on Twitter, @bildgta or visit bildgta.ca.

+MORE CONTENT ONLINE nexthome.ca