Calgary Resale Home & Condo Guide - 24 Jan., 2014

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Jan 24 - Feb 21, 2014 Volume 14 Issue 01

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Fabulous

Lower Mount Royal Condo

For more information on this property, please go to page 50-51

Serhan Tarkan 403.247.5503 www.tarkan.ca I serhan@tarkan.ca INSIDE THIS ISSUE

UNDERSTANDING YOUR MORTGAGE OPTIONS

CALGARY REAL ESTATE MARKET SURPASSES EXPECTATIONS IN 2013

A SELLER'S MARKET TO KICK OFF 2014

GARRISON WOODS – $739,000

PATTERSON – $1,095,000

28 Versailles Gate, SW – Fashionable, inner city townhome in pedestrian friendly Garrison Woods, walking distance to local shops & services. This unit offers a rare & much sought after feature: a private, fenced backyard, perfect for dog lovers and for entertaining. The open concept main floor has a living room with fireplace, kitchen with granite counters & stainless steel appliances & dining room overlooking the backyard. Upstairs there are 2 master bedrooms, each with their own walk-in closet and ensuite. The top floor has a family/games room & full bathroom. The basement is fully finished with a family room, flex room & bathroom.

214 Patterson Boulevard, SW – Ideal location, backing directly onto the ravine, with stunning views! This gorgeous 2150 SF bungalow has a developed walkout basement and a total of 3382 SF of living space with 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms. The floor plan offers a vaulted dining room, living room with fireplace feature wall and island kitchen with new stainless steel appliances. The generously scaled master bedroom overlooks the backyard and has an ensuite bathroom with oversized jetted tub. A curved staircase leads you down to the developed walkout with 2 more bedrooms, full bathrooms, family room, den, games room & wet bar.

RICHMOND PARK – $1,100,000

PATTERSON – $1,195,000

2105 19 Street, SW – A stunning renovation, worthy of a centre spread in Style at Home magazine! Ultra-chic 2-storey with walled “secret garden” is your private inner city oasis. Features all NEW: kitchen, bathrooms, hardwood, designer paint & lighting, plumbing & heating, custom window coverings & extensive site-finished built-in cabinets! Chef’s kitchen with Thermador & Miele appliances, quartz counters & glass backsplash, living room opening to garden, formal dining with city views, tree-house inspired master suite with fireplace, sitting room & spa bathroom. Downstairs you’ll find a gym, 3rd bedroom & bathroom with steam shower.

366 Patteron Boulevard, SW – On the ravine with pool, hot tub & outdoor fireplace! Extensively updated, beautifully appointed 2-storey with developed walkout basement. Features travertine & granite in kitchen & bathrooms, hardwood floors, California shutters, updated lighting & designer paint. Grand foyer, formal dining room, kitchen with granite counters & tumbled marble backsplash and vaulted great room with contemporary stainless steel faced fireplace. The master bedroom has a private balcony overlooking ravine. Walkout development includes family room with fireplace feature wall, 2 bedrooms, bathroom and gym.

ROCKy RIDGE – $1,495,000

EAGLE RIDGE – $1,495,000

10 Rockcliff Landing, NW – Welcome to Rock Lake Estates. A gorgeous waterfront home 5400 SF of executive class living with 5 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms. Features include: Handscraped hardwood flooring on main and upper floors, wainscoting, coffered ceilings, extensive built-ins. Chef’s dream kitchen with full height cabinetry, granite countertops, stainless steel tiled backsplash and high end appliance package including gas stove. Huge master retreat with sitting area and spa-like ensuite with jetted tub, his/her vanities & two walk-in closets. Developed basement with family room, wet bar & home gym with cork flooring

68 Eagle Crest Place, SW – Tucked away in a hidden cul-de-sac in a very exclusive neighborhood, this 2 storey is set on a huge, 13,000 SF lot next to Heritage Park & walking distance to Glenmore Landing. Well cared for & upgraded over the years it offers gleaming hardwood flooring, a wood-burning fireplace, formal dining room with French doors, vaulted breakfast nook, classic white kitchen with centre island. Upstairs there are 3 bedrooms & 2 ensuite baths. The master has a private balcony & ensuite with granite counters, marble floors, jetted tub & glass shower. Two other bedrooms share a Jack & Jill ensuite bathroom.

SPRINGBANK HILL – $1,575,000

ASPEN – $2,195,000

3256 81 Street, SW – Custom built walkout bungalow in a premier setting, backing onto wooded ravine! Huge, quarter acre lot with 94-foot frontage, hillside bungalow with 4300 SF of luxuriously appointed living space. Great room with coffered ceilings & contemporary fireplace, den with custom cabinets, kitchen with exotic granite counters, hardwood floors, Sub-Zero fridge, 6-burner gas cooktop & large breakfast nook. 5-star hotel inspired master bedroom with ravine views & ensuite with heated tile. The Walkout basement is developed with in-floor heat, 10-ft ceilings, family/games room, media room, wine room, 2 big bedrooms & full bath.

211 Aspen Ridge Place, SW – Walkout bungalow with loft, 4 ensuite bedrooms & triple garage! This home offers over 5700 SF of luxurious living space. Open concept with gleaming hardwood, a grand staircase, formal dining Room, vaulted living room and dream kitchen with high-end Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances. During the warmer months why not dine al fresco on the wonderful covered deck with outdoor fireplace? The master bedroom is your retreat at the end of a long day. It has an ensuite with inlaid marble floor, jetted tub & steam shower. Basement is developed with family room, wet bar, media room, gym & 4th bedroom.

ST. ANDREWS HEIGHTS – $2,200,000

ASPEN – $2,495,000

2903 11 Avenue, NW – New home in ideal inner city location, walking distance to the university, Foothills & Children’s Hospitals as well as McMahon Stadium! Exceptional 2167 SF bungalow with a total of 3592 SF of developed living space. Set on a huge lot (62-ft frontage) steps away from the ridge. Very open plan with dining room open to huge island kitchen, living room with striking River Rock fireplace and 3 bedrooms and a den on the main floor. The master bedroom has a spa-like ensuite featuring a steam shower with rain head. The basement has in-floor heat & is developed with family/games room, wet bar, library, gym, 2 bedrooms & 2 bathrooms.

52 Aspen Ridge Terrace, SW – Exclusive location overlooking ravine! 5600+ SF with 4 bedrooms (all ensuite), fabulous backyard & ravine views. Inspired

by Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Prairie School” & featuring refined built-ins, rift oak hardwood, formal dining room with silver leaf adorned ceiling, gourmet’s kitchen with glass eating bar, granite counters, amazing appliance package & a butler’s pantry. A smart home control system lets you manage lighting, climate control, music & security. Upstairs there are 4 bedrooms including a lavish master with deck, views, sumptuous ensuite & walk-in closet.

Basement has wet bar, games/media room and 5th bedroom.

WEST SPRINGS – $2,700,000

ELBOW PARK – $2,795,000

9006 9 Avenue, SW – A rare find: Half acre (24,736 SF) lot, 6036 SF 2-storey with developed basement for a total of 8500+ SF of living space with 4 car garage! Completely renovated home with 7 bedrooms (all ensuite)! Main level has dream kitchen with Wolf & Sub-zero appliances, butler’s pantry, formal living & dining rooms, family room & den with built-ins. Upper level offers 4 bedrooms, library & playroom. Huge master bedroom has a sitting room, spa-like ensuite and dressing room with island. The basement is fully developed with wine room, home theatre, games room, 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms & a full service wet bar.

3044 6 Street, SW – New home, 4600+ SF of total living space with 5 bedrooms & 6 bathrooms. Features gleaming walnut hardwood, soaring ceilings, extensive built-ins & in-floor heat. Chef’s kitchen with butler’s pantry, huge island & top-of-the-line Wolf & Sub-Zero appliances. Elegant formal dining room & main floor den. Ascend the grand staircase to the upper level where there are 3 bedrooms (all ensuite) and the master suite retreat with his & her walk-in closets & ensuite w/ steam shower. Lower level offers a family room, wet bar, glass front wine room, powder room & 2 bedrooms with Jack & Jill ensuite.

Dianne Brown

REAL ESTATE TEAM DIANNE & MICHAEL BROWN

LANDAN REAL ESTATE

CALL & ASK FOR DIANNE

403-256-3888 ACHIEVEMENTS • RE/MAX Platinum Club • RE/MAX President’s Club • Chairman’s Club • Member of MLS Million Dollar Club

Condominiums

EVERGREEN

KILLARNEY

1-800-661-6262

realestate@diannebrown.ca www.diannebrown.ca COCHRANE - GLENBOW

LD SO

ELBOYA

LD SO

RARE OPPORTUNITY! 1 bdrm & lock-off suites in the Swan Evergreen Village ASSISTED LIVING facility. Amenities include full service dining, fitness facility, games & craft rooms, bistro & professional onsite mgmt.

Top floor multi-level design. 13’ vaulted ceilings, loft, newer windows, in-suite laundry, htd u/g parking, hdwd floors, corner wood burning f/p & skylight. Close to parks, rec. centre, pool & steps away from 17th Avenue shops, & LRT

This large 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 2 storey townhome in desirable McGonigle Heights features an island kitchen, ample cabinetry & countertops, developed basement +single attached garage. Close to restaurants, curling, golf & so much more!

Great location for this 2 bdrm, 2 bath TOP Floor unit. Open floor plan, in-floor heat, gas fireplace, kitchen w/island & breakfast bar, spacious master bdrm w/walk-in closet & 4 piece ensuite. + laundry rm & storage space.

$195,900 - $279,900 + GST

$239,900

$289,900

$298,000

CONNAUGHT

EAU CLAIRE

PARKHILL

CANMORE

Upscale living at an affordable price! 2 bdrm, 2 bath former showhome features soft grey laminate flooring, granite counters, contemporary stone faced gas fireplace, in-suite laundry, private patio, titled pkg stall & storage locker

Executive style! Top quality finishes! Contemporary 1 bdrm + den. Gourmet kitchen, granite, hdwd floors, sleek gas fireplace. Views of the River & Centre St. Bridge. Amenities incl: gym, games rm, movie theatre & 24hr concierge.

Coming Soon! Exclusive development at the highest point in Parkhill with lovely views.

Contemporary duplex & triplex units have sgl/dbl garages + covered parking stall. S.S. appliance pkg, hdwd floors, granite counters & 2½ baths.

“Three sisters” fabulous views from this immaculate 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 3 storey w/ double garage. Features hardwood, granite, extra tall cabinetry, breakfast bar & island, custom Hunter Douglas blinds & cozy fireplace.

$349,900

$429,900

$470,000’S

$489,900

VICTORIA PARK

STARTING IN THE

NORTH HAVEN

MISSION

NORTH HAVEN

Prestigious “Havenworth” 1905 sf 3 bedroom, 2 bath condo features luxurious detailing throughout, gourmet kitchen, exotic wood & ceramic tile flooring, in-suite laundry, granite, air conditioning, 3 balconies & 2 side x side $819,900 underground pkg stalls.

1478sqft PENTHOUSE ON THE RIVER. Concrete Construction! Featuring 2 bedrooms + den & 2 undrground parking stalls. Bamboo hdwd, gourmet kitchen w/breakfast bar & large deck overlooking the Elbow River. Fabulous Location!

Spectacular 1905 sqft 3 bdrm corner unit.

Gorgeous mountain & city views. Top quality finishes! A/C, gourmet kitchen w/stainless appliances, extra tall cabinetry, expansive granite counters & pantry.3 balconies & 2 u/g pkg stalls.

$849,900

$849,900

QUEENSLAND

EVERGREEN

LD SO Spectacular downtown & panoramic mountain views! 2 bdrms, 2 baths, floor-ceiling windows, Espresso cabinetry, quartz countertops, stainless appliances & covered balcony. Amenities incl: a well equipped gym.

$539,900

Residential

COVENTRY

LD SO

ROYAL OAK

LD SO

LD SO

Total of 5 bedrooms + den & 3 full bathrooms in this fully developed walkout 4 level splt home.

Features laminate flooring, vaulted ceiling, & huge deck. Situated on a quiet close & near a path system & park.

1188 sqft bungalow featuring 3 bdrms, 1½ baths and a cozy wood burning fireplace. Dark laminate flooring, kitchen features dark cherry stained cabinetry & black appliances. Large private lot siding onto a park. Close to Fish Creek Park.

Open 3 bdrm, 2½ bath home w/dbl garage features vaulted ceiling, gas fireplace, hdwd & ceramic flooring, stainless appliance pkg, island w/breakfast bar & corner pantry plus an oversized deck & tree house in the large South yard.

1,756 sqft 3 bedroom, 2½ bath 2 storey home with open main floor plan. Features corner gas fireplace, kitchen with island & walk-in pantry & large bonus room. Close to shopping & easy access to transit, LRT & Stoney Trail

$328,000

$369,900

$399,900

$426,000

NEW BRIGHTON

LD SO

TUXEDO

MCKENZIE LAKE

Many upgrades in this lovely 3+2 bedroom, 2½ bath bungalow with fully finished lower level.

Features corner fireplace, separate dining room, large country kitchen, double garage, front driveway & rear parking pad.

Major renovations completed! Walnut toned floors, shaker style floor - ceiling cabinets, dishwasher & gas range. 2 good sized bdrms up - king size master w/2 walk-in closets. Fully finished lower level. Private yard, large deck & $469,900 patio.

Substantially renovated! Gorgeous 1900 sqft home on large lot backs onto private path leading to Fish Creek Park. Vaulted ceilings, hdwd, granite, 4 bdrms, 3 full baths, cozy fireplace, full lower development & so much more.

CRANSTON

SOUTHWOOD

WEST SPRINGS

SOUTHWOOD

LD O S

LD SO

Fabulous open floor plan! Features 3 bdrms, 2½ baths, hdwd, cozy fireplace, bonus room, main floor laundry, spacious kitchen with espresso cabinetry, island w/breakfast bar & walk-in pantry. Close to park, rec. centre & shopping.

$439,900

WEST HILLHURST

$448,500

$498,500

LD SO

LD SO ½ Duplexes – Great location & close to amenities & City Centre. Great access to Foothills Hospital, U of C, & SAIT. Total of 4 suites – each with 3 bdrms & their own laundry facilities. EASY to RENT!

2 storey w/bonus rm. Features acryllic stucco/ stone exterior, hdwd on main, espresso cabinets, pantry, granite counters, s.s. appliances w/gas cooktop & great rm w/stone fireplace. 3 bdrms up – master w/5 pce ensuite & walk-in closet.

Extensively renovated & professionally decorated 4 bdrm home. Features a large lot, single attached & dbl detached garages, loft for storage, hdwd, gas fireplace, air conditioning, gourmet kitchen, custom cabinetry and more…

Beautifully maintained 3 bdrm home backing onto a treed walkway & features cozy gas fireplace, dark wood cabinetry, corner pantry, island/ breakfast bar, s.s appliances, hdwd & tile flooring , main floor laundry & a huge deck.

$525,000/$625,000

$565,000

$569,900

$628,500

WESTGATE

AUBURN BAY

LD SO

WEST HILLHURST

MEADOWLARK PARK

LD SO

LD SO

Gorgeous renovated 3+1 bdrm bungalow w/prof. developed lower level. Dream kitchen, hdwd & tile flooring, new furnace, HWT, electrical etc.

Fabulous location – close to park, 3 schools & new LRT + quick access to downtown.

Over 2238 sqft in this spacious, bright corner 2 storey home with fully developed lower level. Situated on a large private lot with oversized double attached garage – lots of room for all the toys.

Close to the lake & shopping.

Large private 50’x128’ inner-city lot on a quiet cul-de-sac siding onto the Briar Hill Reserve.

Build & take advantage of the terraced lot & the potential skyline view. Easy access to downtown, river path system, U of C & SAIT.

Prime Location! Fabulous renovated fully finished bungalow on 65’ park-like lot. Sunny open concept w/gourmet kitchen, tall espresso cabinetry, granite counters, under cabinet lighting, s.s. appliances, gas fireplace & so much more.

$629,900

$649,900

$749,900

$799,900

ASPEN WOODS

LD SO

MAYFAIR

LD SO

Residential

2

“For the best in Quality Service”

NORTH GLENMORE

ALTADORE

LD SO

WOW! Open & contemporary 3+1 bdrm, 3½ bath home with bonus rm is loaded w/upgraded features. Dramatic 2 storey foyer, gourmet kitchen, 2 sided fireplace, luxurious ensuite, professionally developed lower level & landscaping.

Completely renovated – Gorgeous 4 bdrm w/ dramatic open beam vaulted ceilings, hdwd floors, custom built-ins, 2 fireplaces. Gourmet kitchen w/ custom cabinetry, professional line s.s. appliances, quartz counters, 3½ baths & triple garage.

New House on a 50’ lot. Absolutely gorgeous custom quality home loaded w/upgrades. 9’ ceilings, hardwood flooring, top of the line s.s. appliances, prof. developed lower level. Close to schools, parks & easy access to downtown.

Over 4300 sqft of exceptional quality, custom finishing in this NEW fully developed 4+1 bdrm 2 storey home w/triple detached garage & large sunny south yard. Sits on a quiet street & close to River Park, shopping & minutes to downtown.

$899,900

$1,398,000

$1,650,000

$1,785,000

IRRICANA

OKOTOKS

NORTH SPRINGBANK

Over 4,000 sqft of SPECTACULAR development in this TOTALLY RENOVATED home situated on a 70’ lot in the heart of Kelvin Grove. New from the studs in and the studs out including insulation.

This parcel contains 80 ACRES of PRIME cultivated farm land and is located adjacent to the East of Range Road 263, one mile North of Highway #9 and 2 miles North of the Town of Irricana in the Municipal District of Rockyview.

Magnificent estate home on peaceful 10+ acres overlooking a treed ravine. Exceptional bungalow w/3 bdrms on the main + 2on the fully developed walkout level. Bonus room above the garage. Top quality finishes throughout!

$2,250,000

$449,900

95+/- acres of rolling land w/approximately 30 treed acres & 60 acres pasture. Build your DREAM HOME & enjoy the gorgeous RIVER & MOUNTAIN VIEWS. The river runs along the north & east boundaries. Easy access to Okotoks & $850,000 Black Diamond.

Rural

KELVIN GROVE

$2,649,000

The Pinnacle of

:CFC@G A Brand New Magazine Dedicated to High-End Properties in Calgary and Area The only magazine of its kind in Calgary, Luxury Living showcases high-end homes, condos and properties. This is your exclusive opportunity to establish your property as the pinnacle of affluent living.

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TO BOOK YOUR ADVERTISING SPACE CONTACT:

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Anita Van Breevoort

403.461.5518

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RICHARD KIM RE/MAX HOUSE OF REAL ESTATE 117 BEARSPAW VILLAGE CR NW $2,380,000

2912 TORONTO CRESCENT NW $2,399,000

300 SPYGLASS WAY $1,999,900

This is a very special property with unparalleled views! From this ridge location, enjoy stunning vistas of the Bow River Valley and Rocky Mountains. Very few, if any properties enjoy this caliber of view. The home itself is a sprawling bungalow with a large and deep indoor pool and a triple attached garage. The lower walkout level is also fully finished. Leading up to the home is a private, heavily tree-lined driveway. This home has under-gone a complete transformation into a spectacular, modern abode.

Virtually everything inside is new featuring modern upgrades throughout. The main level houses a huge great room, dining room, kitchen, nook, family room, 3 bedrooms,laundry,2 full and 1 half baths, plus the indoor pool! The lower walkout level boasts a family room, rec room, den, wet bar, sauna, exercise room, indoor garage and 2 full baths. Properties like these are once in a lifetime. The views are truly breathtaking.

Gorgeous new home on one of Calgary’s most sought after addresses-Toronto Cres in St. Andrews Hts! From this commanding location, enjoy sweeping views of the Bow River valley, quick access to the University of Calgary, Foothills Hospital, downtown, and, the river pathway system. This modern home boasts 5 total bedrooms, an upper floor den, huge upper floor laundry, magnificent chef worthy kitchen, fully finished lower level, a single attached and a double detached garage-all crafted by an Outstanding Alberta New Home Warranty registered builder. Some of the highlights include: spectacular glass and steel staircase, brilliant feature walls, Wolf and Subzero appliances, built-in Miele coffee maker, opulent ensuite bath, an abundance of cabinetry, in-floor heating, steam shower, outdoor fireplace, heated garages, and complete landscaping. This home is sure to impress even the most discerning buyer! Please call to for a complete list of upgrades and features.

New West Luxury Estate Homes proudly presents their stunning show home in the desirable Watermark community in Bearspaw. This brand new luxury home has 5700 sq.ft. of quality living space. The main floor features a striking office, large dining area, gourmet custom kitchen and spacious living room complete with gas fireplace. A grand open tread staircase not only carries you to the other floors, but includes a dramatic stone feature wall spanning all three levels. Upstairs includes 4 bedrooms and a spacious bonus room. The master suite is complete with fireplace, oversized steam shower, free standing soaker tub and his and her vanities. The lower level includes the 5th bedroom, workout room and is perfect for entertaining with a large family room, custom built bar and wine room. Outside you will have a fantastic living area complete with fireplace making this area the perfect outdoor space to entertain. This luxury family home is sure to impress and is a must see!

3132 ALFEGE ST SW MOUNT ROYAL $998,000

377 NOLANFIELD WAY NW ASKING $419,000

3135 38 ST. SW GLENBROOK $789,000

C/S • • • • • •

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1879 sf Charming 1.5 storey Beautiful tree lined street Fully finished basement Double garage 4 bedrooms, 3 full baths

C/S • • • •

3 beds 2.5 baths 1400sf 4 locations to choose from pick your own colors.

• • • • • •

Brand new home on 31.5’ lot 1991 sf West back yard Luxurious finishings throughout 3 beds up + main floor den Double garage

403.616.0734 ♦ E richard.kim@remax.net ♦ F 403.476.5200 ♦ W www.richkim.ca #20, 2439 - 54th Ave. S.W. Calgary, AB T3E 1M4

Now building in Patterson Hills, Rock Lake Estates, Killarney, Elbow Park and other fine communities. Ask for lot availability and immediate possession homes

DORY CAMERON FRI CCS PROFESSIONAL REALTOR® & BROKER/OWNER

403.807.7193

DORY@CAMERONDISCOUNTREALTY.COM WWW. C AMERON D ISCOUNT R EALTY.COM

SAVE THOUSANDS IN REAL ESTATE FEES! LISTING FEE AS LOW AS... $1295.

• Full MLS® Professional Service…Always!

• Unique commission plans - save thousands - fees from

$1,295!

• Complimentary staging recommendations so home shows its very best • Full marketing package for each of my listings includes internet marketing, magazines, feedback from showings, virtual tours and more!

• Not only award-winning Realtor® but also a Broker with a Fellowship in Real Estate (FRI) and a Certified Professional Stager (CSP).

www.CameronDiscountRealty.com Benefit from one of Calgary’s top selling realtors... and still save thousands $$$ JUST LISTED!

COVENTRY HILLS - BACKING ONTO PARK! $464,900 WEST SPRINGS WINNER! $359,900

NO CONDO FEES! $319,900

SOLD SOLD SOLD MCKENZIE TOWNE $504,900 • 2,064 sq ft Avi-built two storey • mint condition • gorgeous dark hardwood with contrasting cabinetry • granite countertops

• stainless steel appliances • Bonus Room • Oversized heated 24x24 detached garage w/220 volt • central air.

ROYAL OAK BUNGLOW $649,900

SOLD CUSTOM BUILT WALK-OUT • 1,700 sq ft, bungalow • Custom cove work, inlays millwork • Boardroom doors & built-ins

• Main floor den • Gorgeous landscaping, views • Backing on to peaceful & private berm

LOTS OF UPGRADES! • 1,740 sq ft, 3 bdrms, 2 ½ baths • Rich hardwood throughout main floor, Bonus Room & both kids bedrooms • Coffee-toned cabinetry • Upgraded stainless appliances

including gas stove • Freshly painted in neutrals • Backs onto large green space and pathway • Quick stroll to shopping & rapid downtown transit.

EXCELLENT OPPORTUNITY! $259,900

CONTEMPORARY TOWNHOME CONDO • Contemporary townhome condo • Dark contrast euro cabinetry • Super-open concept, • 2 bedrooms 2 ½ baths,

• 3 balconies/patios, • House-feel with single attached garage or park right out front!

• Absolutely mint condition

DEER RIDGE $369,900

SOLD SOLD OVER LIST PRICE!

NO CONDO FEES! HALF DUPLEX • 1,195 sq ft 3 bedrooms 1½ baths • Ceramic tile and laminate floors throughout • Large living room with brick wood-burning fireplace • Crisp white kitchen with lots of counter space

• Generous dining area overlooking back yard • Family room and gym in basement - lots of storage • HUGE south sunny fully fenced yard • Quiet cul-de-sac

OVER LIST PRICE! BASEMENT SUITE

• Live up and Rent Down • 1,073 sq ft Bungalow 3 + 2 bedrooms, 2 .5 baths

• Laminate floors, new windows, oversized double garage • Huge pie lot • Quiet street!

3 BEDROOMS • Half-duplex with single attached garage • Gorgeous hardwood • Dark kitchen cabinetry • Black appliances • Private main floor den

• Bonus Room over the garage • 3 bedrooms including Master Bedroom with full ensuite • Fully fenced yard

MI On co

M po MI the Pe all –

INDUSTRIAL CHIC! $488,000

SOLD RENFREW BUNGALOW • High style design mix of • Ideal for those wanting steel, marble, dark woods the lastest in finishes & design.

• Slab steel track doors, open concept, gas stove

How it works: I list your home on MLS® for only $1,295. The buyer’s real estate agent is also offered a commission, typically 3.5% of the first $100,000 + 1.5% of the balance. So if your home sells for $350,000 you save nearly $6,000 in real estate fees! If your home sells for $450,000, you save nearly $7,500 and you nearly $10,500 if your home sells for $650,000! Compare this to the typical “7% + 3%” commission - you literally save thousands of dollars! All fees are paid from sale proceeds of your home - no money up-front! Then, let me find your next perfect home! Selling only? My fee is 1% so you literally still save thousands $$$! Call today for details - as almost all homeowners will qualify to save, there may be a few conditions that could apply in your situation. Fees subject to GST.

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Dory Cameron. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Vice-President, Wall2Wall Media

Jacqueline Hill

editor-in-chief/director of content

century 21 David Crick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 cir realty David Setter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Katherine Dawidowski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 MaPle leaf realty Ken Yeoh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 re/Max real estate Alnoor Velji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Debbie Rice . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Dianne Brown . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Don Lothian. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 Gary Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 James Cote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Len T. Wong & Associates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Rahim Dhanji . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Richard Kim. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Robert Cote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Sam Corea . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Scott Merchant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35 royal lePaGe real estate Chris Zaharko . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Serhan Tarkan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Back Page MoRTGAGE CoMPANiES

Susan Legge

director of sales, national

Josh Heppner

senior sales ManaGer, Western canada

Edwin Rizarri editor

Lydia McNutt Media consultant

Anita van Breevoort Phone: 403.461.5518 contributinG editors

Sara Duck Wayne Karl Elisa Krovblit

Production ManaGer

Bala Gnanapandithan

GraPhic desiGners/disPlay artists

Kiran Sharma Mike Terentiev

Production coordinator

Swinder Jodhka

PrintinG

Prolink Lori Ames. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37 rbc MortGaGes Olivera (Hollie) Winkelaar (M.S.) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18, 34, 38 & 41

Transcontinental, LGM - Coronet for adVertisinG inquiries Please call 403.461.5518

RECREATioNAl PRoPERTiES & MoRE PeMberton holMes Nancy Vieira . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 re/Max caMuson Peninsula ProPerties Jack Barker . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 carbon Monoxide reMinder ATCO Gas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 eVents Calgary Home & Garden show. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 MoVinG & storaGe coMPanies Mi-Box Moving & Mobile Storage. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49

The Calgary Resale Home & Condo Guide is published

by Wall2Wall Media located at 2891 Sunridge Way NE, Calgary, AB T1Y 7K7. Resale Home & Condo Guide is distributed throughout Calgary at free pick-up locations. This magazine carefully inspects all ads for accuracy, however, the publisher and the printer shall not be responsible for any mistakes, design errors or incorrect information which is provided by the advertiser or their representative. The advertising herein, including the photographs and all artwork, is the property of Resale Home & Condo Guide and not that of the advertiser. The advertiser has purchased the right of reproduction in Resale Home & Condo Guide magazine only and does not have the right to reproduce the ad in whole or in part in any other place or publication without the consent of the publisher.

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Published by

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Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

9

contents

VOLUME 14 ISSUE 01 | JAN 24 - FEB 21, 2014

50 IN THIS ISSUE 16.

EDITOR’S NOTE

20.

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP

A seller’s market to kick off 2014: What to expect and how to go with the flow by Lydia McNutt

22.

PURCHASING POINTS Real Estate Resolutions for homebuyers and sellers by Kara Kuryllowicz

24.

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP

32.

FEATURE REALTOR

35.

Making your home ownership dreams a reality

36.

Packing tips to make your move a little easier

Duking it out with décor

Serhan Tarkan of Royal LePage Foothills, loves helping clients reach their real estate goals by Heather Ryan

37.

HOT TOPIC Understanding your mortgage options: Common questions answered

39.

QUICK TIPS

44.

10 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

MONEY MATTERS

Time to “make do”

by Gail Vaz-Oxlade

46.

IN THE NEWS Calgary named Canada’s strongest major housing market

50.

FEATURE PROPERTY Fabulous Lower Mount Royal condo, featured by Serhan Tarkan of Royal LePage Foothills by Heather Ryan

52.

AROUND THE HOUSE

55.

MARKET ANALYSIS

FINANCES

ON THE MOVE

New year, new attitude

by Hellen Buttigieg

de-clutter by Laura Le

Time to sell, time to

Calgary’s real estate market soared beyond expectations in 2013

by Heather Ryan

44

52

55 MAPS & EXTRAS 42. You love the home, see what you can afford!

18, 34, 38 & 41. Calgary maps, communities and MLS numbers 45. Recreational properties 48. Out-of-town regional map

FOR ADVERTISING INFORMATION CALL OFFICE 403.461.5518 NEXT DEADLINE: FEBRUARY 7TH, 2014

22

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

11

Zaharko

the name synonymous w

Pinnacle Ridge Masterpiece

M

Immaculate landscaping, give this executive family home curb appeal with a promise of something special to come. There is a warm sense of rustic glamour mixed with contemporary construction. Large paneled windows provide vast amounts of light to enter while offering majestic vistas. A welcoming foyer leads to the great room & formal dining room which is perfect for entertaining. Attention to detail is evident everywhere; the soaring cross beam and coffered ceilings offering a stately elegance while the stone and tile fireplaces along with warm wood floors. The gourmet kitchen is a chef’s dream. Long evenings of home entertainment await. The unique double walk out has everything for the family, theatre, exercise, wet bar, games room, wine room and guest quarters. A grand spiral staircase takes you back to the main floor. $2,800,000 MLS C3587998

Rocky Ridge

Stunning executive home located on a quiet cul-de-sac backing a park with a mountain view. This home offers over 3100 sq.ft. of luxurious living space, 5 bedrooms, 3 fireplaces, 4 1/2 baths, built-in speakers plus a fully developed basement. Huge gourmet kitchen with a large center island, granite counters, lots of cabinets & counter space & high quality stainless steel appliances. Walk-through pantry and mud room with built-in lockers.

Living room features 20 ft. ceilings and built-in cabinetry around a stone fireplace. Main floor den. The master suite boasts a fireplace, private balcony with mountain views & a large 5 piece ensuite. 2 more large bedrooms, 4 pce main bath & laundry room complete the upper. Private nanny/guest room with a fireplace, wet bar, 4 pce bath & walk-in closet. Lower level has a fantastic family/media room with a built-in entertainment centre, speakers & a wet bar, games area, 4 pce bath and 5th bedroom. Large deck off the back & a 4 car attached garage. $1,049,000 MLS C3580555

Th M & H fir g w st a b

Norris Coulee

B

Welcome to Norris Coulee, a horse friendly community boasting an extensive bridle path system, walking distance to Heritage Heights School and only 15 min. south of Calgary. This impressive 6 bedroom family home sits on over 4 acres of landscaped tranquility and offers over 6400 sq. ft. of living space. Totally renovated and functionally laid out with every attention to detail. The huge kitchen is a chef’s dream with maple cabinets, granite counters, stainless steel appliances and a large breakfast nook with a wall of windows providing plenty of natural light. Living room features hardwood floors, a stone fireplace and large windows. The spacious dining room is adjacent to the kitchen and living room which is perfect for entertaining. Also on the main floor is a den and guest bedroom with a 4 piece ensuite, Butler’s Pantry and a large laundry room with cabinets and granite counters. Upstairs is a library with built-in book shelves, a music room and a media room. Master suite features a fireplace and huge walk-in closet with built-ins. The luxurious ensuite boasts double sinks, a soaker tub and large tiled shower. The other 3 bedrooms are large with built-in storage/seating under the windows. Lower level is developed with a huge rec room boasting a floor to ceiling stone fireplace, a games area and gorgeous curved bar. There is also an exercise room & 6th bedroom with a decadent bathroom featuring a jetted tub, double sinks & large tiled shower. This magnificent home has it all - an oversized triple garage, wrap-around deck , infloor heat, built-in speakers and luxurious living space! $1,449,000 MLS C3553121

E 4 fo n in g c fr

Chris Zaharko |

Associate #1 Individual Agent at Royal LePage Foothills 2008

us with real estate Mayfair Bungalow

Panorama Rd - Rockyview Acreage

m e o es e e

g d, s. y st e,

his ry ng ct a a to ge

40 Acres located southwest of Airdrie. Many trees and landscaping surround this 3600 sq.ft. bungalow with 36x27 attached garage. 40x48 shop with 10’ ceilings and concrete floor. 2 septic fields. This custom home features 5 bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, large kitchen, hot water heat and an unspoiled basement. Could also be subdivided. $2,198,000 MLS C3587083

Silverado Ranch Estates

This spacious and upgraded 1805 sq.ft. bungalow located in Mayfair offers a mature & fabulously landscaped south lot. Warm & welcoming with each room flowing seamlessly into the next.

Hardwood floors throughout the principal rooms. Double-sided fireplace. The family room has a skylight for lots of natural light + garden doors that lead out to the deck. The kitchen is a dream with cork floors, granite counters, island and top of the line stainless steel appliances. The master bedroom features his & her closets and a 3 piece ensuite. Fully developed basement with additional bedrooms & a full bath. $1,249,000 MLS C3588353

Gorgeous new executive home, perfectly situated on an 80’ x 144’ lot that backs onto a green space with pathways and faces a green space too. This 4 bedroom home offers 4557 sqft of luxurious living with high quality finishings & attention to detail.

Open concept floor plan with dark hardwood floors & a 2 storey great room that boasts a gas fireplace with built-ins. Spacious dining room & a den with a gas fireplace.

Gourmet kitchen with a large island, granite counters, s.s. appliances and a walk-thru butler’s pantry. Mud room offers built-in shelving and lockers.

Upstairs you will find a bonus room with built-ins that offers view of Spruce Meadows. Master suite with a 3-sided fireplace and a spa-like 5 piece ensuite. Walk-in closet with built-ins. Two additional bedrooms, 4 piece main bath and a convenient laundry room complete the upper level. Oversized triple attached garage large enough for a boat & vehicle. $1,039,000

Bayview Beauty

Experience the most exquisite home Bayview has to offer! Boasting gorgeous views and backing onto the reservoir, this home boasts over 4,100 sq.ft. of living space. Completely remodeled this 3 bed, 3 bath home is perfect for the mature family or professional couple. Perfect for entertaining, this gourmet kitchen featuring high end stainless steel appliances and adjoins a large separate dining room + breakfast nook. The oversized sun room accommodates access to the backyard and features removable windows for summer. The Master Suite includes a generous sized walk-in and ensuite with 3 headed shower. The lower level has been completed to include a games room, gym area, 3rd bedroom, bathroom, laundry and large media room with wet bar. The backyard features a stainless steel outdoor kitchen complete with grill, range, fridge & sink. Relax by the 16’x32’ in-ground pool on the large patio area or go for a stroll on the pathway steps from the back gate. Close to all amenities, shopping, schools & golf. $2,350,000 MLS C3590347

P: F:

403.249.4322 403.252.2653

E: W:

czaharko@rlfoothills.com www.zaharko.com

Zaharko

The Montana in Connaught An upscale contemporary complex, located in the vibrant and trendy inner city district of Connaught. The building features a grand lobby with full service concierge, conference room & fitness facility

the name synonymous w

Penthouse Office Space in the Beltline

L

First time offered for sale. An excellent opportunity to own the entire top two floors of the Montana (condo tower). Close to 6,000 sq. ft. of office space with unobstructed 360 degree views. Floor to ceiling windows and 6 balconies.

Three elevators. Currently set up with 14 offices with incredible built-ins, 2 separate board rooms and a full working kitchen & eating area. Ten (10) underground parking stalls. Premier building with a full service concierge and fitness facility. Perfect location, close to restaurants & all amenities with an easier commute to the beltline rather than the downtown core. MLS C1022348 $5,900,000

5 st sh a p Lo re

22nd Floor

C

This two bedroom unit features floor to ceiling windows that offers a panoramic view of the city skyline and the mountains. Open floor plan which is perfect for entertaining. The kitchen features maple cabinets, granite counters, stainless steel appliances and a large island with breakfast bar. The master bedroom has a walk-in closet and 4 piece ensuite. Hardwood and tile floors throughout.

This unit has one of the largest balconies in the building. Titled underground parking (P4-09). All service concierge and a fitness facility along with underground visitor parking. Prime location, close to shopping, restaurants and minutes to the downtown core. $664,500 MLS C3572726

le on D Ba

Lower Mt. Royal

Bridgeland

F

The largest unit in the building with just over 1300 sq.ft. Featuring 9 ft. ceilings, 2 bedrooms plus a den. Spacious living room with a large bay window and hardwood floors throughout. The kitchen has tile floors, beautiful maple cabinets, a breakfast bar, and black appliances. The large master bedroom has a walk-in closet, and 4 piece ensuite. Use the 4 piece additional bathroom for the second bedroom. Keep cool with central air conditioning. An additional in suite storage room, with additional storage off the deck. Balcony offers partial city views. Great location just blocks from 17 Avenue and all the restaurants and shops that it offers. Underground heated parking. $464,000 MLS C3563097

Welcome to the Pontefino located on a quiet street across from a green space, park and the Bow River pathways. This 1 bedroom + den unit has a nice open floor plan with large windows for plenty of natural light. Functional kitchen with lots of cabinets and a curved breakfast bar. A garden door from the kitchen leads out to the patio. Spacious master bedroom with large windows, a walk-in closet and 4 piece ensuite with soaker tub. Heated underground parking. Great location, in the heart of Bridgeland, within walking distance to restaurants, shops, Starbucks, the C-Train and a short walk to downtown. $339,900

d o sh (K Jo is a

Chris Zaharko |

Associate #1 Individual Agent at Royal LePage Foothills 2008

us with real estate

o th s.

2 0) d an 48

c or ss m t. d h ts

a + ty a to in d g ort

Lake Access home in Chaparral

5 Bedroom Lake Access home in Chaparral boasting over 4300 sq. ft. of living space. A grand curving staircase is the focal point when you enter the 2 storey foyer. The main living area features Brazilian Tiger Hardwood floors, built-in speakers, a large den, formal dining room & spacious great room that share a double-sided fireplace with built-ins. Gourmet kitchen with richly stained maple cabinets, large centre island, granite counters & stainless steel appliances. Corner walk-thru pantry leads you to the mud room with storage lockers, powder room & triple heated garage. 4 good size bedrooms up plus the laundry room. The huge master bedroom features built-in speakers, walk-in closet & a 3-sided gas fireplace with the luxurious 5 piece ensuite.

Lower level has 9’ ceilings, a wide open rec room, large 5th bedroom & ensuite bath. Air conditioning & U/G sprinklers. Front verandah and a large rear deck to enjoy those summer days and evenings. Steps to semi-private dock and the lake. $1,132,500 MLS C3573632

Connaught Office Space

Over 2600 sq.ft of office space, this property has been converted to a law office. The reception area features an impressive stone and wood floor to ceiling fireplace.

Hardwood & carpet flooring.

The kitchen/ resource room has maple cabinets, a dishwasher, fridge and microwave.

Main reception area could be converted to a large boardroom with 3 separate offices. Second level has 2 large offices and a 4 piece bath. There are 3 additional offices on the 3rd level. Large deck off the back and rear parking for 4 vehicles.

Deck could be removed which would add an additional 4 parking stalls.

Basement is ideal for file storage (764 sqft) $1,178,000 CLS C1022912

Falconbridge (Foreclosure)

403.249.4322 403.252.2653

This 2,119 sq.ft 2-storey detached home in the heart of Kensington is the perfect location for any type of business. Exposure to both Kensington Road and Kensington Cres. Paved side parking lot for 6-7 vehicles. Recent improvements include a new roof & exterior siding. $1,249,000 CLS C1022756

Silverado Ranch Estates

A Large Lot (45’ x 111’) This two Storey, features an open design with 1332 sq.ft of living space. Patio doors off the kitchen/ dining area lead, to the sunny south backyard.

The master bedroom and second bedrooms are on the upper level, and the additional third bedroom is downstairs. The large backyard has an oversized double detached garage, with plenty of room for the kids. Positioned on a quiet street, within walking distance to all amenities, parks and shopping. As well as Plenty of schools nearby, Falconridge School (K-6), Terry Fox Junior High School (7-9), a Catholic School “Blessed John XXIII (K-9)” and Bishop McNally High School (10-12). The property is Ideal for a young family, or a good investment property. Property is a foreclosure and needs some TLC. $265,000 MLS C3594214

P: F:

Kensington Stand Alone Retail Building

E: W:

A Gorgeous new executive home, perfectly situated on an 83’ x 152’ lot that backs onto a green space/pathway and faces a green space too. This 4 bedroom home offers over 3570 sq.ft of luxurious living with high quality finishing’s and attention to detail. An Open concept plan with dark hardwood floors, a gas fireplace dining room, den and large family area with a gas fireplace. Gourmet kitchen with a large island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and a walk-thru butler’s pantry. Mud room offers built-in shelving and lockers. Upstairs you will find a bonus room with built-ins and views of Spruce Meadows. Master suite has, a 3-sided fireplace and a spa-like 5 piece ensuite. Walk-in closet, with built-ins. Three additional bedrooms, one with its own enusite, and a full main bath and a convenient laundry room complete the upper level. Oversized triple attached garage, large enough for a boat & 2 vehicles. Close to all amenities and shopping. $1,049,000 MLS C3594088

czaharko@rlfoothills.com www.zaharko.com

editor’snote

t TAKE ADVANTAGE, while you can

he Bank of Canada’s latest announcement to hold its interest rate target at one per cent does not come as a surprise. The rate has been holding at that level since September 2010, which is good news if you’re in the market for a mortgage.

There are many excellent mortgage products available from banks and brokers that will suit your individual needs, and could well be lower than posted bank rates, which are currently hovering around three per cent for a variable rate. With a pre-approval in hand, you’re protected if rates rise; if they go down, you’ll likely get an even lower rate. A pre-approval can be a win-win situation for shoppers, since it means you don’t have to wait to get financing approval on a home when you put in an offer. This is an especially good tool to have when markets are hot. Removing the “conditional on financing” clause could mean your offer is accepted first since you already have your financing in place.

So when will rates rise? It’s anyone’s guess, but most experts agree it’s unlikely there will be any significant movement until mid 2014.

However, we can’t assume that will be the case, and you shouldn’t wait too long to get pre-approved for a mortgage. It can take a few days. Many lenders offer online pre-approvals to make the process faster and easier.

Start the new year off right by taking advantage of these rates, while you still can.

Susan Legge EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Wall2Wall Media, Susan.Legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge

t

EARLY EDUCATION

makes for a smart home purchase

he experts are predicting a seller’s market for the first half of the year before balancing out, so if you’re planning a home purchase in 2014, the “planning” part needs a little extra emphasis. Your best bet is to start educating yourself early, so you’re prepared to act fast when you find your dream home.

It’s priming up to be a busy spring on the home front. Combine the season’s typically busy real estate scene, with the extra activity of purchasers who put their plans on hold last year due to the “soft” market, and add to this the attractive mortgage interest rates, and you’ve got yourself the elements of a hot market. As a homebuyer, the more you know about the real estate market, your needs and your wants, the more confidence you’ll have in your home purchase.

To start your search, think price. Speak with your lender to determine how much home you can realistically afford before you hit the streets.

The next item of the list is location. Where you settle down will impact your lifestyle while you live there, and it will also affect the resale value if you ever choose to sell. Do you rely on public transit to get around the city? Do you wish for greenspace nearby, shopping, schools? Choose wisely. You can change the look and layout of your home relatively easily, but you can’t change its location.

Speaking of layout, tour prospective properties and evaluate the flow of each space.

If the layout doesn’t suit your lifestyle, either keep looking or talk to someone about a possible renovation.

When you’re considering price, location and layout, think about where you’ll be in five years. Are you planning a family? Or will your kids be moving away soon? Live for today, but plan for tomorrow.

Lydia McNutt EDITOR Lydia.McNutt@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/LydiasTweets

16 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

Don Lothian

Debbie Rice LANDAN REAL ESTATE

lothianricerealestate@gmail.com www.calgaryrealestate.org

$489,888

102, 279 Midpark Way SE Calgary AB, T2X 1M2

$244,888

$498,500

REVENUE IN HIGHWOOD!

CONNAUGHT CONDO

MOUNTAIN PARK SLEEPER

Great location in popular established community. Three good bedrooms up.

Beautiful hardwood floors and updated kitchen.

Excellent 2 bedroom suite with great bedroom sizes and laminate floors. Fully insulated and sound proofed. Separate, shared laundry.

Zoning and lot size allows for legal suite. City property database acknowledges suite. Great chance to help with mortgage payments!

Fantastic West Views! Well managed building with secure underground heated parking. Affordable all inclusive condo fees. Spacious unit with excellent bedroom including double closets. Clean white kitchen. Classy front entrance and foyer.

NEW CARPET! Great access to downtown.

Absolutely gorgeous, substantially renovated 1900sf home on a large pie lot facing tree lined cul-de-sac & backing onto private path w/access to Fish Creek Park! Dramatic vaulted ceilings & real hardwood. Kitchen was completely reno’d & includes high end raised panel white cabinetry, walk-in pantry, island, hardwood, granite & upgraded appliance package. A 4th bdrm & reno’d 4 piece bath are just off the family room which includes cozy fireplace w/custom built-ins & access to huge low maintenance deck & beautifully treed lot. Enjoy the access to the lake plus all the year round amenities.

$945,000

$899,900

MOUNTAIN RESORT IN CRESTMONT

QUALITY PLUS IN ALTADORE

This Mountain Resort Craftsman style home is nestled into a gorgeous tree-covered hillside. The home has a very manor-like presence with a massive three car front drive garage and inviting front porch. This home offers fantastic family living space in the fully finished three levels. Attention to every detail was considered in every aspect of its construction! The large functional kitchen ha granite counter tops and a great work space on the island as well as a café bar island. The large bonus room on the upper level provides super extra family space.

Shaw Construction is proud to offer a new infill and over 2700 sq ft of tasteful living space. Incorporating craftsmanship with enduring elegance, this home will not date itself in a few years. The hardwood is of the highest quality and finished on site (no lines in floor). The quality can be felt in the solid core doors and heavy hardware throughout all 3 levels. The kitchen, bathrooms and laundry room all feature granite countertops. The appliances are all high end and the cook top is an induction surface. The master has vaulted ceilings and spacious closets and ensuite. The basement has heated floors and a separate storage room as well as a rec room and surround sound, 4th bedroom and a 3 pce bath. Fully landscaped and ready to move into.

This space reserved for you!

Call now!!

For more information on current listings or to chat directly anytime, please call Don or Debbie at 403.256.3888 or 1.800.661.6262 BASED ON CALGARY MARKET SHARE

zone

STONEY TR

COMMUNITIES & MLS NUMBERS STONEY TR

CROWCHILD TR DEERFOOT TR

TRANS CANADA HI

Greenwood Greenbiar

16 AV Pt. McKay

olivera (Hollie) Winkelaar

moRtgAgE SpECIALISt

Are you ready to make your move from renting to owning?

A place to decorate, entertain friends and family, to set down roots?

If you think you are,

587-284-4134 olivera.winkelaar@rbc.com Language: English, Serbian, Romanian, Croatian

18 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

Arbour Lake ................................443 Banff Trail .....................................415 Beddington ..................................508 Bowness.......................................478 Brentwood ...................................420 Briar Hill ......................................408 Bridgeland ...................................400 Cambrian Heights ......................496 Capitol Hill ..................................414 Charleswood ...............................419 Citadel .........................................475 Collingwood ................................418 Country Hills ...............................516 Country Hills Village...................521 Coventry Hills .............................520 Crescent Heights ........................404 Dalhousie ....................................422 Edgemont ....................................461 Evanston ......................................519 Greenview ...................................503 Greenwood Greenbiar ...............479 Hamptons ...................................471 Hanson Ranch ............................517 Harvest Hills ...............................514 Hawkwood ..................................451 Hidden Valley ..............................518 Highland Park .............................498 Highwood ...................................499 Hillhurst ......................................407 Huntington Hills.........................505 Kincora ........................................524 Lynx Ridge ...................................488 Macewan Glen ............................512

Montgomery ...............................476 Mount Pleasant...........................494 Mountview ..................................490 Nolan Hill ....................................474 North Haven ...............................500 North Haven Upper ...................501 Panorama Hills ............................515 Parkdale .......................................411 Point Mckay.................................412 Ranchlands ..................................441 Ranchlands Estates .....................442 Regal Terrace/Renfrew ................402 Rocky Ridge ................................484 Rosedale ......................................406 Rosemont ....................................495 Royal Oak ....................................486 Sandstone....................................510 Sage Hill ......................................526 Scenic Acres ................................432 Sherwood ....................................477 Silver Springs ..............................430 St. Andrews Heights ...................413 Stoney Industrial.........................525 Sunnyside ....................................405 Thorncliffe ...................................502 Tuscany ........................................482 Tuxedo..........................................492 University Heights ......................416 Valley Ridge .................................480 Varsity Acres ................................426 Varsity Estates .............................428 Varsity Village ..............................424 West Hillhurst .............................410

Assisting Eau Claire Residents and their Families since 1991

www.robertcote.ca 403-249-9500 House of Real Estate

• 3rd Generation Calgary Realtor • Licensed Broker • Certified Condominium Specialist

• MLS Million Dollar Club Member • Top Producing Re/Max Realtor • Business and Marketing

EAU CLAIRE RIVERRUN TOWNHOUSE $689,000

S O7 DLAD YS

River Run Townhomes of Eau Claire! Over 2200 sq ft fully developed with spacious rooms, hardwood floors, open floor plan with sunken living room, gas fireplace, patio and bright east/west exposure. Fully developed lower level with lge family room, 2 storage rooms and quick easy access to underground parking. Exceptional corporate/executive condo with ensuite baths in all 3 bedrooms! Incredible location next to Princes Island Park, Bow River, Pathways, YMCA, Market Shops, Cinemas, Great Restaurants and just a short walk to Calgary’s vibrant City Center.

IN

To View These Properties go to

www.robertcote.ca

Alnoor Velji 403.560.3335

av2020@telus.net COMMITTED TO EXCELLENCE SINCE 1989

http://www.calgaryhometeam.ca # 1 Re/Max office in the world* 1999-2012

*Based on Closed Transactions

Re/Max Real Estate (Central) • 403-216-1600 • 206, 2411 - 4th St NW, Calgary, AB, T2M 2Z8

MARTINDALE VACANT I $252,900

SOLD

TEMPLE BI-LEVEL DUPLEX I $289,900

Newly renovated with brand new windows, roof, bathroom, kitchen, paint, floorings and more. 2 bedrooms with full bath.

Call now to view.

Great buy, won’t last. Fully developed 2 storey with 3 bedrooms, 2 ½ baths, close to all Ammn and much more.

Call now.

CALL NOW TO VIEW FALCONRIDGE BI-LEVEL I $269,900

SOLD

FALCONRIDGE BI-LEVEL I $249,900

Technically brand new home.

Brand new kitchen, bathroom, floorings with hardwood, lights, stucco, roof shingles, furnace, hot water tank, doors and much more. 2+2 bedrooms.

Close to all Ammn. Call now.

Side by side duplex with new roof shingles, stucco, windows etc. 2 bedrooms and much more. Call now.

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

19

homebuyers’help

A seller’s market to kick off 2014:

What to expect, and how to go with the flow B y Ly d i a M c N u t t

I

f you’re considering making a move in 2014, then you’re probably plagued by predictions of where the real estate market is headed, and concerns about if, and when, it’ll come to a crashing halt.

According to the Royal LePage House Price Survey and Market Survey Forecast released recently, the road looks golden moving forward. The average home price in Canada increased between 1.2 and 3.8 per cent in the fourth quarter of 2013, and real estate experts are expecting much of the same for the first half of 2014 – a projected 3.7-per-cent increase nationally from 2013, and a shift to a seller’s market.

“A few short months ago, the country’s housing market emerged from a year-long correctional cycle of dramatically

slowed sales volumes. Later 2013 was marked by a transition to buoyant sales volumes and above-average price growth,” says Phil Soper, president and chief executive of Royal LePage. “In the absence of some calamitous event or material increase in mortgage financing costs, we expect this positive momentum to characterize 2014. In fact, we expect a market tipped decidedly in favour of sellers for the first half of the year, after which we project a shift to a more balanced market.”

Soper attributes the rising house prices to a few factors, like the typically busier spring market, and in addition to this normal increased demand, “housing prices in Canada this year will be influenced by buyers who put off purchase plans in the very soft spring of 2013,” he says. “Talk of a ‘soft landing’ for Canada’s real

WEST HILLHURST • $1,349,000 This gorgeous inner city estate home has been meticulously maintained and upgraded inside and out, all within an easy walk to downtown.

With new elastomeric stucco, river rock accents, front veranda and a triple garage, this raised 2 storey home oozes with curb appeal. Main floor updates are extensive including: full height kitchen with eating bar, stainless steel appliances, granite counters, built-ins, hardwood floors, tile, carpet, lighting, railings, bookshelves. Upstairs has 3 large bedrooms, laundry, full bath and luxurious new master ensuite with tile shower, stand alone tub, tile floors, his and hers counter with a spacious make-up counter. Basement is light filled from the oversized windows, spacious 4th bedroom, media room wired for sound, music studio (easily converted to 5th bedroom), full bathroom, and large storage room.

DAVID SETTER REAL ESTATE TEAM

20 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

STRATHCONA STRATHCONA PARK PARK• •$379,000 $379,000 Lovely walk-out basement in original Horizon Village.

Lovely VillaVilla withwith walk-out basement in original 50+50+ Horizon Village. floor takes advantage of panoramic views from deck, TheThe floor planplan takes advantage of panoramic views from rearrear deck, andand warm afternoon in bright updated kitchen granite counters, warm afternoon sunsun in bright updated kitchen withwith granite counters, large living room, formal dining area master bedroom complete large living room, formal dining area andand master bedroom complete thethe main level. large walk-out basement a spacious bedroom, main level.

TheThe large walk-out basement hashas a spacious 2nd2nd bedroom, storage room, family room fireplace, large games area. storage room, family room withwith gasgas fireplace, andand large games area.

Amenities include 2 level clubhouse, easy access friendly people.

Amenities include 2 level clubhouse, easy access andand friendly people.

(403) (403)243-1755 243-1755

www.davidsetter.com www.davidsetter.com

4. to a ov by

ge. nd rs, he m, ea. e.

estate market in the new year is misguided.

We expect no landing, no slowdown, and no correction in the near-term. Conditions are ripe for as strong a market as we saw in the post-recessionary rebound of the last decade.”

So... What does this all mean? Selling a home in a seller’s market can be like selling a cool glass of water in the desert. Supply is low, demand is high, and you have what everyone wants. Or do you?

Today’s homebuyers are a savvy bunch, so it pays to get some professional help by way of a real estate agent who specializes in selling homes, and who knows your area.

Yes, in a seller’s market an average home can garner above-average prices. But price your home too high and you’ll price yourself right out of the market. Before hammering in that “For Sale” sign on the front lawn and waiting for the bidding war to begin, consult your agent. Use his or her expertise to set the right price and market your home to the right people (including other agents) to generate genuine interest, not just browsers.

On the other hand, buying a home in a seller’s market requires some strategy. If you’ve found a great home, there’s a good chance someone else may by considering making an offer on it too. Here are some tips that may increase your chances of a successful purchase: Tip #1: Keep your emotions in check. Combine a hot real estate market with a hot

head, and you start to lose sight of the goal: to make a smart purchase and a sound investment. Don’t become a bidding war casualty. Set your budget and stick to it. A home is only worth so much, and it’s up to you to decide what that magic number is.

Tip #2: Go with a pro. Your real estate agent, financial adviser and lawyer are your

holy trinity in the home-buying process, helping you to keep your emotions in check and make a purchasing decision based on facts and figures, not feelings. Use their expertise and make a smart bid that reflects what the home is worth and what you can comfortably afford – even if (and when) interest rates rise by one, two or three per cent.

Tip #3: Get pre-approved for a mortgage. With this in your back pocket, you’ll

be locked-in at today’s low rates for up to 90 days, and when you do find a great home and are ready to make an offer, it won’t be conditional on financing since you already have this in order.

If you’re in the market for a new home, here’s one final word to the wise: do it when you’re ready for the market, not when the market is ready for you. By sitting on the fence and waiting for the “perfect” market conditions to roll around, you could miss out on some great opportunities.

SPRINGBANK SPRINGBANK HILL HILL• •$2,299,000 $2,299,000

SPRINGBANK HILL • $2,450,000

4.75 4.75 Acres Acres of PRIME of PRIME Development Development Land Land WITHIN WITHIN CITY CITY LIMITS, LIMITS, ready ready to develop to develop nownow or in or the in the future. future.

ThisThis subdivide subdivide ableable lot lot currently currently hashas a large a large Bungalow Bungalow withwith sunroom, sunroom, fullyfully developed developed basement, basement, andand an an oversized oversized detached detached double double garage. garage.

ThisThis is 1isof1 3ofparcels 3 parcels located located sideside by by side. side.

CallCall today today for for all all of the of the details. details.

4.75 Acres of PRIME Development Land WITHIN CITY LIMITS, ready to develop now or in the future. This subdivide able lot currently has a large 2 Storey home with a walk out basement, triple garage, and 2 barns. This is 1 of 3 parcels located side by side. Call today for all of the details.

Because a Great Experience Begins with a Great Agent.

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

21

purchasingpoints

Real Estate Resolutions for homebuyers and sellers B y K a r a K u ry l l ow i c z

sellers: 1 | Review your mortgage agreement with your financial institution and/or a mortgage professional. “If you’re in the first year of a five-year term, the payout penalty might be so high that you decide to wait until at least the mid-point, if not the end of that term, to make a change,” says Dale Ripplinger, a Regina-based realtor and past president of the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA).

In addition, look into additional financing options with your mortgage professional in the event you’re simultaneously paying two mortgages or require temporary housing.

2 | Assess the selling costs, which may include repairs, home appraisals and inspections, legal and realtors’ fees so that you can budget and save for them.

3 | Crunch the numbers and look ahead. Will your home’s proceeds cover your next home purchase? Do you plan to invest part of the proceeds?

4 | Purge and de-clutter six or more months in advance, because over-stuffed storage areas suggest a lack of space rather than reflecting on the homeowners’ organizational skills and hoarding tendencies.

As well, the more you give away, sell and donate to charity, the less you’ll have to pack, ship and unpack. Systematically go through each room and recycle or re-purpose anything 22 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

that hasn’t been used in the last 12 to 18 months. Unless you absolutely adore it or it is deeply sentimental, let it go. If necessary, hire an organizational expert to keep you focused, and be ruthless.

5 | Identify items that are worn, outdated or don’t work, then repair or replace them. “Everything should look as clean and new as possible,” says Ripplinger. “The greatest challenge is knowing when to stop, then not messing it up again before you put your home on the market.”

Ask friends or family to help you identify what needs to be done, but be aware that they may be uncomfortable with the level of honesty required, which can make a home stager or professional organizer better suited to the task. Some common fixes include replacing stained switch plates, repairing old caulking and dingy grout in the bathrooms, and applying a new coat of paint for a fresh and clean look. If things such as leaky roofs and basements aren’t repaired, buyers will expect a reduction in price.

6 | Assess comparable homes in your neighbourhood no more than three months prior to putting your home on the market because the conditions can change relatively quickly.

7 | Source and interview real estate agents at any time, but ask them to evaluate your home no more than six to eight weeks before you plan to put it on the market.

How are you doing with those New Year’s Resolutions?

If you’re planning to buy or sell a home in 2014, making and sticking to relevant resolutions can dramatically reduce the associated stress and expedite matters once you officially launch the process. Here are a few tips for homebuyers and sellers in 2014.

Make them and keep them for a smooth transaction.

buyers: To preempt the likelihood of unpleasant surprises, astute buyers should begin the financial education, preparation and assessment process early.

1 | Have Equifax, TransUnion or another agency pull your credit report. If necessary, you can commit to improving your credit rating by paying off certain creditors and loans before contacting lenders and mortgage brokers.

2 | Crunch the numbers! Can you afford it? Is it the right decision for you? Calculate your net worth, current household budget, monthly debt payments and how much you can afford to spend on a home purchase. Your affordability assessment may indicate you need a larger down payment or the need to reduce the price range you were considering for your home purchase.

In addition, a homebuyer should plan on a down payment of at least five per cent, but be aware that anything under 20 per cent is considered a high-ratio mortgage and will need to be insured against default.

3 | Get your mortgage and financing in order. Lenders and mortgage brokers will require documentation that proves your personal information, net worth, income, employment, the amount/source of your down payment and your ability to pay closing costs, which range from 1.5 to four per cent of the purchase price.

Plan on a down payment of at least five per cent, but be aware that anything under 20 per cent is considered a high-ratio mortgage and will need to be insured against default 4 | Get pre-approved for a mortgage to determine the amount you can afford based on the lender’s review of your finances.

This will also provide written confirmation of the interest rate that will hold for a specified period of time.

5 | Search online and print ads for homes in your desired location and price range with your preferred features. Get a feel for what’s out there by viewing photos, videos and attending open houses. You can do this anytime, but remember that prices and the number of quality listings will fluctuate according to the market.

6 | Look for a Realtor. Ask friends and family for referrals, meet Realtors at open houses and find them when researching particular topics online. You can also go directly to the source and refer to CREA for tips on interviewing Realtors, available online at howrealtorshelp.ca.

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

23

homebuyers’help

Duking it out

with décor

H

ome sweet home… or is it? You’ve just moved in with your significant other and couldn’t be more excited; however, your new home isn’t exactly boasting the ideal look and feel you were hoping for. You’ve done your homework online and by flipping through décor magazines for inspiration, and have an idea of the overall theme and look you’re going for, what pictures to hang and where, and which accent pillows you want to use, but your partner isn’t having any of it. Now what?

You could try the ol’ “Well… you can decorate this room yourself (the one that is hidden in the back corner of the basement, which nobody ever sees) if I can decorate the rest of the house,” but sometimes that isn’t going to cut it. Some partners want to share their opinion and incorporate their own interests that are important to them. For example, they may want to put up a poster of their favorite sports team or movie, a quote, or even a piece of art that has sentimental value.

Re/Max suggests that in the interest of a healthy and successful relationship, get to know what the word “compromise” really means.

Remax Properties Independently Owned & Operated

Here are five tips on how to decorate your new home, together: 1. Make your partner feel included by getting him or her involved in the process.

2. Share your inspiration and ideas before buying new items.

3. Engage in open and honest communication on each of your likes and dislikes.

4. Be open to new ideas. Explore new styles, together – who knows, you may find one that you both like!

5. Make an effort to display both your personalities and style preferences throughout the home.

By working together and following these tips, the two of you should end up with a beautiful place that you’re both happy with, and a space you’ll be proud to call “home.”

For more great tips visit remax.ca.

Rahim (R.D.) Dhanji (403) 837-8789

rd@remax.net ww w . R a h i m D h a n j i.c om

Airdrie $168,900

“Exceptional Service,Outstanding Results” Saddleridge $169,900

Parkdale $729,900

d l o S • 1 Bedroom, 1 Bathroom1 Plus Den/Office and titled Underground Parking • 640 square feet located on the 3rd floor facing the courtyard, built in 2008 • Spacious kitchen with lots of cabinet space, a raised breakfast bar, & all the appliances are included • Comes with in-suite laundry (Washer & Dryer included) • The complex has visitor parking, secured entrance door, lobby, & an elevator • Steps away from the fantastic Genesis Recreational Centre & East Lake Park • Close to all sorts of amenities such as schools, shopping, restaurants, grocery stores, transportation, & much more.

• Fantastic Price for this Top Floor unit offering 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, Plus Den/Office & titled underground parking • New granite countertops in the kitchen & the bathroom, New backsplash, New paint throughout the unit, New fixtures, New flooring, & more • The kitchen boasts lots of cabinets, counter space, a raised breakfast bar, and all the appliances are included • Comes with in-suite laundry (Washer & Dryer included) • Minutes away from the New LRT Station & the New Genesis Centre • This unit is in immaculate condition & shows like new

24 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

Altadore $899,900

d l o S • Beautiful Brand New infill in Parkdale across from the River offering over 2,800 square feet of total living space • Main Floor consists of the kitchen with a huge island & tons of cabinets with stainless steel appliances & granite countertops, living room with gas fireplace, dining area with 4 section patio doors/windows, step-down powder room, & a mudroom • Luxuries include 10 foot ceilings, upstairs laundry, skylights, huge double patio doors of the dining room, insulated double detached garage, & much more • Basement has a 4th bedroom, full bath, wet bar, & a huge living/recreational room • Located just minutes from downtown

• Brand New modern infills on a fantastic street with a fabulous design & creative architecture inside & out • Huge gourmet kitchen comes with a gas stove, built-in wall oven & microwave, dishwasher, decorative hoodfan, center island, quartz countertops, and slam-free high end cabinetry • Luxuries include 10 foot ceilings, upstairs laundry, skylights, infloor heating & air conditioning roughed in, fireplace, huge double patio doors of the dining room, double detached garage, & much more • Basement comes fully finished with a bedroom, full bathroom, wet bar, TV room, & games area • Built by Prominent Homes Master Builder

David Crick 403.230.2121

david@houseandcastle.com www.houseandcastle.com

Montgomery $659,000

Capital Hill $800,000

Top quality Aikam Home, fully finished, 1937 sq. ft. + bsmt, amazing decor throughout.

Open floor plan, $6500 appliance pkg. March possession.

This 2-Storey semi-attached 3+1 Bedrm home is absolutely stunning, one side left. In the heart of the sought-after community of Capitol Hill. Another masterpiece created by the well established builder - AIKAM HOMES. Possession is March 15 2014. Hardwood floors, large island, walk-in pantry, built-in entertainment unit and gas fireplace to name a few! OUTSTANDING BOSCH APPLIANCE PKG INCLUDED IN PRICE. Open floor plan, Denca cabinetry....Get this home today and incorporate your own touches.

Montgomery $509,000

Parkdale $869,000

1800 sq. ft. 4 plex, plus developed basement, all the excellent finishings you would expect

by Aikam Homes, $5000 appliance pkg. Immediate possession. Only 1 unit left.

Absolute gem by Aikam Homes, Denca cabinetry, open floor plan, central air. in floor heating, amazing ensuite with steam shower & body washes, 6 ft jetted tub. Only the finest finishings, comes with Bosch appliance pkg. Immediate Possession.

Mount Pleasant $769,000

Parkdale $869,900

This 2-Storey semi-attached 3+1 Bedrm home is absolutely stunning, in the heart of the sought-after community of Parkdale. Another masterpiece created by the well established builder - AIKAM HOMES. Possession is March 2014. Hardwood floors, large island, walk-in pantry, built-in entertainment unit and gas fireplace to name a few! OUTSTANDING BOSCH APPLIANCE PKG INCLUDED IN PRICE. Open floor plan, Denca cabinetry....Get this home today and incorporate your own touches.

Absolute gem by Aikam Homes, Denca cabinetry, open floor plan, central air. in floor heating, amazing ensuite with steam shower & body washes, 6 ft jetted tub. Only the finest finishings, comes with Bosch appliance pkg. March Possession.

David Crick 403.230.2121

david@houseandcastle.com www.houseandcastle.com

Mount pleasant $929,000

Montgomery $459,000

2200+ Sq. Ft. single family home, fully developed to the same high standard as Aikam provides on the premium homes. Matching house already sold and this can be yours with an April possession. Comes with central air, in-floor heating, Jet tub, steam shower with body washes, Denca cabinetry, Bosch appliances, and premium finishes through out. Matching home already sold.

This 2 storey 2+1 bedrooms is a top quality built home by Aikam Homes. 4 Plex condo for June possession. One sold already. The large master bedroom has a 6 piece ensuite and the second bedroom has a 4 piece ensuite. Each unit has a single detached garage. There is a $4,000 appliance pkg included in the sale price.

Highwood $689,000

Richmond Knob Hill $679,000

B h

Top quality Aikam Home, fully finished, 1937 sq. ft. + bsmt, amazing decor throughout.

Open floor plan, $6500 appliance pkg. March possession.

This 2 storey 2+1 bedrooms is a top quality built home by Aikam Homes. 4 Plex condo for June possession. The large master bedroom has a 6 piece ensuite and the second bedroom has a 4 piece ensuite. Each unit has a single detached garage. There is a $4,000 appliance pkg included in the sale price.

Capital Hill $549,000

West Hillhurst $625,000

This 2 storey 2+1 bedrooms is a top quality built home by Aikam Homes. 4 Plex condo for March possession. Only 2 left. The large master bedroom has a 6 piece ensuite and the second bedroom has a 4 piece ensuite. Each unit has a single detached garage. There is a $5,000 appliance pkg included in the sale price.

This is a top quality Aikam Homes. $6500 appliance pkg. and also blind pkg. included.

March possession there is still plenty of time to add your personal touches and make one of these units your home. On the 3rd floor you will find a huge master bedroom complete with a wonderful ensuite.

Th so b p A to

403.230.2121

david@houseandcastle.com www.houseandcastle.com

Montgomery $435,000

Spruce Cliff $619,000

Brand new 4 plex, fully finished, 3 & 1./2 baths, total of 3 bedrooms. Granite throughout, hardwood on main floor + fireplace. Only 1 back unit left, immediate possession.

1,500 sq ft apartment ready for immediate possession. With a wrap around deck and $20,000 appliance pkg included in sale price. Enjoy the great view of the river and golf course.

Tuxedo $769,000

Bankview $1,100,000

This 2-Storey semi-attached 3+1 Bedrm home is absolutely stunning, in the heart of the sought-after community of Parkdale. Another masterpiece created by the well established builder - AIKAM HOMES. Possession is March 2014. Hardwood floors, large island, walk-in pantry, built-in entertainment unit and gas fireplace to name a few! OUTSTANDING BOSCH APPLIANCE PKG INCLUDED IN PRICE. Open floor plan, Denca cabinetry....Get this home today and incorporate your own touches.

Exclusive listing, fully finished 2200 SQ FT home, wonderful city view from master bedroom. Quite location, HUGE south facing backyard. March possession.

or nd re

or m ce

d. ne te

Len T. Wong Broker

Laura o’ConneLL Associate/Partner

Elbow VallEy wEst Build your dream home on this fantastic lot surrounded by nature! 10 minutes west of Calgary and minutes to Bragg Creek. Close to golf courses and shopping. MLS#C3580823 build your drEam HomE!

$219,000

bErgEn

Elbow VallEy wEst

fantastic lot!

Fantastic lot ready to build your dream home on! Surrounded by nature. Close to amenities such as golf course and shopping.

10 minutes west of Calgary, and minutes to Bragg Creek. MLS#C3581372

cozy country liVing!

$534,900

$234,900

nolan Hill

sunsEt ridgE- cocHranE

EnErgy EfficiEnt!

$314,900 $459,900

Brand new Equinox 2 Landmark Home, ready to move in and enjoy. Spacious master bedroom with 5 piece ensuite with 2 other good sized bedrooms and 4 piece main bath. Gourmet kitchen with centre island open to spacious great room with gas fireplace. Basement is ready for your development! 2 years builders warranty and 10 years new home warranty.

MLS# C3593067

ExcEPtional ValuE!

$543,000

grEat family HomE!

$484,900

brand nEw sHowHomE!

$575,000

QuiEt location!

$489,900

QuiEt cul dE sac!

$637,900

ExtEnsiVEly uPdatEd!

$499,800

Executive custom built 2 storey split with walk out basement. 5 bdrm, 4 baths. Extensive upgrades and built ins thru out. Living room with vaulted ceilings and fifireplace. replace. Gourmet kitchen with island, s/s appliances and large eating area. French doors lead out to large deck. Gorgeous staircase leads to large master with 5 pc ensuite and walk in closet. Professionally developed walkout has rec room with built in media centre, gas fifireplace, replace, games room, wet bar, bathroom, and bedroom. Showhome condition. MLS #C3592612

sunsEt ridgE- cocHranE

millrisE

Recently painted exterior 2 storey home. 4 bedroom, den and 4 baths with vaulted ceilings in the living room and dining room. Brand new laminate hardwood floor throughout main and second level.

Bright, sunny oak kitchen with new stove, fridge and dishwasher open to large eating area with sunken family room with fireplace. Gorgeous landscaped yard with underground sprinklers. Quiet location steps to schools and close to all amenities and LRT. MLS#C3594055

Landmark Homes 2 storey with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bonus room and walkout basement.

High effi efficiency ciency home with triple pane windows and high effi efficiency ciency furnace. Gourmet kitchen with centre island, granite countertops and s/s appliances.

Spacious master bedroom with 5pc ensuite with glass shower and soaker tub. Double attached garage. 2 years builders warranty and 10 year New Home Warranty. MLS#C3592747

diamond coVE

sPrucE cliff

Bright and open executive condo. 2 bdrm, 2 baths.

Gourmet maple kitchen with centre island, breakfast bar, granite countertops, and brand new stainless steel appliances. Large eating area and great room with double sided gas fireplace. Large master includes walk in closet, and ensuite with large soaker tub. Includes insuite laundry, 9ft. ceilings, 2 balconies, underground parking stall, and storage locker. Minutes to downtown. Walking distance to LRT and shopping centre. MLS #C3596401

Beautiful upgraded 2 storey 4 bdrm, 3 bath with double attached garage & mud room. Hardwood, carpet, & tile throughout! Great sized den for offi office. ce.

Kitchen has dark cupboards, large breakfast nook, granite counter tops, s/s appliances & walk through pantry. Large great room with gas fifireplace. replace. Patio doors lead to large deck. Upper bonus room and laundry. Large master has walk in closet & 5 pc ensuite with soaker tub. MLS# C3591519

EVanston

auburn bay

Recently painted 2 storey home with bonus room and double attached garage. 3 bdrm, 3 baths.

Gourmet kitchen with upgraded cabinets, centre island, breakfast bar, and large eating area. Great room with cathedral ceilings and 3 sided fireplace.

Flex room ideal for dining room or den. Spacious master with 5 pc ensuite including glass shower and soaker tub. Large fenced backyard with stone patio, siding onto walking path. Close to all amenities and new South Hospital. MLS #C3592600

Gorgeous secluded treed lot w/view just south of Sundre! Warm and cozy 2 storey home with abundance of natural light. 3 bdrm, 3 baths. Warm woods & light laminate flflooring ooring throughout. Open kitchen with tons of cupboard space with breakfast nook just off living room. Dining room & family room. Good sized master with ensuite and 2 other good sized bdrms. Fully developed basement with walk out & separate entrance. Back deck w/hot tub!

MLS# C3596514

brEatHtaKing mountain ViEws!

$639,900

Gorgeous 2 storey walkout with no shortage of upgrades. A beautifully appointed kitchen with granite countertops, heightened and soft close cabinets. A grand family room with a flfloor oor to ceiling stone fifireplace, replace, an offi office/den ce/den right off the kitchen for your convenience. Fully fenced and landscaped yard complete with deck off the kitchen. There will not be any more lots like this so take advantage of this opportunity while you can! MLS# C3594296

rainbow falls - cHEstErmErE

ExcEllEnt family HomE!

$649,900

wEstmErE - cHEstErmErE

suPEr EfficiEnt!

$649,900

gourmEt KitcHEn!

$709,900

sHows liKE nEw!

$749,900

d 2

ing n for yard t his

Priddis

minutEs from Priddis golf coursE!

$865,000

Immaculate Astoria built 2 storey with numerous upgrades! Beautiful foyer and iron staircase as you enter. Main flfloor oor den with double French doors.

Gourmet maple kitchen with large black granite island, tons of cupboard space and upgraded s/s appliances. Coffered ceiling with great architectural design throughout this home. Private fenced west backyard with large deck and BBQ hook up and double detached garage. 2nd flfloor oor with huge master bedroom with vaulted ceilings. MLS #C3596208

oVErlooKing golf coursE!

$780,000

Custom built bungalow overlooking Cottonwood Golf Course and Country Club. 3 bdrm, 3 baths & loft. Great room with vaulted ceilings and 3 sided fifireplace. replace. Formal dining room with French doors. Gourmet kitchen with centre island and granite countertops opens to large eating area. Large master with 5pc ensuite with jetted tub, oversized shower & walk in closet. Gorgeous spiral staircase leads to loft with views.

Professionally developed walk out with large family room, rec room, wet bar & 3 sided gas fifireplace. replace. Landscaped yard with fifirepit. repit. Triple attached garage. MLS #C3593060

closE to amEnitiEs!

$1,110,000

golfErs HaVEn on HEritagE Point!

$854,900

z

Brand new Landmark 2 storey with double attached garage. Hardwood floors throughout main floor and den with formal dining room. Great room with high ceilings and gas fireplace. Gourmet antique kitchen with s/s appliances open to large eating area. Main floor laundry room and spectacular staircase leading upstairs to bonus room with big windows. Large master bedroom with 5pc spa like ensuite and walk-in closet. Two more good sized bdrms and 4pc bath. Double attached garage with infloor heat. Landscaped backyard. MLS# C3593903

altadorE-riVEr ParK

grEat location!

$1,225,000

HEritagE Point

Sensational walkout corner treed bungalow backing onto 27 extraordinary holes of golf. Hardwood custom built-ins, spiral rod iron staircase and heated sunroom.

Open flfloor oor plan with formal dining room, great room with built-ins & 3 side gas fifireplace. replace. Master bedroom with views of greens has walkin closet & 5pc ensuite.

Walkout to a covered patio fifinished nished with interlocking stones stepping out on to the 1st hole. No worries of golf balls hitting home. Maintenance free lawn & snow removal included. MLS #C3596251

Custom built Lindal Cedar home with 4500+ sqft ozf living space. Extremely well kept property located on 4 acres of wooded land. Sunken living room with wood burning fireplace. Spacious kitchen opens onto one of 3 deck levels with natural gas BBQ. Massive heated studio/office above heated double garage. 3 bdrm and 4 baths. Master is located on its own floor with ensuite and walk in closet. Walk out basement ideal for entertaining with room for wine cellar, workshop, & 3pc bath with sauna. MLS# C3591187

cranston

cottonwood Villas

nd ntre

nd and ces ge th 5 oped

Brand new executive 2 storey with fully developed basement and double garage. 4 bdrms, 4 baths.

9 ft ceilings on main and in basement that is fully furnished. Insulated, dry walled and painted double garage. Staircase with iron rod railings leading upstairs to large master bedroom with 5pc spa and walk in closet. Landscaped yard with sod and fence to be put in with poured sidewalk. MLS #C3593471

ricHmond ParK-Knobb Hill

, ce. ok, ugh o

ew

Beautiful 2 storey built green Landmark home! 4 bdrm, bonus rm, 3 baths with dbl attached garage.

High effi efficiency ciency furnace, HRV, & triple pane windows.

Main flfloor oor den & formal dining room. Gourmet maple kitchen with granite, island, breakfast bar & s/s appliances. Nook area & spacious great room with gas fifireplace. replace. Master has 5 pc ensuite with soaker tub, separate shower & walk in closet. Walk out basement is ready for development. 10 yr new home warranty & 2 year builder’s warranty. MLS# C3591252

tuxEdo

rm n ast

er th tub!

Former Truman custom showhome backing onto creek in Rainbow Falls. 2 storey with loft, den, formal dining room & walk out basement. 3 bdrm, 3 baths.

Cathedral ceilings in great rm. Gourmet kitchen with centre island, quartz countertops, breakfast bar, & s/s appliances. Walk thru pantry and laundry.

French doors off kitchen open to large deck. Built in speakers thru out. Large master with vaulted ceilings and spa like ensuite. Landscaped backyard. Double attached garage. MLS# C3592243

Brand new energy efficient 2 storey with 5 bdrms and 4 baths and den. Semi automated speakers with volume controls and hard wired Cat 5 connections in each room.

Gourmet kitchen with walnut cabinets and Thermador appliances. Maple hardwood thru out main floor. Large master with 5pc ensuite and walk in closet. Custom shelving in all bedrooms. Professionally developed basement with large family room, wet bar, and bath. Double detached garage. Complete landscaping with huge deck.

Close to all amenities and schools. MLS# C3591655

asPEn woods

sPEctacular landscaPing!

$1,249,000

Executive 2 storey with fully developed basement & triple attached garage. Over 3000 sqft of living space. 3 bdrm & 4 baths. Formal dining room, hardwood floors, gourmet maple kitchen, large eating area, & huge great room with gas fireplace.

Built in speakers thru out. Large master includes 5pc ensuite with air jetted tub, oversize steam shower & walk in closet. Professionally developed basement with bedroom& bath, large family room & rec. room. Extensive upgrades. MLS# C3590555

Let Len and Laura and their team put their extensive experience with the Calgary real estate market to work for you.

K

SAVE $4 BUY TICKETS ONLINE PROMO CODE: GUIDE

*ON REGULAR ADULT ADMISSION

PRODUCED BY

Make your move with Kat Complimentary Comparative Market Analysis

Katherine Dawidowski

#103, 11012 Macleod Trail South, Calgary AB T2I 6A5 C: 403.483.3144 I B: 403.271.0600 E: makeyourmovewithkat@gmail.com I W: makeyourmovewithkat.com

COCHRANE Welcome to the Monarch Hill 2010 sf.

Two story home, with great features you will love. The main floor features foyer and mudroom off the rear exit to garage, plus the 1/2 bath. Hardwood flooring continues into Great room, kitchen, and dining room. Granite counters with glass tile backsplash, walk thru pantry, 42 inch dark maple cabinetry in kitchen. Stainless steel appliances included a Gas fireplace in Great room, with tile to ceiling features.

The upper level offers carpet flooring, bonus room with vaulted ceiling, 3bed rms. each one having a walk in closet.

The master has a 5pc ensuite with shower, soaker tub, 2 sinks and tile flooring. Laundry is on upper level as well as another 4pc bath rm. The lower is unfinished with RI plumbing waiting for your ideas.

OKOTOKS Welcome to a beautiful home that make you feel at ease the moment you walk through the door. This large 2 story home is just under 2300 sq. ft. and boasts an amazing kitchen with granite counter tops, a spacious one level island and a large nook.

The main floor also has den and a living room with a cozy fireplace.

Upstairs you will find a huge bonus room, laundry room and a total of 3 bedrooms with the master offering a 5 piece ensuite. Yes, you can park your truck in the 24x22 garage with a 9 foot door and 220 wiring with its own panel box.

OKOTOKS ACREAGE Welcome to this truly amazing & immaculate walkout fully suited bungalow boasting over 3800 living space. It is situated right on the cusp of Okotoks and within minutes of Calgary. This property offers the most elegant yet functional floor plan. With a lovely kitchen, nook and family room with access to the west facing deck and panoramic mountain views overlooking the professionally landscaped yard with patio, pond and an abundance of shrubs to the formal dining room & living room which are perfect for entertaining. The main floor has 3 bedrooms & a perfectly situated den right off the main entry.

The walk out basement boasts a 4th bedroom, family room, recreation room & there is an illegal 2 bedroom mother in law/nanny suite. Both sides of the lower level have their own separate access to the patio and laundry. The triple garage & shed allow for a ton of storage and there is even a fenced dog run.

CHAPARRAL This is a great location for a day-home or for family with small children located just across the street from St Sebastian Elementary school. It features over 3000 sq. ft. of living space (including a fully finished basement). This home has been meticulously kept, updated & upgraded throughout. With three good size bedrooms upstairs & a forth in the basement this home is big enough for your growing family. As you enter the front door you’ll feel the space courtesy of the vaulted ceilings. The kitchen has an open bright feel, with stainless steel appliances, skylight, and beautiful back splash & eating nook, alternatively you can entertain in the more formal dining area.

With both a family room and a living room on the main floor plus the recreation room and games room in the fully finished basement there is plenty of space for everyone to ‘spread their wings’. The back yard is quiet & secluded with a brand new deck to enjoy those summer evenings or to entertain friends with a BBQ. Call now for your own private viewing.

SHAWNESSY This is an amazing opportunity for a first time buyer or investor!! A single family home for an unbelievable price.

Don’t miss out on this one! This 2 story home offers three bedrooms upstairs, main floor laundry, finished basement.

There is plenty of room to build your own garage to increase your property value. Some of the upgrades over the years include paint, furnace and laminate floors.

LOWER MOUNT ROYAL Close to 17th Ave., this gorgeous unit on the ground floor of a solid concrete building awaits you. Walk to trendy 17th Avenue restaurants and shopping in no time. When you return home, relax in your renovated, modern, large two-bedroom home. Entertain in your spacious, upgraded kitchen that open’s to your sleek living space. Kitchen features large island with concrete countertops, stainless appliances, and glass mosaic backsplash in calm, serene colors. Beautiful dark wood floors throughout the home compliment the modern vibe. This unit affords you a large outdoor space with a bonus storage shed.

featurerealtor

Serhan Tarkan loves helping clients reach their real estate goals B Y H E AT H E R R YA N

W

hether you’re looking to buy your first home, make your next move or are planning to sell, you can rely on local realtor Serhan Tarkan’s commitment, experience and knowledge of the marketplace to help you reach your real estate goals.

A realtor for nine years, the last four spent as a team member with Kirby Cox & Associates at Royal LePage Foothills, Serhan enjoys the flexibility of his job and working hands-on to help people find the right home or market their current property.

“I love the fact that no two days are the same, and working with a successful team allows me to meet new people all the time,” Serhan says. “I enjoy meeting all different kinds of people and love helping them obtain their goals and make their next move.”

Serhan admits that he was always drawn to real estate and working with the public, but he didn’t initially start out working in this field.

He tells the story that in January 2005 he was working at a computer store that his family owned, “when a good friend of mine came in, took one look at me and said, ‘What are you doing here? Why don’t you do something you’ll love – why don’t you sell real estate?’ That night I signed up for classes and I didn’t look back. It was the best decision I made and to this day, my friend still reminds me that I owe him commission for having got me started,” Serhan says with a laugh.

Serhan started in real estate working as an individual realtor at RE/MAX Mountain View, but he saw that there was a movement in the industry toward offering a team approach, so he decided to make the switch to better help his clients.

“Because I’m part of a team, I feel I have more to offer any client,” he says. “When I have your house listed, I have a professional team I can rely on for booking showings, taking pictures, marketing the home in print and online, etc.”

Although he’s part of team, Serhan works closely with his clients and uses today’s technology to keep them constantly updated. “I am usually chosen as a realtor because I build a strong working relationship with my clients and I give my clients confidence that the job will be done in a professional and pleasant manner. Although I work mostly in the northwest, I also like to sell in the core and in the southwest.”

Serhan’s commitment to helping his clients has placed him in the Top 10 at RE/MAX Mountain View many times before he moved to Royal LePage. “At Royal LePage Foothills, we are the #1 team in Calgary and Western Canada,” he says.

As for the marketplace, Serhan says: “I see real estate in Calgary evolving to even higher prices and healthy long-term gains. I remember back in 1993, when I left to go to Vancouver for university, Calgarians would often reject average home prices to be above $250,000 while in Vancouver it was double that. Now we are where Vancouver was in those days, and they are still almost double where we are.”

32 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

Gary Williams M at t

Call NoW For a Free eValUatIoN oF yoUr CalGary ProPerty

bowEn ISland • 2 Stunning Waterfront Lots Available, Never Before Offered For Sale!

• 8.9 Acres With 620 Feet Of Waterfront Offered At $1,500,000.

• 8 Acres With 400 Feet Of Waterfront Offered At $1,600,000.

• Spectacular Summer Sunsets & Easy Access To The Waterfront.

Elbow Park bUYEr SalE!

ParkHIll bUYEr SalE!

SolD

• Stunning & Contemporary Home With 5,800 Sq Ft Of Luxury Developed Living Space • The Chef’s Dream Kitchen Features Floor To Ceiling Cabinetry, Quartz Countertops & Top Of The Line Appliances

• Overlooking Stanley Park, This Unique U-Shaped 2 Storey Home Wraps Around An Exterior Courtyard Allowing For Seamless Indoor/Outdoor Living.

• The Main Level Features 2 Fireplaces, Waterfall, Great Room & Top Of The Line Kitchen That Includes 2 Islands & Upscale Appliances.

ConnaUgHt

lowEr moUnt roYal

SolD

• Stunning 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath Open Concept Condo With Underground Titled Parking in Brand New CALLA! • The Kitchen Is Complete With Quartz Countertops, Tiger Stripe Cabinets, Under Cabinet Lighting & Stainless Steel Appliances.

• Stunning 2 Bedroom Condo In A Quiet Concrete Building Boasts An Open Concept Floor Plan With Richly Stained Hardwood Flooring Throughout.

• The Endless Features Include: Concrete Countertops, Tiger Wood Cabinetry, 5 Piece Appliance Package, Frosted Glass Doors & More!

SolD SolD

403

259.4141

EaU ClaIrE $599,000 • Stunning Contemporary $135,000 Renovation In Liberte.

• 1,218 Sq Ft Condo With 2 Patios, 2 Bedrooms & 2 Baths!

• Ideal Downtown Location Close To Recreational Pathways & All Amenities!

CalGaryProPertyForSale.Ca

ParkHIll $719,900 • Executive 2 Storey Family Home With 2,291 Sq Ft Of Luxury Developed Living Space.

• The Bright & Open Main Floor Is Complete With 9’ Ceilings, Brazilian Cherry Hardwood Floors & Gas Fireplace.

• The Custom Kitchen Features Maple Cabinetry, Granite, Stainless Steel Appliances, Huge Pantry & Private 375 Sq Ft Deck.

All these things can produce carbon monoxide in your home

Protect your family from carbon monoxide • • • • •

Have fuel-burning appliances inspected annually by a qualified technician Clear snow, ice and debris from vents and chimneys Install and maintain a carbon monoxide detector Don’t idle vehicles inside attached garages Open a window near a wood-burning fireplace

Visit atcogas.com for more information

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

33

zone

COMMUNITIES & MLS NUMBERS

DEERFOOT TR STONEY TR

Monterey Park

16 AV Abbeydale

Applewood

olivera (Hollie) Winkelaar

moRtgAgE SpECIALISt

get your home equity working for you - call me and ask about the RBC Homeline plan and find out how it can work for you Advice you can bank on.

587-284-4134 olivera.winkelaar@rbc.com Language: English, Serbian, Romanian, Croatian

34 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

Abbeydale....................................664 Albert Park...................................730 Applewood ..................................768 Calgary International Airport ....624 Castleridge ..................................676 Castleridge Estates .....................678 Coral Springs ..............................688 Deerfoot/Skyline Ind Park ..........615 Dover ...........................................738 Dover Glen ..................................736 Eastfield .......................................748 Erin Woods ..................................740 Falconridge ..................................680 Fonda ...........................................726 Forest Heights .............................762 Forest Lawn.................................764 Franklin/Meridian Ind Park........630 Horizon Industrial Park ..............640 Jacksonport..................................690 Marlborough ...............................660 Marlborough Park .......................662 Martindale ...................................682

Mayland Heights ........................600 Mayland Heights East ................604 McCall/Airways Ind Park ...........610 Monterey Park .............................670 Penbrooke....................................766 Pineridge .....................................668 Radisson Heights ........................728 Red Carpet/Mountview Mhp.....770 Rundle .........................................666 Saddle Ridge ...............................645 Southview....................................732 Saddle Ridge Ind ........................625 Stoney Industrial/Westwinds .....625 Skyview Ranch ...........................692 Stone Gate Landing ...................691 Sunridge Industrial Park ............635 Taradale .......................................684 Temple .........................................674 Valleyfield ....................................744 Vista Heights ...............................605 West Dover ..................................734 Whitehorn ...................................672

finances

Make your home ownership dreams

a reality

P

urchasing a home is a huge decision and requires a lot of financial planning and support. With mortgage rates fluctuating and the Canadian housing market unpredictable, buying a house is like a puzzle and it takes a bit of work to fit the pieces together.

There are, however, a number of financial incentives available to help you take that leap when the time is right for you, as follows:

» First-timers are eligible to save on the purchase with the home buyers’ tax credit. You can claim up to $5,000, resulting in savings of up to $750 on your taxes for the year in which the home is bought. If the buyer has a disability, or the home is being purchased for a person with a disability, they can claim the credit even if they have previously bought and owned a home.

» If you are looking to boost your down payment, you may also be eligible for the Home Buyers’ Plan. This plan allows you to use money from your RRSPs to buy or build a home for yourself or a related person with disabilities. You can withdraw up to $25,000 in a calendar year, and have up to 15 years to repay your withdrawals without taking a hit on your taxes. For more details about these programs, visit cra.gc.ca/myhome.

Investment potential, freedom from rent, and pride of ownership await. Maybe your new home is finally within reach; this might just be your year.

Scott Merchant

Hot new listings emailed daily... visit www.scottmerchant.ca and click on Free Home Finder

4564543_1401

Free, Online Home Finder Service

The Merchant Difference www.scottmerchant.ca Re/Max House of Real Estate 249-9500

Complete Renovation in North Glenmore

Silverado 5 Bedroom Home!

Willow Court Green

Everridge Square

Gorgeous renovation by Mandeville Homes!, Located on a quiet street with a south facing pie lot. Complete renovation inside and out.

3 bedroom 3 full baths, custom kitchen with quartz, full ensuite, Oversized Triple Garage

Jayman built Eclipse 2 with a fully finished basement located on a quiet street. Features over 3500 sq ft of living space, 5 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, quartz counters, huge gourmet kitchen with gas stove, bonus room, nanny suite and more. Oversized garage and fully landscaped!

Renovated 2 bedroom bi-level townhouse with a fenced private yard.

Renovated kitchen, bath flooring etc.

PET FRIENDLY COMPLEX. Excellent Willow Park Location walking distance to South Centre Mall, Anderson LRT and Trico centre, low fees and a good reserve fund in this complex.

Immaculate bungalow townhouse in a quiet location in Evergreen, PET FRIENDLY COMPLEX. Unique design allows for your own front door and patio, no hallways or elevators. Wide open floor plan with island kitchen, insuite laundry and storage. Low fees and low utility costs make this an affordable choice. Ready for immediate occupancy!

$749,900

$629,900

$229,900

$219,900

For virtual tours and open house schedules go to www.scottmerchant.ca

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

35

onthemove

packing tips Tips To make your move a liTTle easier ❏ Gather boxes in all sizes.

❏ Label boxes containing fragile items with large red lettering.

❏ Collect cushioning material like bubble wrap, foam pellets, furniture pads, blankets, plastic bags, tissue paper, newspapers, and small towels to use as padding.

❏ Place china in plastic bags and stack plates upright on their sides, not flat.

❏ Create a “portable packing kit” with marking pens, a tape measure, packing tape, twine and scissors. Carry it with you as you pack up items around your home. ❏ Reinforce the bottom of boxes with extra tape for added strength. ❏ Label each box with the name of the room in your new home where it should be placed. ❏ List the contents of the box on the side of it. ❏ Number the boxes and keep a list of which boxes go in which room in your new home.

❏ Pack your TV, stereo and computer in their original boxes whenever possible. ❏ Keep boxes to 50 pounds or less. ❏ Pack heavy items into their own smaller boxes and place lighter items together into larger boxes.

(Hint: Don’t pack all your books into one box!) ❏ Don’t move flammable, combustible, corrosive or explosive items such as paint, gasoline, and ammunition. ❏ Pack a bag of personal items you’ll need during the move (change of clothes, toiletries, medicine, maps, food and drinks). Keep it in an easy-to-find place when you pack.

Ken Yeoh

FREE Quick OnLine Home Evaluation

403.803.8981

www. mapleleafrealty .ca

Broker/Owner

AIRDRIE

HIGHLAND PARK

Coopers Crossing-voted best community in Airdrie Gorgeous 2 storey with great curb appeal 2448 sf 3 BRs & 2.5 baths Main floor den, 9ft ceilings & hardwood floors Bright gourmet kitchen with maple cabinets & walk thru’ pantry • Upper floor with super large bonus room • Large master with 4-pc ensuite bath & jet tub, walk-in closet • Basement is framed with RIP plumbing

499,000

$

• • • • •

$

Gorgeous BRAND NEW 2-storey home Fantastic curb appeal & open floor plan Total of 4 BRs & 3.5 baths Bright kitchen w/granite island & counter tops Basement has 4th BR, media room, wet bar & 4-pc bath • Large master w/5-pc ensuite bath & walk-in closet • Sunny south backyard, fully landscaped & fenced • Close to all amenities

789,000

• • • • •

EVERGREEN

D

SOL

$

64,900 $

Alteration services by professioanl seamtress 26 years of experience Owner retiring/moving out of town Selling existing stocks Wedding, grad dresses & accessories Minimum discount of 50% off Ideal for family business May provide training to potential buyer

469,900

CALGARY SOUTH • • • • • • • •

NEW LISTING

• • • • • • • •

Beautiful 2 storey on quiet street Main floor 9ft ceiling Almond stained cabinets & walk thru pantry Bright great room w/fireplace Master has 5-pc ensuite & walk-in closet Sunny south backyard with gazebo & 2-tier deck Walk to school Close to all amenities

• • • • • • •

House only land not included Immaculate 745sf bungalow Usable walk up attic w/extra 228sf living space 2 BRs, 1 bath & original hardwood Wood burning fireplace Newer shingles, kitchen & bathroom Buyer is responsible for moving & all expenses to remove the house

36 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

CAPITOL HILL

30,000

D

SOL

Gorgeous 2 storey family home 4 Bedrooms & 4 baths 2 master bedrooms & 2 ensuite baths Custom maple kitchen cabinets 2nd kitchen for spicy cooking Wide bookshelves in family room Super large master with French doors.

Walk-up basement w/separate entrance

$

$

769,900

SHERWOOD • • • • • • • NEW LISTING SOLD IN 11 DAYS •

hottopic

Understanding yoUr

mortgage options

C

Common questions answered

ongratulations! You’ve decided to begin your search for a new home, or perhaps you’ve already found the home of your dreams and are ready to make an offer. It’s now time to consider your mortgage options. But with so many different choices available, how can you select the right kind of mortgage for your needs? Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) offers the answers to some common questions: What is the difference betWeen conventional and high-ratio mortgages?

A conventional mortgage is a mortgage loan up to a maximum of 80 per cent of the lending value of the property. This means that the homebuyer has made a down payment of at least 20 per cent of the purchase price or market value of the home. If your down payment is less than 20 per cent, you will typically need a highratio mortgage. High-ratio mortgages normally have to be insured (by CMHC, for example) against payment default.

What are fixed, variable or adjustable interest rates?

When you choose a mortgage, you have to decide whether you want the interest rate to be fixed, variable or adjustable. A fixed rate is locked-in for the entire term of the mortgage. With a variable rate, the payments remain the same each month, but the interest rate fluctuates based on market conditions. For adjustable-rate mortgages, both the interest rate and the mortgage payments vary based on market conditions. Talk to your mortgage professional to find out which option is right for you, and be sure to evaluate the impact of an increasing interest rate on your monthly payment.

should i choose an open or closed mortgage?

With a closed mortgage, you pay the same amount each month for the entire term of the mortgage. Some flexibility to repay principal through lump-sum payments is allowed. Closed mortgages can be a good choice if you want a fixed payment schedule, and you don’t plan on moving or refinancing before the end of the term. An open mortgage allows you to make a lump-sum payment at any time.

This type of mortgage can be paid off prior to maturity without penalty. An open mortgage can be a good choice if you’re planning to sell your home in the near future, or if you want the flexibility to make large lump-sum payments. An open mortgage generally carries a higher interest rate.

What about the term, amortization and payment schedule?

The term is the length of time (usually from six months to 10 years) that the interest rate and other conditions of your mortgage will be in effect. Amortization is the period of time (most first-time homebuyers choose the 25-year amortization) over which your entire mortgage will be repaid. Lastly, the payment schedule sets out how frequently you will make payments on your mortgage – usually either monthly, bi-weekly or weekly.

Accelerated payments are also an option. These are available for weekly and bi-weekly payment schedules and are generally equivalent to one extra monthly payment per year. With accelerated payments the homeowner is able to pay off his/her mortgage faster while decreasing the overall interest cost.

CMHC has been a source of objective, reliable housing expertise for more than 65 years. For more information visit cmhc.ca or call CMHC at 1.800.668.2642

Call 403-863-1293 today!

Need a mortgage?

Self employed? New to Canada? Vacation homes?

Rental purchase? Refinance for debt management?

My experience and service will work for you.

Five year Fixed rate 3.45%

Mortgage SpecialiSt 5015 Centre Street NW, Calgary AB T2K 0S9 Fax: 403-202-2182 Email: loriames@gmail.com

all subject to change, lender qualifications will apply

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

37

TRANS CANADA HI Crestmont

zone

SARCEE TR

COMMUNITIES & MLS NUMBERS

Upper Scarboro

West End

Erlton Mission

GLENMORE TR

Roxboro Parkhill / Stanley Park

Garrison Green

Altadore/River Park ....................019 Aspen Woods .............................073 Bankview .....................................015 Bayview .......................................129 Bel Aire ........................................110 Braeside .......................................135 Bridlewood ..................................161 Britannia ......................................105 Canyon Meadows .......................125 Canyon Meadows Estates ..........127 Cedarbrae ....................................145 Cfb Currie ....................................020 Chinook Park ..............................117 Christie Park ...............................052 Cliff Bungalow ............................004 Coach Hill ...................................049 Connaught ..................................003 Cougar Ridge ..............................071 Crestmont ...................................081 Discovery Ridge ..........................070 Downtown ..................................001 East Village ..................................006 West End .....................................012 Eagle Ridge .................................119 Eau Claire ....................................002 Elbow Park...................................005 Elboya ..........................................103 Erlton ...........................................101 Evergreen ....................................157 Evergreen Estate .........................151 Garrison Green ...........................024 Garrison Woods ..........................018 Glamorgan ..................................045 Glenbrook ...................................043

olivera (Hollie) Winkelaar

moRtgAgE SpECIALISt

Whether you are purchasing, renewing or refinancing your mortgage, the biggest decisions you face is choosing between a fixed or variable rate mortgage.

Call me to learn more about it.

587-284-4134 olivera.winkelaar@rbc.com Language: English, Serbian, Romanian, Croatian

Glendale ......................................041 Haysboro .....................................121 Kelvin Grove ...............................115 Killarney ......................................027 Kingsland ....................................113 Lakeview .....................................031 Lakeview Village .........................033 Lincoln Park ................................021 Lower Mount Royal ....................010 Mayfair.........................................111 Meadowlark Park ........................109 Millrise .........................................153 Mission ........................................014 Mount Royal................................007 North Glenmore Park .................022 Oakridge......................................143 Oakridge Estates ........................141 Palliser..........................................133 Park Hill/Stanley Park .................104 Patterson ......................................047 Pump Hill ....................................131 Richmond ....................................029 Richmond Hill.............................057 Rideau Park .................................102 Rosscarrock .................................037 Roxboro .......................................100 Rutland Park ................................028 Scarboro ......................................011 Shaganappi .................................025 Shawnee Slopes ..........................151 Shawnessy ...................................155 Signal Hill....................................053 Signature Parke ...........................055 Silverado ......................................165 Somerset......................................159 South Calgary .............................017 Southwood ..................................123 Springbank Hill...........................065 Spruce Cliff..................................023 Strathcona Park ...........................051 Sunalta.........................................009 The Slopes ...................................067 Upper Scarboro ...........................013 Victoria Park ................................008 West Springs ...............................075 Westgate ......................................039 Wildwood . ..................................035 Windsor Park ...............................107 Woodbine ....................................147 Woodlands...................................139

38 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

Meadowlark Park

Kingsland

MACLEOD TR

SPRUCE MEADOWS TR

o

R

quicktips

JAMES COTE 703-0455

New year, new attitude

Certified Condominium Specialist 3rd Generation Calgary Realtor

To view these properties go to: www.jamescote.com HOUSE OF REAL ESTATE

COACH HILL

by hellen bu t tigieg

G

etting organized is a major New Year’s resolution, and not an easy one to keep. It’s even difficult to figure out where to start on the road to becoming organized. Start by trying out these tactics:

Keep your New Year’s resolutions. If you’ve resolved to get organized in 2014 but are already feeling discouraged, detach from the results and focus on the process. We often fail to reach our goals simply because they were unrealistic in the first place. If it took 10 years for your clutter to accumulate, you can’t expect yourself to clear it all in a few days. The key is to do only what you can, but do it consistently. Just 15 minutes a day spent organizing will add up to seven hours a month and 84 hours a year!

Tackle quick tasks now. Adopt a “do it now” policy for things that can be done in under five minutes. When a form needs to be filled out or a cheque has to be mailed, resist putting it off until the due date. This ensures that it won’t be forgotten, and frees up the mental energy that unfinished business consumes.

Keep rooms tidy in less than two minutes. Items that don’t belong in a room are the main contributors to visual clutter.

Get into the habit of removing “move elsewhere items” when you leave the room, and returning them where they do belong.

You’ll be amazed at how effective this technique can be in keeping rooms tidy with minimal effort.

Purging for “fraidy-cats.” If you keep every paper that enters your home because you’re afraid you might need it someday, here’s a way to ease the fear. Designate a temporary holding tank, a box or bin for papers you don’t need, which you’ll dump once a month. Knowing that these papers won’t be tossed immediately and will be there “just in case” lessens the anxiety of letting them go.

Hellen Buttigieg is a certified professional organizer, life coach, TV host, owner of We Organize U and author of the best-seller, Organizing Outside The Box. For tips on getting organized, visit the website at WeOrganizeU.com and sign up for Hellen’s free newsletter. To contact Hellen, email info@WeOrganizeU.com

CITY VIEWS – CORNER LOT!!

$599,000 CORNER LOT!! DOWNTOWN/CITY VIEWS!! This FULLY RENOVATED 4 bed, 3 bath home is located on a quiet street in the sought after neighbourhood of COACH HILL! Completely MOVE-IN READY, this beautiful home has over 2030 SQ.FT. OF LIVING SPACE! The Main Floor boasts: Living Room with French Doors to a BIG BALCONY - a formal Dining Room - Master Bedroom with 4 pce. ENSUITE - 2nd & 3rd Bedrooms - 4 pce. Main Floor Bath - GORGEOUS KITCHEN with GRANITE topped “eating bar’ island, COUNTERTOP STOVE w/GRILL, computer nook & lots of cupboard/counter space. To complete the Main Floor, the kitchen leads to the STUNNING & SERENE BACKYARD with DECK & HOT TUB! Perfect yard for entertaining! Lower level is fully developed with: HUGE FAMILY ROOM w/ feature fireplace - 3 pce. Bath - 4th Bedroom. An ATTACHED OVER-SIZED DOUBLE GARAGE completes the entire package! Close to shopping, restaurants, public transit, schools & only 10 MINS TO DOWNTOWN! Nothing else to do but move in & start enjoying your new life!!

SPRUCE CLIFF PREMIUM LOCATION!!

$269,900 LOCATION! LOCATION! LOCATION! This beautiful 3 bedroom condo is in a PRIME LOCATION and on a VERY QUEIT STREET! The unit features a large living room, dining area, galley kitchen, a spacious 4 piece bathroom and 3 bedrooms. The master bedroom boasts a 2 piece ensuite bathroom. Basic cable (40 channels) included in the condo fee.

This building is well run and has never had a special assessment! There is no condo fee increase planned! Last 5 years: new boiler, new balcony railings & parking lot was paved.

The unit also includes: Custom Built Entertainment Centre w/ Book Shelves, 46” Hitachi Color T.V., 1 assigned parking stall, B1 (with plug-in) and 1 assigned storage locker OA-2 (3’x4’x8ft). The balcony of this unit looks right into the forest of the Douglas Fir Trail!

Minutes from Edworthy Park, Westbrook Mall and the new West LRT. Only ten minutes from downtown. This is a rare find! Book a showing today! Building is age restricted 18+.

ROYAL OAK IMMACULATE CONDITION!!

$509,900 MINT CONDITION!! GREAT LOCATION!! This immaculately maintained 2 storey, 3 1/2 bath, 3 bedroom + den home is located in the sought after Cascades of Royal Oak and is vacant/move-in ready! Over 2350 sq ft of living space, the functional floor plan has excellent flow & offers a complete use of space. The main level has a large living room with a cozy feature fireplace. The open concept kitchen has a raised “eating bar” island, stainless steel appliances & lots of cupboard/counter space. The stunning dining room has multiple large windows allowing natural light to flood in! A laundry/mud room & 2 pce bath completes the main level. The upper level features a bonus room, 2 secondary bedrooms, a 4 pce bath & a master bedroom with custom walk-in closet & a 4 pce ensuite bath w/walk-in shower & corner soaker tub. The lower level is fully developed & includes a family room, den/office & another 4 pce bath. An attached, insulated double garage completes the package. Put this home on your list! It’s a “must see”!!

6435776_1313

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

39

IN THE MARKET FOR A

NEW HOUSE

OR A CONDO?

We think finding a home is a lot more than simply finding the right property.

That’s why we put you right in the middle of the search process.

Search your favorite neighbourhood

Find out about nearby services and amenities

View new construction projects and register to get the latest info

Visit the new real estate section on canpages.ca and start looking for that special place.

Powered by

40 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

ects info

zone

COMMUNITIES & MLS NUMBERS

Acadia ................................................215 Auburn Bay .......................................365 Chaparral ...........................................280 Chaparral Valley ................................285 Copperfield .......................................355 Cranston ............................................360 Deer Ridge ........................................265 Deer River Estates.............................272 Deer Run ...........................................270 Diamond Cove ..................................252 Douglas Glen ....................................320 Douglas Ridge ...................................330 Douglasdale Estates .........................325 Fairview .............................................210 Foothills Industrial Park ...................340 Highfield............................................205 Inglewood .........................................200 Lake Bonavista ..................................235 Lake Bonavista Downs .....................245 Lake Bonavista Estates .....................240 Legacy ................................................295 Lynnwood Ridge ...............................300 Mahogany .........................................375 Manchester........................................207 Maple Ridge ......................................230 Mckenzie Lake ..................................335 Mckenzie Towne ...............................345 Midnapore .........................................255 New Brighton....................................350 Ogden/Lynnwood.............................305 Parkland .............................................260 Quarry Park .......................................315 Queensland .......................................250 Ramsay ..............................................202 Riverbend ..........................................310 Seton ..................................................370 Sundance ...........................................275 Walden ...............................................290 Willow Park .......................................220 Willow Park Estates ..........................225

MARQUIS OF LORNE TR

MACLEOD TR

DEERFOOT TR

olivera (Hollie) Winkelaar

moRtgAgE SpECIALISt

Your new home doesn’t come with mortgage advice.

I do, call me and I will provide you with real solutions whenever you need it.

587-284-4134 olivera.winkelaar@rbc.com Language: English, Serbian, Romanian, Croatian

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

41

homebuyers’help

CALCULATE YOUR MORTGAGE PAYMENTS CALCULATE YOUR MORTGAGE PAYMENTS MONTHLY PRE-TAX INCOME

DIVIDE BY 3

CHART FIGURE

AMORTIZATION AMOUNT

SPOUSE’S PRE-TAX INCOME

AFFORDABLE MONTHLY PAYMENTS

AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE DIVIDED BY 1,000

ESTIMATED MONTHLY TAXES & HEAT

TOTAL PRE-TAX INCOME

AMOUNT OF MORTGAGE (PRICE – DOWN PAYMENT)

AMORTIZATION AMOUNT

MONTHLY PAYMENTS

MORTGAGE PAYMENT CALCULATION CHART INTEREST RATES %

AMORTIZATION PERIODS 10 YRS

15 YRS

20 YRS

25 YRS

30 YRS

5.00%

10.58

7.88

6.57

5.82

5.34

5.25%

10.70

8.01

6.74

5.96

5.49

5.50%

10.82

8.14

6.85

6.10

5.64

5.75%

10.94

8.27

6.98

6.25

5.79

6.00%

11.07

8.40

7.12

6.40

5.95

6.25%

11.19

8.53

7.26

6.55

6.11

6.50%

11.31

8.66

7.41

6.70

6.26

6.75%

11.43

8.80

7.55

6.85

6.42

7.00%

11.56

8.93

7.69

7.00

6.59

7.25%

11.68

9.07

7.84

7.16

6.75

7.50%

11.81

9.21

7.99

7.32

6.91

7.75%

11.94

9.34

8.14

7.47

7.08

8.00%

12.06

9.48

8.28

7.63

7.25

8.25%

12.19

9.62

8.44

7.79

7.42

FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO SEE IF YOU’LL QUALIFY FOR A MORTGAGE ON YOUR DREAM HOME

01

05

Calculate the combined monthly before-tax income of you and your spouse.

Multiply this figure by the amount you need to borrow. Divide by

1,000.

02

06

Divide by three. This figure is the monthly payment you can afford to make on your home.

Add to this your estimated monthly heating costs and monthly property taxes.

03

07

Take the total price of the home and subtract the amount of money you expect to make as a down payment.

This is the money you will have to borrow.

04

Refer to the chart on the opposite page. Look down the left column and locate the interest rate you expect to pay. Line this up with the amortization period of your choice.

(Most first-time buyers take the 25-year amortization.)

If this figure is equal to or less than one-third of your gross monthly income (calculated in Step 2), you’ll qualify for a mortgage on your dream home.

Bear in mind that this is a rough estimate. If you have several other large loans already, you may qualify for less.

Also, banks and trust companies vary in their policies. The best way to know what you can afford is to go to the lending institution of your choice and get pre-qualified.

42 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

MORTGAGE INTEREST RATES VARIABLE

6 month

1 year

2 years

3 years

4 years

5 years

ATB Financial

2.700

4.000

2.940

2.890

3.190

3.590

3.790

Alterna Bank

3.000

4.000

3.090

3.140

3.190

3.350

3.590

Alterna Savings

3.000

4.000

3.090

3.140

3.190

3.350

3.590

Bank of Montreal (BMO)

3.100

4.000

3.240

3.240

4.050

4.840

5.440

Bank of Nova Scotia

3.100

4.550

3.750

3.890

3.990

4.390

4.990

BMO

3.100

4.000

3.240

3.240

4.050

4.840

5.440

-

-

4.800

4.700

4.800

-

5.250

CIBC Mortgages

3.000

4.450

3.090

3.140

3.950

4.590

5.340

Canadian Western Bank

3.200

4.000

3.140

3.140

3.950

4.740

5.340

Canadian Western Trust

3.200

4.000

3.140

3.140

3.950

4.740

5.340

Effort Trust

-

4.450

3.250

3.600

3.950

4.700

4.950

Equitable Bank

-

-

3.140

3.140

3.850

4.740

5.340

First Calgary Financial

3.000

4.000

2.890

2.890

3.190

3.390

3.790

HSBC Bank Canada

3.100

4.450

3.600

3.950

4.450

4.990

5.340

Home Trust Company

2.650

3.950

2.890

2.890

3.090

3.390

3.540

ICICI Bank Canada

3.050

-

3.150

3.650

3.640

3.690

3.890

ING Direct

3.000

-

3.190

3.240

3.590

3.690

4.090

Investors Group Trust

3.000

4.200

3.140

3.140

3.950

4.740

5.340

London Life

3.000

4.200

3.140

3.140

3.950

4.740

5.340

Manulife Bank

2.800

4.450

3.000

3.200

3.250

3.400

3.690

Manulife Trust

-

4.450

3.000

3.200

3.250

3.400

3.690

Meridian Credit Union

2.750

4.000

3.090

3.140

3.650

3.490

3.590

National Bank

3.100

4.400

3.140

3.140

3.950

4.740

5.340

-

4.500

3.150

3.500

3.950

3.950

4.150

President’s Choice Fin’l

3.000

6.040

3.240

3.240

3.590

3.690

4.090

RMG Mortgages

3.000

-

2.890

2.890

2.990

3.090

3.590

Royal Bank of Canada

3.000

3.140

3.140

3.140

3.850

4.740

5.340

-

4.000

3.140

3.140

3.950

4.740

5.340

3.000

4.000

3.090

3.140

3.950

4.740

5.340

Bridgewater Bank

Peace Hills Trust

Servus Credit Union T-D Mortgage

MORTGAGE TYPES ALL MORTGAGES ARE OF TWO BASIC TYPES: CONVENTIONAL The buyer can borrow up to 80% of the purchase price or the value of the property, whichever is less.

The buyer has to pay 20% down.

A conventional mortgage cannot exceed 80% of the value of the property.

INSURED OR HIGH-RATIO: A buyer can borrow up to 95% of the purchase price or the value of the property, whichever is less. The down payment can be as low as 5%.

MORTGAGE OPTIONS You can choose any of these mortgage options which fit into the two basic mortgage types.

Lenders may even customize these options to suit your needs.

OPEN MORTGAGE: Allows borrowers to repay all or part of the total amount of their mortgage at any time without penalty.

Because of flexibility, this is ideal for borrowers who plan to sell their homes in the near future or who want to switch from a shortterm mortgage at high interest rates to a longer term when mortgage interest rates fall.

CLOSED MORTGAGE: Usually has the lowest interest rate available but lacks the flexible features of other mortgage options.

A good choice for those who want the security of knowing their monthly payment is fixed for a longer term.

Prepayment options are available but they are subject to conditions.

PORTABLE MORTGAGE: Flexibility if borrowers move.

Borrowers can take the mortgage to their new home or can transfer it (usually with the consent of the lender) to the purchaser of their old home. This is an attractive option if the rate on the existing mortgage is lower than current rates.

PREPARED BY CANNEX. This information is subject to change without notice. © Copyright 2014 CANNEX Financial Exchanges Limited. All rights reserved.

Volume14 Issue01 ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

43

moneymatters

Time to “make do” B Y G A I L VA Z - O X L A D E

I

f there’s any time of year when you’re likely to wonder if all the bills will get paid, it’s now. After the feverish rush of the holidays and all the unexpected expenses that popped up, budgets will be tight. Add the extra cost of heating and the jump in “fresh” food prices during the winter months, and you’ll be looking for ways to trim back.

Welcome to “Make Do” season. This is when you stretch everything a little farther so you spend a lot less. If you get invited to a party, don’t rush out and buy new clothes. You get creative and shop from your closet. And if you need something a little different, you shop from a friend’s closet. Or hold a clothing exchange. What you don’t do, is spend money!

When the weather is warm, it’s easy to do lots of free things. When it’s cold out, entertainment gets more expensive.

Sure, there’s that great movie you’d love to take the family to for a night out of the house. For a family of four, you’re probably looking at $100 or more with popcorn and drinks.

Recycle a movie you already own or do a movie swap with friends, add some home-made popcorn and a 12-pack of pop and you can probably do it for $10. Now that’s making do!

This is also a good time to experiment with a new routine.

If you’re used to buying coffee every day, brew your own at home or work, and save big-time. If you regularly go out for lunch, bring lunch from home for four out of every five days and not only will you drop those holiday pounds quicker, you’ll be able to pay off that holiday debt too.

But what if you have family or friends whose birthday falls at this time of year? You’ll have to buy something, 44 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

right? Wrong! You can give something of yourself instead of something purchased. Bake their favorite cookies, offer to cook them a meal or a bunch of meals for the freezer for those extra-busy workdays, or create a coupon for three nights of free baby-sitting service. Maybe you’re a computer whiz and can offer to do maintenance or repairs. Perhaps you’re a mechanic and can offer a free tune-up. Substitute your energy for your money.

After the buzz of the holidays, you’ll be happy to stay home for the first couple of weeks. Then you may start feeling itchy.

You can feel the walls closing in on you. Time to hit that new restaurant that just opened, or head out to the clubs. Wait a minute, you’re not supposed to be spending money!

Call up a couple of friends and throw a pot-luck game night instead. Start a tradition of once-a-month game or poker nights, and rotate from one friend’s home to another. No one says you can’t have fun. You just can’t spend gobs of money.

“Making do” is a conscious decision to stretch every dollar as far as it will go. Try it and see if just becoming conscious of your spending with save you money. I bet that you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

Gail Vaz-Oxlade is the host of Til Debt Do Us Part and author of Debt Free Forever. She blogs daily at gailvazoxlade.com. Follow Gail on Twitter at Twitter.com/GailVazOxlade

Gleniffer Lake • Gull Lake • Sylvan Lake • Invermere/Columbia Valley • Okanagan Region • Vancouver Island

british columbia & alberta

Real PRoPeRties JANUARY 2014

LEVEL ENTRY RANCHER WITH

$599,900 - 614 Parkway P

PLUS a 2-bedrm In-law and many extras in qu High quality finishing, open floor plan-car landscaped lot, 2 decks & patio, skylights, plus

inthenews

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In your neighbourhood Victoria and Vancouver Island

IMAGINE Living in Victoria BEAR MOUNTAIN CONDO A UNIQUE RESIDENCE IN AN EXCEPTIONAL LOCATION. All benefits you’d expect in a penthouse suite can be yours on this lovely mezzanine garden suite. Enjoy the outdoor living space of over 1,000 sq. ft. in the summer and amenities of a sun filled wrap-around patio.

Exceptional 2 bed, 2 bath with high quality finishings in over 1,300 sq. ft. of living space.

Tennis courts A place to call home

539,000

$

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BEAR MOUNTAIN DREAM HOME EXECUTIVE RESIDENCE - ONE OF THE FEW HOMES ON THE GOLF COURSE

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46 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

Call Nancy Direct

(250)

Nancy Vieira Calgary named Canada’s strongest major housing market

A

fter correcting several years ago, Calgary has reclaimed its title as the strongest major housing market in Canada, according to a recent report from BMO Economics.

Titled Canadian Housing Update: Tale of Four Cities, the report examines the state of the housing markets in Canada’s four largest cities: Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto and Montreal.

“In the three months to October, home sales have run 23 per cent above year-ago levels – nearly twice the national rate – and stand a heady 20 per cent above past decade norms,” says Sal Guatieri, senior economist, BMO Capital Markets.

“While preliminary data suggest the pace of sales slowed somewhat in November, listings are lean, giving sellers the upper hand on pricing.”

According to the report, although construction has picked up, starts have barely kept pace with an exploding population.

Inventories of new homes are very low, while benchmark prices are climbing the fastest among major cities and have now all but retraced the 16 per cent collapse from 2007 to 2009.

Guatieri notes that despite heady price gains, valuations remain reasonable, with prices running about four-times median family income and mortgage service costs consuming a manageable 23 per cent of earnings. “About half of the increase in prices is supported by rising income. Hourly wages in Alberta are up 4.4 per cent year over year in the first 10 months of the year, double the national rate.”

The report stated that immigrants and young Canadians are flocking to the city, drawn by better job prospects, faster wage growth, and healthier housing affordability than in Vancouver and Toronto. Alberta attracted a record 53,000 more people from other provinces than it lost in the past year, and a similar number from other countries.

“Strong economic and population growth will encourage an upward trend in Calgary’s house prices, though higher borrowing costs will moderate the gains,” says Guatieri.

Laura Parsons, mortgage expert at BMO Bank of Montreal, adds that in light of expected increases in longer-term interest rates in the year ahead, Canadians need to examine ways to reduce overall housing costs.

“While survey numbers tell us that the majority of Canadians will be able to service their mortgage in the face of rising interest rates, it’s still crucial that Canadians stress-test their mortgage against a higher rate to ensure they can afford what they sign up for if conditions change,” says Parsons.

Victoria

Virtual

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0 - 614 Parkway Place, Colwood

Nancy Vieira

(250)514-4750

Call Nancy Direct (250) 514-4750

Victoria 250.384.8124 • West Shore 250.478.9141 • Sooke 250.642.3240 • Cobble Hill 250.743.3838

Virtual tours at www.nancyvieira.com • info@nancyvieira.com • Toll Free1.800.665.5303

for Victoria & Southern Vancouver Island

DUNCAN

FRENCH BEACH

$179,900 1 bed / 1 bath Strata Fee $131 monthly Oceanside Getaway Cottage

$189,000 Building Lot 1.40 Acres Walk To Beach!

$245,500 Top Floor Condo, 2 Bed/ 2 Bath, Over 1400 Sq. Ft. M Assmt: $275

PORT RENFREW

$299,900 7 bedroom 3 Full Bath includes 2 bedroom suite

MALAHAT

$299,000 5 Acres lot Oceanfront Acreage

SOOKE

$289,900 3 bed/ 3 bath, Newer Townhouse Monthly fee $145

$249,900 2 bed/1 bath.

Lower half duplex. No Fees.

Ocean & Mountain views.

$249,900 0.39 Acre Lot 3 Mark Lane

$289,900 2 bed/ 3 bath, Townhome with basement. $198 monthly fee

SOOKE

SOOKE

NO STRATA FEES

PORT RENFREW

COLWOOD

CENTRAL SAANICH

$169,000 2 bed/ 1 bath, Huge lower condo.

Monthly fee $175

PORT RENFREW

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$325,000. Level entry with walkout basement home 3 bed plus den and 3 bathrooms including spalike ensuite

$320,000 3 bed/ 2 bath Home + Revenue Cottage!

Ocean Views and walk to beach!

OCEAN VIEWS

$549,900 3/4 bedrooms & 3 baths 2.02 acre RIVERFRONT

$700,000 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, 4.2 Acres with Licensed Dog Kennel

SOOKE $739,900. Log Home with revenue cottages and huge shop on 6 riverside acres

MILLBAY

HORSE BARN

$885,000 5 Bed/ 3 Bath, 2.02 Acres Mini Estate with well designed home with Swimming Pool.

$524,900 Huge Shop/ 2 oversized bays! 0.82 acres two separate lots! Two homes plus RV Sites.

SOOKE

MOTIVATED SELLER

$499,900 Greenhouses on 8 Acres Sun all day long

SOOKE

$395,000 New Ultra Modern upper half duplex. No Fees. Ocean & Mountain Views.

COBBLE HILL

SOOKE $349,000.

Waterfront lot 8 acres with million dollar views of ocean mountains

SOOKE

MALAHAT

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SOOKE

eira

METCHOSIN

ect

$349,900 - 7230 Sea Cliff, East Sooke

$888,000 2 bed / 1 bath 3 Plus OCEANFRONT ACRES

$1,850,000 Certified Organic 21 Acre Farm 2010 Executive Home with suite. Plus Barns, Shop, Mobile Home.

Virtual tours at www.nancyvieira.com • info@nancyvieira.com •Toll Free 1.800.665.5303 Victoria 250.384.8124 • West Shore 250.478.9141 • Sooke 250.642.3240 • Mill Bay 250.733.0770

out of town

regional map

27 766

22

Didsbury

2A 562

2 Carstairs

Cremona

806

581

Carbon

575

Crossfield

72

766 772 567

Airdrie

9

Irricana

567

Delacourt

Dalroy

791

1

Chestermere

CALGARY

68

22

Lyalta Strathmore

569

Shepard 791

22X

Standard Hussar 1

549

Blackie

23

542

Milo

24 842

540

Cayley 22

Bassano

842

High River

541

Cluny

Arrowwood

2A

Longview

547

547

7

543

Gleichen

Mossleigh

797

549

Okotoks

817

Carseland

552

561

22X

Dalemead DeWinton

Black Diamond Turner Valley

564

564

Langdon

8 Bragg Creek

534

Vulcan 531

Nanton 2

533

527

520

48 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

56

842

Keoma

566

Bearspaw

840

Rockyford

Katherine

Balzac

Cochrane

1A

21

Beieker

574

22

Acme

Champion

529

Stavely Caramangay

Claresholm

520

M

M

f y e l

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– THE MI-BOX ADVANTAGE.

PLASTIC STORAGE BINS

We can deliver our heavy duty plastic storage bins with your MI-BOX. Keep your possessions in the bins to eliminate the hassle of cardboard boxes! Return the empty bins to the MI-BOX when you’re all finished and we’ll take them with us when we pick it up. Bins are approximately 1.5’ x 2’ x 1’.

REAL ESTATE AGENT PRICING

MI-BOX proudly offers special pricing to Realtors using our services for their clients.

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES

THE LEVELIFT SYSTEM

Our delivery system ensures that your unit will remain entirely level through delivery, transport and pick-up. When your items remain level, the likelihood of damage from transport is greatly diminished.

We offer advertising for you and your brand. Have your signage displayed at your client’s home or business for all to see!

SUPERIOR UNIT CONSTRUCTION

Each mobile storage unit is built to last a life time. Frames are hot dipped galvanized steel to prevent rust. DuraPlate wall panels are used to keep your belongings safe and dry. The form fitted roof is securely fastened to the storage container, not a piece that’s fitted after the fact, so moisture or bugs can’t get in.

403.278.4474

.

www.getmibox.com

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miboxwest@gmail.com

featureproperty

Fabulous Lower Mount Royal condo close to hip and trendy 17th Avenue B y H e at H e r r ya n

S

ituated just a block off the vibrant Uptown 17th Avenue retail strip that offers shopping and restaurants galore, buyers will adore the location of this fabulous, luxury condo at Rockford Place in Lower Mount Royal.

“This is a well-maintained, move-in ready, updated condo that has custom built-ins and is well laid out with a living room that is open to the kitchen and a large dining room that is ideal for entertaining,” says Serhan Tarkan, realtor with Kirby Cox & Associates at Royal LePage Foothills.

“This condo offers a very large square footage so it will appeal to people who want a maintenance-free lifestyle leaving them free to travel, but don’t want to compromise on the space and luxury they had in their single-family home,” he says. “It will also appeal to professionals or executives who love to entertain.”

Serhan notes Rockford Place is a lowrise concrete building, “so it’s a quiet building and the condo has a woodburning fireplace, which you don’t find very often. It’s also in 50 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

a new, hip and trendy area and with the revitalization going on nearby, it’s a good investment; it will only go up in value.”

This two-bedroom 1,569-sq.-ft. condo in Lower Mount Royal is close to amenity-rich 17th Avenue, yet it’s located in a well-established neighbourhood with mature trees and a peaceful residential setting away from the hustle and bustle of downtown.

Buyers will love that it’s a short stroll to dozens of restaurants, cafés, nightlife, boutiques and services along the Red Mile, and the strategic location makes it easy to drive, bike or walk to work downtown. It’s also close to the Stampede Grounds, river valley pathways, and has easy access to major routes such as 17th Avenue, Crowchild and Macleod Trails and 14 Street S.W. This terrific third-floor corner unit boasts beautiful appointments throughout, including richly toned engineered hardwood floors and two balconies.

The open, elegantly styled living room is highlight by a

Buyer will love that it’s a short stroll to dozens of restaurants, cafés, nightlife, boutiques and services along the Red Mile, and the strategic location makes it easy to drive, bike or walk to work downtown

stunning wall-to-wall wood fireplace surrounded in stone with built-in space for wood storage on the lower half. The upper half has a dark wood mantel and decorative wood panels with spotlights ideal for displaying artwork. Sliding glass doors ensure plenty of natural light and provide access to an east-facing balcony.

The living room overlooks the sleek kitchen that serves up an expansive granite-topped island with eating bar, providing ample space for guests to socialize with their host. The dark cabinets are offset by light-toned granite countertops and complement the high-end stainless steel appliances and fullheight tile backsplash.

Off the kitchen is the formal dining room, that offers substantial space for hosting large dinner parties, family and friends. Double French doors off the dining room open to a good-sized den or home office that features a gorgeous wallto-wall built-in with cabinets and open shelves – perfect for storing books and collectables. Sliding glass doors from the office lead to the west-facing balcony.

Owners will appreciate the spacious master bedroom that

has his and her mirrored closets plus its own private ensuite with granite counters and tile floors. There is a good-sized second bedroom and a second full bathroom that also has tile floors, granite counters and an over-sized walk-in tiled shower.

The suite also comes with a large in-suite laundry/storage room that includes the washer and dryer, plus owners have a separate storage locker on main floor and an assigned underground parking stall.

Owners will have condo fees at $1,030 per month, which also allows them access to the building’s amenities that include a rooftop deck – perfect for enjoying the great outdoors – and a fully equipped exercise room.

Buyers will also appreciate having a professionally landscaped, secured building and that they can enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle that puts them close to shopping, work, schools and public transportation.

For more information on this exceptional Lower Mount Royal condo, MLS #C3593109 priced at $449,900, contact Serhan Tarkan, Kirby Cox & Associates at Royal LePage Foothills, at 403.667.3742 or visit tarkan.ca.

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aroundthehouse

Time To sell‌

time to de-clutter b y L au r a L e

A

nother new year begins and perhaps this is the year you decide to sell your home. Maybe you are downsizing because the children have moved out and you want a home that does not have room for them to move back in! On the flip side, you could be looking for more space as your family expands. Either way, this is a great opportunity to clean out the cupboards, closets, basement and garage.

This year, it is my goal to simplify everything in my own home. I plan to start in the closets. This can be a daunting task that must be done when you are in the right mood, and maybe with the assistance of a really good friend who will tell you the truth about that polyester pantsuit you have been holding on to.

52 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

Every item in the closet should be viewed objectively, and if it has not been worn in the last year, it must go. Charities accept all clothing and small household items, and will even pick them up from your doorstep. That is, unless you are editing your husband’s “stuff.” In this case, it is better to edit, immediately load the bags into your car, and drive them to the charity drop-off to ensure they make it there safely.

If your husband is like mine, he will come home, see the donation bags, and proceed to check out everything you have packed up. I have unloaded three large bags of “stuff” from my husband’s wardrobe and he has never even noticed! All joking aside, be objective.

The same procedure applies to the kitchen, pantry and linen closet. If the unwanted items are family pieces, it is an excellent idea to offer them to other family members who

will actually treasure them. We should love everything we have in our homes, or it should have a purpose (I do not really love my coffee maker, but it is used almost daily in my home). Passing stuff on to family members is fabulous, but if that has been done and there is still more stuff, ask your friends if they would like anything, have a garage sale, or donate to charity.

As you have probably figured out, the same formula applies to every room, nook and cranny. Simplify the china cabinet and showcase only the pretty items. It is beautiful to see only crystal

Passing stuff on to family members is fabulous, but if that has been done and there is still more stuff, ask your friends if they would like anything, have a garage sale, or donate to charity

Volume14 Issue01 | ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

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the more clutter we are surrounded by, the harder it is to breathe – both literally and figuratively

or a matching set of china, and nothing else to clutter the display. In the family room, put all the family photos that are on the bookcase onto a digital photo frame. This allows many more photos to been shown as they flash by. These frames are also great mixed into a family photo wall. Approach the garage and the basement with these same techniques and it could be life changing.

I know this can sound a little ruthless, but holding on to stuff we don’t wear or use or even want is not a good thing.

The more clutter we are surrounded by, the harder it is to breathe – both literally and figuratively. I truly understand how difficult this whole process can be, but it just takes a little practice before it becomes easier. This experience is extremely satisfying and makes the move to the new property easier and even less expensive, because you are not paying movers to pack and transport stuff you don’t need. Happy de-cluttering!

laura le Creative Enhancement Inc. Laura Le has owned Creative Enhancement for about seven years. Laura completed courses with Accredited Staging Professionals (ASP), Canadian Staging. Professionals (CSP) and Canadian ReDesign Association (CRDA). Creative Enhancement has been a member of the BBB since 2005. Phone 403.807.8591 Email laurale@shaw.ca | creativeenhancement.ca

54 • ResaleHome&CondoGuide | Volume14 Issue01

marketanalysis

Calgary’s real estate market

soared beyond expectations in 2013 B y H e at H e r r ya n

A

combination of the right conditions saw sales and housing prices in Calgary’s real estate market soar beyond expectations in 2013, says Becky Walters, president of the Calgary Real Estate Board (CREB).

“The growth in the market in 2013 was more than double what we expected at the start of the year,” says Walters. “We had expected two per cent sales growth over the year and about a three-per-cent increase in prices based on information from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) and the major banks,” Walters says. “When we look back at 2013, we really had a winning combination of factors – low interest rates, low rental vacancies, strong economy, job growth and positive net migration (which was double the 15,000 forecasted by CMHC) – which resulted in substantial gains.”

According to recent figures release by CREB, the total combined single-family and condo sales in the city of Calgary by the end of December was 23,489, a 10.8-per-cent jump over the 21,204 recorded in 2012, while the average price was $456,703, a 6.5-per-cent hike over the $428,649 posted in 2012.

Single-family sales in 2013 were 16,302, 7.9 per cent above the 15,105 in 2012; condo apartment sales were 4,007, up 14.5 per cent from the 3,501 in 2012; and condo townhouse sales were 3,180, a 22.4-per-cent hike over the 2,598 in 2012.

In December, single-family home sales in the city of Calgary were 772, 3.8 per cent higher than the 744 recorded in December 2012, but a significant drop from the 1,197 sales in November.

Condo apartment sales were 221 in December, up 1.4 per cent from December 2012’s 218, but down substantially from the 305 sales recorded in November.

Meanwhile, condo townhouse sales totalled 179 in December, a whopping 49.2-percent gain over 120 in December 2012, but again, a drop from 228 sales in November.

“The sales drop-off from November to December is absolutely seasonal, as people are busy getting ready for the holidays, and this year the weather didn’t co-operate either; we had lots of snow and cold,” Walters says. “But still as Decembers goes, we had great activity. I had a couple of listings that I was happy had sold, because I didn’t think people could even get in to see them, there was so much snow.”

Walters says sales were strong in the $400,000 range, “as people we’re looking for affordability and we also saw a lot of activity in the high-end market (homes priced $1 million and over) in December.

The towns also did extraordinarily well in December.”

The total sales of towns in December were 201, a 15.5-per-cent increase over the 174 recorded in December 2012.

On the year, towns had 4,440 in sales, an 11.9-per-cent hike over 3,968 sales recorded in 2012.

Walters notes that 2013 saw the highest increase in sales in the high-end market, and a rebound in the condo market. “There was a good amount of inventory at the start of the year, which provided affordability for a lot of firsttime buyers and those moving into the city. Condo sales increased 14 per cent in apartments, 22 per cent in townhomes in 2013, so that moved a lot of inventory and it helped to boost prices.”

The single-family benchmark price in December was $472,200, an 8.6-per-cent jump over December 2012’s $434,800 and up slightly from November’s $470,600 figure.

Condo apartments’ benchmark price in December was $278,600 – a 12-per-cent hike over December 2012’s $248,700, although down a fraction from November’s $279,600. Meanwhile, condo townhomes’ benchmark price hit $307,100 in December, an 8.1-percent jump over the $284,100 recorded in December 2012 and a notch up from November’s $305,700.

“As I see it, 2012 was a recovery year and 2013 was a growth year,” Walters says. “For 2014, our projections are a 3.5-per-cent increase in sales and a 4.5-per-cent increase in prices, so we’re looking forward to more moderate growth and an exciting year.”

Volume14 Issue01 | ResaleHome&CondoGuide •

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www.tarkan.ca Call: 403.247.5503 Email: serhan@tarkan.ca

SOLD

246 ALLAN CR SE

$419,900

A rare 4 bedrooms up, hardwood floors & within minutes to the clubhouse, shopping & transit from this terrific two storey home - built by NuVista with a total of 5 bedrooms & a dynamite floorplan drenched in natural light. Built in 2000, the main floor of this fully finished home boasts 9ft ceilings, a formal dining room with two storey ceilings & rounded columns, a main floor office & a sunken living room with a gas fireplace. The eat-in white kitchen has a walk-in pantry & a raised eating bar, & from the nook you’ve got access to the rear deck. All 4 of the upstairs bedrooms are a great size, & includes the master bedroom with a walk-in closet & a jetted tub ensuite with double sinks & tile floors. A 5th bedroom & bathroom are in the lower level, along with a large rec room & loads of storage space. A handy main floor laundry & a warm neutral décor, a pie-shaped backyard, an expanse of windows & a quiet crescent location with a park just steps away. Available for quick possession...welcome home!

MLS #C3592938

#301 1731 9A STREET SW

$449,900

Welcome to Rockford Place in Lower Mount Royal... just a block off the Uptown 17th Avenue retail strip with shopping & restaurants galore! Complemented by beautiful engineered hardwood floors, this terrific 3rd floor corner unit boasts a spacious living room with a wood-burning fireplace & an East-facing balcony, a sunny dining room area & a sleek kitchen with granite counters, a large island/eating bar & stainless steel appliances. Both of the bedrooms are a fantastic size & the master bedroom has his & hers mirrored closets plus its own private ensuite with granite counters & tile floors. The 2nd full bathroom also has tile floors & granite counters, & a big walk-in shower. A home office with a West-facing balcony & built-in wall units, a large insuite laundry/storage room plus a separate storage locker, an assigned underground parking stall plus there’s a rooftop deck & an exercise room with a jacuzzi & sauna too. All this & more in this secure 16-unit concrete building... just for you!

MLS C3593109

2518 2 AVENUE NW

$1,200,000

Undeniably one of the finest homes you will ever see is this brand new attached infill from Lupi Luxury Homes...a sleek 4 bedroom home with over 3600sqft spread over 4 levels of stylish inner city living! Beautiful hardwood floors & 9ft ceilings, formal living & dining rooms with a contemporary 2-sided fireplace/feature wall & a showpiece gourmet kitchen with custom maple cabinetry & Thermador stainless steel appliances. Three large bedrooms & a laundry room are on the 2nd level including the South-facing owner’s retreat with a walk-in closet & an enticing ensuite with a glass/tile steam shower, and heated floors. A 4th bedroom, bathroom & a rec room with a wet bar are in the lower level, & on the top floor is an awesome bonus room with a walk-in closet & a bathroom. A detached 2 car garage, an acrylic stucco/stone exterior + an extensive array of extras in this incredible home from one of the city’s most renowned builders!

MLS #3596112

407 48 AVENUE SW

$2,400,000

Nestled in exclusive Elboya close to schools & the Calgary Golf & Country Club is this beautifully crafted custom home... a brand new 4 bedroom two storey loaded with an impressive array of top-notch finishings to make proud. With soaring 10 ft flat ceilings & distressed hardwood floors, the main floor of this luxury home boasts a formal dining room with a butler’s pantry, a beautiful great room with a gas fireplace, a dramatic reception hall & a gourmet kitchen with top-of-the-line Wolf appliances, a massive centre island & cabinet space galore. Upstairs the owner’s retreat enjoys vaulted ceilings & a private balcony, a dream walk-in closet & a spa-inspired ensuite with a free-standing tub & a glass/tile rainshower. Three more bedrooms share 2 ensuites, there’s a home office with a gas fireplace, main & upper laundries, granite counters in all the bathrooms, a detached 2 car garage & a South backyard. Unforgettable!

MLS C3593145