Edmonton Builder & Developer Annual 2013

2013 BUILDER & DEVELOPER

A Comprehensive Guide to Edmonton’s Builders, Developers and Communities

discover

edmonton’s builders, developers and new communities one story at a time

Presented by the publishers of

2013 AB ANNUAL Cover-FIN.indd 1

10/26/12 2:16:03 PM

6 SHOWHOMES

NOW OPEN Adjacent to Big Lake and the Lois Hole Provincial Park, Edmonton’s newest northwest neighbourhood offers an ideal balance of convenient city living and natural outdoor life.

Ray Gibbon Dr

Celebration Homes • 780-224-5689 Bungalow and two-storey custom-designed walkout homes.

N

Ave

170 St

Duplex, single family, and bungalows available.

215 St

Rohit Communities • 780-938-5478

118a

184 St

Quality, eco-friendly, energy-efficient, single-family homes.

Glendale Golf & County Club

Anthony Henday

Green Living Homes • 780-699-1616

137 Ave

199 St

231 St

Single-family homes from $450,000.

215 St

Kirkland Homes • 780-906-1033

VISIT THE SHOWHOMES AT 137 AVE & RAY GIBBON DRIVE

Build Your Nest Here. StarlingAtBigLake.com 002-Rohit-2013 Annual.indd 2

10/25/12 11:14:09 AM

NOW PRESELLING INTO HARVEST RIDGE STAGE 12C & 13 AND SOUTHFORT MEADOWS

Show Home Locations The Elements of Erin Ridge North 10 Executive Way North, St Albert 780-733-7920 Harvest Ridge – Single Family 188 Harvest Ridge Dr., Spruce Grove 780-733-7922 Harvest Ridge – Rear Parking Lane 11 Hewitt Circle, Spruce Grove 780-733-7923 North Ridge 133 Northridge Dr., St. Albert 780-733-7921 Southfort Estates 9 Greenfield Bend, Fort Saskatchewan 780-733-7924 Southfort Meadows 404 Meadowview Drive North Fort Saskatchewan Spruce Ridge Gardens Under construction Spruce Grove West Haven Park 2 New Showhomes Opening 2013 Leduc Showhome Hours: Mon-Thur 3-8pm, Weekends & Holidays: 12-5pm Office: 780.489.3028 sales@homexx.ca

HOMEXX.CA

04

Luxury Townhomes

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in Eaux Claires TOWNHOMES & CONDOS

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Carlton Corner Townhomes NOW SELLING x x

Temporary Road Closure

From the $280’s Visit Albany Trails for more information

Showhome Now Open

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from the

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Luxury townhomes featuring 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and an oversize double attached garage.

www.footprintdevelopments.ca

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TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S

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10

43 Special Features 08

EDITOR’S NOTE

09

MAYOR’S MESSAGE

24

ECONOMY

34

Edmonton economy among the tops in all of Canada HOMEBUYERS’ HELP

Landscaping and your new home

BY SHANE’S LANDSCAPING & CONTRACTING LTD.

38

42

LEGAL ADVICE

The costs of buying a new home

BY ROSELLINA GIARDINO

56

FUNDAMENTALLY SPEAKING

What type of home should you buy?

BY WAYNE KARL

88

LEGAL ADVICE

The importance of conditions

BY ROSELLINA GIARDINO

102 MONEY MATTERS

Money mistakes couples make

BY GAIL VAZ-OXLADE

64

TOP HOMEBUYING TIPS

104 GREEN LIVING

68

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP

116 HOME SMARTS

MORTGAGE OPTIONS

10 tips for new homebuyers Paving stone versus concrete

BY SHANE’S LANDSCAPING & CONTRACTING LTD.

What does a 25-year amortization mean to you?

72

MORTGAGE OPTIONS

Supersize your mortgage payments

10 questions to ask your builder Top 10 mistakes people make when buying a home – and how to avoid them

BY MARNIE BENNETT

118 HOME SEARCH

Pinpointing the perfect location for your new home BY WAYNE KARL

Builders, Developers and New Communities 10 Sterling Homes (Edmonton) Ltd. 13 Walton Development & Management L.P 16 Parkwood Group of Companies 20 MLC Group 25 Pompei Homes 29 Jayman 31 Pacesetter Homes Ltd.

69 Homes by Avi 73 Daytona Homes MASTER BUILDER 76 ReidBuilt Homes

55 Creekwood Chappelle 57 Canyon Spring MASTER BUILDER 60 Christenson Developments

Josh Heppner

Account Executives

Nancy Chemait

85 Homexx Corporation 89 Rococo Homes 93 Brookfield Residential

99 Rohit Communities

54 Ambleside

Director of sales, Western canada

82 Regency Developments

39 Grande Design Builder Group

50 Westrich Pacific

Jacqueline Hill

Shelley Balla

35 Celebration Homes

46 Melcor Developments

vice-president, wall2wall media

79 Perry Homes

96 Footprint Developments

43 Alldritt Land Corporation LP

2013 587.784.4044 780.619.3241

Jennifer Mizier 780.217.6778 editor-in-chief, real estate

Susan Legge editor

Wayne Karl senior production manager

Bala Gnanapandithan

105 White Eagle Homes

Art Director

108 Beaverbrook Developments

production co-ordinator

111 INFINITI Masterbuilt 121 Coventry Homes 124 Montorio Homes 127 Hopewell Developments

Sarah Jang Greg Van Sluytman graphic designers

Caroline Wassef Lee Cobham national account manager, Mediative

Paul Slizys

For National Advertising inquiries call:

130 Meridian Plaza

416.626.4200

Bob Shewciw 780.415.6834

65 Urbanity Custom Homes Ltd.

Circulation:

Published By:

Special Features continued…

120 on the move

Understanding the language of moving By dan hopkins

133 insurance needs

Do you need mortgage loan insurance

134 insurance needs

How to estimate home insurance premiums

138 designer tips

Make the most of your home office

140 homebuyers’ help

New home and condo checklist

141 your mortgage

Getting the best mortgage by john taggart

142 lifestyle

Top 5 reasons to love Edmonton by wayne karl

144 homebuying tips

Rookie mistakes: What to avoid when buying for the first time

145 choosing a builder

Finding a new home builder you can trust

Edmonton’s Builder and Developer Annual is published once a year. PO Box 458 Station Main Edmonton, AB T5J 2K1 Copyright covers the contents of this publication and prevents reproduction in whole or in part; offenders will be prosecuted. We reserve the right to refuse any advertising, to make changes or edit advertising as necessary. Care will be taken to ensure copy accuracy but no warranty is implied or given by the publisher. The publication, the publisher and the printers shall not be responsible for any typographical errors, mistakes, misprints, spot colouring or any information or lack of information furnished by the advertisers.

Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada. © 2012-2013 Wall2Wall Media

E D ITO R’S N OT E

EDMONTON’S BEST AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

C

hances are your dream home is a unique combination of exciting design, a fabulous location and an affordable price.

No doubt the community itself needs to have that something special that will make you want to call it “home,” too.

This issue of the 2013 Builder Edmonton Builder and Developer Annual features a myriad of the best new communities the area has to offer. Our goal is to help you find just the right home for the lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of. We have profiled several of the most popular new communities in Edmonton and surrounding area to help you get started. So, whether you find yourself pondering your next move or seriously getting ready to purchase, keep us handy.

It’s a great time to investigate the real estate market. With today’s low interest rates, competitive pricing and fabulous new communities to discover, there’s real value to be found.

A new community brings together designs with features suited to most every type of buyer. With nearby activities and amenities to enjoy, each community provides an opportunity to be a part of a lifestyle that presents not only modern conveniences but a sense of belonging. too. Part of the fun is discovering what each community offers. I know you’ll be impressed.

We hope you enjoy this issue. Please let us know if you discover a new condo or new home community that you think is worth mentioning in an upcoming issue. We’d love to hear from you.

SUSAN LEGGE

Editor-in-Chief Wall2Wall Media susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on twitter: twitter.com/SusanLegge

08 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

m ayo r’s m e s sag e

On behalf of City Council and the people of Edmonton, Alberta’s Capital City, it is my pleasure to introduce this year’s Builder and Developer Annual.

Edmonton is a world-class city of excellence in urban design, environmental stewardship, connected communities and economic stability. Our dedication to building strong, vibrant neighbourhoods makes Edmonton a great location for new building projects.

Edmontonians enjoy superior municipal services, top-quality educational institutions and one of Canada’s strongest economies. The city’s multicultural mosaic and entrepreneurial spirit create an inspiring and creative atmosphere to call home. The beautiful trails of the North Saskatchewan River Valley, hundreds of cultural events each year and a dynamic arts community make this northern city a place for everyone.

As builders, developers and homeowners, you are a crucial part of our city’s success. Together we can transform our great urban centre into one of the best in the world.

Yours truly,

Stephen Mandel Mayor t

edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013 09

A Solid First Impression for a Solid Homebuilder

Sterling Homes Y

ou only get one chance to make a first impression.

And that goes for both individuals and businesses.

After over 50 years in the marketplace, homebuilder Sterling Homes understands that those first impressions extend well beyond a homebuyer’s first look at a home. In fact, for a homebuyer, first impressions include the level of customer service in the show home, throughout the building process and after the home is complete, as well as the efficiency of the building process from start to finish.

“Sterling Homes has always had an extremely strong reputation in the Edmonton market,” says Miles Kohan, Vice President of Sterling Homes.” Our focus over the years has been providing exceptional customer service, and it is something we’ll keep focussing on for years to come.” In previous years, they’ve been voted the highest ranked in customer satisfaction by J.D. Power and Associates and number one by the Alberta New Home Warranty program in customer service, too.

10 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

Another way Sterling creates a good first impression is having a strong and positive relationship with their trades.

“Our trades enjoy doing business with us,” exclaims Kohan.

“We focus on being organized, having all the materials onsite and getting the job done properly the first time.” For a buyer, this positive relationship means few delays in the building process, a clean and tidy build site and a home that’s built to spec each and every time. “We think it’s so important to attract good trades, not only for the building process but for our customers and their happiness through the building process and after they move in.”

With Sterling, what customers move in to is also quite special in terms of what’s available in the Edmonton market.

Kohan: “We have a ‘what you see is what you get’ policy in many of our show homes in terms of the finishes and the base price of the home.” So no more learning that the home you’ve just toured has $60,000 worth of upgrades on top of the price you’ve been quoted. With Sterling, you get

Every year, Sterling also builds a few research and development homes, to challenge convention and find new and more efficient ways of building.

high-end finishes and you know the cost as soon as you enter the home.

“Our customers find they can have a high-end house without paying extra, which is great.

“To me, it’s all about trust and being straightforward. When you show them that what you see is what you get it shows that you have nothing to hide and that your building products and finishes are of great quality.”

Sterling has two product lines on the market with the third coming later this year. They offer duplex homes in the 1,300–1,400 sq. ft range, and single-family homes between 1,800 and 2100 sq ft. (They also build singlefamily homes as low as 1,500 sq. ft.) “We’ve also added townhomes to our portfolio, and that’s opened up a new price point for us—homes under $300,000,” adds Kohan.

Those products have been very popular in the Greater Edmonton Area.

“Overall, our plans are extremely successful. In fact, since we’ve entered our plans into the annual awards programs, we’ve won something literally every year.” That includes local, provincial and national award winning homes and at the 2011 Awards of Excellence in Housing, they were recognized as the large volume Builder of the Year.

Every year, Sterling also builds a few research and development homes, to challenge convention and find new and more efficient ways of building. This year, they’re working on creating engineered concrete slabs for driveways so basements can extend to underneath garages.

“This is definitely a first for a production builder,” Kohan explains. “We’re using the same technology as they do for a large underground parkade but translating that to a single-family home. This means opening up the square-footage of a home without the buyer having to buy a larger lot.”

They’ve also begun switching the use of rented heating systems during the building process to a more permanent solution. “We’ve started buying and hanging garage heaters in our homes during construction. Then, once the house is built, we leave the heater in the garage, so our homeowners have heated, more comfortable garages.”

Sterling is also concerned with creating a more comfortable community for all Edmontonians. Kohan and his wife have created a foundation that does fundraising for Edmonton’s 10-Year Plan to End Homelessness and have raised $150,000 for the cause in the last three years. In November 2012, Sterling will be handing over the keys to a Habitat for Humanity edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013 11

house, and they support all sorts of other local charities including the food bank.

Kohan: “in the next 10 years, i see edmonton continuing to grow as a major city in Canada. We’re continuously adding amenities and improving infrastructure. And as our economy continues to grow, [Sterling is] trying to search out some of the best ways to do things and bring best products to marketplace. We’re also trying to ensure we have a world-class city that’s affordable and liveable for everyone.

“And in terms of my vision for edmonton,” Kohan adds, “it would be that we surpass Calgary in growth!”

Sterling is currently in 12 edmonton-area sub-divisions. these include Allard, Callaghan South, Hampton terrace, langdale, laurel Crossing, newcastle, orchards, rutherford Heights, Sienna (Fort Saskatchewan), Springate (Spruce Grove), trumpeter at big lake, Walker lakes and Westerra (Stony plain).

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT STERLING HOMES,THEIR PRODUCTS AND CURRENT PROJECTS,VISIT STERLINGEDMONTON.COM OR CALL 780.468.9101.

2011 BUILDER OF THE YEAR 2012 – CHbA nAtionAl SAm AWArdS Winner – oakshire - SF detached Home under 1,500 Sq Ft. 2012 – AWArdS – eXCellenCe in HouSinG FinAliSt – leadership Award FinAliSt – best brochure package FinAliSt – best indoor/outdoor advertising – Welcome Home FinAliSt – best multi-Family - townhouse/duplex project – langdale FinAliSt – best multi-Family - townhouse/duplex under $290,000 - Sensation FinAliSt – best multi-Family - townhouse/duplex under $290,000 – Summation Shared FinAliSt – Single Family- bungalow / bi-level under $250,000 – belvedere FinAliSt – Single Family- bungalow / bi-level under $250,000 – briarwood Winner – Single Family- bungalow / bi-level $250,000-$425,000 – oakshire FinAliSt – Single Family- two Storey / Split-level w/att gar – under $240,000 -trista Winner – Single Family- two Storey / Split-level w/att gar – $240,000-$270,000 – tarnstrom FinAliSt – Single Family- two Storey / Split-level w/att gar – $240,000-$270,000 – trenton FinAliSt – Single Family- two Storey / Split-level w/att gar – $270,000-$300,000 – tyndall FinAliSt – builder of the Year Winner – Crystal Awards Sales person of the year (Ab) in the following Communities: edmonton Heritage Valley – 780-756-2970 Hampton terrace – 587-520-3247 langdale – 780-756-5649 laurel Crossing – 780-760-1160 newcastle – 780-757-9181 the orchards – 780-757-5308 rutherford Heights – 780-435-2040 trumpeter at big lake – 780-757-1733 Walker lakes Station – 780-756-0723 Ft. SASKAtCHeWAn: Sienna – 780-997-0960 StonY plAin: Westerra – 780-963-8905 SpruCe GroVe: Springate – 780-962-3212

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D E V E LO P E R STO RY WA LTO N D EV E LO PM E N T AN D M AN AG E M E N T L .P.

WALTON DEVELOPMENT & MANAGEMENT L.P. Building sustainable communities for today and tomorrow

W

alton Development and Management L.P. (Walton) has been building communities in Alberta for the past eight years and they’re deeply committed to building a long lasting relationship with Edmonton. One way they envision doing that it though masterplanning initiatives and deep rooted values.

At Walton, they take community sustainability very seriously, and focus the design of all their communities on long-term community development from the outset. Marketing manager Kendra Milne says to carry forward their vision, “we work with the best builders and industry partners around.”

Walton is actively building and marketing three communities in the Edmonton market this year: McConachie in Edmonton’s north, Woodhaven-Edgemont in the city’s west-end and Hawks Ridge at Big Lake in the northwest. Plus, they have two more slated to open in the fall of 2013.

McConachie

EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 13

MCCONACHIE Boasting crystal waters, parks and winding tree-lined trails, McConachie is a family-oriented community in Edmonton’s northeast. McConachie is located just north of 167 Avenue and east of 66 Street and just south of the Anthony Henday. With an abundance of both natural and commercial amenities nearby—as well as major thoroughfares—McConachie is one of the most popular and fastest-growing areas of the city.

In fact, they had 500 guests at the grand opening of their newly released stage (Stage 4) this fall. “We attribute the success of this community to the nature of the how we master-plan our communities. In every community we address three specific issues that resonate with today’s homebuyers,” explains Milne.

Those issues include accessibility to park space and commercial amenities, preservation of natural areas and maintaining a sustainable design for the overall community.

Milne says that 2012 comes an increase in multi-family housing

McConachie

options in the community, including adult bungalow duplexes and both townhome and apartment-style condos. “We’re increasing the diversity of housing choices in the community, so there’s definitely something for everybody in McConachie.” This includes the mainstay of the community: rear-laned and front-attached garage single-family homes.

Accompanying the launch of Stage 4 are 12 new showhomes by the community’s cache of exceptional and diverse builders.

Laned-home builders in the community include Royal West Homes, Innovations by Jayman, Morrison Homes and Sabal Homes. Frontattached builders include Jayman MasterBUILT, Royal West Homes, Sabal Homes and Morrison Homes. And multi-family homes are Elements of McConachie from Carlisle Group, Altitude by Royal West and Air Harbour by Royal West.

Existing and future amenities in the area—to service the 460 single14 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

family homes and 139 multi-family homes (to date)—include plenty of pathways, parks, a future recreational campus, shopping, schools and the LRT. To find out more about McConachie, go to mcconchie.ca. Or visit the showhomes on McConachie Way, north of the tree-line in the community. McConachie is located at 167th Avenue and 55th Street in North Edmonton.

WOODHAVEN-EDGEMONT Woodhaven-Edgemont is the first community being built in the desirable Edgemont area of west Edmonton—199 Street and 35 Avenue, just off Lessard Road and just south of Hamptons. This higher-end neighbourhood is definitely for those looking to settle down and settle in. Milne: “This is the kind of community for people who are looking for homes to live in for a long time.”

In terms of location and proximity to amenities, WoodhavenEdgemont is ideal. It’s close to the Anthony Henday, the Whitemud and

Woodhaven - Edgemont

Woodhaven - Edgemont

Winterburn Road, which means getting to and from work, shopping and other activities, is easy. “There are plenty of outdoor opportunities in and around this community, too,” says Milne. With Walton’s drive to preserve so much of the natural park space, Wedgewood ravine and tree stands, Milne says, “it feels like a mature community but has that newness of new community so many people desire.”

Also anticipated are the four exceptional Edmonton homebuilders.

Those homebuilders are: Pacesetter Homes, Coventry Homes, Sabal Homes and Montorio Homes. Stage 1 will feature all front-attached garage homes, but future development with include other home types.

Showhomes are currently under construction and are due to open in the spring of 2013.

That being said, due to popular demand, Walton will be opening a Customer Experience Centre on Saturday, October 20. This will give potential homebuyers the opportunity to learn more about the community, speak to builder groups and pre-purchase homes.

For more information about Woodhaven-Edgemont, go to

gemont

Hawks Ridge

gemont

Hawks Ridge

woodhavenedgemont.com or visit the Customer Experience Centre, starting October 20, on 35th Avenue (open weekends 12-5 pm). Take 215th Street (Winterburn Road) south from Whitemud, and head east at 35th Avenue.

HAWKS RIDGE AT BIG LAKE Hawks Ridge is located in northwest Edmonton on 215 Street just north of Yellowhead Trail and west of the Anthony Henday—right at Big Lake.

This means that not only is Hawks Ridge close to the water but the community is also very close to Lois Hole Centennial Provincial Park. With the Big Lake and the park in combination, that means active families have unmatched access to breathtaking vignettes of native birds, animals and landscapes right in their backyard.

This also means that along with the stunning natural amenities of the area, residents have quick and easy access to all the lifestyle, shopping and recreational amenities of both west Edmonton and St. Albert. There’s also a future school site at the entrance of the community and plenty of parks, so families won’t have to leave the community to live a naturefilled, convenient and relaxed lifestyle.

Stage 1 of Hawks Ridge is just underway now, and showhomes are set to open on Saturday, November 3. Prospective homeowners can expect to find a variety of homes fit for a variety of families, but all with one thing in common: “This is both a ‘move up’ neighbourhood, one ready for those families have built up a bit of equity and are ready to move to their next home, or a great area to start building equity in your home,” explains Milne.

There are plenty of walkout lots and pie-shaped lots available in Stage 1. Milne: “What’s most exciting about these lots is that so many of the lots back on to green space.”

Milne says the community features both front-attached garage homes along with semi-detached homes, all by some of the city’s best known builders. For front-attached garage homes, the builders you’ll find at Hawks Ridge are Montorio Homes, Morrison Homes and ReidBuilt Homes. The semi-detached homes are being built by Sabal Homes. The builders all offer a selection of styles and designs appointed through timeless Mountain Vernacular and Arts and Crafts architecture.

All of the community’s homebuilders are pre-selling, and so far interest has been very strong. Showhomes are scheduled to open on November 3, so swing by the neighbourhood and see it for yourself. Just take the Yellowhead west and head north on 215 Street (Winterburn Road). Drive to end and you’ll be in Hawks Ridge at Big Lake.

For more information about the community, visit hawksridge.ca.

UPCOMING DEVELOPMENT Walton is actively planning and developing two additional residential communities set to open in 2013—one in the city’s west end and one in the north. Both will maintain the same values and successful development practices as their existing communities, because Walton is committed to building and maintaining the splendour of Edmonton. Both projects are scheduled to open in the fall of 2013.

For more information about Walton and their communities across Alberta, visit waltondm.com today.

edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013 15

Parkwood Group of Companies

E XPERIENCE THE PARK WOOD DIFFERENCE

P

roudly building homes in the greater Edmonton area since the 1980s, The Parkwood Group of Companies is a family-owned business that prides itself on the way they treat their customers.

homeowner personally, throughout the building process, and I personally hand over the keys for possession of every home we build,” says Dan.

With a desire to remain a small volume builder, they have chosen to continue as they always have – knowing the name of each client and providing superior, individualized service. “We take customer service very seriously, starting from the day someone walks into a show home right through to our final warranty visit,” says Dan Hanna, President of Parkwood. “Since we know each customer by name, not job number, we can ensure that your Parkwood home is built with you in mind and in a timely, straight forward and professional manner.”

“We take customer service very seriously, starting from the day someone walks into a show home right through to our final warranty visit,”

They understand how important the building process and finished product is to their customer. That is why they take the time to get to know their customer’s needs and personalities so they can create a home perfectly suited to their customer’s lifestyle. “We stand by our product from beginning to end. I meet with each 16 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

Parkwood’s portfolio of homes is diverse and ranges from starter homes to move ups and estate homes, as well as condos. The Parkwood Group of Companies is made up of several Divisions: Parkwood Master Builder, catering to the move-up market and those looking for starter homes and duplexes; Signature Homes by Parkwood, the company’s estate home division; Trails of Millcreek Estates, their executive adult condo project backing onto Mill Creek Ravine; Millcreek Park, their first-time condo buyer project

E

located just off Whyte Avenue; Villas on the Ravine, their luxury bungalow, bi-level & two storey condos in Callaghan.

And no matter what they build, whether it be single or multi-family homes, duplexes or condos, Parkwood’s team of dedicated professionals has built an ever-growing reputation on quality of materials, workmanship, integrity, patience and service.

In fact, not only do all of Parkwood’s construction team have at least five years of experience in the homebuilding business, but the owners know their stuff too. Parkwood’s CEO, Samir Hanna, was one of the first to hold the distinction of Master Builder from the Professional Home Builders’ Association of Alberta.

His expertise means that he can easily accommodate the ever changing trends and needs of today’s new homeowners. He is very involved in the design of each and every Parkwood home making certain that every detail meets the client’s expectations. He listens. He acts. He meets and exceeds the homebuyer’s desires— as promised.

“The personalized service you receive throughout your home building process, with your Construction Coordinator and Area Sales Manager, ensures that your home is built the way you want it,” explains Samir.

In-house Professional New Home Specialists are always available to help the uncertain home buyer select a design that best suits their lifestyle. Speaking of lifestyle, Samir’s son, Dan Hanna, President of the Parkwood Group of Companies, grew up around the construction business. He has worked with and learned from his father what hard work and dedication could achieve. After graduating from NAIT’s Construction Engineering Program, Dan Hanna began working fulltime at Parkwood, continuing a strict adherence to craftsmanship and strong customer satisfaction.

“One of my main focuses is on design with a personal touch. Our interior designer works with our customers from the very beginning of the building process, and selects design components on the inside of the home as well as the outside,” exclaims Dan, which means they don’t build cookie-cutter homes. Together, EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 17

the homebuyer and professional designers meet in Parkwood’s in-house, state-of-the-art design centre and do their interior and exterior one-stop shopping.

Parkwood also has consultants who offer great prices for furniture, window coverings and accessories as an added service for their customers.

“We also do onsite electrical tours on all homes under construction, too. It’s a good experience for the homeowner and helps them feel that they are taking ownership from the very beginning of the process, and that they can actually make the changes they want.”

Parkwood offers their customers a gamut of environmentally-friendly products to choose from so they can live in a home they are proud of. As an active member of BuiltGreen™ Canada, Parkwood builds 18 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

environmentally sound homes; their customers are proud to live in homes that not only reduce the impact on the environment but also cost less to operate.

Through training and by following stringent guidelines, Parkwood demonstrates leadership in building sustainable housing; they actually know how to build a good house that is environmentally sustainable at an affordable price.

The Parkwood Group of companies is committed to giving back to the Edmonton and area community that they are so proud to be a part of. The ‘Parkwood Building a Difference’ Foundation was created to support three charities close to the Parkwood family – the University Hospital Foundation’s Brain Trust Campaign, Kids with Cancer and the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. The company has committed to donate $500,000 over 5 years to these charities through the generous support of their trades & suppliers in the building of a Benefit House once a year and also through their annual Charity Golf

Parkwood is proud to have donated close to $150,000 to the University Hospital Foundation's Brain Trust, Kids with Cancer & the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation over the past 2 years.

Tournaments. Besides monetary contributions, the employees and trades of Parkwood have graciously donated their time and resources to renovate a Craft Room at the Kids with Cancer House as well as participating in the “Walk to Cure Diabetes” every year.

Parkwood Master Builder is proud to be a member in good standing with both the Edmonton and Alberta Regions of the CHBA (Canadian Home Builders Association), as well as being one of the first Edmonton home builders to receive a designation from the Professional Home Builders Institute of Alberta. As a 20-year-plus member of the Alberta New Home Warranty Program, Parkwood gives added assurance, in writing, of an experience that’s positive and secure from the outset. Membership in these organizations assures the home buyer that their builder has access to a variety of current trends, reports and studies. Dealing with everything from construction practices to consumer studies, CHBA members are always educated and aware of the market, making the industry stronger.

Parkwood Master Builder has been the recipient of hundreds of awards over the years including the Quality Service Award, Consumer & Corporate Affairs

Award in Recognition of Affordable Housing, and numerous CHBA Edmonton & Alberta regions Awards of Excellence for outstanding and innovative home designs. These awards are earned by businesses that provide unfaltering excellence in service, design, and construction projects; businesses like Parkwood Master Builder.

MASTER BUILDER

To find out more about the Parkwood Group of Companies, visit www.parkwoodmasterbuilder.com or call 780.436.8118.

EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 19

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E CO N O M Y

EDMONTON ECONOMY AMONG TOPS IN CANADA

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dmonton and Calgary are forecast to be the fastest growing census metropolitan areas (CMAs) in Canada – not only in 2012, but for the next four years, according to The Conference Board of Canada’s Metropolitan Outlook-Autumn 2012.

“Energy-related investment in Alberta is expected to stay vibrant throughout the next four years. For instance, about $29-billion worth of energy-related projects are now under way in the province, and nearly $86-billion worth of projects are proposed for the future,” says Mario Lefebvre, director, centre for municipal studies.

Coming off a 6.3 per cent increase in real gross domestic product (GDP) in 2011, Edmonton’s economy is forecast to expand by a still-robust 4.6 per cent this year. Economic growth is expected to come in at 3.8 per cent in Calgary in 2012. For the rest of the forecast period (2013 to 2016), Calgary’s average annual real GDP growth is expected to be 3.7 per cent, while Edmonton’s economy is forecast to average growth of 3.5 per cent annually.

“Other western cities, including Saskatoon, Regina and Vancouver, are expected to grow strongly in the years to come,” says Lefebvre.

“Toronto’s economic performance is expected to rival that of its high-flying western counterparts, and manufacturing sectors are showing signs of revival in Montreal, Hamilton, Halifax and Winnipeg over the next few years. However, growth in cities such as Ottawa, Quebec City and Victoria will be affected by ongoing public sector restraint.”

Changes in public policy flowing from political developments in specific provinces will, of course, need to be factored into future economic outlooks, he adds.

24 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

In Vancouver, an ongoing post-recession recovery in manufacturing and strength in construction will lead to an overall increase in real GDP of 3.1 per cent in 2012. Over the next four years, Vancouver’s economy will grow by 3.3 per cent annually, one of the fastest rates of growth in the country.

The Toronto economy is also benefitting from a continued recovery in the manufacturing sector, combined with a healthy housing market and a number of nonresidential construction projects. All in all, overall economic growth is expected to come in at 2.3 per cent this year.

The medium-term outlook for the Toronto CMA is rosier – the economy is expected to grow by an average of 3.1 per cent annually for the next four years, the fastest pace of expansion east of Saskatchewan.

Energy-related investment in Alberta is expected to stay vibrant throughout the next four years

B U I L DER S TO RY P OMP E I H OME S

POMPEI HOMES

No dream too big or small B Y PAT T Y J E S S O M E

“We want our homes to be the best they can be... and build what our customers dream.”

UILDING A BUSINESS THROUGH WORD

of mouth alone doesn’t just happen–unless you’re Sergio Pompei.

The owner of Pompei Homes saw an opportunity to put his passion to work after building his own home.

“His friends were so impressed they asked him to build their homes,” says Dario Pompei, Sergio’s son and General Manager for Pompei Homes. “The word got out and after one year he built seven homes.”

He knew he was on to something and in 1972 Sergio started Pompei Homes.

Like many homebuilders, Sergio started in the trades. He first worked as a furniture maker in Italy and when he immigrated to Canada in 1962 he worked in a variety of trades including finishing and framing.

Over the years he developed a substantial understanding of home building and it wasn’t long before he had enough experience to be his own one-man construction crew.

PICTURED:

Showhome located in Tuscany Hills.

Based upon the Firenze plan, the showhome is designed with many intricate details in both construction and technology.

As the company grew so did his family and he included them in his passion for building.

“Dad brought us to the jobsites when we were kids,” says Dario. “As a result we all took an interest in his work. We’ve been around the construction industry our whole lives so getting involved in it was a natural fit for us.”

That’s one of the things that separates Pompei Homes from other homebuilders. It’s a family-owned and operated business with members in vital roles. The family is an aspiring team of experts (Dario as General Manager, Tino as Construction Manager and Anna as Office Manager) who are highly dedicated to the values and work ethics established by their father; values based on tradition, experience, and character.

CUSTOM BUILDER Building dream homes is what Pompei specializes in. “We build for our customers.

Whether that’s a large luxurious home or a small, mid-range home; a two-storey, bungalow, or a bungalow with a loft, we do what the customer wants,” says Dario. “Every buyer has different needs and that’s what we are here to do, fill those needs.”

Pompei strives to be the best on the block. A visit to the company website shows photographs with incredible craftsmanship, attention to detail and innovative design in both traditional and contemporary styles. “The best compliment we could get is that we are leaders in design, quality and service,” Dario says.

Pompei customers have the advantage of using state-of-art 3D computer aided visualization technology. Clients are able to design and see their home unfold in front of their eyes. They can add colour, flooring, cabinetry—everything they want in their home.

“It’s a great tool because it allows them to visualize their dream home before it’s built. It works really well,” Dario says.

Keeping up with technology is important to Pompei Homes and that’s why it incorporates the most environmental measures available today. “We’ve been building green before it was popular. It’s an important aspect of the construction industry,” says Dario. “We search out the green options that really save the environment, are cost effective and add value to the home. If the client wants to incorporate them into the home that’s what we do.”

Some standard green features include triple-paned glass, automation systems, blown in insulation and geothermal technology.

26 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

PICTURED ABOVE:

All in the family. Clockwise from bottom: Sergio Pompei, daughter Anna, & sons Tino & Dario.

PICTURED RIGHT & BELOW:

Just a few of the wide spectrum of styles which have been designed and custom built.

CUSTOMER SERVICE

WHERE THEY BUILD

When it comes to customer service there are three words that describe the core values of Pompei Homes: honesty, integrity and pride. “They describe our ethics and morals,” says Dario. “Honesty and integrity are really important because customers need to trust their builder to work as a team. It makes the whole experience much better for the customer.”

From day one Pompei Homes develops a level of trust and comfort that continues until after the house is built and through the warranty period. “Our business is all about servicing the customer, we make ourselves available to them and ensure their needs are being met through all levels of the building process.”

Customer service is important to Sergio too who still plays one of the vital roles in the business. “Dad is in the show home staying in contact with our customers. It makes them feel comfortable knowing that the owner of the company cares about their building experience.”

But the real proof of their commitment to customer service is best seen in the awards the company has won over the years. “Sure, we’ve won for designs but we are even more proud of our 24 quality service awards form The Alberta New Home Warranty Program.

We are really proud of them because they speak to the outstanding service we offer.”

Unique to this family-run business is the pride they take in a job well done. “We take pride in our work because it’s our reputation that’s on the line. It’s important to us to make sure we provide an excellent product and that we continue to be the best on the block; because that’s a reflection of what we do.”

Part of the dream that comes with a new home is where the home is built. Pompei leaves that decision in the hands of the customer. “We build where our clients want to go and where it’s available to us, whether it’s on an acreage or a city lot.”

The company prefers to build in a community that offers the best value. “We like estate-type communities, with big lots that are close to the city with amenities just a few minutes away.”

Right now Pompei’s show home is located in Tuscany Hills (north of 195 Avenue on 127 Street).

The future for Pompei Homes is to continue doing what they have always done. “We will continue to learn, explore and incorporate new technology into our homes. We want our homes to be the best they can be; whether big or small—and build what our customers dream.”

VISIT OUR SHOW HOME IN TUSCANY HILLS

Monday - Thursday 3-8pm Weekends & Holidays Noon-5pm FOR MORE INFORMATION

www.pompeihomes.com 780.457.4800 27

B U I LD E R STO RY J AY MA N

JAYMAN T

he late Al Westman created a lasting family legacy when he started Homes by Jayman back in 1980. Named after his son Jay, now the chairman and CEO, Al’s intent was to be not just another builder. By listening to homebuyers, he provided extraordinary fi nishing details and outstanding service with a cost effective price point.

In no time at all, Jayman rose through the ranks and quickly became on of the largest home builders in Edmonton. Constantly redefi ning and improving the product became a trademark of the company and has led to its success over the past 30-plus years.

Jay, who has worked for the family fi rm since he was 12 years old when he spent his summer vacation painting fences, cutting lawns and nailing floors, continues his father’s passion for home building and utilizes the latest technologies to maximize efficiency within the building process, material ordering and building technologies, which allow Jayman customers to take advantage of the cost savings, improved building processes and designs.

From developing advanced technologies such as Quantum Performance, improving home building efficiency with Mastertrak, or helping you get moved in while keeping you informed and up to date with Jayman’s Gold Key Service, the home builder continues to develop innovative ideas.

“Jayman is always looking towards the future,” says director, marketing Careen Chrusch.

“We believe it’s necessary to become the change we wish to see in our industry.”

Jayman’s Quantum Performance, the award-winning builder’s sustainable building philosophy, has been leading the industry in terms of sustainable building practices. “Jayman embraced this philosophy before it was ‘cool’ to be green,” says Chrusch. “We have always built homes that were more efficient than building code.

28

“Jayman was the fi rst builder member of Built Green, we registered the fi rst home in Built Green and registered the fi rst Built Green Goldlevel home.” Because of Jayman’s commitment to Built Green, many Quantum features come standard with every Jayman home, including: the carpet fibre in their standard carpet is made from recycled plastic bottles, the use of low flow faucets and toilets, hardwoods sourced from forests that are independently certified to be sustainably managed, interior paint that is certified low VOC and Energy Star dishwashers and refrigerators.

We are committed to providing the opportunity for Jayman customers to build the Greenest, most innovative homes in Alberta. To that end, we provide optional Quantum Performance upgrades that include: Solar Thermal package, Clean Air Package, Electric Car Charging Station and coming in early 2013 an LED lighting option. “We will be introducing even more leading-edge technologies to our homes over the next few years, so home buyers should keep their eye out for some of our newest initiatives,” says Chrusch.

The homebuilder is also constantly integrating new technologies into its sales and marketing processes, she says.

As new web-based social networking technologies emerge, Jayman strives to explore ways to use these technologies to enhance the home buying and building process. In 2012, Jayman incorporated new technologies into their sales centres that allow customers to build and price their homes on a touchscreen application and will be launching a new website in early 2013.

The ultimate goal for the Jayman team is to produce homes it is proud of and that customers are proud to live in.

Creativity begins at Jayman, where an informed, collaborative approach makes the homeowner an integral part of the selection process so that their choices truly reflect their personalities and lifestyles without compromise.

Jayman focuses on customer service, and its approach to customer service is uncommonly simple: “We do what we said we would do when and how we said we’d do it.”

“We pride ourselves in treating customers the way we would like to be treated. Integrity pricing,

effectively communicating our process, understanding your needs and committing to best practices are just a few of the ways we strive to offer the highest level of customer satisfaction,” Chrusch says.

To best meet the needs of its customers Jayman offers various services to make the home building and buying process easier, such as Jayman Realty, Jayman Financial and Jayman Moving Van. “With Jayman’s Fit & Finish™ you get the highest specifications in the industry with a variety of styles and choices that allow you to personalize your home at no extra cost,” she says, adding that Jayman homes offer great standard features without the need to upgrade. “Our exterior designs have all the detail that their style warrants and our interior fi nish reflects the taste of our customers at no additional cost.”

Jayman presents a large range of housing styles through its different home building divisions – Jayman MasterBUILT (move-up), Innovations by Jayman (starter home to mid-range) and Jayman Modus (multi-family) – so customers can 2013 edmonton builder and developer AnnuAl 29

choose the home that suits their lifestyle and budget in various communities throughout Edmonton and in Sherwood Park and Leduc.

Front attached garage homes are crafted by Jayman MasterBUILT ranging from 1,521 sq. ft. to 2,033 sq. ft. and are being built in the communities of The Orchards, Allard, McConachie, Secord, Summerwood and in Southfork in Leduc.

Innovations by Jayman builds laned and semi-detached homes ranging from 1,174 sq. ft. to 1,402 sq. ft. and are being built in the communities of Allard, McConachie, Secord, Summerside, Walker and Southfork in Leduc.

Modus is currently crafting the Ion2 condos is a sleek apartment style condo community in Ambleside with one- and two-bedroom units. Prices starting from the $180’s plus GST and the newest member of the Jayman Modus Family Eve Townhomes in Ambleside from the $280’s – two- and three-bedrooms with garage.

Chrusch says Jayman’s five-year strategic plans outline three main goals: to become the pinnacle of customer service, obtain operational excellence and be the best place to work.

GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY:

“We believe a home is only as good as the community it is built in,” Chrusch says. “That’s why Jayman is committed to being a good corporate citizen, supporting the communities in which we work and live.”

ATB Financial Classic Womens Clinic – proceeds went to the Mustard Seed MS Golf Tournament Habitat for Humanity President’s Build MLC Annual Charity Golf Classic raising funds for the LINAC-MR for the Cross Cancer Institute Kids Kottage WARRANTY AND AFFILIATIONS: Jayman

is a member of the Canadian Home Builders Association – Calgary Region and the Canadian Home Builders Association – Edmonton Region.

Jayman offers homebuyers a oneyear warranty and as a member of the Alberta New Home Warranty program there is a five-year warranty on the

30 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

structure.

Jayman uses web-based home information and maintenance system to augment their customer service program. Working with Vancouverbased CONASYS and using their the Home Information Packages system, Jayman provides comprehensive postpurchase particulars online to better assist their customers in operating and maintaining their new home.

Operating manuals and warranty documentation for every product used in the construction of a home and creates a contact directory of all manufacturers, suppliers, and installers is provided in a home specific on-line library allowing the homeowner instant web access to all this information.

AWARDS: Jayman’s commitment to

quality and excellence has led to an extensive list of awards, including: Winner of 8 Builder of the Year Awards for the Calgary SAM Awards Winner of 7 Builder of the Year Awards for Edmonton Awards of Excellence in Housing and 2012 Small Volume Builder of the Year Other outstanding accolades over the years include: Top 50 Best Managed

Companies – Platinum Member; Venture 100 – Alberta Venture Magazine and PricewaterhouseCoopers; J.D. Power & Associates 2nd place for Overall Customer Satisfaction two times; and Ernest & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award - Jay Westman, Prairie Region.

For more information:

Showhomes: Jayman has 16 showhomes in Edmonton open for viewing.

Showhome hours: Monday to Thursday, 2-8 p.m.

Weekends & Holidays, Noon-5 p.m.

Website: www.jayman.com

The Pace of Your Life S

By Salina Yara Halabi

ETTING ITSELF APART FROM OTHER HOME BUILDERS,

Pacesetter Homes has one ultimate goal – creating the perfect home for their customer. In an industry where choices are often limited and consumers are forced to choose between products that may not be the best fit for their lifestyle, Pacesetter Homes offers consumers a custom builder experience, along with the guidance and superior customer service that will take all the guesswork out of creating your dream home. An innovative and cutting edge company, Pacesetter Homes has worked tirelessly over the past two years under the leadership of Vice president Zan Owsley to partner with multiple land developers. Building partnerships with these highly regarded developers creates the ultimate lifestyle and home options for Pacesetter clients.

Combining beautiful homes with a flourishing community is a chief mission of this renowned builder. The diversity of each individual land development has provided the home builder with the opportunity to enhance their showhome presence in the most desirable communities in the Greater Edmonton area, and increase their product line to suit the clientele in each market.

31

An industry leader since 1969, Pacesetter Homes is currently situated in an impressive 14 subdivisions with 34 show homes to view. Found in coveted areas, such as Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove, Beaumont and many more, your Pacesetter Home is never too far from an array of amenities and convenient roadways. Notably the second largest builder in Edmonton, Pacesetter Homes provides consumers with a breadth of options to choose from. Offering an extensive selection of home designs to potential clients that now include fully landscaped townhomes, duplexes, single family with detached garage, and single family with double attached garages - this home builder is well equipped to accommodate any lifestyle requirement. With a highly affordable price range, starting in the low $270’s and moving up to the mid $700’s, there is a home plan designed to fit any budget and a dream home is easily attainable within the means of today’s consumer.

Pacesetter Homes wants their customers to love their home. They understand that a home is the largest life investment for the purchaser and strive to ensure that the home is reflective of each buyer’s lifestyle - ultimately providing the homeowner with a stellar product they can be proud of. Pacesetter Homes also understands that the first home consumers buy may not be their last.

By offering multiple pricing and home style options, Pacesetter homeowners can grow within the company’s many product line options. Outstanding quality is always evident in all their homes, so homeowners can be confident in their Pacesetter Homes investment.

Focusing on the changing lifestyle of today’s consumers and the need for individual expression, every Pacesetter client is presented with the opportunity

32 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

to finish their home in a style that best reflects their personal taste. Two finishing packages are presented to the client and each creates the perfect base for designing and decorating a personalized home. The Classic design package boasts richly profiled square sinks and commodes enhanced by the deeply burnished oil rubbed bronze finish of the faucets and light fixtures.

The rounded detail of the Classic baseboards and door headers add timeless elegance to the overall feel of this attractive package. In the Contemporary finish, the design package features stylish oval sinks and commodes sleekly accented with bright chrome faucets and lights.

A customized stepped header above the doorways and crisp edged baseboards complete this fresh and stylish look. Sharply different, yet equally chic, both finishing packages deliver a level of sophistication usually found in a luxury property, however these are a standard finish throughout Pacesetter’s product lines.

Equally impressive is the attention to detail demonstrated by the unique features incorporated into each home plan. Kitchen cabinets adorned by stylish crown moldings, beautifully coffered ceilings, and barrel vaults above deep soaker tubs are just a few of the design elements that set this home builder apart from the competitors. When walking through a Pacesetter home one will immediately notice the extra width in the hallways. This feature is often overlooked by most homebuilders, but Pacesetter believes it is an integral component in enhancing the open and airy environment throughout the home. The second floor foyers in their homes are presented as a welcoming entryway, eliminating the congested feeling that most homes have around the bedrooms. There is truly a feeling

of luxury living in a Pacesetter home, and with the focus of each project being the customer, home buyers are sure to find a personalized option at the highest standards.

The outlook is bright and momentum is building for this fast paced and growing company. With future plans to expand into three new communities and open nine new showhomes by mid 2013, including the launch of two brand new product lines, Pacesetter is set to stay ahead of their competitors and maintain their recognition as an industry leader in innovation, style and design.

Visit one of the many Pacesetter showhomes and experience the beautiful home options in person. To learn more about this exceptional home builder visit their website at www.yourpacesetter.com.

h o m e b u ye r s’ h e l p

Landscaping & your new home

b

uilding a new home is a very exciting time. Often thinking about landscaping may be the last thing on your mind, given all the other decisions you are making. However by keeping in mind a few key elements, achieving the “Yard of your Dreams” will be easier and stress free once your home is built.

Know the facts Understanding the restrictions and capabilities of your lot is important. Builders differ as to what is included in the price of your home and lot. There will be legal responsibilities for landscaping your new home.

Rough grade, final grade, landscaping deposit and seasonal holdbacks are all terms you will need to familiarize yourself with. Rough grade approval will likely be applied for and absorbed in the cost of your home. Any extra excavation required for retaining walls will be at an additional cost to you.

Know what you are required to do and what your builder has included. Your developer will have some landscaping guidelines and requirements for your neighborhood. These must be followed as requested by the developer. The developer requirements in most cases include front yard landscaping and the design or style of your fencing. Keep in mind, what type of soil you have, how much sun you get in the front and back yards of your home. How much room do you have? Does your neighborhood allow underground irrigation? Will you require additional underground pipes to be installed? All of this is much easier and affordable if thought out and planned beforehand. Ask questions!!!!

Make a wish list Having an idea of what the final over all effect you are trying to achieve is helpful. Determine the landscaping features and needs you want and put them down on paper. Try to list every feature you would like under ideal circumstances. Don’t be afraid to consider designs that are of a larger scale. With a little creativity from your Landscaping Contractor, together you will be able to adapt and scale down most designs to fit your property and give it personal flair. Sift through ideas to determine which features are most important to you and are the most feasible. Identify your dream landscape, determine your style and establish a budget. In some cases you may need to compromise due to space or money constraints.

A good landscaping professional should have a Web site with a photo library of previous landscaping projects. Browsing through and looking at homes with beautifully landscaped yards will surely get your creative juices flowing.

Call a professional Hiring a qualified professional with the proper

knowledge is a great place to start. Most homeowners underestimate the work associated with landscaping the yard of new home. Many of the procedures are tedious, lengthy and very labor intensive, often including several pieces of large equipment. Do-it-yourselfers… beware. In order to achieve the stylish and functional yard you desire to compliment your new home, hiring a qualified landscaping contractor to get the job done is your first step.

34 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

Photo provided courtesy of Shane’s Landscaping and Contracting Ltd.

By simply taking some of the above advice into consideration, the process of achieving the “Yard of your Dreams” will be easier. A quality outdoor living space will not only make you the envy of the neighborhood and be a welcome sanctuary for your family, children and pets for years to come; it will also increase the value of your home.

It is important to hire a landscaping contractor who has extensive experience in the industry, and is a full service landscaping company.

Shane’s Landscaping & Contracting Ltd. specializes in residential, estate and acreage landscape construction.

From patios to water features, driveways, retaining walls, lighting, walkways, fences, irrigation, garden beds, boulders, barbecue, fire pits and the new synthetics grasses, we can help make your landscaping beautiful. Planning your landscaping is an exciting time and we are here to help. Our team of friendly knowledgeable and hardworking staff can make your landscaping dream a reality. Call us now for a consultation.

Shane’s Landscaping & Contracting Ltd. is locally owned and operated, providing Landscaping and Snow Removal services to Edmonton and surrounding area. Call us for a consultation at 780.983.8233 or view our portfolio at shaneslandscaping.com A good landscaping professional should have a Web site with a photo library of previous landscaping projects.

Browsing through and looking at homes with beautifully landscaped yards will surely get your creative juices flowing.

B U I LD E R STO RY CE L E B RAT I ON H OM E S

CHOMES ELEBRATION

R

ANDY ETTINGER, PRESIDENT OF CELEBRATION HOMES, HAS NOT JUST AN EYE FOR DETAIL, BUT AN EAR AS WELL. For the award-winning builder, it all starts with listening. Randy is personally involved from the design stage to construction to the fi nal walk-through. But, his involvement begins even before the design stage.

“It all starts by having in-depth meetings with our clients so I can really get to know them,” says Randy. “It’s listening to what they want, but more importantly, fi nding out who they are. I pick up on subtle things that make a big difference.”

Listening to and understanding his customers is the only way Celebration Homes can design and build a house that really reflects who the buyer is. Randy relates how for one customer he designed the bedrooms around the family’s five-year-old twins.

35

“I discovered, after in-depth talks with the family, that although the twins are identical, their personalities are completely opposite. One is an early riser and active so we put his room next to the playroom which is soundproofed. The other boy sleeps like a log, so his bedroom is at the back of the house where it is quiet and he can sleep in.”

In other words, the house was organized to fit the family, not the other way around. And how much did this design change cost? “Nothing,” says Randy.

“It’s basically reorganizing space. If the customer lets me into their head just for a moment, I can usually find something in terms of design that will make their lives better.”

Another customer, originally from India, are devout Hindus and had a prayer room built in their house. During their many conversations, Randy discovered they are from the part of India where the Taj Mahal is located. So, Randy designed a motif inspired by the iconic landmark for the entrance and windows in the prayer room. “We incorporated and celebrated their ethnic and religious background into the design of their home. They were very surprised and loved it.”

36 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

And in a nutshell, that’s really what Celebration Homes is about. Celebrating who we are and bringing uniqueness to each home.

While the company does have design plans, those are usually just conversation points. “We are a custom builder,” says Randy. “The blueprints we have are there to give our clients a place to start. The plans are revised and refined, usually starting from scratch, until the client has a house that fits them and fits their budget.”

As a custom builder, Celebration isn’t limited to building in new developments.

While they are presently building in three communities – Ravines of Richford, Starling, and the retirement community of Touchmark at Wedgewood – they also love to do in-fills and acreages.

No matter where they are building, during the construction phase, Randy is involved to make sure everything is going as smoothly as possible. And in order to keep closer tabs on how the building is going, Celebration Homes has its own inhouse designers and tradespeople, rather than contracting out.

“We try to do as much as we can inhouse,” explains Randy. “We have our staff designers and tradespeople. Plus, we have

“We have our staff designers and tradespeople.

Plus, we have our own design centre where our customers can come in and spend as much time as they need consulting and choosing finishes.”

our own design centre where our customers can come in and spend as much time as they need consulting and choosing fi nishes.”

Chad and Kelly Knippel know fi rst-hand just how much Randy and his team are hands-on.

The couple waited 12 years to fi nally build their dream home, and when they were ready, they turned to Celebration Homes.

“We had bought our dream lot in 2010. We then needed to fi nd the right person to build our dream home and thankfully Randy was available and willing to work with us,” recalls Chad.

“We started the process with him of designing and changing the house to make it what we wanted. Randy had such great ideas on how to do things.”

What also stood out for the Knippels, was how Randy kept them apprised of the progress, and hurdles or concerns were dealt with professionally and immediately. “It was a joy seeing our dreams being built before our eyes,” says Chad.

A recent JD Power survey confi rms what Celebration customers are saying. For the last 12 months, Celebration Homes received an average score of 9.5 out of 10 for customer satisfaction.

“It really speaks to how well we service our customers,” says Randy.

The personal touch that makes Celebration Homes stand out, is being extended this year with the Celebration Luncheons. Randy explains: “So that interested clients can get a feel for the neighbourhoods we are building in and for who we are, what are homes are like, we are holding monthly lunches in our show homes.

Potential clients get together with past clients to learn more about the Celebration Homes experience. And it’s a chance to meet the neighbours and see what the community is like.”

The friendly and welcoming atmosphere reflects what Celebration Homes is all about and the approach they take to home building: involved, hands-on and personable.

Perhaps one of Celebration Homes’ past customers sums it up best. Harvey and Sheila Hiller moved from Hinton to Touchmark at Wedgewood. Trying to build a house while you live 300 km away can be challenging, but “these challenges would have been much greater if we did not have the professionalism of Randy and his team,” they say. “We are very appreciative of the way in which he took a personal interest in us, and we are singing his praises to all our friends.”

For additional information visit our website at www.celebrationhomes.ca or call 780.465.6508 edmonton builder and developer AnnuAl 2013 37

m o rtgag e o pt i o n s

A 25-Year amortization What does it mean to you?

o

n the heels of the latest changes to mortgage regulations – namely limiting maximum amortizations for governmentinsured mortgages to 25 years – BMO Bank of Montreal is encouraging Canadians to ensure they understand the financial implications of the new measures.

What does choosing a 25-year amortization mean for Canadians: » W hat has changed? Amid rising concerns regarding household debt in Canada, the federal government has reduced the maximum amortization for governmentinsured mortgages to 25 years from 30 years. » W hat does a shorter amortization mean? The amortization period is the length of time it will take to pay off an entire mortgage. With a shorter amortization, you can save thousands of dollars in interest costs and become debt-free faster. » How does a shorter amortization help improve the household balance sheet for Canadian homeowners? The shorter the life of the mortgage, the less you pay in interest. A maximum 25-year amortization can save thousands of dollars in interest costs over the life of your mortgage.

38 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

A shorter amortization period allows homeowners to begin building home equity sooner. This equity can then be used to finance other important life events, such as post-secondary education for your children, a family vacation property or renovation and expansion of your current home.

A maximum 25-year amortization also means you can rid yourself of your mortgage sooner, allowing you to get a head-start on other financial goals, such as saving for retirement.

Below is an example of how moving from a 30-year amortization to a maximum 25-year amortization can save you interest:

25-Yr Amortization

30-Yr Amortization

$ 400,000

$ 400,000

Mortgage Rate*

5 per cent

5 per cent

Bi-weekly Payment Amount

$ 1,068.87

$ 980.81

$ 297,092.55

$ 367,588.30

Mortg age Value

Total Interest Costs

Total Savings

$ 70,495.75

*The chart above assumes an average interest rate of five per cent over the life of the mortgage

“With a 25-year amortization, you can throw a mortgage burning party sooner and put more money towards other financial priorities, such as post-secondary education expenses or retirement,” says Laura Parsons, mortgage expert, BMO Bank of Montreal. “Customers who have selected the BMO five-year fixed rate mortgage with a maximum 25-year amortization so far in 2012 will have saved over $179 million collectively by the time their mortgages have been paid off.”

GRANDE DESIGN BUILDER GROUP INC Achieves Major Milestone in 2013 2013 IS CERTAINLY GOING TO BE A YEAR OF CELEBRATION FOR THE GRANDE DESIGN BUILDER GROUP. It is the 10th anniversary of the company and will also represent the introduction of their 440 condominium homes. Grande Design Builder Group originally started as a partnership between Rod Osborne and Jim Pepin. These two men met while working at another home building company and found they shared a common vision to design and build single family and multi-family housing communities that would provide quality homes for generations to come. Brian Aylward, who worked with Jim and Rod previously has joined them in their Grande Design venture.

“Our vision is to build a high quality product for a reasonable price. I’m proud to walk into one of our properties five years later and see it looking as good as it did on possession day,” says Jim Pepin.

With a variety of product lines ranging from entry level apartment style condos to luxury Brownstone townhomes to single family homes, Grande Design Builder Group has quickly established themselves as leaders in the greater Edmonton new home construction market. Their diverse line of multi-family homes allows them to tailor each project to suit the anticipated buyer within a specific neighbourhood.

“The areas in which we build suit such a diverse buyer. Whether it’s a young professional in Ospin Terrace, a first time buyer in Rutherford Park or an empty nester in North Ridge,” states Brian Aylward.

EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 39

PRINCETON COURT is a cross over project between the condominium market and single family home market in desirable Sherwood Park. This chic townhome community offers the freedom of no maintenance living but still offers the space and privacy today’s buyers are looking for. Princeton Court townhomes feature three bedrooms with two and a half baths, open concept high-style kitchens, a large verandah off the dining nook and an oversized double attached garage. Coming in at 1420 sq ft, these townhomes are modern, spacious and in demand.

Buyers are also able to customize & personalize the interior finishing of their new Princeton Court home. Since there are only select number of homes available in Princeton Court, it is a close knit community where getting to know your neighbours is easy.

RUTHERFORD PARK is located in the heart of the family friendly neighbourhood of Terwillegar. Rutherford Park is a small, quiet community of two storey townhomes. Reflecting the architectural influences of Terwillegar Towne, these townhomes exude charm. Oversize, rear double attached garages provide convenience and security while still preserving the streetscape. A spacious kitchen is complimented with an open concept floor plan.

Three bedrooms with two and a half baths make Rutherford Park ideal for first time buyers, empty nesters or single professionals.

40 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

LAKEVIEW TERRACE is setting the standard for townhome living in north Edmonton. These 1269 sq ft townhomes feature oversized, double attached garages, three bedrooms, two and a half baths – all complimented with an open concept design. Lakeview Terrace is a private enclave of just 52 townhomes. Already under construction, Lakeview Terrace is located west of 87 Street on 179 Avenue.

OSPIN TERRACE is found in the heart of Terwillegar Towne.

This two phase apartment style condominium community offers residents the warm, friendly small town feeling of Terwillegar Towne with the maintenance free lifestyle they are looking for. There are an impressive 17 floor plans to choose from, ranging in size from 648 sq ft for a one bedroom to 1297 sq ft for the two bedroom plus den model. Sleek, modern finishes, heated secure underground parking plus an onsite gymnasium & amenities room make Ospin Terrace in Terwillegar a popular choice among today’s buyers.

NORTHRIDGE PLACE is just getting started. Just a few minutes north of Edmonton in the city of St Albert is Northridge Place. This four storey apartment style condominium features an impressive 16 floor plans to choose from. Choose from one bedroom, one bedroom plus den or two bedroom plans. Upscale finishing is certain to appeal to the demographic that chooses to make St Albert their home. This condo community is located in North Ridge and features easy access to the pond, walking trails & parks. Perfect for snowbirds and first time buyers, Northridge Place offers executive living at an affordable price. Construction is slated to begin in early 2013.

We invite you to visit any of our show homes & sales centres to see for yourself why Grande Design Builder Group has experienced such tremendous success in their first 10 years. For up to date show home locations and contact information, please visit www.grandedesign.ca or call 780.485.0505. See you soon!

EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 41

L E GAL AD V I CE

COSTS OF

BUYING A NEW HOME

BY ROSELLINA GIARDINO

i

f it is your fi rst time buying a home, you may not know that there are other costs involved besides the purchase price. In order to be properly prepared, you should understand what is included in the total purchase price shown on your Purchase Agreement and what other costs you will be responsible for.

The Purchase Price is the agreed-upon price of your new home set out in your Purchase Agreement. This is the base Purchase Price. Here is a list of some additional costs you may be required to pay when you are buying a newly constructed home: GOODS AND SERVICES TAX (GST) is payable on the

construction or purchase of a newly constructed home. You may be able recover some of the GST paid for the new home through the federal government’s GST New Housing Rebate.

Usually, the total Purchase Price indicated on your Purchase Agreement will include the net GST – that is, your base purchase price, plus the full GST payable, less an amount equivalent to any applicable GST rebate. However, your Purchase Agreement may say you have to pay the GST in addition to the total Purchase Price shown on the Purchase Agreement.

If you receive a credit for the GST New Housing Rebate on your Purchase Price, you will have to assign the GST New Housing Rebate to your Builder. This means your Builder will apply for the Rebate and you will not be able to.

If you do not qualify for the GST New Housing Rebate, you must pay the full GST payable to your Builder even if the Purchase Price indicated on the Purchase Agreement shows a credit for the Rebate.

EXTRAS/UPGRADES If the Builder has agreed to provide any upgrades, the cost of the upgrades is usually set out in a separate agreement and must be paid for in full when you request the upgrades. If they are not paid for when you request them, then the cost of the upgrades will be paid for on the Closing Date. GST is payable on the upgrades.

This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or other professional advice. You are advised to contact a lawyer, your builder, or your warranty program regarding any specific issues.

42 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

LANDSCAPING DEPOSITS Sometimes, in order to ensure that the landscaping to your new home is completed properly and in a timely manner, you will be required to pay a deposit to your Builder, which you will receive back once the landscaping is properly completed.

PROPERTY TAX ADJUSTMENT If the Builder has already paid the municipal property taxes to the municipality, you may have to pay your Builder your share of the property taxes for the part of the year in which you are the owner of the property.

SUPPLEMENTARY TAX ASSESSMENT Sometimes, the municipality will issue an additional tax levy after your home is completed. Depending on your Purchase Agreement with the Builder, you will be responsible for the supplementary tax levy.

CONDO FEE ADJUSTMENT If you are buying a condo, you may have to pay the Builder for your share of the condo fees if the Builder has paid them in advance for the month.

LEGAL COSTS The legal costs involved in having a lawyer complete the purchase for you.

Construction Draw Mortgages If you are paying portions of the purchase price at certain stages of construction, you will pay interest on the funds that are advanced.

MORTGAGE FEES There may be fees payable to your mortgage lender such as appraisal and inspection fees, insured mortgage fees and broker fees.

Your Builder, Lawyer and Mortgage Representative can give you a good estimate of the costs involved in the purchase of your new home. Don’t be shy to ask.

Rosellina Giardino is an Edmonton lawyer practicing in the area of residential real estate. She may be contacted at 780.473.7779 or rg@giardinolaw.com

TH O

GRANVILLE gets grander

BY ALLDRITT LAND CORPORATION LP Over the past three years, Granville has enjoyed a tremendous amount of success in each stage of development and there is no indication of this slowing down.

In fact, recently released lots in Stage 2A sold out in only a few short weeks this summer.

With this incredible popularity, coupled with the release of their prestigious estate lots, Granville just got much more grand!

This charming Craftsman inspired community takes it up a notch with their new estate section, which will bring to the community it’s second enhanced water feature as well as a large park with mature trees and walking trails. “We wanted to create a community that has something for everyone. Residents can buy their first Granville home and then move up or down to a different housing product as their lifestyles change”, says David Benjestorf, Legal Counsel and General Manager of Alldritt Land Corporation. “More importantly, however, we wanted to create a community that would carry on Alldritt’s legacy.”

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THE LEGACY AND INSPIRATION Stan Alldritt Sr’s vigorous work ethic, ingenuity and distaste for mediocrity continues to inspire the Alldritt Group to this day. The story of how the Alldritt Group began is not only interesting but also inspirational. Born in 1909 in a small town north of Dublin, Ireland, Stan Alldritt Sr. sought to stake his own claim in the new world. With a sense of adventure and a great work ethic instilled upon him by his family, Stan Sr. came to Canada in the early 1930’s. Upon arrival, Stan Sr. obtained a teaching degree from the University of Saskatchewan, followed thereafter by a degree in Geotechnical Engineering.

He worked for many years in both fields, though as the 1930’s drew to a close, the possibility of war grew ever more real. The Canadian government sent out a decree seeking engineers to be trained to help with the war effort. Jumping at the opportunity to give back to his new found country, Stan Sr. was off to Ontario where he was trained as an Aircraft Engineer. Receiving top marks in his class, Stan Sr. was offered his choice of posts. After settling in Edmonton, Stan Sr. worked at the aircraft repair division at the Edmonton Municipal Airport. Damaged aircraft would be sent in crates via ship from the warfront to Canada, and then via rail to Edmonton.

Once repaired, the planes were then flown back to Europe to rejoin the war effort.

Interestingly, the government would hold regular salvage auctions. At such auctions, Stan Sr. would purchase wooden crates that the aircraft parts came in, taking them home and stockpiling the nails and wood in his spare time. In addition, he would scrape the solder from the stainless steel boxes (used to ship aircraft engines) which were obtained from the same auction, selling the lead back to the government to manufacture bullets for the front lines.

With victory abroad nearing, war related aircraft work began to dwindle and the Edmonton based aircraft engineers were encouraged to seek post war opportunities. Knowing that day would come, Stan Sr. had amassed a sizable stockpile of building materials.

With that ingenuity, vision and resources, the present day Alldritt Group was born. Beginning with the homes at the NW corner of Stony Plain Road and 124 Street in 1943, and then the adjacent apartments (still standing to this day), the Alldritt Group began providing quality homes in a timely manner to meet the housing shortage that followed WWII. Alldritt Group is still a family run business, currently being run by Stan Alldritt Jr. who carries on his father’s legacy of quality and ingenuity.

Over the years, the Alldritt Group has developed or built many thousands of residential units in Edmonton and its surrounding areas, which continues to this day, and has further amassed an equally impressive commercial portfolio, which grows with each passing year.

With almost 70 years of experience and knowledge, the Alldritt Group has firmly planted its roots in Edmonton and Granville has now become a part of that legacy.

FEATURES OF GRANVILLE Granville has something for everyone.

Home options in Granville include duplexes, single-family homes and now refined estate properties. 2013 will further add 4-7 storey condominiums to the mix. In addition to their four premiere RSL home builders (Alldritt Homes, Bedrock Homes, Crimson Cove Homes and Pacesetter Homes), five very distinguished builders were selected for the estate builder group (Infiniti Masterbuilt, Kanvi Homes, Kimberley CustomBuilt, Parkwood Master Builder, and San Rufo Homes). This exciting combination of great builders ensures that all new-home buyers are able to find the perfect home to fit their personal tastes and lifestyle needs.

Granville also offers its residents the convenience of a wide variety of amenities at its doorstep which gives homeowners the unique combination

44 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

ALLDRITT LAND CORPORATION LIMITED PARTNERSHIP

During WWII Stan Sr. would purchase wooden crates that the aircraft parts came in, taking them home and stockpiling the nails and wood in his spare time. of a newly built home coupled with already existing infrastructure and services. These amenities include two recently opened new schools nearby as well as a variety of recreational and professional service opportunities. In addition, a wide variety of existing retail services including two grocery anchored shopping centers and Edmonton’s newest Costco. “With so much demand in the area, we’re also constructing three new shopping centres in Granville to compliment all that already exists. One of these centres includes an 8 acre live, work and play site so resident’s will have everything at their fingertips,” says Benjestorf.

Other Granville features include two beautifully manicured water features, an extensive trail system connecting to adjacent communities, enhanced landscaping and like amenities, and a centrally located 21 acre future school/ park site, all designed to encourage an active lifestyle.

Ideally located with easy access to the Whitemud and Anthony Henday, and adjacent to undeveloped reserve land, Granville has the benefit of quick City wide access without the negative impacts of noise, debris, power lines and traffic.

With so many great features, it’s easy to see why life is so grand in Granville!

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Melcor’s Vision For Communities Spans Almost Years

90 -

A great community starts with great vision.

46

BY HE AT HER RYA N

W

-

hen Louis Timothy Melton first scanned the horizon in Edmonton he saw the opportunity to help young families own a home and it was a dream that he helped realize with Melton Real Estate Ltd., which he founded in 1923, and eventually transitioned to Melcor Developments Ltd. Today, almost 90 years later, his grandson Timothy Melton scans that same horizon and continues to seek opportunities for land development and investment properties not just in Edmonton, but also in centres throughout western Canada and the U.S.

Aurora As executive chairman of a company that has been influenced by three generations of the Melton family, Tim Melton constantly reinforces the founding values of honesty, integrity, loyalty, respect and pride in interactions with customers, suppliers, shareholders and employees.

A great community starts with great vision, and “we look for areas to develop where people will be proud to live; proud to call home,” says Tim Melton. “We want to create a product that has user-friendly amenities for families with ample parks, playgrounds and walking trails, and a good builder group to provide the housing styles buyers want.”

He says the company also chooses areas that allow residents great access to amenities and “we try to enhance those amenities with our own.”

Melcor’s vision is to be “Alberta’s premier land developer,” he says, “by providing the very best subdivisions to homebuyers.”

And Melcor, a public company since 1968, has been creating those top notch communities in Edmonton and surrounding areas such as Spruce Grove, Leduc and Sherwood Park for more than 60 years. Since the 1950s, Melcor has developed home sites for more than 85,000 residents.

You can see Melcor’s vision coming to life in their most recent developments of Aurora, McLaughlin and West Haven Park.

Among Melcor’s newest communities is Aurora in southeast Edmonton. Being developed south of Ellerslie Road on 66th Street, this community provides an ideal setting for star gazers and those looking for a relaxing setting.

Aurora welcomes residents and visitors with a striking entranceway that sparkles with multi-coloured LED lights that “shift to emulate the aurora-borealis phenomenon,” says development manager Andre Banks. Melcor has also installed LED street lamps to minimize light pollution, “so you can see the stars and, when you are lucky, catch of glimpse of the Northern Lights.”

Residents will also appreciate the large landscaped pond with surrounding walking paths that lead to a starviewing plaza. Here they will find benches and lighted signage identifying the constellations “people can use the star gazing guide to see what constellations are in the night sky above them,” says Banks.

Other amenities in the community include a pathway system, 2 playgrounds and park space, including water fountain, and a future district recreation campus is planned for just south of Aurora.

Homes currently being crafted in the community are single-family with front-attached garages by builders Bedrock Homes, Coventry Homes, Landmark Homes and Parkwood Master Builder. The builders have eight showhomes open for viewing.

47

“ We have one large linear park and a smaller park with a toboggan hill and a playground.“ Coventry will also offer a duplex product, while Lincolnberg Homes will join the builder group crafting duplexes and single-family homes with reardetached garages.

Also in Aurora, Trend Homes will be joining the group of builders with an RPL product. Bedrock Homes will be offering a unique duplex product with the option of front attached and rear detached garages.

Aurora also offers a great location that is just minutes from grocery stores, malls, theatres and restaurants at South Common, it’s also close to Anthony Henday Drive and Calgary Trail and is a short drive to the airport.

McLaughlin Melcor brings the pioneer heritage and old-time neighbourly feel to life with McLaughlin, located on the west side of Spruce Grove.

“We’re really excited about McLaughlin’s connection to the past,” says development manager Mark Tanasichuk. “The Nelson family pioneered on this land since 1903. They still have land within the community where their first homestead is located and it was recently designated a Heritage Site.

“So it gives the community a sense of history and belonging. We’ve designed the community to encourage social interaction where people get to know their neighbours.”

For example, Melcor has planted an apple orchard and berry patches giving neighbours an opportunity to get together, and there are plans to erect a gazebo by the landscaped pond that will become a natural gathering place.

48

“We have one large linear park and a smaller park with a toboggan hill and a playground. An extensive trail system is being also developed throughout the community that connects to the regional trails,” Tanasichuk says.

McLaughlin offers a range of housing styles with townhomes and duplexes by Pacesetter Homes, and single-family homes with rear or front-attached garages by Bedrock Homes, Look Homes Master Builder and Pacesetter. Bedrock and Look will also be building duplexes, and there is a seniors housing and assisted living complex under construction.

All of the builders have showhomes open in the community.

McLaughlin offers an enviable location with the Tri Leisure Centre across the street, easy access to neighbourhood conveniences, and more shops, groceries, eateries and services are just minutes away.

West Haven Park Being crafted by Melcor on the west side of Hwy. 2, West Haven Park is one of the newest communities under development in Leduc.

“It’s a family-oriented community that provides a safe environment to raise the kids and where people can get to know their neighbours,” says development manager Andre Banks.

“Leduc is a great area that offers a small-town feel, but it gives you all the amenities you need without having to go into Edmonton.”

Banks says while West Haven Park is still in the early stages of development it “already has a landscaped pond complete with a water fountain, trees, picnic tabls and a trail around it, so it’s a really nice feature,” where people can enjoy a leisurely stroll or picnic.

“There is also a playground already built, which is great for families because the kids can enjoy it as soon as they move in.”

Homebuyers can find a selection of single-family homes with rear detached garages being crafted by Encore Master Builders and Santos Construction. Single-family homes with front-attached garages + duplexes are also available through the Encore Master Builders. There are four new showhomes open in the community.

West Haven Park is also conveniently located within walking distance or a short drive to Leduc Common with a variety of shops, services and restaurants, is minutes from the airport and an easy commute to Edmonton.

For more information Learn more about these Melcor’s communities by visiting the various showhomes, open Monday to Thursday, 3-8 p.m., and weekends, noon-5 p.m. You can also view other Melcor developments through out Edmonton area, Red Deer, Calgary, Lethbridge and B.C. by visiting melcor.ca.

49

e t p g A w l – f F d o t i a f v r y

W

Ultima ground breaking

Westrich Pacific Corp. is an innovative Western Canadian developer specializing in concrete condominiums and mixed use developments. We work with an in house construction team for all our projects and act as a general contractor for all buildings. Our current projects include Windermere Waters, Windermere Mansions, The Signature, The Ultima and Encore. We also have additional projects in various stages of development.

Not only do our customers play an integral part in the sales, support, and feedback of our projects, but our employees are also a huge part in making everything happen. In order to create products that our customers love and that our entire team can be proud of, Westrich strives to become leaders in concrete construction as well as luxury condo living.

Westrich is driven by the constant desire to be better, and to fulfill the needs of our customers. With the entire team under one company, we can ensure smoother communication, faster decision making and a more unified team to work with. By combining these we are able to offer our customers a home that they will desire, and that their friends will envy. Westrich aims to reach a new level of excellence within the Western Canadian market for luxury condominiums by providing innovative and functional designs that can be enjoyed by customers and the people around them.

50 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

The Signature Located in the community of Ambleside in the coveted Windermere area, The Signature is sure to become the city’s premium condo hot-spot! This complex is constructed from concrete and steel, as opposed to conventional materials such as wood, meeting the demand for high quality condo living in our city. Boasting advanced design and an abundance of building features, The Signature has taken condo living to the next level.

Phase one of the development offers 100 exceptionally designed homes presented in a beautiful seven storey building.

Floor to ceiling and oversized windows create a spectacular backdrop to the living spaces within each home. With one and two bedroom options to choose from, starting at 625 sq.ft and $199,000, there is something to suit any lifestyle. All upgrades are standard at The Signature, including stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors and granite countertops. Phase two of the development will provide an additional 140 suites and stand at 12 storeys – the tallest in the Windermere area.

The Signature will also feature 12 exclusive Villas that include a private entrance and a private glass elevator that will take residents directly to their front door. Available in three bedrooms or two bedrooms plus den, these villas combine a private home

M U m c e t u a p p

aking

WINDEREMERE WATERS IS DESIGNED TO SUIT EVERYONE– FROM FIRST TIME BUYERS TO EMPTY NESTERS WHO WANT THE FREEDOM THAT CONDO LIVING OFFERS environment with the added convenience of condo living. The top floor of the condo complex features stunning two-storey penthouse suites. Each penthouse suite includes a roof top garden, perfect for entertaining guests on a summer’s night.

Also featured in this incredible development are two storey walk-out town homes which include a private double garage located in the underground parkade. Ranging from 1,055 sq.ft – 1,740 sq.ft these beautiful homes offer an additional option for customers whose lifestyle demands some extra living space.

Featuring stunning curtain glass walls, this modern condominium does not fall short on curb appeal. The Signature offers plenty of great features that set it apart from other condominiums in the city, including an Infinity pool backing onto the lake that is located behind the development. Building amenities are set at high standards at The Signature, with residents benefiting from a gym and a three-storey glass lobby with concierge and valet service. A secure & heated underground parkade allows residents to enjoy the benefits of a warm and dry vehicle all year round.

Windermere Waters Making a statement in the southwest neighbourhood of Upper Windermere is Windermere Waters. This sleek and modern condominium community features steel and concrete construction. Windermere Waters is comprised of two phases, each containing 73 suites. A gorgeous central courtyard that overlooks a water feature plus a pond and park area unites both buildings. Wonderfully low condo fees are also a desirable feature at Windermere Waters. A variety of floor plans are available. Choose from one-bedroom, one bedroom plus den or two-bedroom plans, ranging in size from 622

Windermere Waters

Windermere Mansions

sq. ft. to 1,800 sq. ft. in the corner penthouses, Windermere Waters is designed to suit everyone – from first-time buyers to empty nesters who want the freedom that condo living offers.

Exquisite two storey penthouses with rooftop terraces are also available for buyers looking for something above and beyond normal condo living. Airy 18-ft. ceilings with curtain glass walls enhance the spectacular city and lake views from each of these residences.

Winderemere Mansions Westrich Pacific’s Windermere Mansions is an exclusive 32 unit residence with six townhome style condominiums that walk out on to the lake. Located in the prestigious neighbourhood of Upper Windermere, the contemporary design of Windermere Mansions will ensure it is unlike any other residence in Edmonton. With suites ranging in size from 1002 sq. ft. to over 1800 sq. ft. in this four Signature and a half storey building, residents will enjoy superior steel & concrete construction, an underground parkade, outstanding landscaping, professional management and much more. This exclusive adult only building features floor to ceiling windows, upgraded finishes, heated underground parking, oversize balconies and much more.

Also available at Windermere Mansions are six Vancouver style walk out townhomes. These homes offer residents private double attached garage with direct-to-suite access, private elevator for easy and convenient EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 51

Ultima Ultima

BECOMING BECOMING A RESIDENT A RESIDENT AT THE AT THE ULTIMA ULTIMA MEANS MEANS OWNING OWNING A CELEBRATED A CELEBRATED ADDRESS ADDRESS ON THE ON THE LASTLAST UNDEVELOPED UNDEVELOPED SITE SITE LOCATED LOCATED DIRECTLY DIRECTLY IN THE IN THE FINANCIAL FINANCIAL DISTRICT DISTRICT that feature that feature rooftop rooftop patios patios which which are perfect are perfect for entertaining. for entertaining.

Becoming Becoming a resident a resident at The at Ultima The Ultima means means owning owning a celebrated a celebrated address address on the on last the undeveloped last undeveloped site located site located directly directly in thein the financial financial district. district.

Don’tDon’t worry worry about about any any trouble trouble with with downtown downtown parking. parking.

A five A five levellevel underground underground parkade parkade is provided is provided for the for residents the residents of the of the building. building.

A rooftop A rooftop sky garden sky garden offersoffers residents residents a place a place to relax to relax and and unwind. unwind.

This This areaarea features features a hota tub, hot tub, luxury luxury seating seating and and barbeque barbeque area,area, plus plus a fully a fully heated heated floorfloor allows allows for the for area the area to betoenjoyed be enjoyed year-round. year-round.

Residents Residents will also will also enjoyenjoy a gym, a gym, wet bar wet and bar and lounge lounge that includes that includes a two a two sidedsided indoor/outdoor indoor/outdoor fireplace. fireplace.

Encore Encore Welcome Welcome to Edmonton’s to Edmonton’s tallesttallest residential residential tower! tower!

Westrich Westrich Pacific Pacific is excited is excited to introduce to introduce ENCORE ENCORE Condominiums Condominiums -a -a sleeksleek 40 storey, 40 storey, all glass, all glass, luxury luxury private private residence residence tower. tower.

Encore Encore will be willlocated be located on the on intersection the intersection of 103rd of 103rd StreetStreet and and 102102 Avenue.

Avenue.

This This modern modern building building will be willabe landmark a landmark within within the Edmonton the Edmonton skyline skyline and and is destined is destined to betoan beaddress an address of distinction. of distinction.

Encore Encore has ithas all.it From all. From sophisticated sophisticated design, design, to to cutting cutting edgeedge energy energy efficient efficient technology, technology, to brilliant to brilliant interior interior finishes, finishes, Encore Encore is a new is a new standard standard in urban in urban livingliving defined. defined.

Make Make your your movemove to Encore to Encore Condominiums.

Condominiums.

Encore Encore is situated is situated in thein most the most valuable valuable neighbourhood neighbourhood adjacent adjacent to a to pedway a pedway system system that accesses that accesses everyevery convenience convenience and and amenity: amenity: Financial Financial Core, Core, Arena Arena Entertainment Entertainment District, District, Movie Movie Theatre, Theatre, City City Centre Centre Mall,Mall, YMCA, YMCA, RoyalRoyal Alberta Alberta Museum, Museum, Art Art Gallery, Gallery, RiverRiver Valley, Valley, and and the LRT. the Residents LRT. Residents will not will only not only find find themselves themselves surrounded surrounded by luxury by luxury but also but also enjoying enjoying excellent excellent Ultima Ultima value. value.

Amazingly, Amazingly, the 2the bedroom, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom 2 bathroom suitessuites are are Edmonton Edmonton is about is about to welcome to welcome one one of the of tallest the tallest additions additions starting starting in thein mid the mid $200,000’s. $200,000’s.

Stunning Stunning penthouse penthouse suitessuites with with to itstocity its center! city center!

Located Located in thein heart the heart of Edmonton’s of Edmonton’s financial financial breathtaking breathtaking views views are also are also available available if youif are you looking are looking for for core,core, the Ultima the Ultima is setting is setting a new a new standard standard in downtown in downtown living. living. a home a home that makes that makes a statement. a statement.

If youIf like you Ultima, like Ultima, you’llyou’ll love love Westrich Westrich Pacific Pacific Corp.

Corp. proudly proudly addsadds this stunning this stunning 32 storey 32 storey Encore.

Encore. condominium condominium complex complex to itstoimpressive its impressive resume resume of exceptional of exceptional projects. projects.

Beautiful Beautiful curtain curtain glassglass walls, walls, a retail a retail anchored anchored first first FORFOR MORE MORE INFORMATION INFORMATION floorfloor and and outstanding outstanding architecture architecture

by Ziola

by Ziola NewNew Studio Studio makemake the Ultima the Ultima a refreshing a refreshing addition addition to 102nd to 102nd Avenue Avenue and and 103rd 103rd 780.803.0888 780.803.0888 Winderemere Winderemere Waters Waters Street.

Street.

EnjoyEnjoy breathtaking breathtaking views views of the of city; the city; fromfrom the scenic the scenic www.signatureambleside.com www.signatureambleside.com 1238 1238 Windermere Windermere Way Way river river valley valley to theto dazzling the dazzling city lights, city lights, floorfloor to ceiling to ceiling windows windows Ultima Showsuite: Showsuite: Mon-Thu Mon-Thu 4-7pm,4-7pm, Sat 12-5pm Sat 12-5pm Ultima provide provide residents residents with with the ultimate the ultimate livingliving backdrop. backdrop.

StepStep into into 10238 10238 103 St.103 St. 780.263.2222 780.263.2222 the Ultima the Ultima and and you will you feel will the feel immediate the immediate sophistication sophistication of of Sales Centre: Sales Centre: www.windermerewaters.com www.windermerewaters.com the grand the grand two two storey storey lobby lobby with with threethree highhigh speed speed elevators. elevators.

Mon-Thur Mon-Thur 2-6pm,2-6pm, Sat 12-5pm Sat 12-5pm Winderemere Winderemere Mansions Mansions The Ultima The Ultima provides provides multiple multiple livingliving style style and and size size options options 780.803.8777 780.803.8777 1350 1350 Windermere Windermere Way Way for residents for residents to choose to choose from.from.

For individuals For individuals whowho prefer prefer a a www.ultimatower.ca www.ultimatower.ca 780.667.8222 780.667.8222 contemporary contemporary floorfloor planplan the live/work the live/work lofts lofts will meet will meet the need the need Encore Encore www.windermeremansions.com www.windermeremansions.com for spacious, for spacious, openopen concept concept living. living.

Other Other options options include include 102 Ave. 102&Ave. 103&St.103 St. Signature Signature spacious spacious villa villa suitessuites which which offeroffer a larger a larger livingliving environment, environment, 780.803.8777 780.803.8777 5151 5151 Windermere Windermere Blvd Blvd and and luxury luxury tower tower suitessuites which which feature feature wrapwrap around around balconies. balconies. www.encoretower.com www.encoretower.com Sales Centre: Sales Centre: Mon-FriMon-Fri 2-6:30pm, 2-6:30pm, Sat 12-5pm Sat 12-5pm AlsoAlso available available are aare collection a collection of stunning of stunning penthouse penthouse suitessuites access access to alltothree all three levelslevels inside inside the unit, the unit, almost almost 13’ 13’ ceilings ceilings on the on main the main level,level, largelarge basement basement with with custom custom development development potential, potential, oversized oversized master master bedrooms bedrooms all while all while backing backing ontoonto the lake the lake with with sunken sunken patios. patios.

52 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

Your hardest decision is whether you’d like your street to start with

A or C.

Turn the page to make your choice‌

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Ambleside and Creekwood Chappelle both offer diverse homes in sought-after Southwest Edmonton.

So how do you choose?

Designed with walking in mind, Ambleside is connected with tree-lined pathways to nearby amenities. Passing through the central park and by landscaped naturalized storm ponds, you’ll soon reach Currents of Windermere.

Currents is Edmonton’s finest new shopping destination, featuring quality retailers, services, food, and entertainment. And if you ever need to go anywhere else, Ambleside has transit service and is right next to Anthony Henday Drive. Work-able, walk-able livability is an attitude reflected in everything Ambleside has to offer. If you’re looking for a life of ease, Ambleside is a convenient choice.

Make your choice at amblesidewindermere.ca

54

Nestled into the natural habitat surrounding the Whitemud Creek, Creekwood Chappelle has something for everyone. Vast wetlands, park spaces, and an extensive trail system invite families, friends, and neighbours to gather and enjoy the outdoors.

Residents of Creekwood can grow along with this neighbourhood’s natural setting, abundant with wildlife and the serenity of wetlands. A unique habitat in nature because of the biodiversity they attract, the wetlands provide endless opportunities to explore, observe, and learn about nature right in your neighbourhood. If you love getting outside, Creekwood Chappelle is a natural choice.

Make your choice at creekwoodchappelle.ca

55

F U N DAM E N TAL LY S PEAK I N G

WHAT TYPE OF HOME

SHOULD YOU BUY?

BY WAY N E K A R L

w

hat type of home should you buy?

Whether you’re a fi rst-time buyer, moving up to a larger home or downsizing to a smaller one, the answer to this question is a very individual one. It short, it really depends on your situation – everything from the amount of your down payment to where you work to whether you have kids to other personal circumstances.

Of course, many of us would love a large house on an expansive property on a quiet cul-de-sac in the best neighbourhood. But that’s not always possible.

For your own enjoyment while you live in your home as well as for future resale potential, proximity to transportation, shopping, schools and other amenities is among the key determinants that affect the your property’s appeal, and ultimately its value. After all, those are the qualities potential buyers look for when searching for a home; the more of them your house has when you go to sell, the more it will be attractive to a greater number of people.

While experts suggest you take a long-term view when buying a home, it’s also important to not look too far down the road.

For example, your fi rst home is not likely to be your dream home, and your needs and desires are bound to change throughout the various stages of homeownership.

56 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

So, while the answer to the question – What type of home should you buy? – is specific to circumstances, there are also some common guidelines you can follow.

HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD? Experts agree it is never a good idea to make yourself house-poor, and it is a very common mistake, particularly of fi rst-time buyers, to buy more home than you can really afford. Meeting with a mortgage broker or your banker will help determine your full fi nancial picture, assessing everything from your credit rating to how much you have saved for a down payment. And with tougher mortgage rules recently taking effect, buyers should “stress-test” their plans – seeing how well you could cope with higher mortgage payments brought on by rising interest rates.

HOW MUCH WILL IT REALLY COST? Another common homebuyer mistake is not being prepared for all the closing costs involved: lawyer fees, land transfer taxes, utilities, insurance, and home inspection and appraisal fees and insurance. All of these costs add up, and ultimately should factor into your overall home-shopping budget.

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO LIVE? This question is becoming more important for a

number of reasons, though influenced primarily by where you work, how much of a commute you want and whether your transportation options include mass transit or only driving. Indeed, especially with gas prices on the rise, proximity to mass transit is something more and more people are looking for in their new home location. It may not be as simple as choosing to live in the city, suburbs or a small town.

WHAT TYPE OF HOME DO YOU WANT? Once you have determined your options for cost and location, you can then assess what types of homes are available in your price range and desired neighbourhood: Single-family detached, semi-detached, townhome, duplex or condo?

Some many questions, so many choices. The good news is, home builders today are in sync with customer preferences for location and amenities, and with market realities with regard to pricing and needs for energy efficiency, so your options for new-home product have never been better.

Wayne Karl is an award-winning writer and editor with experience in real estate and business. In Fundamentally Speaking, Wayne explores the basics – such as economic fundamentals – you need to examine when buying property. He can be reached at wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com or follow at Twitter.com/WayneKarl

If you are looking for a home of distinction, look no further than

Canyon Spring Master Builder Simply walk through one of their show homes, and you’ll see what sets this local homebuilder apart: quality construction and workmanship, attention to detail, and the exceptional finishes are Canyon Spring’s trademarks.

57

“We are more concerned about getting the job done the way it should be done, rather than building a large number of homes and rushing to complete them.”

The company has been in business for 24 years and has always built custom estate homes. “We only build in estate areas of developments,” says Everett Kasteel, Canyon Spring’s general manager, adding that they are a low-volume builder, building between 24 and 30 houses a year. Limiting the number of projects means Canyon Spring can focus their attention and resources on their client’s home.

58 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2012

“We are more concerned about getting the job done the way it should be done, rather than building a large number of homes and rushing to complete them.”

Whether it’s a bungalow or a two-storey home, customers can either start the process of building their dream home by looking through Canyon Spring’s library of home designs, or they can start from scratch and create their own design. “Quite often they like one of the samples we have and then we work with them to customize it,” explains Kasteel. “Client changes to our standard plans may include structure, square footage, interior design and engineering.” Whichever route they go, the client is actively involved in the design process in order to make it their custom home.

Once a blueprint has been completed, Canyon Spring has a streamlined process to make sure the experience is a positive one. The client is guided through pre-construction and the selection process. “We don’t limit the choices when it comes to selections,” says Kasteel. “So the process isn’t overwhelming we provide you with a list of trusted suppliers to shop from. You will also meet with an interior designer who will help coordinate all your choices.”

Canyon Spring’s homes are best described as having a traditional, timeless style. Step inside one of the show homes and you’ll typically find rich woods, a feature wall with a dramatic fireplace, a gourmet kitchen, and a luxurious ensuite.

But not one to shy away from trying something new, Canyon Spring has a new show home in the Summerside community that will be more contemporary. “We decided to do a contemporary home so potential homebuyers can see what we can do,”

Experience distinction explains Kasteel, adding that they are always looking for new ways of presenting the same square footage, and coming up with new designs to make the show homes stand out. “This new 2,647-square-foot three-bedroom show home in Summerside has a fantastic layout with upstairs laundry, a large master bedroom and ensuite, but still feels like a family home with a bonus room, great room and a large kitchen area.”

In addition to the Summerside show home, Canyon Spring is also building in Lewis Estates and in Stoneshire in Spruce Grove. Also look for a new show home in 2013 in the Jagare Ridge development in southwest Edmonton.

Canyon Spring knows that quality workmanship goes a long way.

Clients can see the difference as well. To ensure the quality of the work, Canyon Spring looks for tradespeople whose work is the highest quality. “We have a great partnership with our trades,” says Kasteel. “They’ve been around a long time and we know we can trust their work.”

As a member of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, the Master Home Builders Association, and Certified Built Green member, clients can be assured that Canyon Spring strives to ensure clients’ dreams, ideas and lifestyles are realized.

And once the house is complete and the owner has moved in, Canyon Spring is still accountable should any issues arise.

They are known for delivering exceptional service during all construction phases including post-construction and have been the recipient of the Alberta New Home Service Award for 17 consecutive years.

For more information about Canyon Spring Master Builder visit www.canyonspringhomes.com or call 780-487-3021.

2012 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 59

CHRISTENSON

DEVELOPMENTS Building A Legacy Of Sustainable Communities Christenson Developments Ltd., An Edmonton-Based Company, Originated More Than 30 Years Ago By Lloyd Christenson. Working with his son Greg, Lloyd’s dream of creating quality homes for real people has long since come to fruition. When Lloyd retired, Greg Christenson and co-owner, Peter Dirksen took this leading developer and multi-residential building company to another level.

They developed a philosophy that not only ensured a successful company but fulfilled Lloyd’s dream beyond anyone’s expectations. The company philosophy is based on three pillars - financial, social, and environmental responsibility. This foundation accounts for some of the most progressive communities in and around Edmonton.

Greg Christenson’s passion for building ‘right; and focusing on the community had resulted in awards for a number of these projects including Rail Town, a modern downtown housing development, Creekside, the site of a former Gainers meat packing plant in the Mill Creek area, and Centre in the Park, an urban village mixed use community.

Christenson Developments has received at least one of these awards every year for the past 10 years.

Greg believes in giving back to the community. Christenson Developments supports many local charities and encourages others to do the same. But it is not enough to donate to charities, Christenson feels a responsibility to actively promote social awareness of the aging population, strains on healthcare, youth issues and a need for refocusing on principles, values and social responsibility in the collective communities. Greg doesn’t just talk about change; he walks the walk in striving to create communities with family values, healthy environment, opportunity for the aging and youth.

In 2013, 88 new assisted living residences will be added in two phases to the Royal Oak project in Lacombe. This project will consist of more life-lease condo space; as well, it will have a much needed increase in nursing staff.

The Royal Oak is purposely located near the Canadian University College to facilitate integration of young and

60

The Name In Active Adult Living

old cultures, access to libraries, fitness centres and theatres.

“The goal of these communities is sustainability,” Christenson stressed. “The locations that we’re building these in need to be sustainable and it needs to be part of a sustainable community. It needs to integrate those elements to work really well.”

Christenson Developments prides itself in providing people with a variety of choices: to own, to rent, to life lease or Designated Assisted Living services. These choices are created with the knowledge that not only are Christenson clients receiving what they want but they are living in a value-based community built from the outside in with quality first and no detail left to chance.

These are unique communities designed with empty-nester homes or condos, then optional assisted living and the full care facilities all within the same community so people never need to move away from beloved family and friends as their housing needs change. Christenson Developments is a passionate leader in developing sustainable communities and a top multiresidential builder with a reputation second to none.

Christenson Developments focuses on the finished community, not just the bricks and mortar of a building. Increasingly, more studies are being released revealing that a successful community must contain green spaces in order for people to thrive. The ‘Landscape and Human Health’ laboratory, in the University of Illinois, studies the relationship between green spaces and human health. Their studies have produced a staggering range of outcomes from nature deprivation, These disturbing outcomes range from earlier mortality for older adults, increased physical ailments, ADD symptoms in children, as well as, affected cognitive and social functions. The positive effects of nature in cities have even been demonstrated to reduce both physical and verbal aggression. With up to six hours a day in front of TV and computers, children are not familiar with the most rudimentary aspects of nature. Those who do not have the nature experience, even in a small way, will not have the desire or the knowledge to protect today’s environment tomorrow.

PHOTOS LEFT TO RIGHT, TOP TO BOTTOM: DEVONSHIRE CAFE, GREG CHRISTENSON, PETER DIRKSEN, GLASTONBURY INTERIOR

By Christenson Developments designing communities with green spaces they are not just making ‘pretty park areas’ with nice homes; rather they are creating a healthy habitat that is as important as proper diet and exercise. With proper landscaping, considerate integration of homes and retail development, crime is reduced, health improved and general

CDLhomes.com

61

“

Christenson Developments focuses on the finished community, not just the bricks and mortar of a building. Increasingly, more studies are being released revealing that a successful community must contain green spaces in order for people to thrive.

”

community well-being is increased. The overall return is not only financial but in producing healthy minds and bodies for tomorrow.

Greg Christenson is very proud of his involvement with the Emerald Hills Urban Village, which includes Christenson Development’s luxurious Eton Park Villas. In a previous interview Greg Christenson was quoted: “The project’s goal is to demonstrate that demand-side approaches to municipal services and infrastructure result in smaller scale and lower costs than current development patterns and can foster long-term sustainable lifestyles, to provide homebuyers with dwellings built through energy-efficient, sustainable construction practices that minimize impact to the natural environment.” The pathways throughout the Emerald Hills community to recreational and retail ventures reduce the need for vehicles, increase exercise, and encourage familiarity with neighbours.

The many communities that Christenson has developed and been a part of creating will be an example for others to follow in the, hopefully, near future.

62

The Name In Active Adult Living

PREVIOUS PAGE: DEVONSHIRE. PHOTOS TOP LEFT CLOCKWISE: GLASTONBURY INTERIOR, BEDFORD VILLAGE, CITADEL MEWS.

The Emerald Hills Urban Village concept focuses on four SuN (Sustainable Urban Neighbourhood) principles in the creation of the community of humans and nature. Striving to achieve and maintain a relationship between nature and humans is the first principle. The second is to endeavour to reduce dependencies on nonrenewable resources. The third principle is “…‘cradle-to-cradle’ solutions and activities in design, manufacture, and consumption such that a substance produced by society does not accumulate in nature.” Lastly, the fourth principle is to “work towards social solutions and activities to allow every person to meet basic needs and achieve their potential in life…”

These principles work hand in hand with Christenson Development’s Mission Statement which concentrates on building lasting relationships, trust, respect, communication, accountability, networking, quality of life and above all, sustainability. These are not just words... they are the foundation of a dream that began 30 years ago with a man and his son, Greg Christenson… Christenson Developments… proof that dreams can come true.

For more information about Christenson Developments, visit CDLhomes.com

CDLhomes.com

63

TO P H O M E B U YI N G T I PS

10 TIPS

FOR NEW HOMEBUYERS

b

uying a home is the single largest purchase most of us will ever make, and as with most important purchases, it is vital to do your homework to ensure your new home fits your lifestyle and meets your expectations.

Following are some tips to help guide new-home buyers through the purchasing process.

1 | Choose the type of home that meets your lifestyle Read the real estate section of your local paper (and this magazine!) for information about new developments.

Also, check out builders’ websites for photos and floorplans.

2 | Determine what you can afford Once you’ve chosen the location and type of home that fits your needs, meet with a fi nancial representative to determine a mortgage amount that you can comfortably afford. This ensures that you spend your time wisely on homes within your price range. You should also consider getting a pre-approved mortgage, which will allow you to shop with added confidence.

3 | Research your builder Ask friends and colleagues for any recommendations based on their own experiences, visit builder Web sites online to learn about previous developments, and go straight to the source by asking current homeowners questions about their homes and neighbourhoods.

4 | View online education seminars Research the new-home warranty providers in your province, and look to see if they have online resources to help you understand your statutory warranty coverage, the process for addressing warranty related matters and the new home inspection process.

5 | Speak with a real estate lawyer It’s important that you meet with a real estate or

64 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

condominium lawyer before signing an Agreement of Purchase and Sale to make sure you understand exactly what is and is not included in the price of your new home.

6 | Read your homeowner information package Take the time to review the homeowner information package from your builder before or during the predelivery inspection for your new home. This material explains your new home’s statutory warranty, and the responsibilities of both you and your builder.

7 | Prepare for your Pre-Delivery Inspection (PDI) Be prepared for the pre-delivery inspection. It’s your chance to do a thorough inspection of your new home to identify any items that are incomplete, damaged, missing or not operating properly, and have them taken care of before you move in. This is also a prime opportunity to ensure that everything has been built according to your Agreement of Purchase and Sale.

8 | Become familiar with the new home warranty Familiarize yourself with the applicable new-home warranty program to learn what is and what isn’t covered by the warranty as well as the timelines and procedures to follow should a warranty-related item need attention in your new home.

9 | Maintain your home through the seasons You’ve made a big investment in your home, so you should take care of it year-round. It’s important to remember that ongoing maintenance helps to ensure that your statutory warranty is protected. So, after you’ve moved in, follow an annual maintenance routine and help keep your new home in top shape.

10 | Enjoy all your new home has to offer!

You’ve done a lot of research, decision-making and waiting by the time you reach this point. Now it’s time to enjoy all the wonderful things your new home has to offer. NC

B U I LD E R STO RY U R BAN IT Y CU STOM H OM E S

URBANITY

CUSTOM HOMES W

e want to be known as the builder with a conscience,” says Georgina NunesSerrao, founder of Urbanity Homes. “When we say ‘quality,’ we really mean ‘quality’ without sacrificing affordability. We take ownership of each home; every home we build, we build as though it was the one we were moving in to, and we pay great attention to detail.”

Georgina, along with her husband Roy Serrao, started Urbanity Custom Homes Ltd. in the fall of 2001 after successfully building their own home and one for their parents. The young couple fell in love with the homebuilding process and decided to forge a company that would provide that same level of attention to detail, craftsmanship and quality to others.

“We understand the important role the builder plays in bringing about the realization of their customers’ dreams,” Georgina says.

The dictionary meaning of Urbanity is: quality or state of being urbane (refined, polished); civility or courtesy of manners; politeness; refinement. It’s a name that was carefully chosen by Georgina: one that reflects and embodies the beliefs of her company.

“We are family run so the customer deals directly with us, the owners, from start to finish. You are not dealing with sales reps or construction managers,” she says, noting this personal involvement is important and appealing to customers.

65

“People love that because we end up having a relationship with these families that lasts for years,” she says. “For example, customers call us to let us know about special events in their lives like when babies are born. There is a rapport, a relationship that is built on trust and we consider that important.”

As a true custom home builder, people can approach Urbanity with their own design ideas for their dream homes, but the company also has feature plans that people can use as a starting point for the design. “We build lots of homes from scratch, right from the designing and the plan. People often come in with ideas they have pulled from different resources, and we work with them to create a home specific to their needs.

“Every project is a learning experience because each home is unique and every family has particular preferences and requirements,” Georgina says. “Each client has one thing in common however; they want a builder who they can rely on and provide the quality product and craftsmanship they are looking for.”

The locally-owned company builds an average of 6 to 10 homes each year, which allows them the opportunity to give each home the individual attention customers appreciate. Urbanity builds every style of home with the majority being a two-storey or executive bungalow design.

The clientele seems to fit into one of two groups: older couples or empty nesters ready to build a home that suits their lifestyle, and young professional couples, many of whom are getting ready to start a family and desire a home that will meet their future needs. In either case, Georgina says the buyer is discerning, 66 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

knows what they want, and expects a good quality home.

Depending on the size of home and what goes into it, price starts at the low to mid $300,000 without the lot or GST. As for interior finishings, Urbanity customers are thrilled to discover higher than most industry standards are included in the home so they don’t really need to upgrade, and as a bonus all homes are certified with Built Green™ and are given an EnerGuide rating.” Georgina says.

She also credits their trades for providing incredible craftsmanship and workmanship. “A lot of them have been with us since the start. We put a lot of effort into finding a good trade and we like to give each trade their fair time in the home so they are not tripping over each other to ensure things are done to the standard we want.”

Urbanity’s latest show home, The Yorkshire, is a 1718 sq. ft. executive-style bungalow, in Castlebrook on the northwest side of Edmonton. Georgina is particularly proud of this design because “I like the fact that it will be Built Green™ and will represent a little bit of everything that we have learned up to now and will showcase our ongoing attention to detail.”

While the family-oriented couple crafts a variety of homes, “we’re doing more infill projects and acreages,” Georgina says, who adds that “if someone has a lot or parcel of land, we are willing to work with them to build their home. We build throughout the Capital Region.”

She says constructing infills in Edmonton’s older neighbourhoods is a new and exciting challenge. “I believe there is a demand for it because these older neighbourhoods need to

Show home address: 17480 - 107 Street (just 3 minutes from Anthony Henday Drive’s 97 Street exit) Show home hours: Mon. to Thurs. 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Sat. and Sun. 12p.m. to 5 p.m.

Closed on Fridays Show home phone: 780-457-2987 FOR MORE INFORMATION Phone: 780-406-8022 Website: www.urbanityhomes.com Email: urbanity@shaw.ca

Photographs by Nathan Burge

be rejuvenated, and we welcome the opportunity to go in and do that. I believe a builder should be able to build anywhere.”

Georgina’s father, John Nunes, also a partner in the business, has experience with infills so his knowledge and expertise has been incredibly beneficial to the company as it moves in this new direction.

As for what else is in store for Urbanity’s future, Georgina says, they are pleased to continue what they’re doing – crafting well-designed, quality homes. “We enjoy what we do and we want to continue to make families happy with their homes. We also would like to keep up with all of the new technologies and designs that come into construction and offer the best to those who choose us as a builder.” To this end the couple takes as many courses as possible to help them keep up with the trends of the industry.

Urbanity offers a five-year National New Home Structural Warranty, in addition to its own one-year builder warranty. It is also a certified Built Green™ builder, which is an industry-driven voluntary program that promotes “green” building practices to reduce the impact that building has on the environment. And is a member of the Better Business Bureau and the Canadian Home Builders Association.

Georgina admits she has never taken the time to enter their homes into any award competitions, but she believes, “what we get from our customers is good enough for us. We are very happy with pleasing our own clients and their referrals are our best reward. Our customers love our houses.”

2012 edmonton builder and developer Annual 67

“In our standard specs we include

h o m e b u ye r s’ h e l p

Paving stone vs. concrete

p

B y S h a n e ’ s L a n d sc a p i n g & C o n t r a c t i n g L t d .

aving stone driveways and walks provide you with a unique and affordable way to add a touch of your own design and style to your home’s landscaping, while increasing the overall value of your home. The reasons to install a paving stone driveway versus pouring a concrete slab are endless, adding beautiful curb appeal is only the beginning. The benefits are many. In our shifting climate concrete slab driveways and sidewalks are prone to cracking, and developing unsightly lines that get worse with every freeze and thaw cycle. Concrete has no outlet for the expansion and contraction that happens with seasonal change. Paving stones are a much better option in our Alberta climate being that they are a “flexible pavement” paving stones are able to move with freezing and thawing, thereby avoiding cracks. Paving stones are manufactured with less water content than “poured in place concrete,” so the stones are more durable and last longer. Not only will your driveways and walks look and last longer, you will have also considerably increased the value of your home.

It is important to meet with a qualified landscaping contractor who has installed many paving stones projects. Make certain to qualify the contractor by asking a few simple questions, ask to see photos of similar work that has been completed and even references if you still feel unsure. A quality landscaping professional should be able to put you at ease with previous experience and should have a website for you to view his work and credentials.

If the prep work required for a long lasting paving stone job is not done correctly, the results can be an expensive repair after one season, not to mention dangerous to your families safety. Today, paving stones are available in several design possibilities, allowing you the opportunity to create a more visually pleasing and unique paved surface with the variety of shapes, sizes

and colors choices. Working together with your landscaping contractor is vital to the long term success and durability of your paving stone project. At Shane’s Landscaping and Contracting, we recommend using paving stones on driveways in an interlocking pattern since this is proven to be the most durable for vehicular traffic. Our skilled, certified installers can lay your driveway with added touches such as lighting and individual design choices, making your driveway the envy of the neighborhood.

We stand by the quality of our work. We are not happy – until you are happy!

Shane’s Landscaping & Contracting Ltd. specializes in residential, estate and acreage landscape construction.

From patios to water features, driveways, retaining walls, lighting, walkways, fences, irrigation, garden beds, boulders, barbecue, fire pits and the new synthetics grasses, we can help make your landscaping beautiful. Planning your landscaping is an exciting time and we are here to help. Our team of friendly knowledgeable and hardworking staff can make your landscaping dream a reality. Call us now for a consultation.

Shane’s Landscaping & Contracting Ltd. is locally owned and operated, providing landscaping and snow removal services to Edmonton and surrounding area. Call us for a consultation at 780.983.8233 or view our portfolio at shaneslandscaping.com

68 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

Dream Dreamhomes homesthat thatadd addvalue valuethrough throughbuyer buyerguidance guidanceand and Dream homes that add value through buyer guidance and built builtwith withthe thepromise promiseofofquality qualitythat thatcan canonly onlycome comefrom from built with the promise of quality that can only come from strong strongrelationships relationshipswith withtrade tradepartners partnersand andthe thesupport supportofof strong relationships with trade partners and the support of staff staffthat thatare aretreated treatedwith withintegrity, integrity,honesty honestyand andrespect. respect. staff that are treated with integrity, honesty and respect.

m o rtgag e o pt i o n s

supersize your

mortgage payments

a

ccording to a recent RBC Home Ownership survey, 65 per cent of Canadian homeowners are worried about mortgage rate increases, and 56 per cent admit that their mortgage is higher than they expected.

“Flexible payment options can help take some of the guesswork out of interest rates increases,” says Marcia Moffat, RBC head of home equity financing. “Speaking with a mortgage specialist and making a few simple changes can help you save thousands on interest costs as well as take years off your mortgage.”

Here are a couple of tips to help you pay off your mortgage even faster.

» Make annual mortgage payments on the principle. Many mortgages allow you to make a lump sum payment once every 12 months or at renewal time, which is applied directly to the principal. If you come into a large sum of money through an inheritance or bonus, consider making a prepayment, which can shave years off your mortgage. » If you double up your payments once per year for 25 years, on a $250,000, 25-year mortgage at five per cent interest, you can save more than $30,000 and shave 3.5 years off your amortization term. » Switch to a bi-weekly mortgage payment schedule. Changing to an accelerated bi-weekly payment can be an easy adjustment that will help you save on mortgage interest. The bi-weekly accelerated payment works to help you pay down your mortgage faster as you actually end up making 26 bi-weekly payments a year versus 12 monthly payments. This adds up to one extra monthly payment every year.

For more information, visit rbcroyalbank.com

72 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

Unlock the power of mortgage pre-approval So, you’ve decided to take the plunge into home ownership and start searching for your first home? Make sure you have your financing in order before you start your search.

“Having a mortgage preapproval is a critical component of buying a home, particularly for younger homebuyers,” says Marcia Moffat, RBC head of home equity financing. “It presents you as a serious purchaser to both realtors and sellers.”

Pre-approvals have no obligation and help lock in your interest rate. It also clarifies your budget and sets your expectations accordingly so you’re not wasting your time viewing houses that are beyond your budget.

With a pre-approved mortgage you will know what you can afford right away.

On top of the pre-approval amount, consider your lifestyle preferences and how future cost increases may impact your payment comfort zone.

Innovation earns

Daytona Homes

third Builder of the Year award

B

-

By He at her Rya n

uilding stylish and innovative homes helped Daytona Homes earn its third Builder of the Year (Large Volume) award from the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Edmonton Region.

The new home builder previously won the prestigious award in 2006 and 2007 and made it a triple crown this year by being a finalist in six single-family home award categories and winning the single-family home award for best home (without garage) in the under $230,000 category. Daytona also won an award and was

-

a finalist in other sales and marketing categories.

“Winning the Builder of the Year award is really a testament to the effort of the whole Daytona team and it speaks to the quality of homes we provide,” says Alexander (Sandy) Ladd, vice-president of housing, Daytona Homes. “We have a dedicated team of employees in the office and in the field who work hard to provide the best homes and the best new home-buying experience for our customers.”

The Daytona Group, comprised of Daytona Homes Master

73

“

“

We’re really focused on taking the stress out of the home buying experience and offering more options for personalization than ever before,

Builder and Daytona Land Corporation, operates as an integrated company dedicated to building new homes that are affordable and attainable and transforming land into amenity rich residential communities.

Daytona Homes Master Builder has been building single- and multi-family homes for firsttime buyers, growing families and empty nesters throughout Alberta since it’s inception in 1993 and currently operates in the greater Edmonton area, Grande Prairie, Lethbridge and Regina, Sask. Its most recent expansion into Saskatoon will come to fruition in the spring of 2013, when the Escalade showhome opens in the community of Rosewood.

Daytona Homes is recognized as one of Alberta and Saskatchewan’s largest family-owned new home building businesses and has made the dream of owning a new home come true for more than 5,000 families, and is currently building around 500 new homes annually.

President Tally Hutchinson, who succeeded his father, Ralph Hutchinson, the company’s founder, in February 2008, continues to lead Daytona Homes with the same traditions and values that have contributed to its award-winning success – satisfying the customer by listening to their needs and then building with experience, attention to detail, cutting-edge technology and a keen eye on a safe workplace.

74 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

Daytona Homes currently builds single-family laned homes with rear garages and front-attached garage homes, and multi-family homes consisting of duplexes and townhomes.

“Building affordable and attainable homes is a challenge in today’s market so we always look for innovative ways to meet that criteria for first-time buyers and first-time move-up buyers,” Ladd says.

“We’re really focused on taking the stress out of the home buying experience and offering more options for personalization than ever before,” he says, noting that Daytona Homes offers a one stop shop at the head office that includes the Decor Design Centre, lawyer and closing rooms.

Daytona Homes takes pride in its customer service and comprehensive full-service warranty program that includes scheduled visits and inspections at three to four weeks, four months and one year. The true mark of customer satisfaction is repeat and referral business and many customers have built more than one home with Daytona.

Throughout 2012, Daytona Homes has released several exciting new initiatives all designed to provide more choice for the consumer and enhance the customer experience.

Daytona Homes is currently building in 11 Edmonton area communities and has expanded into a number of new communities including Chappelle Gardens, Lakeview, The Orchards

and Windermere South in Edmonton; and The Elements in Erin Ridge North in St. Albert. Watch for eight new communities in 2013!

Each of these communities offer beautiful homes at slightly different price points and cater to a variety of lifestyles. Daytona Homes has also released a number of new models and new exterior architectural designs available in every community they build in.

Daytona Homes has an exciting new line-up of homes for 2013 about to be released.

“We’ll be introducing a variety of new styles, designs and elevations that will give our customers a wide selection of price categories,” Ladd says.

“We’ll continue to focus on affordability so we’re looking at expanding our multi-family and semidetached offerings, which will give more buyers an opportunity to get into new home ownership for the first time.”

Ladd says they also recognize the role that the Internet and social media play in researching and shopping for new homes, and have made significant advances in these areas to provide a fun, interactive and convenient experience for customers.

Daytona’s Facebook page “has been a hit with people; it offers a place to receive news, promotions and offers first.”

Customers can also do online shopping for their new home from the comfort of their home in Daytona’s Home Buyer’s Catalogue and they can communicate with an online sales counsellor 24/7 who provides immediate answers to questions.

On the land development side, the Daytona Land Corporation has been crafting residential land development projects since it’s inception in 1998 and works in conjunction with Daytona’s housing divisions as well as external builders to provide an efficient, value-driven and market sensitive approach to building subdivisions and servicing a wide variety of market segments.

Great thought is given to the overall look and flow of the neighbourhoods once complete. This longer view approach allows the Daytona Group to build appealing subdivisions that families can truly call home.

Daytona Land develops communities throughout the Edmonton area, Lethbridge and Grand Prairie.

- Giving Back to the Community The Daytona Group takes great pride in giving back to the community, and contributes significant funds and corporate time to organizations and programs such as: Edmonton Down Syndrome Society, Habitat for Humanity, Winnifred Stewart Association & Joey’s Home, Kids with Cancer, Rainbow Society (Grande Prairie), Lethbridge Backpack Program for Kids, Hope’s Home (Regina) and the Saskatchewan Rough Riders (Regina).

- Awards Besides the Edmonton Builder of the Year awards, some of Daytona’s other outstanding awards include the 2010 Ralph Scurfield Alberta Builder of the Year, Distinguished Builder Medallion 2009, and JD Power’s Highest in Customer Satisfaction Award for Edmonton to name a few.

- Warranties and Industry Memberships Daytona Homes has long-standing memberships in Alberta’s New Home Warranty Program, the Professional Home Builder’s Institute, local chapters of the Canadian Home Builders’ Association, and the Saskatchewan New Home Warranty Program .

For more information You’re welcome to visit Daytona’s showhomes, open Monday to Thursday, 3-8p.m., and weekends and holidays noon-5p.m, or learn more about Daytona Homes by visiting daytonahomes.ca or check out facebook.com/ daytonamasterbuilder.

edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013 75

ReidBuilt homes

monterey

2012

marks 30 years of homebuilding for Edmonton-based ReidBuilt Homes.

Just as it did 30 years ago, the name ReidBuilt is synonymous with affordable family homes that deliver superior value and quality.

Building about 300 homes each year, ReidBuilt is one of the top high-volume builders in the greater Edmonton area and a leader in their field. Jeremy Main, ReidBuilt’s sales and marketing manager, says the key to their success lies in a simplified homebuilding process, the variety of housing they offer, and delivering affordable quality-built homes.

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The fact that the company has many repeat customers speaks volumes about ReidBuilt’s reputation and the service they provide. “We’ll have someone who built their first home with us, come back to us to build their second home, and even a third home,” says Main.

Regardless of whether this is your first home with ReidBuilt, or your third, the company strives to keep the homebuilding process as smooth as possible. To that end, they’ve put in place a Customer Care Coordinator who ensures that the buying, building and move-in process is smooth and trouble-free.

ReidBuilt

offers three types of home styles for the first-time buyer all the way up to the move-up buyer. With homes ranging between 862 square-feet to over 3,200 square-feet, ReidBuilt has a home to meet everyone’s needs.

horizon Customers can also take advantage of a new ReidBuilt innovation: the Launchpad. It’s an on-line tool that allows clients to monitor the construction of their new home.

Launchpad provides weekly updates as each stage is completed and which are next in line.

ReidBuilt offers three types of home styles for the first-time buyer all the way up to the move-up buyer.

With homes ranging between 862 square-feet to over 3,200 squarefeet, ReidBuilt has a home to meet everyone’s needs.

Entry-level homes include duplexes, and laned homes with rear-detached

garages. These homes are perfect for the first-time buyer looking to enter the homeownership market. If you are looking to move up, ReidBuilt offers double-attached homes that are between 1,400 and 2,500 square-feet. And for those looking for custom homes, ReidBuilt has their Marquee brand.

These high-end homes of enduring quality are finely crafted with superb finishes and exceptional appointments.

Whether it’s an entry-level home or the Marquee home, ReidBuilt has forged a strong relationship with some of the best tradespeople, material suppliers, and industry partners. The result is a better built home with more affordable prices. edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013 77

Sheffield ReidBuilt continues to be a major force in residential real estate. Through Reid Land Developments, it has developed more than a dozen residential communities in Edmonton, Calgary and Red Deer.

Their Riverside development is the newest community in St. Albert. “Riverside offers affordable housing in St. Albert,” says Main. “It will allow people who grew up in St. Albert to remain there because of the affordable pricing.

We’re building on smaller lots which helps keep the price affordable.”

Riverside will have a mix of residential housing options from duplexes starting in the low $300,000’s to high-end singlefamily homes.

Bordering the Sturgeon River, Riverside is easily accessible from Ray Gibbon Drive. The Anthony Henday is minutes away for quick access to major routes and highways in the greater Edmonton area. Riverside is adjacent to natural amenities that include Red Willow Park, Big Lake, and White Spruce Forest and the neighbourhood connects to city parks and pathways.

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Construction on the development is underway with a show home parade opening in the spring of 2013. Lots in the first phase are available.

Interested buyers can register on the ReidBuilt website and the area manager will contact them to discuss what’s available.

ReidBuilt has received numerous local and regional awards for design, quality, and customer service, a testament to its legacy of homebuilding excellence. At the heart of this trusted homebuilder is a company that strives to provide friendly helpful service, efficient design, excellence in construction, and superior value.

To find out more about building with ReidBuilt Homes, visit www.reidbuilthomes.com call 780-486-3666 or email sales@reidbuilthomes.com

PERRY

SIGNATURE

HOMES

T

hroughout its 34 years of building homes in southwest Edmonton, Perry Signature Homes has seen its share of changes in the home building industry.

But, one thing hasn’t changed over those years: staying focused on the needs and desires of their customers.

Since 1978, the company’s founder, Burke Perry, and his business partner of 23 years, Bill Davidson, have maintained a stellar reputation over the years. Their model for success is putting the customer first and providing exceptional design, quality workmanship and outstanding service.

Whether they are building high-end custom executive homes or maintenancefree luxury duplexes through their Tapestry Developments division, their focus on customers’ needs plays out in

your luxury green builder everything they do.

It’s embodied in their reputation, home design, focus on sustainability, motivation for giving back to the community, and in the neighbourhoods in which they build. rEPUTATION AND TrUST

For 34 years, Perry Homes has always worked hard to meet or exceed customers’ expectations. “We have a reputation of not only building exceptional homes, but of taking care of our customers,” says Bill Davidson, president of Perry Homes and Tapestry Developments. “We are constantly researching and keeping ahead of the market to anticipate our customers’ needs. We go that extra mile to ensure the process is a smooth one for the customer.”

From the moment a client steps through the show home doors to the day they take possession and beyond, every

edmonton builder and developer AnnuAl 2013 79

effort is made to make the home building experience an enjoyable one. “We’ve developed procedures that simplify the many complex decisions involved,” says Davidson.

“We navigate the customer through the process and it makes the process less overwhelming. It also ensures that our customers make the best decisions in a timely but manageable fashion.”

Perry Homes builds between 12 to 20 homes a year.

By keeping the volume low, they can dedicate more time, attention, effort and focus on their customers and building the best home for their individual needs.

QUALITY AND DESIGN

Perry Homes’ solid reputation is reflected in the number of awards they’ve accumulated over the years for the quality and design of their homes. They’ve gathered nine Customer Choice Awards and over 60 design awards over the years.

Most recently, they received two design awards at the 2012 CHBA-Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing. Perry Signature Homes won for best single-family home in the province between $750,000 and $1 million for “The Bristol”.

Tapestry Developments garnered top honours for best townhome or duplex over $350,000 in the province for “The Monterey”.

“It’s definitely a feather in our cap winning awards in both single-family and multi-family,” adds Davidson. “Our design team strives to come up with designs and innovations that enthrall our clients.”

In terms of design, Davidson points to flexibility and customization options as key to Perry Homes’ winning success. “Clients can choose from one of our set of our exceptional base models,” he explains. “Or, they can start from scratch.”

Quite often a client will fall in love with the show home, and with some tweaking the home can be customized specifically for the client. On the other hand, some clients start from scratch beginning with Perry Homes’ design team who find out what the client’s needs and wants are. From there, the client moves through a seamless system to make selections and design decisions creating their own unique home.

And for those looking for a quicker possession, there are typically a number of homes under construction with colours and selections chosen by a professional interior designer.

Depending on the stage of construction, buyers may be able to personalize those homes to their liking.

SUSTAINABILITY

Perry Homes has had a long interest in building more sustainable homes. In fact, they were one of the first builders to receive an R2000 designation long before many environmental initiatives ever existed and they continue to be on the forefront of building energy-efficient homes.

They have developed specifications that achieve a high Energuide rating on each of their homes. With more clients who are environmentally aware, Perry Homes is focused more than ever on meeting those needs. “We are building healthier homes with environmentally-friendly materials, 80 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

and creating a product that is reducing the carbon footprint,” says Davidson.

They have been researching and building sustainable homes for so long, they have the experience and knowhow to make a home energy-efficient. Because of their experience, Perry Homes was invited to build in Larch Park, a new community where the entire concept is sustainability.

GIVING BACK

Perry Homes has been a strong advocate for the Edmonton area and is involved in numerous foundations and charities.

Both Burke Perry and Bill Davidson were raised and have always lived in the Edmonton area, so it was only natural for them to give back to the community.

In particular they have forged a strong partnership with Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation (RAHF). One initiative is every few years Perry Homes builds and sells a home specifically for the RAHF with all proceeds from the sale going to the foundation.

In addition, Perry Homes was proud to be a major sponsor and part of a team that embarked on a journey to the rooftop of Africa, Mt Kilimanjaro, raising funds for the orthopedic surgery center. Many of the climbers were individuals who have received knee or hip replacements. The group was also joined by four Canadian soldiers who had served in Afghanistan.

Perry Homes also participates in the annual Full House Lottery parade which raises funds for the University Hospital Foundation and the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation.

Their community involvement goes beyond fundraising.

They also believe they have a responsibility to make the homebuilding industry better which is why, over the years, they have been very involved in a number of industry boards and associations.

COMMUNITIES

Perry Signature Homes and Tapestry Developments are currently building in Larch Park, an environmentally conscious neighbourhood in southwest Edmonton. As well as being a sustainable community, it’s also one of the last remaining communities in south Edmonton with available lots inside the Anthony Henday.

Perry Homes will be moving into two new luxury communities in the spring and summer of 2013. Keswick is a high-end community perched on the banks of North Saskatchewan River above the Windermere Golf and Country Club. They will also be building in the Jagare Ridge community off Ellerslie Road with lots nestled around the Jagare ridge golf course.

As well as being an active homebuilder in many of Edmonton’s best areas, Perry Homes also builds in many infill and acreage locations.

To find out more about building with Perry Homes or Tapestry Developments, stop by their sales centre at 4505 Mead Court, Edmonton. Call them at 780.479.1913 or go to www.perryhomes.ca.

edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013 81

B U I LD E R STO RY R E G E N CY D E VE LOPM E N T S

DEVELOPMENTS

DEVELOPMENTS

Regency Developments BUIlDInG FoR tHe CommUnItY WItH VELOPMENTS RespeCt,D EHonestY, AnD InteGRItY.

DEVELOPMENTS 82

I

n 2012, Regency Developments reached new heights with Pearl Tower. Our signature building is now 24 floors high and soaring fast. The soon-to-be sparkling 35-storey condo tower will offer luxury living on 120th Street and Jasper Ave. With floor to ceiling curved glass walls, Pearl will have some of the best panoramic views of the river valley DEVELOPMENTS and city.

We celebrated the addition of Pearl Tower to Edmonton’s skyline with an exclusive luncheon called “Halfway to the Top” in September 2012. This was no ordinary luncheon.

The event took place on the 15th floor of the construction site! (See second image on right), Imagine the fall views of the river valley and bustling streets below. In fact, the river valley photo above is taken from the half-way point of Pearl!

The Pearl Presentation Centre (12080 Jasper Avenue) is impressive too. Led by the expert Regency team, explore full kitchen displays, specs of the exquisite interior options, and virtual walk-throughs to learn about the luxuries of Pearl Tower. In the spring of 2012, in response to incredible market demand, we redrew numerous plans to include two-storey suites and larger suites. We reduced the suite count from 172 D E Vare E L moving O P M E Nquickly, TS residences to an exclusive 128 residences. Units as this “downtown

jewel” will set new precedents for future residential towers and architecture in Edmonton.

Pearl Tower is at the southern tip of 124th Street. We have partnered with local establishments such as Tiramisu Cafe, Notables, Dahlia’s, and Lux Beauty, to name a few, who are making the 124th Street District an attractive area to live, work, and play.

We are proud to be building another exciting project at the northern end of this same neighbourhood. High Street District Properties (HSDP) is located at 10523 - 123 Street (see rendering on page 2). HSDP is a hip walk-up geared towards first-time buyers and homeowners looking to downsize in style.

“We are really excited about the properties,” says Regency Chief Operations Officer, Raj Dhunna about Pearl Tower and HSDP. “We hope they will serve an important role in shifting the dynamics of the west side of downtown Edmonton by promoting an entire High Street District.”

Regency, a family-run company established in the 1990s, has modest beginnings. Through hard work the company’s portfolio has grown. Madison On Whyte, located at 85th Street and Whyte Ave, sold out this year. Quest, the sleek 22-storey tower (see interior suite above) within two blocks from the proposed arena and across the street from MacEwan University, has only 15 units remaining. Our condo and townhome project on the Southside (10520 - 56th Avenue) called Serenity Gardens is 90% sold out

and will be completely sold out this year after only a two-year development timeline.

Word is spreading about Regency’s standards in construction, design, customer service, and community engagement. We are honored to be the builder that many Edmontonians are turning to for their homes. Stay tuned for our newest development on the Downtown Eastside called Edgewater on Jasper where phase 1 and 2, two 138 unit and four storey walkups, are already under construction and phases 3 and 4 will feature two more towers.

In 2013, we look forward to being even more immersed in the bright future of Edmonton and being a part of new events and initiatives that make this city a dynamic place to live. And, ofcourse, we are thrilled to continue building immaculate quality condos and townhomes that our City of Champions deserves.

We sincerely hope that your search for a new home is a pleasant and successful experience. Contact us today and we’ll make sure that it is.

Sincerely, Regency Developments www.regencydevelopments.ca info@pearltower.ca facebook.com/regencydevelopments Twitter - @regencyedmonton

84 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

b u i ld e r sto ry H O M E XX CO R P O RAT I O N

BUILT ON A SOLID REPUTATION

...Homexx Corporation

T

he urban oasis of your dreams and budget reality has never been easier to obtain or more exciting as Homexx Corporation continues to expand and improve your choices. Recent winner of the ’25 Year New Home Warranty Award’, known for crafting Homes of Excellence, Edmonton based Homexx Corporation, believes in offering its customers affordable luxury and quality. Having constructed hundreds of fine homes in its 27 year history, Homexx definitely knows how to please…

“We are a homebuilder for any need, any budget, and anywhere.” says Delia Addessi, Homexx Controller.

“We will build anywhere in Edmonton and surrounding area, including acreages, and on land that clients own

themselves, such as city infills.” “We are able to offer homes that will appeal to first time homebuyers all the way up to the estate homebuyer. We often have multigeneration repeat Homexx buyers who want something different, more personal and they come to us to get it.” The move to provide more choice is to meet our customer’s demands. We need to be able to have a wider range so we can meet everyone’s needs and budget. Since Homexx is a custom builder, our customers can still customize the entry level home just as they can an estate home.” Addessi says, “If they want to change several items they can but if they like the plan the way it is set out they can keep it as is.

Homexx believes that, like people, no two homes should be alike. This is why each homebuyer has the control to

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create a home that truly reflects their individual personality.Buyers are given the opportunity to visit the various trades to choose their interior finishes, such as lighting, cabinets, countertops and flooring, as well as, their upgrades – this flexibility ensures that each home accurately reflects the homeowners’ individuality.”

Homexx also offers the convenience of well-designed, prepackaged upgrades to simplify the decision making process and make it easy for buyers to customize their home while accommodating their budget. “We have packages for gourmet kitchens, décor and a convenience package (our most popular) with a garage door opener, etc., We also have finishing packages, milled by local craftsmen, which allow

86

our customers to have those same custom finishes across all of the levels of the homes being built.” Addessi adds that custom oak and maple details are standard in all Homexx homes.

Homexx is proud of the unique and precise woodwork done throughout each home. “Our major strength is our exclusive mill working company, where we manufacture all our original mouldings, mantels, railings and doors,” says manager Ryan Ahlskog.

“They are custom designed and quality made; no other company can replicate them.”The upgrade packages have proven extremely popular”, Addessi says, “in every house that we have started since the packages have come out, customers have taken at least two and they can be seen in all of our show

homes,” she says, noting several new packages will be available this year.

The newly developed Harvest Ridge neighbourhood, in Spruce Grove, proudly showcases ‘The Escape’. This delightful, two-storey home is a perfect combination of functionality, design and sophistication –a must-see. The beckoning front porch is a perfect place for natural inspiration. Combined with the unique foyer, both provide a memorable entry with unexpected accents and complementing colour palette throughout. The kitchen, a family friendly hangout, has ample custom wood cabinetry and spacious countertops, sure to please any cook.

Highlighting the spacious counter tops is a luxurious glass back splash. Detail, detail and more detail! ‘The Escape’ is

just one example of functionality in an exceptional home design.

New to Homexx this year are two options to accompany plank handrails: hand milled maple with wrought iron inserts or maple plank railing with 10 mil glass inserts. Either choice resonate elegance and safety. Along with these selections, Homexx has introduced a number of different fireplace mantles and finish options, to suit not only a variety of tastes, but budgets as well.

“There are so many different families that want Homexx homes and we are trying to meet the needs of the ever changing family portrait.” Ahlskog notes there is a larger sector of the market buying single-family homes as singles and the rear parking lane models with a dual master bedroom

makes it easier to have a roommate or to have a rental suite to help to pay a mortgage.

Addressing the growing popularity of 26- to 28-ft. lots and 1,600-sq.-ft. homes with attached garages, Ahlskog offers, “The huge focus is to make it easier for the homeowner to buy and simplify the process. I think by offering some pre-done elevations, packages and plans to meet the needs of today’s busy homebuyer will do that.”

Homexx builds homes throughout Edmonton and area. Although they do not have a showhome in the following locations, they do have homes under construction in: Dansereau Meadows, Lacombe Park Estates, Morningside, Parkland County, The Lakes in Morinville and Stoneshire.

Homexx, a locally-owned homebuilder that has been around for over 27 years, has earned a reputation of delivering quality homes and providing a good balance between experience and individual attention.

“We have always been known as a builder who pays a lot of attention to detail,” says Ahlskog. “A big part is being able to provide customers with the ability to make choices, as well as, dedicating ample time to each customer depending on their needs, and because of that, we have a lot of customers who are repeat buyers.”

Throughout the years Homexx has won numerous Service And Marketing (SAM) awards including ‘Builder of the Year’ for three consecutive years.

Homexx is a member of Canadian Home Builders Association – Edmonton Region, Alberta New Home Warranty Program, West Edmonton Business Association, and Better Business Bureau. Area sales managers are exceptionally proud to point out the most common thing customers say when entering a Homexx show home is “Wow! I feel at home!”

Wherever you want to build, whatever you want your home to have Homexx is ready to complete your dream oasis….Built on a Solid Reputation!

SHOW HOME LOCATIONS The Elements of Erin Ridge North 10 Executive Way North, St Albert 780-733-7920 Harvest Ridge – Single Family 188 Harvest Ridge Dr., Spruce Grove 780-733-7922 Harvest Ridge – Rear Parking Lane 11 Hewitt Circle, Spruce Grove, 780-733-7923 North Ridge 133 Northridge Dr., St. Albert 780-733-7921 Southfort Estates 9 Greenfield Bend, Fort Saskatchewan 780-733-7924 Southfort Meadows 404 Meadowview Drive North Fort Saskatchewan Spruce Ridge Gardens Under construction Spruce Grove West Haven Park 2 New Showhomes Opening 2013 Leduc

SHOW HOME HOURS Monday-Thursday: 3pm–8pm Weekends & Holidays: 12–5pm

HOMEXX CORPORATION CORPORATE OFFICE 11103–182 Street. Edmonton, AB. 780.489.3028 www.homexx.ca

HOMEXX.CA HOMEXX.CA 87

L E GAL AD V I CE

w

hen you find the perfect home, or the builder you want to work with to build your home, you must enter into a written agreement for the purchase of the home. The agreement will set out all the terms of the purchase such as the price, the completion date, and a description of the home being purchased.

The agreement may also have Conditions.

WHAT IS A CONDITION?

A Condition is an event that must occur before the purchase agreement moves forward. For example, you may make it a condition of your purchase agreement that you obtain fi nancing to complete the purchase. If you get the fi nancing in place, then you will proceed with the purchase. If you don’t get the fi nancing, then you will not proceed.

A Condition is also referred to as a Condition Precedent or a Subject To. Examples of Buyer’s Conditions » Subject to the buyer obtaining fi nancing » Subject to a property inspection » Subject to buyer’s lawyer’s approval of the agreement » Subject to sale of buyer’s existing home » Examples of Builder’s Conditions » Subject to obtaining a building permit » Subject to being able to build the home model selected on the lot selected WHAT IS A CONDITION REMOVAL DATE?

The date and time by which you must remove your Conditions. For example, where the condition is “Buyer to obtain fi nancing by Feb. 28, 2013,” Feb. 28, 2013 is the Condition Removal Date.

If you need more time to deal with your Conditions, you can ask your builder for an extension to the Condition Removal Date.

HOW DO I REMOVE MY CONDITIONS?

You must remove your Conditions in writing and

THE IMPORTANCE OF CONDITIONS

BY ROSELLINA GIARDINO

notice must be given to the other party before the Condition Removal Date. This is called waiving or removing your conditions.

If it is not done properly, it can result in the end of the purchase agreement. That is, if you forget to send the builder notice that you are removing your Condition; the builder may not think that you want to proceed with the purchase.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN ONCE I HAVE REMOVED MY CONDITIONS?

Once you remove the Conditions, the agreement is fi rm and unconditional. You must now complete the purchase transaction or possibly risk losing your deposit and being liable to the builder for damages. You should let your lawyer and mortgage lender know once you have removed your Conditions.

WHAT IF YOU CAN’T REMOVE YOUR CONDITIONS?

If you have made efforts to remove the Conditions, but you are not able to do so, then you don’t need to do anything. The contract will end if the Conditions are not removed in writing by the Condition removal date. As a courtesy, you should let your builder know that you will not be removing your Conditions.

You must take steps to try to satisfy your Conditions and if not a court could make you complete the purchase. For example, if your offer is subject to a property inspection, you must actually get a property inspection done. If your offer is subject to fi nancing, you must apply for fi nancing promptly and make reasonable efforts to obtain it.

WHAT IF I DON’T INCLUDE ANY CONDITIONS?

If you don’t have any Conditions, then the agreement is fi nal and unconditional when you sign it and you must complete the purchase.

Remember every purchase agreement is different and to review your agreement carefully before signing it.

Rosellina Giardino is an Edmonton lawyer practicing in the area of residential real estate. She may be contacted at 780.473.7779 or rg@giardinolaw.com

This article is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal or other professional advice. You are advised to contact a lawyer, your builder, or your warranty program regarding any specific issues.

88 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

ROCOCO HOMES PERSONALIZED SERVICE PERSONALIZED HOMES Rococo Homes Inc. has been building the premier living experience in Spruce Grove, Edmonton and the surrounding area since 2007. Rococo Homes is a custom home builder that prides itself on constructing strong relationships with their customers, staff, land developers, and trades people. President, Rick Lystang, considers Rococo Homes to be a small to medium-sized builder, and he states, “We want to stay that way. We build between eight and fifteen homes a year, and that is by choice.

We do that so we can offer individualized service to all of our customers.�

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ococo Homes Inc. offers full custom design through their inhouse drafting and design team.

The team works closely with buyers to create a floor plan that will fit their unique needs. Their signature homes are as unique as the needs and individual style of their customers. Lystang states,“Basically, we design and build whatever our customers want.

Clients have brought us sketches that they have drawn on napkins and pictures cut out from magazines of kitchens and built in cabinetry that they want in their home. It starts as an idea and then my team designs, drafts and builds their dream home around their idea.”

“We also have a small inventory of homes that are available for quick possession. Some people just don’t have the time to go through the building process and want a quality new home to move into right away. We also have stock plans in our portfolio that can be modified”said Rick Lystang.

Rococo Homes Inc. fills a specific niche in the market. They build two-storey homes between 2,100 to 3500 sq. ft and bungalows from 1,500 to 3,000 sq. ft. Rick Lystang states, “We specialize in homes from the $500,000 to $1.5 million dollar price range. We try not to get bigger than that, as the expectations of our trades, customers and suppliers will change when working with higher or lower specifications. We know what we do best and we strive to be experts in that market.”

This strategy proves to be working for Rococo

Homes. The Canadian Home Builders Association recognized Rococo Homes at their annual Awards of Excellence in Housing Competition in 2012, and awarded them the winner in the category of Best Single Family Home.

Lystang is a trained Architectural Technologist from NAIT and self-professed jack-of-all-trades, who has been working in the home building industry for over 20 years. Lystang states,“I’ve been a drafter, an estimator, a site supervisor, a construction manager and a general manager for many of the area’s small and large volume builders; including: Jayman, Homes by Avi and Bedrock Homes.”In addition, he also holds a Master Home Builder designation from the Professional Home Builders Institute of Alberta.“I guess you can say I have a plethora of experience in the many different levels of getting a home built. In fact, over my career, I’ve probably been involved in about 2,500 home constructions,” says Lystang.

Through that experience, Lystang and his Rococo team provide a unique service that he knows his customers appreciate, including complete turnkey homes both in town and on acreages properties. For acreages that means in addition to a beautiful custom built home, with Rococo you get sewer lines, septic tanks, phone lines, driveways and more. Lystang says,“We’ve been doing

THEIR SIGNATURE HOMES ARE AS UNIQUE AS THE NEEDS AND INDIVIDUAL STYLE OF THEIR CUSTOMERS. “IT STARTS WITH AN IDEA AND THEN MY TEAM DESIGNS, DRAFTS, AND BUILDS THE CUSTOMERS DREAM HOME, AROUND THEIR IDEA.”

90 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

full turnkey solutions for some time; from lot grading to landscaping. It just makes it easier for the customer to move in and enjoy their home.

Plus, most of our home owners are second and third time buyers who are now looking for the complete package this time around.”

Lystang has built his personal reputation and his company’s by demanding a high level of customer service and quality workmanship from his own employees extending out to his suppliers, and tradesmen.“I have long-standing relationships with my trades and suppliers, including my plumbers and cabinet suppliers. I have been working with these people for over 20 years and they know exactly what my expectations are.

Our whole company has a good rapport and level of respect for our trades and suppliers. We consider them to be part of our family.”

This level of respect is easily demonstrated by Rococo’s attention to detail. An obvious demonstration of this is to view a Rococo building site from the street. It is Rococo’s determination and expectation that all building sites are tidy. Rick explains,“I think it speaks to the quality of an organization and respect for the customer if everyone works together to keep the building site tidy, safe and organized. We don’t leave the site a

mess, and we take pride in our work. I build every home with the same attention to detail as if I were building it for my own family.”

Lystang also speaks of his company’s respect for the community in which the home is being built. From his rural background, Lystang has incorporated that “good neighbour”ethic into his company.“I think it’s important to stay connected and give back to the community,”says Rick. For Rococo Homes, that includes giving back to the home builder community and the community at large. Rick is an instructor at the Professional Home Builders Institute of Alberta where he teaches Construction Fundamentals and Construction Supervision. Lystang says,“Basically, I’m teaching other builders how to build houses. It is to hopefully teach them from my successes and experiences so that the industry has better built homes.” He has also sat on the board of directors for the Professional Home Builders Institute and the Canadian Home Builders Association - Edmonton Region, and sits on a number of the Association’s committees including the Government Liaison Committee and the Safety Committee.

Rococo Homes is also involved in charitable work within the community; including the local food bank and schools. Through their memberships with the Better Business Bureau and the Chamber of Commerce of Spruce Grove, they become deeply involved in local charity drives. Rick also speaks highly about values.“Being loyal and doing what is right

EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 91

for the communities in which we serve is very important to us.

Whether it is time or monetary donations, we do our best to participate and help where we can.”

They’re also involved in environmental stewardship, something they expect their trades to uphold as well. From highefficient furnaces and hot water tanks to ENERGY STAR rated appliances and spray foam insulations, Rococo Homes makes sure they do everything they can to sustain the communities and families for which they build.“We build into our standard process a concern for the environment and offer the best return we can to our client for their environmental dollars”says Rick.

Rococo offers a full warranty package through the National Home Warranty Program and has never denied a legitimate service request, even if it is six years down the road and the request comes from the home’s second owners.“We’d like to think we exceed warranty expectations!”Lystang exclaims.

Rick Lystang often exceeds homeowners’ expectations as the president of a building company, too. Lystang explains,“Buyers have my cell number and can call me anytime.

I’m happy to meet them onsite and go over any questions they may have. I think that’s the level of service they deserve. I love what I do and I am passionate about helping customers get the very best and provide them with an in depth understanding of what they are buying.”

This level of service must be working, and his buyers definitely appreciate it, as three quarters of his business comes from referrals and repeat customers. Lystang says,“You look after the client and they will look after you.”

Rococo is currently building in the Deer Park subdivision of Spruce Grove, and has been a part of that project for three years. They are also building in Spruce Grove’s Hilldowns neighbourhood. Rick also boasts that because of their strong relationships with other large scale builders and land developers in the area, they also have access to other developments in the Greater Edmonton Area.

For more information about Rococo Homes Inc, stop by their show home at 64 Danfield Place, Spruce Grove or call the show home at 780-962-2823. You can also call their office at 780-960-4608. Rococo has an extensive Facebook page and website. On both sites you’ll find information about the company, Rococo’s current projects, and even Rick Lystang’s cell number.

For additional information visit our website at www.rococohomesinc.ca or call 780.962.2823

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On the foundation of these three words Brookfield Residential has built a reputation as the preeminent North American developer and home builder, and successfully navigated over five decades of economic change and business growth.

The Orchards at Ellerslie

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The passion we have for our work shows in the finished product, but of equal value is what isn’t seen – the detailed planning that goes into each of our communities and homes before they actually begin. A community can take years to build and complete, so we make carefully measured decisions based on in-depth market research and analysis, and draw heavily on the knowledge and experience we’ve garnered over many years in business.

While we have great confidence in our ability to create a solid plan, we never neglect to account for change. We anticipate challenges and fine-tune our plan along the way. Passion is about being invested in your work, believing in it and doing the right thing.

That’s where integrity comes in to play. We set a tone of fairness and respect in every aspect of our business. We

Chappelle Gardens

foster the professional growth of our employees and maintain transparency with our investors and partners. People want to invest in us and do business with us because they know we’ll do what we say we’re going to do.

Our value system wouldn’t be complete without a commitment to community. The word community defines us. It is the core of our work, and the essence of our corporate culture. We take great pride in building the best residential communities and homes on the market, but we’re equally proud of the community we’ve created within our family of employees.

Our commitment to community extends further into the outside community at large – to the places where we work and live.

We give back to communities that we are part of by way of charitable donations, and active employee participation in exceptional organization.

Brookfield Residential is a land developer and homebuilder, active in 10 principal markets across North America. Our progressive vision, disciplined decision making, and in-depth industry experience results in communities and homes that are distinguished by quality, design and lifestyle. We create value for shareholders through master planning and entitling our significant land holdings, by building homes in our own communities, and by selling lots to third-party builders.

We have been developing land and building homes for over 50 years. During the last five decades Brookfield Residential has grown and developed

Mosaic Meadows ll

into the paramount company it is today. Our success has always been grounded in one thing: strategic vision in the residential landscape. From the development of award winning master planned communities, to the design and construction of premier homes and commercial properties, we remain committed to developing the best places to live.

Our success is grounded in the financial stability necessary to bring great communities to life, and the long-term relationships with our industry partners, builders, consultants, municipalities, customers, contractors, trades and suppliers.

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ootprint Developments is a local residential developer specializing in the planning, creating and marketing superior townhome communities across greater Edmonton.

In only three years, this vibrant company has successfully sold out two major developments in Terwillegar Towne and MacTaggart Ridge and has three new communities marketing in the city.

What defines a Footprint community is the superior investment value of its homes and it neatly appointed, secure public space. Land for these preferred developments is carefully selected to be near large open green spaces to ensure people have lots of room to relax and enjoy healthy activities. They are also located close to contemporary conveniences like stores, shops, daily services and public transit to ensure people enjoy quick easy access to everything they need.

Homeowners also enjoy superior home design that integrates contemporary layout, premium dĂŠcor, smart storage, double attached garages, and bundled features into one low price that will be among the best in the city.

Homes are ideally sized at 1,471 sq. ft. and come in three bedroom layouts. A large master suite provides quiet refuge at the end of a busy day. Its private five piece ensuite and spacious walk in closet ensure homeowners blissful relaxation and easy storage of wardrobe and seasonal wear.

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he main level features an oversized contemporary kitchen with large windows that flood the living space with natural light. Five appliances, in your choice of black or white, help stretch your budget and ensure turn key living the day you move in. A generous eating bar simplifies food prep and clean up and is the ideal place for kids to enjoy quick after school snacks. for quick snacks.

An eating nook is situated adjacent the 20’ x 7’ oversized balcony - perhaps the homes most wonderful feature.

This unique outdoor space makes summer barbecues and entertaining a must for as they are easy to stage and simple to clean up afterwards.

A comfortable great room provides lots of space for big screen sports viewing, playing video games, or just chilling with friends. A picture window allows ambient light to flood the space. This open concept design allows superior flow from room to room that gives an overall impression of much larger living space.

The lower level has a laundry room, smart storage room and oversize double garage. The extra deep rear entry garage has additional storage for kid’s stuff or recreational equipment.

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Footprint’s NEW Communities Following the successful completion of Terwillegar Corners in Terwillegar Towne and Mactaggart Townhomes in Mactaggart Ridge, Footprint has expanded its developments in three new communities.

- South Terwillegar Townhomes A NEW community in South Terwillegar is located adjacent a beautiful lake and park space and will be the final development to be completed in this mature community. This 42 home community, is just minutes from the convenience of Anthony Henday Drive and already enjoys the benefits of regular transit service and is close to three brand new schools in the preferred southwest sector of the city.

- Secord Corners in West Edmonton New Showhome Now Open Check out Footprint Developments’ newest west Edmonton community in Secord. This superb family development is situated right across the street from a beautiful urban forest with tree lined walking trails and a children’s playground. Secord is one of Edmonton’s finest family communities with easy access to The Grange Shopping District, a new school and the Lewis Estates Call Jodi at 780.966.5637 Golf Course.

Call Jodi at 780.668.5637

- Albany Trails Townhomes In Northwest Edmonton New Showhome Now Open Words like modern, stylish come to mind when you think of Albany Trails Townhomes. Granite countertops, large windows and glass tile backsplash in the kitchen give the space a sleek urban feel while a large rear deck and oversize double garage deliver what suburban buyers really want. Innovative finishes like glass walls allow light to flow throughout the home.

Adjacent to a community pond, these townhomes are located in the exciting Albany community and offer a quiet natural surrounding for homeowners. Located in northwest Edmonton, just north of 167 Avenue and west of 127 Street, this ideal location is just minutes from major shopping and entertainment.

The beautiful homes in Secord Corners will feature brand new architectural styling and with

$270

prices from the ’s offer the area’s best investment value.

Call Jodi at 780.668.5637

Launching in early 2013!

Gorgeous townhomes and apartment style condos in Eaux Claires in North Edmonton.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to live in this exciting community with easy access to downtown Edmonton, the Anthony Henday, shopping and much more.

For maps on all our locations, please see our ad on page 5.

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For complete information about any Footprint Developments community, visit the company’s Sales Office located on Mullen Way in southwest Edmonton’s MacTaggart Community.

You can also contact Jodi at 780.668.5637 or visit their website at

www.footprintdevelopments.ca

ROHIT GROUP OF COMPANIES BUILDING AND BEYOND As many successful stories come from humble beginnings, the resilient business that flourishes is built through challenges and obstacles, from perseverance and opportunity. Known by many in the Greater Edmonton Area as an established multi-family builder this long standing Edmonton company is a chronicle of opportune diversification.

Rohit Communities was founded in 1986 by Radhe and Krishna Gupta and initially focused on building condominium communities and establishing aesthetically-pleasing neighbourhoods. Its housing product line today has expanded to include single family homes, townhomes, duplexes and apartment-style condos in Edmonton, Sherwood Park and Fort McMurray. Rohit has evolved into a diversified organization with complementary interests in residential

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land development, commercial assets, and real estate lending.

“That vertical integration has positioned us as an industry leader with expertise across all facets of real estate and given us a solid platform for growth,” says Amy Power, Marketing Manager at Rohit Group of Companies.

“Our land development division has largely been modest with its presence over the last decade, but over the next five years it is gaining substantial momentum aimed at assertive expansion Edmontonians will know.”

In the past year, Rohit Land Development has brought on two new projects in Northern Alberta: Starling at Big Lake in northwest Edmonton and Heritage at Parsons Creek in Fort McMurray.

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STARLING AT BIG LAKE Starling at Big Lake is located on the corner of 137 Avenue and Ray Gibbon Drive, right on the border of St Albert. Power: “People are really excited about this neighbourhood because of its access to St. Albert and the rest of Edmonton thanks to its proximity to Anthony Henday Drive and Yellowhead Trail.”

Starling at Big Lake is a special community for Rohit because of its unique Low Impact Development (LID) initiatives. “The community is right on the border of the Lois Hole Provincial Park and Big Lake, so we wanted the neighbourhood to fit well within its natural settings, but still have access to all the amenities a family needs.” The community’s grand opening took place over the Thanksgiving long weekend and saw over 300 families come through the community’s six showhomes, thus supporting the area’s popularity. To learn more about Starling at Big Lake, visit starlingatbiglake.com

HERITAGE AT PARSONS CREEK Although Rohit Communities has been building homes in Fort McMurray since 1998, Heritage at Parsons Creek is Rohit’s first land development project in the Fort McMurray area. In May of 2011, Rohit secured two parcels of land through an open bid process in Parsons Creek. “Fort McMurray’s rapid growth over the past decade has created increased housing demand so it was paramount for us to bring the lots to market as quickly as possible,” explains Power. With the support of the Province of Alberta, the Municipality of Wood Buffalo and trade partners, 302 lots were serviced by the end of 2011. “What this team did in 5 months was virtually unheard of; it made it that much sweeter to see the first families move in this fall.” Phase 2 lots are currently being serviced with another 227 lots available for 2013. For more information, visit heritageatparsonscreek.com

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CONTINUED GROWTH AT ROHIT Rohit Commercial is a complete commercial real estate company that designs, builds, manages and acquires revenue-producing properties, including office, warehouse and retail space. Power says that while Rohit Commercial has been around since 2005, in 2013 and beyond, they see their commercial division becoming a much larger aspect of their business, thanks to some significant land holdings that come to market in the next few years.

Rohit Group of Companies doesn’t stop at commercial real estate and land development either. The values that the company was founded on remain at the forefront of its business today. They strive to give back to the communities in which they work through the Rohit Charities division. “The innovative approach we take to business extends to our charitable initiatives as well,” says Power.

“We look for new ways to get involved that are sustainable and renewable.” That’s why they are a founding builder of Habitat for Humanity’s Habitat Day in Edmonton and have donated two apartment condos to the non-profit organization. They’re also passionate supporters of SAGE (Seniors Association of Greater Edmonton), the Mental Health Foundation, the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation and many other local charities.

To learn more about Rohit Group of Companies and its divisions, visit rohitgroup.com or check them out on Facebook – www.facebook.com/rohitcommunities

NEW PROJECTS COMING SOON TO EDMONTON! In 2013, look out for Rohit Land Development’s newest project — Glenridding Heights in the city’s southwest.

Rohit Communities partners again with the City of Edmonton on two new projects in the First Place Program. Stay tuned!

JOIN THE HOME TEAM If you are a driven and passionate person on a quest for a rewarding career with a resourceful and innovative company, we want to hear from you.

Visit www.rohitgroup.com/careers

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M O N EY M AT T E R S

MONEY MISTAKES COUPLES MAKE

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ometimes a crappy way of relating can really muck up the money. Whether you’re planning a walk down the aisle or you’ve already been hitched for eons, there are some common mistakes couples make that can throw a wrench into their moneyworks.

01 KEEPING SECRETS I’m truly amazed at the number of people who hide stuff from their partners. They go shopping, bring home a bag of stuff, and rip off the tags – because, of course, their partners are morons and won’t recognize a new outfit when they see it. One woman shoved her new purchases in the laundry hamper fi rst thing. Another kept her new purchases in the trunk of her car until she could slide them into the house. Many people lie about what they’ve paid for an item because if it’s a good enough deal they can slip it past their buddy. And then there are all the folks who hook up only to fi nd their partner is a fi nancial disaster.

If you can’t be open about what you’re buying, that should tell you something. If you think your partner is going to object to your spending, hey, listen up! And if you’re planning to mate and you haven’t sat down to talk about your money, you’re a fool, plain and simple.

Communication is job one in the survival of any relationship, and if you can’t bare your fi nancial soul to your partner, if you can’t trust that person to tell you the truth, you should not be getting married.

02 NOT HAVING A BUDGET It isn’t going to come as a surprise to you that I think every couple should have a budget.

Whenever you combine two lives, two ways of looking at things, two spending profi les into one, you need to have a plan to ensure both bodies are on the same page about where the money should be going.

It’s not unusual for couples to spend $30 a month here, $25 a month there, $60 on this, $97 a month on that, and when it’s all added up, it’s a whopping amount of money 102 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

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Having come up with a budget you both agree to, it’s easy to decide what to buy and when. You simply ask each other, “Where does this fit in the budget?” If it doesn’t, then you work together to make room, cutting a little of her golfi ng and his beerwiththeboys to come up with the cash to make the purchase. Working together with a plan beats the bejezus out of flying solo blind and bumping into each other.

A budget can be a relationship-saver when one of you is a spender and the other is a saver, since by having a plan you can address both your needs. It’s particularly important when you are both spenders heading to the brink of bankruptcy. Knowing where you stand fi nancially means you can make informed decision about your spending without a huge debt hangover.

03 PUTTING ONE GUY IN CHARGE It’s not unusual for one person to assume the nitty-gritty of daily fi nances. It often falls to one partner to pay the bills, check the insurance coverage, decide on how to invest the retirement savings, figure out how much to put away for education savings, negotiate with lenders, pay the taxes… the list is virtually endless. Often, it’s because one partner is more inclined toward these tasks. The problem is that when one person is excluded, or totally abdicates responsibility, it means the other can mess things up with no monitoring or grow resentful at always having to do the detail. It’s important for each partner to not only to feel involved in the big fi nancial decisions but also understand the day-to-day details.

Taking turns managing the chequebook, and having regular conversations so that both of you are clear about what’s going on, means you’re both in the know and working to the same ends. It also means that one person doesn’t have to deal with all the crap, while the other merrily laughs off the stress and frustration with, “You’re managing the money, so this is your problem to deal with.” (Yes, there are dopes who say this.)

04 DENYING THE DEBT Regardless of who has the debt, the impact on the family unit will be significant. If you can’t be debt free when you get hooked up, the very least you should have is a plan for how you’ll get that debt paid off.

While no one likes to think about bad things happening, the fact is that bad things do happen to good people. If you don’t have a stash of cash at the ready to deal with whatever life throws at you, you won’t have the means to cope

Never sign for each other’s debt. When you do, you assume responsibilities that may choke you to death. If your buddy needs help paying off the debt, you can do that without putting your name on the paperwork.

“But he won’t be able to get a car if I don’t help him,” I’ve heard. Then he shouldn’t have a car. “But she’ll pay an outrageous amount of interest.” Then she shouldn’t take the loan. “We’re partners in everything.”

Maybe that’s how you feel now, but how will you feel when (s)he doesn’t pull her/his weight on the debt repayment, and you’re on the hook for his or her past self-indulgence?

As for blowing your brains out on a big wedding when you’re walking around with a ton of debt, give your heads a shake! Wedding mania, exotic honeymoons and a houseful of brand new furniture is wonderful, providing you have the money to pay for it. Going into debt for massive selfindulgence is downright dopey.

05 SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF If you’re going to spend your relationship getting your britches in a knot over every little thing, you’re going to be miserable… for a long time.

Or you’re going to get divorced. You have to figure out which battles are worth fighting, and when negotiation makes more sense.

If the small stuff adds up to big problems it’s usually because you don’t have a budget and aren’t on the same page when it comes to your priorities. It’s not unusual for couples to spend $30 a month here, $25 a month there, $60 on this, $97 a month on that, and when it’s all added up, it’s a whopping amount of money. If you’re tracking your expenses, it’s easy to decide what has to go and when to stop shopping.

One of the ways some couples deal with the money issue is to allot each partner a weekly or monthly “allowance” that can be used for any that body desires. Since the allowance is part of the budget, the plan stays in place while the individuals have some personal freedom when it comes to how they’ll spend their personal money.

Once you have a slush fund, you can each spend as you wish without questions or recriminations, you can then agree that on purchases above a certain amount you’ll consult with each other before buying.

06 FAILING TO PLAN FOR EMERGENCIES While no one likes to think about bad things happening, the fact is that bad things do happen to good people. If you don’t have a stash of cash at the ready to deal with whatever life throws at you, you won’t have the means to cope. One of the big upsides of joining up is that you’re able to act as a safety net for each other through life’s storms. But that doesn’t happen magically. And often couples overestimate their partner’s ability to take over the entire fi nancial burden should one partner lose a job, someone become ill or suffer some other disaster. It takes a plan. And part of that plan includes creating a pretty hefty emergency fund. Another part includes reducing your risks in whatever ways possible. Every couple should have enough money available to cover six months’ worth of living expenses.

And each partner should make it a priority to get adequate insurance coverage.

Communication and negotiation are the keys to dealing with money issues when you partner. Of course you also need some practical money-management skills to actually pull the whole thing off.

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

EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 103

g r e e n l iv i n g

10 questions to ask your builder

before you buy an energy-efficient home

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omebuyers may assume their new home is energy-efficient, but may not know for sure unless they ask.

Ask these questions to be sure 01. Any builder can claim to build energy-efficient homes. How do I know your homes are truly energy efficient?

02. Since all builders must meet the requirements of the building code,

104 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

what makes your homes different from other builders’ homes?

03. How do your building techniques reflect the latest developments in housing technology?

04. What steps do you take to improve the energy efficiency of the homes you build?

05. Can you predict what my energy costs will be?

06. What makes your homes more environmentally friendly than others?

07. Are you licensed by the government to build energyefficient homes?

08. Do you affix a governmentbacked energy label to the home?

09. Do independent, licensed professionals inspect the quality of your homes?

10. Do you build homes that receive an EnerGuide rating of 80 or higher or its equivalent?

White Eagle Homes

Alberta’s two-time Builder of the Year

By Heather Ryan

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or the second consecutive year White Eagle Homes has proven their innovative designs, distinctive standard features and outstanding customer service make them the best home builder in the province.

The small volume builder soared above much larger competitors this year, by winning the Ralph Scurfield Builder of the Year Award at the Alberta Awards of Excellence in Housing.

“We’re really excited to be chosen as the Builder of the Year for the second year in a row, it was quite a surprise and we’re very honoured and proud; it shows that we are doing something right,” says Bozena Odyjewska, co-founder with her Husband Mike of White Eagle Homes.

“We continually try to be innovative and to raise the bar so we can offer homes that buyers can be proud of and that reflect their personality,” Bozena says.

White Eagle Homes had five homes that were selected as finalists in the single-family categories and they won four awards – more than any builder in the competition held by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Alberta.

providing unique

customized &homes White Eagle Homes also had a strong showing in the homeowners’ survey, which counts toward the Builder of the Year award that Bozena says is “most important because we want our customers to be happy and satisfied with the end result.”

White Eagle Homes builds an average of 28 to 30 homes a year ranging from 1,600 sq. ft. to more than 3,000 sq. ft. Some homes are custom-built, but most are crafted from the large variety of floor plans the company has available. From bungalows and bi-levels to two-storeys buyers can own a home of their dreams whether it’s a traditional or modern style and everywhere in between.

“We have hundreds of plans available and if they choose a set plan, they still have the opportunity to customize them,” Bozena says. “We cater to their needs and change the plans to suit what they desire.”

White Eagle Homes sets itself apart from other home builders by offering high-end standards in designs that are not only beautiful but functional.

Bozena says a signature feature in their homes is the fireplace, which in most cases are surrounded in gorgeous stone from floor to ceiling. “A fireplace we have in our newest showhome in Allard is a two-way glass fireplace that gives a separation between the front room and great room,” she says. The fireplace juts out from the side of the wall and is surrounded in stone from the floor to the 18-ft. high ceiling, “so it’s quite grand.”

Some fireplaces are corner or wall-centred, some have decorative arched niches that rise two-storeys high, and others may step out from the side of a wall or be centred in the home for a dramatic look.

106 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

White Eagle Homes is also known for creating stunning open floor plans with 16- to 18-ft. high ceilings that give the great room a sense of grandeur and allow for two banks of windows to let in plenty of natural light, as well as ensuring open views from the front entry to the rear of the home.

“We use a large amount of stone, hardwood and porcelain tile throughout, as well as granite counter tops, iron railings and crown mouldings, which add a rich character to the home,” Bozena says.

Kitchens present stylish yet functional islands with breakfast bar seating, solid wood doors on the cabinets and several plans have walk-through pantries and built-in appliances. The builder also crafts a number of built-ins such as entertainment centres and shelving units to give the home a unique look. And customers can choose what they want for appliances and other features and finishes for their home by visiting the home builder’s suppliers.

White Eagle Homes also creates warmth underfoot by installing in-floor heating in many of its homes, not just in the basement, but on the main floor and in the garage. “With our winters in Alberta that’s really nice to have,” Bozena says. “It makes the home more comfortable, especially for young children playing on the floor, and it saves on energy.”

Among other energy-saving elements that White Eagle Homes includes in some of its homes are hot water on demand systems, low flush toilets, spray foam insulation, triple glaze windows and high energy-efficient furnaces.

On the exterior, buyers will find an abundance of stone and cement stucco that presents a more European style look, and this type of exterior provides more fire protection, Bozena says.

White Eagle Homes builds single-family homes with frontattached garages mostly for move-up buyers looking for more space for their growing family, and the bungalows are attractive to empty nesters who desire main-floor living or mature families who develop additional bedrooms in the lower level for their older children.

“We really want to create something that will be like a piece of art and will last a lifetime,” Bozena says. “For us it would be easy to build mass production homes, but we like working one on one with our customers to give them that personal touch.”

White Eagle Homes’s approach to home-building that treats customers as family has earned the company a good deal of repeat business and referrals over the years. From the design and product selections to the construction and warranty work, the entire process is customer-driven and customers are better informed because they work directly with the builders.

“We strive to fulfil our customers’ needs and provide an exemplary customer service; and we receive a very positive feedback from our customers, who appreciate our accessibility and our efforts,” Bozena says.

Current Communities White Eagle Homes is currently building homes on lots in Allard, Schonsee and Callaghan in north and south Edmonton, in Lacombe Park in St. Albert, and it has some lots available in northeast Edmonton. As well, it will build homes for customers who have their own lots in the Edmonton area.

There is a new showhome in Allard, at 1724 Adamson Cres., which is a 3,500-sq.-ft, two-storey, and a 2,200-sq.-ft. two-storey in Callaghan will open in 2013.

Awards White Eagle Homes’ approach to customer service and its incredible designs earned the company the prestigious Ralph Scurfield Builder of the Year Award from Canadian Home Builders Association –Alberta in 2011 and 2012.

The homebuilder has been winning awards for its designs since it first started entering the Canadian Home Builders Association – Edmonton Region’s SAM Awards in 2005. That year White Eagle Homes entered two designs – both became winners in their categories. The company has won or been a finalist every year since then, and this year it was a finalist in six categories.

Warranty White Eagle Homes offers a one-year builder warranty, and through Progressive Home Warranty Solutions Inc., there’s a 10year structural warranty, five-year foundation warranty and twoyear mechanical system warranty.

For more information To learn more about White Eagle Homes, visit the showhomes, open Monday to Thursday, 3-8 p.m., and weekends and holidays, noon-5 p.m., check out www.whiteeaglehomes.com, or e-mail: odyjewska@gmail.com EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 106

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eaverbrook’s communities are each carefully designed with the family in mind, creating a special character, aura and a sense of belonging for families. Just ask the staff at Beaverbrook – each of them work meticulously during the planning stages of community development to ensure that they themselves would be proud to call their projects home.

Whether it’s the flowers at the entry gates, a small turn in the roadway to reveal a beautiful view of a blooming stormwater lake, a peaceful stroll to the park and playground, the stonework on each corner that reminds you of the architectural character of the neighbourhood – each design element is thoughtfully integrated within the community to make it special.

On the cutting edge, Beaverbrook has introduced the first private family leisure centre in an Edmonton community, which boasts an outdoor heated swimming pool with lifeguards, a skating rink, tennis courts, basketball courts and a playground.

In Spruce Grove, a new master-planned community embraces greener living through innovative stormwater management techniques, LED street lighting, a builder green home rating system and wind power.

Not to mention their creative adaptation of the “brownstone” style architecture whereby each house will have a front façade that is made of brick or stone. The greener lifestyle and architectural concept will still be affordable for families, making it easy for them to adopt.

Beaverbrook’s goal is to build a legacy of beautiful neighbourhoods that are timeless in their character and design. To learn more about Beaverbrook communities visit www.beaverbrook.ca.

Upper Windermere Edmonton

Upper Windermere Edmonton

Hampton pointe Edmonton

Located in southwest Edmonton, Upper Windermere is one of the most prestigious neighbourhoods in Edmonton. This community offers residents an exclusive lifestyle with its private leisure centre complete with a heated outdoor pool, skating rink, tennis court, and basketball court. The community offers an intricate park system that stretches to the North Saskatchewan River and distinct architectural details that distinguish this stylish neighbourhood from other Edmonton communities. www.upperwindermere.com

Windermere ridge Edmonton With breathtaking views of the North Saskatchewan River, a 56-acre tree reserve, and impressive, richly-detailed, custom-designed architecture, a home on Windermere Drive in Windermere Ridge is the sought after address to have in Edmonton. The limited supply of large lots provide homeowners with an exclusive and luxurious lifestyle. www.windermereridge.ca

Hampton pointe Edmonton A fresh and youthful community located in west Edmonton, Hampton Pointe is perfect for a family planting their roots and features affordable living in homes centred around a park and stormwater lake, complete with walking paths and convenient amenities. Bask in the joys of nature, just west of the Anthony Henday at Lessard Road. www.hamptonpointe.ca 109

one at Windermere Edmonton

stonecreek Ft. mcmurray

greenBUrY spruce Grove

greenBUrY spruce Grove Situated along the east boundary of 60-acre Jubilee Park, Greenbury offers a combination of starter and move-up homes in the warm, timeless style of New York Brownstone architecture. Greenbury embraces greener living through innovative stormwater management techniques, LED street lighting, a builder green home rating system and wind power in an affordable way, making it easy for families to adopt. It’s the perfect community for those who are ready to integrate environmental stewardship in their daily lives.s, all at no extra cost. www.greenbury.ca kenton spruce Grove

roBinson Leduc

Conveniently located on the east side of Spruce Grove, the community includes Kenton Woods, an exclusive cul-de-sac boasting grand over-sized estate properties, with a protected tree stand surrounding the prestigious enclave, and Kenton Village, a cozy community made up of a variety of family homes, steps away from amenities and Jubilee Park. www.beaverbrook.ca/kenton stonecreek & parsons creek Fort mcmurray Stonecreek sits on the edge of lush ravines along the Athabasca River. Nestled within the boreal forests of Alberta’s north, Stonecreek features a mix of housing, parks, storm water management, a trail system, and commercial space. The unique architecture of the homes has elevated the standard of residential homes in Fort McMurray.

roBinson Leduc

Located in southwest Edmonton, One at Windermere offers two distinct architectural styles, Prairie Modern and Contemporary Modern. Living in smart, modern style, residents of ONE at Windermere will take advantage of the best shopping at Currents of Windermere, two golf and country clubs, and endless kilometers of river valley trails.

Nestled in the south east portion of Leduc, this neighbourhood is just minutes away from numerous amenities, including the brand new Leduc Recreation Centre, schools, and beautiful Telford Lake. Consisting of an architecturally controlled mix of starter and move-up homes, Robinson is the ideal community for families.

Designed around a centrally located storm water pond, the community features a central park and playground area, as well as a number of passive recreational parks, connected by an extensive walkway system.

www.oneatwindermere.com

www.liveinrobinson.ca

www.stonecreekinftmac.com one at Windermere Edmonton

visit www.beaverbrook.ca for more information, community maps, and showhome details.

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I N FI N ITI MASTERBUILT

Exceeding your expectations INFINITI MASTERBUILT has a simple philosophy: High quality and fine craftsmanship should be expected in every home.

INFINITI focuses on the experience of building a home, and making that experience as easy and enjoyable as possible for their clients.

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his approach is what drives INFINITI to build superior quality custom estate homes that meet their clients’ lifestyles and exceed their expectations. Putting that philosophy into practice is multifold – from the initial meeting with a client to working with them on every detail to ensure that the clients’ needs and desires are met.

The exceptional experience with INFINITI begins when a client comes through the door. “The team meets with the client and we begin to build a relationship. It is an opportunity for the

client to get to know us, and for us to get to know the client,” says Marina Plewes, principal at INFINITI . Realizing that no two clients are the same, INFINITI has created an organized process and developed specific steps that help make it easier for the client.

“In the many years of building estate homes, we have experienced points where clients may need more attention in choosing selections or making decisions. In addition to our years of experience, we also provide the services of an Interior Designer to consult on the many choices that have to be made,” says Plewes.

EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 111

With over 45 years of combined homebuilding expertise, the owners of INFINITI MASTERBUILT bring with them a wealth of creativity, knowledge, skill, and most of all – passion. “We do it well – because we love doing it,” explains Greg Stearns, principal at INFINITI. Clients have direct contact with the owners of INFINITI, who hold Master Home Builder designations and who supervise the building of their home. A group of hand selected trades and craftsmen partner with INFINITI MASTERBUILT to bring the client’s dream home to life.

Bringing a better life to their clients also means using sustainable technology and building practices. As a member BuiltGreen Canada, INFINITI is committed to building homes that have a low impact on the environment while also providing cost savings and healthier

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living. With a keen interest in the science of home building, INFINITI is continually researching to introduce clients to new ideas, products and technologies to build homes of the highest efficiency.

INFINITI MASTERBUILT is building in the beautiful Estates of Granville, located at the southwest corner of Whitemud and Guardian Road. A craftsman-inspired community, nestled on 305 acres in West Edmonton, Granville features green space, trails, 2 ponds, a school site and amenities throughout. It is one of the only estate communities in West Edmonton, with many lots able to accommodate a triple garage. INFINITI’s luxurious show home opens Spring 2013.

INFINITI will also design and build a home on your lot, in mature neighborhoods and on acreages, or they can help find a community that fits your family.

INFINITI MASTERBUILT is committed to bringing a better lifestyle to their clients. “We aren’t delivering a house – we are building a home,” states James Dyer, principal at INFINITI. INFINITI MASTERBUILT continues to grow and build its reputation as an estate home builder, and welcomes interested homebuyers to contact them at 780.571.1188 or at info@infinitimasterbuilt.com. For more information, visit infinitimasterbuilt.com.

EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 113

WHAT’S HOT FOR

2013

TREND WATCHING IS ALWAYS FUN. It never ceases to amaze me how world events affect our moods and our need for certain things to be integrated into our homes.

Through my research in fashion, colours, interior design and architecture, I have compiled a list of my favorite What’s Hot and What’s Not for 2012/2013 – ENJOY! 114 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

What’s Hot • Polished chrome combined with natural aged wood, creates delicious tension.

• Bold stripes and squares – colour blocking. Go red and white with gingham.

What’s Not DISCLAIMER—THIS IS REALLY JUST A LIST OF PET PEEVES… • Basic lighting packages – or too small of a chandelier.

• Bold floral prints with white backgrounds along with colour blocking are in.

• Pictures that are too small for the space or not hung correctly (too high).

• Satin and antique gold door hardware and light fixtures

• Clutter.

• Stop being so matchy, matchy! Stimulate your senses, pair colours and textures. Turn to folklore African, Bulgarian, Mexican all come into play.

• Area rugs that are too small for your room.

• Hand sketched ink art will be huge.

• Furniture that is too big for your room.

• Natural wide-plank hardwood.

• Large scale knits and macramé are taking off in interior décor.

• Worn out faucets and cabinet handles

• Newly dyed area rug. The best way to add a splash of energy to a neutral colour scheme.

• Crowded dining rooms.

• What is old is new again, put your signature on it!

• Dark hardwood floors. Love the look, hate the maintenance.

• Yellow is the new pink and purple are the two of the hot colours for 2013 – Try Sico’s 6174-52 A Simpler Time, or 6175-63 Magic Purple.

• Dark, plain high gloss countertops – they show everything!

• A home devoid of colour.

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H O M E S M ART S

THE TOP 10 MISTAKES PEOPLE MAKE WHEN BUYING A HOME – AND HOW TO AVOID THEM

BY M ARNIE BENNETT

w

hen you are buying a home either as a primary residence or an investment, it’s one of the biggest decisions of your life. You need to ensure you are properly educated and are making all the right moves.

HERE’S A LIST OF THE 10 MOST COMMON MISTAKES TO AVOID:

1 | Failing to have a trusted advisor: You need to do the proper homework, and it’s critical that you work with a professional such as a trusted real estate representative or a lawyer. When you work with a real estate professional, make sure they are full time and know exactly what you’re looking for and in your desired neighbourhood, not there’s. Work with someone who gets you the best price and provides a hassle-free experience.

2 | Wasting time looking at homes you can’t afford: Most buyers don’t know what they can afford. It’s absolutely critical that you know your credit rating and to get a proper mortgage pre-approval – before you begin shopping for a home. Remember, a pre-approval is a commitment from a lender, stating the purchase price and interest rate, guaranteed for a specific amount of time. You can then concentrate on looking at homes you know you can afford.

Buying new, you will need a capped rate upwards up to 18 months, to account for the construction period.

3 | Buying the wrong house: Make a list of priorities and outline the “must-haves” and “wants.” Determine the housing style, number of bedrooms, bathrooms, neighbourhood, parking and proximity to work or public transportation.

Be clear and stick to your budget.

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Find out what the payment privileges are, if the mortgage is portable, the interest rate, if you need life insurance on your mortgage, frequent payment privileges, amortization and if the mortgage is open, variable or fixed 4 | Not hiring a professional home inspector: Even new homes need to be inspected, to help identify any shortcomings on what was promised in your purchase agreement. Professional inspectors will check everything from the foundation to the shingles on the roof and everything in between.

You may have to go back and have your builder make necessary repairs.

8|F ailing to understand your mortgage: Find out what the payment privileges are, if the mortgage is portable, the interest rate, if you need life insurance on your mortgage, frequent payment privileges, amortization and if the mortgage is open, variable or fixed. There are so many factors, so make sure you are educated and understand the terms.

5 | Not revisiting the neighbourhood at various times of the day and not meeting the neighbours: You want to ensure that you made the proper decision and in the right neighbourhood.

9 | Not being prepared for construction delays: Buying a new home versus a resale home has its advantages: choices of style, finishings, options, lot size and the fact that everything is new. But you may have construction delays, and the neighbourhood may not be fully developed, so it’s important to be prepared.

6 | Not conquering your fear: Buying a home is a scary thing and you may think you’ll never find the right home. Should you buy now? Will prices fall? Should I keep looking? When you’re renting, 10 | N ot being ready for move-in day: Establish a list you’re making someone else rich and not building of priorities and ensure you have all contacted equity. When you are a homeowner, you have a the utility companies, provided your insurance fixed asset and you’re on your way to financial company with details, booked movers, rerouted freedom. Do your homework and be ready to your mail and finalized your mortgage. make that decision when you find the perfect home.

Have Confidence.

7 | Not knowing your closing costs: Before you sign on the dotted line, know your costs. Are you eligible for government programs? How much are lawyer fees? What are the utilities costs? Make sure you have enough money for these contingencies.

Marnie Bennett owns Bennett & Co., a boutique real estate marketing firm providing a full range of marketing services to developers and builders.

She is also a broker and team leader of the Bennett Real Estate Professionals with Keller Williams. E-mail your questions to mbennett@bennettpros.com

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H O M E S EAR CH

PINPOINTING THE PERFECT LOCATION FOR YOUR NEW HOME

BY WAY N E K A R L

e

ver notice how many developers boast their new community is “just minutes from shopping, schools and all the amenities!”? And that “Everything you need is right at your doorstep”?

This is not just marketing gimmickry at work.

These factors really matter, as such attractions are critical in determining a development’s appeal to buyers – for lifestyle and comfort while living there, as well as resale potential down the road.

However, one of those factors carries a little more weight than the others: proximity to infrastructure.

The federal and provincial governments have been spending billions on infrastructure improvements over the last few years to upgrade highways, transit systems, airports and other services such as health care. For housing developments, this means more and better access.

In such cases, it’s no exaggeration to say the infrastructure developments have allowed new communities to literally sprout up along the way.

Numerous studies throughout North America and elsewhere show that proximity to mass transit and highways has the most significant impact on property values, since it improves residents’ accessibility to a city’s central business district and other areas with employment opportunities.

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The greatest benefit, according to Cutting Edge Research Inc., is for properties located within 500 metres of stations along new transit lines.

Value enhancements can be 10 to 20 per cent higher for homes within this distance than those outside it.

“Distance is now measured in minutes, not kilometres,” says Don Campbell, president of Cutting Edge, summarizing a principle that homebuyers anywhere can follow: as people increasingly factor commuting times into their buying decisions, proximity to transportation is a top determining factor for both convenience and resale value.

While you’re out there shopping for your new home or condo, take a look around and see how close you are to the nearest highway, subway or light rail transit. Then follow the tracks to those housing projects and communities – and your new home – that will make a sound buying decision.

KEY POINTS TO CONSIDER » Do you want to live in a city, a town or in the country? » Where do you work, and how easy will it be to get there and at what are the commuting costs?

» If you have or plan to have children, where will they go to school and how will they get there? » Do you want safe walking areas, recreational facilities or other amenities such as shopping nearby?

12 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE YOU BUY Consider the following checklist of key questions, from Vancouver-based real estate research and consulting fi rm Cutting Edge Research Inc., for analyzing the potential of an area. The more “yes” answers you get, the better the location.

01 Is the area’s average income increasing faster than the provincial average?

02 Is the area’s population growing faster than the provincial average?

03 Is the area creating jobs faster than the provincial average?

04 Does the area have more than one major employer?

05 Will the area benefit from an economic or real estate ripple effect?

06 Has the political leadership created an economic growth atmosphere?

07 Is the Economic Development Office progressive and helpful?

08 Is the area’s infrastructure being built to handle the expected growth?

09 Are there any major transportation improvements in the works?

10 Is the area attractive to Baby Boomers’ lifestyle?

11 Is there a short-term problem occurring that is likely to disappear in the future?

12 Is there a noted increase in labour and materials costs in the area?

Source: Cutting Edge Research Inc.

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O N T H E M OV E

UNDERSTANDING THE LANGUAGE OF MOVING

BY DA N HOPK INS

d

olly,” “LD,” “internal move” – hearing the terms used to describe your move may give you panicked flashbacks of high school second-language classes.

Professional moving can be a technical business.

There are industry-specific terms and products that most people have never heard before. No need to worry.

Consider the following list your “intro to the Moving Language” course. You’ll be saying pass the stretchwrap before you know it! » Appliance dolly A dolly with straps to load and unload large items such as appliances. » Larger screen TV dolly A special hard cased enclosed box with wheels that can safely accommodate any large screen television to allow it to be moved safely.

If you have a large screen TV, be sure your mover has this specialized equipment to make sure it doesn’t get damaged during your move. » Binding estimate A flat price based on a given inventory, meaning no matter how long the job takes, the flat price is always paid. This is typically restricted to situations when an on-site estimate is performed. » Bill of lading A contract between mover and customer that also acts as a receipt. Make sure you understand everything on the bill before you sign it. » Fuel surcharge When gasoline prices are in a period of flux, some movers will charge the customer an added fee in addition to the cost of the move to compensate for the higher cost of fuel. When getting a quote, be sure to ask your mover, “Will this be the fi nal cost, or are there additional fees?” » Corrugated Describes a type of cardboard used to make boxes for moving and storage. Corrugated boxes have multiple layers of cardboard called “fluting” that provide strength and durability to the box’s structure. » Dish cells Cardboard inserts that provide individual cubicles for your dishware within a cardboard box.

Dish cells offer extra support to breakable dishes and prevent the box from caving or allowing direct contact between pieces.

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» Internal move A move within the same building.

Internal moves are useful for preparing your home or office for painting, carpet cleaning, furniture rearrangement and holiday decorating. » LD Short for Long Distance move. Many provinces regulate the moving industry based on the distance the items are moving. Although the move is still considered intra-province, different rates may apply if the move is considered “Long Distance.” » Local move A move in which all stages of moving take place near the moving company’s origin. » Non-binding estimate When an in-home estimate cannot be conducted, customers provide a description of items to be moved. The mover gives the customer his best guess of what the move will cost based on his previous experience with similar jobs. These estimates are typically requested by the customer last minute, agreed to over the phone and are subject to change. » Stretch-wrap A thin plastic packing and moving material used to secure moving blankets covering your items during the moving process. Stretch-wrap is used to protect your furniture from precipitation, sweat and tearing. » Shrink-wrap A thicker plastic which requires heat to adhere to furniture. Typical items do not require packaging this thick for moving.

Like learning any new language, it’s important to ask questions. If there’s a term you don’t understand, ask for clarification. Confusion between some moving terms is not only frustrating, it can be costly.

Dan Hopkins is Chief Operating Officer at Two Men and a Truck – Canada. Visit twomen.ca

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o i r o t n Mo . td L s Home Each home built by Montorio embodies the traditional Italian housing elements of solidity and craftsmanship while incorporating the home owner’s personal tastes and desires. The classic Italian feel goes beyond the solid masonry makeup – everything indoors and out, precision-laid tile floors, natural stone detailing, reflects a house built with an artisan’s touch.

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he success of Alberta was built upon the sweat and dreams of immigrants who settled in Canada. They often faced adversity with the harsh winter climate, prejudices and cultural differences but they persevered. One such immigrant was Vincenzo Di Luigi, born in Montorio Al Vamano, Italy, a colourful, temperate city overlooking the beautiful valley and the banks of the river of the same name.

Rich in history, architecture and traditional gastronomical delights like Bocconotti and Pizza Dolce, Montorio was the foundation for Vincenzo Di Luigi’s future. As a young man he developed a passion for the distinctive and intricate local masonry works. He watched and learned the meticulous ways of the masonry artisans- the details, the care, the pride and the love of a job well done. The artistic beauty of the Italian masonry captured his imagination and talents, eventually leading him half way across the world to Canada to his future as founder and President of Montorio Homes Ltd. In 1965 Vince immigrated to Canada. He immediately began work in a masonry company and successfully

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any of the m in n e e s e b n a e architecture c c n a s is ue decorative a iq n n e U R . f y o a e d c to n e re u fl The in f their architectu niches, plinths, arches and o s le ru d n a s le modern sty ision mouldings c re p , s builders. n r e m th lu o o c m s o a fr h c rt u a s p features these homes a t e s l a ri te a m r o superi

completed his journeyman’s masonry ticket leading him to start his own company in 1970 with his two brothers – Di Luigi Brothers Masonry. The brothers quickly gained a reputation for integrity in business and quality in craftsmanship, skills and competency to carry out one or all of the various branches of stonemasonry.

Their artisan talents were in high demand as people were drawn to the romantic Mediterranean style. Di Luigi Brothers Masonry quickly became successful; however, the harsh Alberta winters took their toll on two of the brothers and they opted to move back to the warm Mediterranean climate of Italy leaving Vincenzo to run the company alone.

This would have been a setback for some, but for him it only served to fire up his entrepreneurial spirit. Along with his masonry business, Vince sought an outlet for his other skills as a detailed craftsman and began to build houses part time.

This unleashed his creativity, as well as, meshed perfectly with his perfectionism and work ethic. It wasn’t long before business soared as people took notice of the high quality and 2011 edmonton builder and developer Annual 125

craftsmanship in each of his homes. By 1992, Montorio Homes Ltd. was well on its way to being a very respected, influential and reputable home builder.

Like traditional masonry-built Italian residences, standing proud for generations, offering security of construction, as well as, outstanding character, Montorio Homes has successfully blended old world charm with Canadian realities.

Montorio Homes Ltd. still thrives under the successful, principled leadership of Vince Di Luigi. The same passion, attention to detail and continuing infusion of Italian sensibilities created a company that has greatly contributed to the Edmonton home building industry. Today the same business practices continue to please clients in their end results: • Allowing customers to customized their homes so they are truly personalized.

• Providing high quality homes built with an artisans touch while utilizing environmentally sound practices and products.

• Construct affordable, quality homes their busy lives in a practical and functional way. Experienced and friendly, on staff with premier products. design consultants, project planners and management help the client every step of • Characterizing the home with timeless the way.

Italian architectural features such as Montorio Homes is in the process of constructing their 8th Stollery Dream Home arches, pillars, brickwork, ceramic tile – another winning home! One- of-a-kind designs in natural stone throughout this floors. beautiful home will make the owner the envy of the neighbourhood. And speaking • Each home built by Montorio embodies of neighbourhoods, the Montorio homes are located in some of the most desirable the traditional Italian housing elements areas in Edmonton. Trumpeter and Trumpeter Estates, Hawks Ridge, Colonial of solidity and craftsmanship while Estates, Woodhaven-Edgemont and Walker Summit, Harvest Ridge in Spruce Grove incorporating the home owner’s are perfect locations for these spectacular homes with nature walking trails, all the personal tastes and desires. The classic amenities, recreation and shopping your family will need.

Italian feel goes beyond the solid Montorio Homes have more than surface beauty as demonstrated in their masonry makeup – everything indoors receiving top honours in the Green Vision Category 2011 at the Canadian Home and out, precision-laid tile floors, natural Builders Association – Alberta, Awards of Excellence for their ROMA model in Big stone detailing, reflects a house built Lake, Trumpeter! Steven Curtis, Sales and Marketing Manager said, “This is an with an artisan’s touch. award I am very proud of. Going into the awards process, this was one award that • Rich hardwood floors, granite counter I felt really defined who we are, ‘Green Vision’ we have a real focus on building tops, rounded corners and luxurious energy efficient homes while being mindful of our impact on our surroundings. Of touches through each of the Montorio course because of this, this was an award I really wanted to win and I am proud that Homes make these homes a desirable our work in building ‘green’ has been acknowledged.” choice.

Montorio Homes Ltd. employs more than 44 dedicated and skilled people who The influence of Renaissance continue to uphold the values, craftsmanship and ethics that were forged by a architecture can be seen in many of passionate young man so many years ago. A man who left the warm countryside the modern styles and rules of their and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean for the dream of Canada... Vince Di Luigi, architecture today. Unique decorative founder and President of Montorio Homes Ltd. features such as columns, precision mouldings niches, plinths, arches and superior material set these homes apart from other builders.

Montorio Homes Ltd. Moreover, the uniqueness of each 5607 - 129 Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta home still allows for families to truly live 780.478.7070 www.montorio.ca

tops, rounded r te n u o c e it n ra floors, g ch of the a e h g u Rich hardwood ro th s e h urious touc esirable choice. d corners and lux a s e m o h e s e s make th Montorio Home

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HOPEWELL has a legacy of

CRAFTING VALUED COMMUNITIES Hopewell Residential Communities has built a reputation of being a leading land developer – one that has created a legacy of crafting valued communities that families can be proud to call home.

Founded in 1997 as the residential development arm of Hopewell Group of Companies, Hopewell Residential has enjoyed a successful history of developing truly inspiring communities in the province.

Scott Hamilton, senior manager, marketing and communications for Hopewell, says the company owes much of its success to its empowered team members.

“We keep our morals simple but meaningful,” says Hamilton.

“Our commitment is driven by a common set of values – those of quality, integrity and commitment to community. We don’t just build communities, we help them grow and flourish, and we care about the legacies we leave our homeowners.

“People want more than a house, they want a home, and that includes living in a thriving, connected community,” Hamilton says.

Hopewell prides itself on developing communities of unparalleled quality, architectural integrity and lasting value.

As a five-time Developer of the Year award winner the company has had considerable success in planning and developing unique communities. From finding enviable locations and selecting architectural guidelines to choosing outstanding builders and developing neighbourhood amenities, every community Hopewell creates has its own distinctive look.

In 2007, the company saw an opportunity to branch out to Edmonton and introduced the community of Secord. “As the province’s capital and a major driver of economic development in Alberta, Hopewell felt strongly about developing in the Edmonton marketplace,” Hamilton says.

Choosing land to develop is a top priority for Hopewell.

While the company has a long list of criteria to meet its high standards there are two that must be met. First, the land has to serve a future need for growth in urban centres and second, it must be land that will allow the company to build the types of quality communities Hopewell is known for.

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“We are committed to creating and nurturing healthy communities; we believe in an overall wellness and balance in the ‘living environment’ of a community, and not just building for building’s sake,” Hamilton says. “Simply put, we bring community to life.”

This takes a comprehensive and exhaustive approach to developing new communities. Hopewell works hard with municipal, provincial and local stakeholders to develop communities that serve the needs of homeowners and municipalities. Being innovative in its approach and with a successful track record behind it, Hopewell is able to take its past experience and combine it with its own vision to develop new communities that will have lasting value for homebuyers.

The goal for Hopewell Residential Communities is to meet the growth demands of cities and municipalities with new and valuable community developments.

“We want to maintain and follow through on the vision and promises of our current communities,” Hamilton says.

Secord Providing a peaceful, natural escape to Edmonton’s new homebuyers can easily be the reason for the success of Secord, a community named in honour of Richard Secord, who served as an MLA between 1902 and 1904 and introduced the bill that incorporated Edmonton as a city.

Rich in character and charm, Secord is a unique architectural community dedicated to preserving and respecting the importance of family, tradition and lifestyle. Secord is a tranquil master-planned community, which showcases a unique collection of welldesigned homes against the picturesque backdrop of its natural settings.

Connected to the history of the land, and to the living world that surrounds it, Secord offers 14 acres of natural space where parks, pathways, ponds, wetlands and green spaces are an extension of the thriving community.

“Secord is rich with character and natural amenities, but the thing that 128 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

really makes Secord unique are the people who live there,” Hamilton comments.

“Time and again we hear from new residents who are amazed by the friendly neighbourhood atmosphere in such a young community,” he says. “People go out of their way to welcome you, and then become the kind of neighbours who really take care of one another.

“It’s truly remarkable.”

The community is set at the city’s western edge; yet residents are just a few minutes from some of Edmonton’s best shopping and recreation amenities including a soon-to-open Costco and West Edmonton Mall. Residents will find parks, playgrounds, schools, restaurants and services a short distance away.

The northwest location also offers easy access to downtown and the rest of the city thanks to close proximity to Whitemud Drive and Anthony Henday Drive.

Home styles attract both first-time and move-up buyers, with a variety of different floor plans available to meet

both traditional and contemporary tastes.

Lot selection in Secord offers options for all tastes and budgets, including a great selection of premium walkouts and pie lots backing onto two of three ponds available to choose from.

Secord offers new homebuyers a wide range of home styles to choose from including Secord Corners townhomes

by Footprint Developments, duplexes by Daytona Homes, laned homes by Jayman Innovations and Sabal Homes, and front-attached garage homes by Jayman MasterBUILT, Prominent Homes and Sabal Homes. Showhomes in a variety of home styles are now open.

Complementing the natural amenities, Secord is home to four distinct architectural styles to create a diverse and harmonious community with lasting appeal.

“The home sizes, architectural specifications and prices cater to a wide variety of homebuyers at different stages of their lives,” says Hamilton.

Giving Back to the Community Hopewell Residential Communities believes in supporting and serving the communities in which it operates by being a strong corporate citizen. By donating time, effort and dollars to deserving organizations it has been able to help a variety of organizations. They include Meals on Wheels, Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation, STARS Air Ambulance, Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, Mustard Seed, YWCA, Salvation Army, Inn from the Cold, Children’s Cottage, Alberta Ballet, Decidedly Jazz Danceworks and many more.

Awards Hopewell has been the recipient of many awards, ranging from five-time Developer of the Year to numerous Community, Show Home Parade, New Community and Subdivision of the Year Awards.

Hopewell has also been a past recipient of the Volunteer Calgary Award for Excellence in Employee Volunteering.

FOR MORE INFORMATION To learn more about Secord, visit the showhomes open Monday to Thursday, 2-8 p.m., weekends, noon-5 p.m., or visit liveinsecord.com. You can also discover more about Hopewell Residential Communities and its other communities by visiting hopewellcommunities.com.

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Five Star Luxury Living

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Along the tree lined streets of downtown’s beautiful Oliver community is Meridian Plaza. Ideally nestled away from Edmonton’s hectic business district, yet only moments from shopping, stores, entertainment, restaurants and much more. It is a place that combines the best of architectural design and finishing with superior location to deliver a rich and uncompromising lifestyle for residents.

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Quiet, gearless, glass elevators hum as residents enter the foyer from their luxury sky suites or begin their ascent home. State of the art video security and private, heated underground parking provide a rich sense of well being to match the building’s aura.

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The fireplace’s dancing glow reflects magically off stunning marble floors that immediately establish the quality and luxury of this place.

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A wonderful glass entrance at the crest of a patterned concrete walk leads you into a two storey foyer with fireplace and sweeping cherry wood spiral staircase. The fireplace’s dancing glow reflects magically off stunning marble floors that immediately establish the quality and luxury of this unique development.

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The Beauty Is In The Details Continuing on its tradition of attention to detail, Cancali Developments Inc., creator of Meridian Plaza, delivers equally beautiful detail in the building’s lifestyle amenities and suites.

A party room, large enough to host events with 75 people in attendance, or special occasions comes complete with full kitchen and bathroom facilities. It also has serving tools and utensils.

A Mediteranean themed atrium, awash in bright sunlight, is a superb year round gathering space for friends. This beautiful indoor garden is finished with rugged stone tile flooring, pastel stucco walls and pillars, true regional architecture and a florentine fountain. It’s a one of a kind lifestyle space for a truly fortunate few.

Two other amenities available for resident use include a private boardroom for those week-end meetings away from the office and a quiet resident lounge. The lounge features a fireplace, big screen TV and comfortable theatre style furniture that make it ideal for watching the game with friends or family.

A contemporary glass enclosed fitness centre complete with yoga studio and quality equipment offers a perfect place to work out, relax and enjoy great downtown vistas.

The City’s Finest Suites The Plaza offers a wide range of luxury suites with 9’ to 12’ ceilings. These beautiful homes feature the finest upgraded fixtures, finishes and décor available in the city and many offer spectacular downtown or city views.

Available in one bedroom, two bedroom or two bedroom with den designs, these homes offer the perfect blend of space, functionality and glamour. Oversized porcelain tiles, engineered hardwoods, thick granite countertops, maple cabinetry in chocolate, blonde or beechnut finish ensure these homes stand far above a crowded market place and provide unparallelled owner pride. Virtually no detail has been overlooked.

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Available in one bedroom, two bedroom or two bedroom with den designs, these homes offer the perfect blend of space, functionality and glamour.

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Premium Delta fixtures gleam against their handsome surroundings. Dramatic windows flood the living space with light and provide wonderful views. And, generous balconies provide comfortable outdoor living space, ideal for warm summer evenings and beautiful sunsets.

Cancali Developments While life inside your home is incredible, there is much to enjoy just around the corner. A variety of funky coffee shops, eclectic bistros and boutiques are within a few minutes walk. Larger grocery stores, daily services and endless entertainment opportunities are also just minutes away. And, the bustling downtown core is just a 10 to 15 minute walk whether you desire a healthier mode of getting to the office or want to attend a play or concert at the Winspear Centre or Citadel Theatre.

For more information:

Each suite is wired for today’s advanced communication and entertainment. Telus Fibre Optic Network, Hub and high Speed internet bring the information super in all formats to your home.

132 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

10142 - 111th Street Edmonton, AB (780) 497-0988 www.meridianplaza.ca

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i n s u ran c e n e e d s

Do you need

mortgage loan insurance?

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uying a new home and not sure if you need mortgage loan insurance?

Well, if you’re making a down payment of less than 20 per cent of the purchase price (what’s known as a high-ratio mortgage), your lender will almost certainly require you to have mortgage loan insurance.

What many consumers don’t realize, however, is that this insurance doesn’t protect you, the homeowner – it protects your lender against mortgage default. But since the mortgage is insured – essentially guaranteed by Canada What many Mortgage and Housing – this program consumers don’t Corp. also enables consumers realize, however, is to purchase homes with that this insurance a minimum down doesn’t protect you, payment of five per cent.

Mortgage loan the homeowner – insurance is not to be it protects your confused with mortgage lender against life insurance, which mortgage default. guarantees that your remaining mortgage at the time of your death will not be a burden to your estate.

The CMHC Mortgage Loan Insurance premium is calculated as a percentage of the loan and is based on the size of your down payment. The higher the percentage of the

total house price/value that you borrow, the higher percentage you will pay in insurance premiums.

If you’re putting down five per cent as a down payment and mortgaging the balance, your loan-to-value (LTV) ratio is then 95 per cent. Generally speaking, the higher the LTV, the greater the premium for mortgage loan insurance. For example, for an LTV of 95 per cent, the standard premium is 2.75 per cent of the purchase price; for an LTV of 90 per cent, it’s two per cent; for an LTV of 85 per cent, the premium is 1.75 per cent, and so on.

The premium can be paid in a single lump sum or it can be added to your mortgage and included in your monthly payments.

Without mortgage insurance, you may avoid the insurance premium, but you could also pay higher interest rates for the mortgage, as well as additional administrative fees. At the end of the day, for the vast majority of borrowers, the cost of CMHC Mortgage Loan Insurance is more than fully offset by the savings achieved.

Under the CMHC Green Home program, buyers may qualify for a 10-per-cent premium refund and extended amortization period without surcharge, for mortgages used to finance an energy-efficient home.

For more information, please visit cmhc-schl.gc.ca edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013 133

I N S U RAN C E N E E D S

HOW TO ESTIMATE

HOME INSURANCE PREMIUMS

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ike all insurance premiums, how much you pay for home insurance depends on a number of factors related to risk. Insurers analyze these risks, and figure out how likely it is that you – or a group of people with the same set of circumstances – will make a claim, and how much that claim will cost.

THESE FACTORS TYPICALLY AFFECT WHAT YOU PAY FOR HOME INSURANCE:

» Where you live Insurers keep records about such items as the number, type and cost of claims by neighbourhood. They can tell from past experience what the circumstances are in your neighbourhood, and how likely it is that you will have to make a claim. For example, if you live in an area where most people commute to work and homes are left unoccupied during the day, the statistics may show your neighbourhood has more break-ins. The cost of home insurance, therefore, varies from neighbourhood to neighbourhood, from city to countryside, and is based on knowledge and experience.

» Proximity to water Insurers are concerned about fi re, and will look at how far your home is from a source of water (fi re hydrant, fi re station). If you live in an urban area, this is generally not a problem. If you live in the country and the distance is great, however, this will influence the cost of your home insurance. The sooner a potential fi re can be put out, the lower the cost of restoring your home. » Replacement cost The factor that will make the biggest difference in the cost of your home insurance is simply the size and composition of your house – as well as your contents. The larger the home and the more contents you have, the more it will cost to replace. In addition to the square footage, insurers take into account such matters as the quality of construction used to build your house, as that can vary greatly from home to home. » Heating Not usually an issue with new homes, oil tanks have the potential for causing costly environmental hazards, so your insurance representative will ask questions about the age and condition of your tank. There is far less risk with forced-air gas furnaces or electric heat, so you may pay more for your home insurance if your home is heated by oil. » Electricity There are several factors concerning electricity. Do you have breakers or fuses? What is the flow of electricity coming into your house? And what kind of wiring do you have?

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The factor that will make the biggest difference in the cost of your home insurance is simply the size and composition of your house – as well as your contents.

The larger the home and the more contents you have, the more it will cost to replace. » Basic or full coverage Once all of the above is taken into consideration, you can choose the types of coverage you’d like – which will also influence the cost you pay. While there are government regulations dictating how much insurance drivers must have, there are no such laws when it comes to home insurance. The only requirement may be one set by your bank or mortgage holder. From there, it’s up to you to decide » Pipes Galvanized or lead piping whether you prefer basic or more comprehensive coverage. usually means that the plumbing is older, And this is something your independent insurance and older plumbing is more likely to representative can help you with. crack, leak or run into other problems.

THE FOLLOWING FACTORS TYPICALLY DO NOT AFFECT WHAT Insurance companies generally prefer YOU PAY FOR HOME INSURANCE: homes where the plumbing is made of copper or plastic. » Gas versus electric appliances The types of appliances in your home do not affect the cost of your home insurance. » Age of roof Not usually an issue with new homes, insurers generally prefer a » Brick exterior versus aluminum siding Most insurance roof that has been updated within the companies do not use type of construction as a rating factor last 20 years. Some policies will pay only when calculating home insurance premiums. However, depreciated values, as low as 25 per cent construction type is used when calculating the building of the replacement cost, for damaged replacement cost (what it would cost to rebuild the dwelling roofs that are near the end of their with materials of like kind and quality, if it were destroyed). designated service life.

Insurers know from experience that breakers pose less risk than fuses, and that a minimum of 100-amp service is better than a lower level of service, as a lower amp can lead to overloading and fi re.

» Other uses of your home Insurers will want to know if you have built or are planning to build a secondary rental suite in your home; begin operating a business there; or make any other significant alterations to the structure or the way your home is used. » Other factors Insurers will ask if you have a security alarm and a fi re alarm, and whether they are monitored by an outside service. They will also want to know if you have a swimming pool and other structures on your property, such as pool houses or storage sheds, that are worth more than 10 per cent of the insured value of your home.

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mark e t Would Mayans Be Buying Real Estate Today?

marke t mar t s

with Jim Malner

I am one of those people that love real estate. I love touring show homes and condo developments. I love learning about it. I love talking about it. And, for 26 years I’ve made my living as a real estate marketing consultant for over 35 of western Canada’s largest and most successful builders and developers in single family, multi-family, mixed use and resort home styles.

As president of Consumer Strategies Group(CSG), Alberta’s longest serving real estate marketing firm, I’ve witnessed three booms, four recessions of various magnitudes, and had the privilege of working on some incredible developments and a few not so incredible. This experience, and my current day to day industry involvement, provides me with a perspective to comment on realities and trends of the industry that might help you make more informed decisions or just learn a bit more about the business.

The Most Common Question – Is Today The Time To Buy? It’s never a “bad” time to buy real estate. Some times are just better than others as some opportunities are better than others. If you’re looking for your first home then certainly “the earliest date possible” is the right time to buy. The reason - real estate creates wealth and therefore is beloved by those seeking financial security.

Over time it is very difficult to lose money on real estate purchased for your own residential use. The forced savings effect of standard mortgages and over 200 years of economic data show that owning your home is the best investment you can make in yourself and your future. While economic windfalls or turmoil may swirl around you, owning your home is the most predictable path to increasing personal wealth through “equity creation” and “capital appreciation” generally due to economic growth and inflation.

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As we approach the end of 2012...it’s time to look forward and see what the future holds for new homes in Alberta and more specifically Edmonton.

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As we approach the end of 2012, assuming that Mayan calendar fiasco doesn’t unfold as predicted, it’s time to look forward and see what the future holds for new homes in Alberta and more specifically Edmonton.

Perhaps a place to start is with today’s news, which tends to drive public opinion on the sector. It’s important because it may be shaping your purchasing decisions. We will try to sort out reality.

136 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

Currently, there’s a lot of negative news in national media about the integrity of new home and condo values and some pretty “dark” commentary on price corrections (collapses) that may occur due to high household debt, a possible second recession due to the mess in Europe and continued stagnation in the US, and the impact of a global slowdown on commodities markets.

One problem with national media is they over focus on Vancouver and Toronto, where the condo markets appear to have become overbuilt and likely will undergo “modest” adjustments in both prices and sales volumes until the market catches up. Single family homes in these markets, while getting caught in the down draft, have been impacted less and will likely see modest changes over the next two years.

Here in Alberta however, reality is much different.

During 2012 most of the usual metrics that determine the health of the new home sector will outperform forecasts from last year. According to CMHC, Alberta will now see an increase in housing starts of some 23% over 2011, to a very robust 31,800. For 2013, activity levels are expected to flatten, increasing just 1.2% to 32,200. When considered in context to the 10 year moving average of about 28,900, this is indeed solid performance, though still well under the boom years of about 36,000.

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smar t s “

Alberta continues to have strong job and income growth. Alberta has seen average incomes rise a whopping 4.1% in 2012 over 2011, though Edmonton’s performance has lagged behind this a bit. Unemployment in Calgary and Edmonton has dropped about 1% respectively to 4.8% and 4.4% at press time.

Single family starts are projected to rise in 2012 by 15% to 17,600 units over 2011. 2013 sees these values move up a further 5% to 18,400 units indicating a stronger bias toward move up housing and likely modest price growth. Multi-family starts have increased a staggering 35% in 2012 to 14,200 units and it is expected this rate of growth will slow down in 2013 to 13,800 units while this inventory gets drawn down.

What is most important if you are looking to make a real estate move in 2013 is that balanced market conditions are expected. This means only modest price increases of 2.5% to 3%. However, prices are going up!

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Alberta is in harmony with historical norms at approximately 30% of average household income.

When compared with Toronto at 53% and Vancouver at almost 70%, we are basking in the warm sunlight of normal, balanced market conditions.

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What makes this scenario even more compelling is the affordability of housing in Alberta. It is in harmony with historical housing affordability norms at approximately 30% of average household income.

When this is compared with Toronto at 53% and Vancouver at almost 70%, we are basking in the warm sunlight of normal balanced market conditions. What has allowed this is Alberta’s strong jobs market and low interest rates. It’s arguable that as interest rates rise housing activity may get pinched, but when that will be is a question of great debate. It has been predicted for four years the Bank of Canada would start raising rates, but each time they try it has not happened due to the global financial problems which require low interest rates to try and stimulate growth. The most current “expectation” is that rates will remain at record low levels until early 2014. So, take advantage of it while you can.

Secondly, Alberta continues to have strong job and income growth. Alberta has seen average incomes rise a whopping 4.1% in 2012 over 2011, though Edmonton’s performance has lagged behind this a

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bit. Unemployment in Calgary and Edmonton has dropped about 1% respectively to 4.8% and 4.4% at press time. At these levels expect strong wage growth through 2013.

So, 2013 appears to be a great time to buy, all things considered. As following Alberta’s previous four recessions, real estate prices will eventually move past previous highs which statistically may occur early next year. We are just below those levels now. This is generally what forms the foundation of a new positive cycle so you probably don’t want to sit around if you have the means to move in 2013.

Buy What Fits Your Situation – Comfortably What will you buy? Well, that’s up to you and your personal situation. There are excellent opportunities in Alberta’s multi-family market as an abundance of inventory has to find buyers. The Royal Bank has again pegged Alberta as the #1 performing economy in the country and still with some of the most affordable housing. So, the sooner you buy, the sooner you get the time value of money and equity growth working for you. As history has repeatedly shown, that is the most predictable way to a better financial future – and let’s all hope those Mayans were out to lunch on the time and date when making a smart real estate decision simply doesn’t matter.

Jim Malner President of Consumer Strategies Group(CSG) Alberta’s longest serving, professional real estate marketing consultancy with offices in Edmonton, Calgary and Vancouver.

Follow CSG on Facebook or Twitter for regular updates and all of Jim’s columns will be posted on CSG’s blog at www.csg.ca

mark e t mar t s EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 137

d e s ig n e r ti ps

Make the most of

your home office

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or most of us, the home office is a must, but it doesn’t have to be the cluttered storage room for all your household’s odds and ends. Today’s home offices can be versatile in look, function, form – even location. Frank Turco, senior manager of trend and design, The Home Depot Canada, recommends these tips to make your home office work for you.

Two rooms in one

If your home doesn’t have a dedicated office, incorporating a workstation into the kitchen can easily be done. Plus, the easy access to the workstation ensures you can keep your eyes on the “staff” while they play close by.

Creatively categorize

Take the pegboard out of the garage and use it in your office to hang essentials – from scissors to staplers. Try painting the pegboard a bright colour to add a touch of décor to the space.

Out of space

Look to better organize your workstation. If the base of your computer is only accessed for trouble-shooting, place it under your desk. Need to print on a daily basis?

Keep your printer within reach. How about more space and storage?

Consider storage solutions that are both functional and stylish.

138 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

Or out of mind

Would you prefer your home office is out of sight and out of mind when not in use? Then an unused closet may make the perfect space. Simply add shelving to create storage and a desk and wallpaper to finish the look. NC

Are you ready to make your move?

As a BMO Bank of Montreal® Mortgage Specialist, I’m available to meet you at your home or office, day or night, to offer you a choice of mortgages featuring competitive rates and flexible payment options. at Your Doorstep 24/7 Are Mortgage you Expertise ready to For convenient mortgage service, make your move? contact: Nancy Bruno-Romeo As a BMO Bank of Montreal Mortgage Specialist, I’m available to meet you at your home or office, day or night, to offer you a choice of mortgages featuring competitive rates and For convenient flexible payment options. mortgage service, ®

Mobile Mortgage Specialist Tel. : 780-973-8892 Cell : 780-908-7183 nancy.bruno@bmo.com Registered trade-marks of Bank of Montreal. bmo.com/ms/nancybruno ®

contact:

Mortgage Expertise at Your Doorstep 24/7

Nancy Bruno-Romeo Mobile Mortgage Specialist Tel. : 780-973-8892 Cell : 780-908-7183 nancy.bruno@bmo.com bmo.com/ms/nancybruno

®

Registered trade-marks of Bank of Montreal.

2012 edmonton builder and developer AnnuAl 169 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013 139

h o m e b u ye r s’ h e l p

new home & condo checklist

When shopping for your dream home or condo, carry this list with you and take notes to help you remember what you saw, and where! home/condo #1

home/condo #2

home/condo #3

home/condo #4

Project & address:

Project & address:

Project & address:

Project & address:

Salesperson:

Salesperson:

Salesperson:

Salesperson:

Phone:

Phone:

Phone:

Phone:

Developer/builder:

Developer/builder:

Developer/builder:

Developer/builder:

Type:

Type:

Type:

Type:

2-storey highrise bungalow

detached conversion townhome

2-storey highrise bungalow

detached conversion townhome

2-storey highrise bungalow

detached conversion townhome

2-storey highrise bungalow

detached conversion townhome

Sq. Footage:

Sq. Footage:

Sq. Footage:

Sq. Footage:

# of bedrooms:

# of bedrooms:

# of bedrooms:

# of bedrooms:

# of bathrooms:

# of bathrooms:

# of bathrooms:

# of bathrooms:

Interior appliances:

Interior appliances:

Interior appliances:

Interior appliances:

Options:

Options:

Options:

Options:

Parking facilities:

Parking facilities:

Parking facilities:

Parking facilities:

Special incentives:

Special incentives:

Special incentives:

Special incentives:

Price:

Price:

Price:

Price:

Down payment:

Down payment:

Down payment:

Down payment:

Condo fees:

Condo fees:

Condo fees:

Condo fees:

Financing available:

Financing available:

Financing available:

Financing available:

Other comments:

Other comments:

Other comments:

Other comments:

140 edmonton builder and developer Annual 2013

YO U R M O RTGAG E

GETTING THE BEST MORTGAGE

BY JOHN TAG GA RT

e

veryone wants to have the best mortgage possible to suit their needs. Generally, the most important deciding factor for clients is the interest rate because it has the biggest bearing on monthly payments. Brokers and banks like to advertise that they can provide a very custom mortgage to meet your specific needs, but the best way to get the best mortgage is to educate yourself about the mortgage products, mortgage providers and what options are available to you.

According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC), the average price of a home sold on the MLS in Edmonton during July 2012 was approximately $330,000. To qualify for this amount, you would need an income of approximately $59,000, using a competitive five-year fi xed interest rate commonly available on today’s market.

The income is based on no consumer debts, condo fees, heating costs or taxes.

This is also considering you have five per cent down.

The payment for the average mortgage described above generates a good approximation for the following examples:

›› When the bank of Canada adjusts the prime rate, it changes it by 0.25 per cent. This would affect this mortgage by $42 per month. These payment changes affect people with variable mortgages. ›› The payment for the mortgage changes $8 per month for every 0.05 per cent the interest rate changes. ›› The CMHC fee for this mortgage with

five per cent down is a one-time amount of $8,621. If the mortgage had 10 per cent down, the CMHC fee is $5,940. These fees are one time and are added to the balance of the mortgage amount. The premiums change with every five per cent of down payment. ›› If you put down 20 per cent, you don’t have to pay the CMHC fees and your payment is reduced by $268 per month, compared to putting down just five per cent.

CMHC premiums are portable and should be avoided. ›› If you put down 20 per cent, you can get a 30-year amortization and have your payment reduced by $140 per month; this is at the cost of taking five years longer to pay off your loan. ›› If you put zero down, your payment will increase by $361 per month, compared to putting five per cent down. ›› The three-month interest penalty to break this mortgage would be $2,550. By porting your mortgage (taking it with you on your new purchase) it is possible to avoid this penalty.

The most important thing for some is just getting approved. The best way to get approved is to consult an expert early – before you start shopping for a home.

Convenience and service are also major factors when deciding where to get your mortgage. It is critical that you feel comfortable with, and trust, whomever you are working with.

Small things can make a big difference and you are ultimately responsible for fi nding the best deal possible.

John Taggart is a mortgage broker with Dominion Lending Mortgage Mentors. He has completed a Bachelor of Arts Degree majoring in Economics. To learn about your mortgage options contact him at 780.990.6809 or jtaggart@dominionlending.ca

EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013 141

L I FE ST YL E

TOP 5 REASONS

TO LOVE EDMONTON

BY WAY N E K A R L

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istory, culture, prosperity, proximity to nature but also modern amenities… What makes any city a great place to live? In Edmonton’s case, we list five pretty compelling reasons to embrace the Edmonton lifestyle and call this town “home.”

only in 2012, but for the next four years, according to the Conference Board of Canada’s Metropolitan Outlook – Autumn 2012.

Coming off a 6.3-per-cent increase in real gross domestic product (GDP) in 2011, Edmonton’s economy is forecast to expand by a still-robust 4.6 per cent this year, the Conference Board says. For the rest of the forecast period (2013 to 2016), the economy here is projected to 1 ECONOMIC POWERHOUSE: While technically not a “lifestyle” element, just try enjoying any kind of lifestyle in grow an average 3.5 per cent annually. a city without a healthy economy to attract investment, generate growth and produce jobs.

2 HOME SWEET HOME: The Edmonton housing market is Edmonton, along with Calgary, is forecast to be the one of the best in all of Canada. A diverse and strong fastest growing census metropolitan area in Canada – not economy leads to job growth, which attracts migrants from across the country who in turn build the 142 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

History, culture, prosperity, proximity to nature but also modern amenities… what makes any city a great place to live? In Edmonton’s case, we list five pretty compelling reasons to embrace the Edmonton lifestyle and call this town “home.” foundation for real estate demand. In the coming years, Edmonton’s historic norms will be at or near the top of performance for all of Canada, according to the Real Estate Investment Network, which ranks the city number three across the country. Major infrastructure improvements will play into this equation, while making life easier for Edmontonians.

3 CITY OF CHAMPIONS: Okay, maybe this nickname doesn’t apply too much these days, especially with (at time of writing) an NHL lockout in the works. However, when they do return to action, the Edmonton Oilers (winners of five Stanley Cups in the 1980s) are flush with young talent from top draft picks, and are expected to challenge for respectability, if not a playoff spot, sooner than later. On top of that, the franchise is negotiating with city council for a new arena that would be the centrepiece of a major downtown revitalization, yielding new investment, business and amenities.

The other contributor to the City of Champions nick comes from the CFL’s Edmonton Eskimos, winners of 13 Grey Cups, most recently in 2005.

Edmonton is also one of 14 North American stops – and one of only two in Canada – of the fast-paced international IndyCar race series. The 2013 version of the Edmonton Indy is expected to run next July.

4 SHOPPERS’ PARADISE: Hey, you just have to give props

to a city that is home to the largest shopping mall in North America and fi fth largest in the world – West Edmonton Mall. Six million sq. ft., more than 800 stores, parking for more than 20,000 cars, more than 23,000 employees, 28.2 million annual visitors, between 60,000 and 150,000 shoppers daily. Enough said.

5 NO PROVINCIAL SALES TAX: And while you’re dropping a few shekels at the mall or elsewhere, you’ll no doubt love the fact that Alberta has no provincial sales tax.

This makes Edmonton a more affordable place to live for residents, and a good place for companies to do business – which is conducive to a healthy economy and employment opportunities.

H O M E B U YI N G T I PS

ROOKIE MISTAKES

WHAT TO AVOID WHEN BUYING FOR THE FIRST TIME

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ven though Canadian homebuyers do their homework, the majority say there are some things about their fi rst house hunt they would do differently.

“From being more thorough in their budget to exploring their mortgage options carefully, many fi rst-time buyers think they could have prepared better for their house hunt,” says Farhaneh Haque, director of mortgage advice at TD Canada Trust.

“Prospective buyers would be wise to learn from other buyers’ mistakes. If you think you’re ready for homeownership, do your research and make sure you know as much as you can about the process and ongoing commitment.”

To help prepare, here are the top five things homebuyers say they would do differently, according to the TD Canada Trust First Time Home Buyers Report: 01 Be thorough when budgeting From closing costs and land transfer fees to ongoing property taxes and everyday maintenance costs, the price of homeownership is much more than your down payment and monthly mortgage payments. Calculate how much you spend each month on everything, such as rent, groceries, insurance, loans and taxes to determine what you can afford altogether.

144 EDMONTON BUILDER AND DEVELOPER ANNUAL 2013

02 Make a bigger down payment The minimum down payment is five per cent of a home’s value. The larger the down payment, the less you’ll need to borrow, which saves you money in interest payments over the long term. With a larger down payment you may also qualify to save on mortgage insurance premiums up-front. If homeownership is a goal, start saving now.

03 Buy sooner The sooner you buy, the sooner you start building equity, rather than paying money to someone else each month. Still, in the long run you may be better off to wait and save up for a larger down payment.

04 Get pre-approved for a mortgage Preapproval puts you in a good position when you start house hunting. It lets you know what you can afford, so you can confidently make an offer when you fi nd a house you like.

05 Research mortgage options Picking the right mortgage is just as important as choosing the right home. Look at your choices for the term, interest rate, repayment schedule and other flexible features. Then, pick a mortgage that works for you.

For more information on homebuying, visit tdcanadatrust.com/homeownership

CH O O S I N G A B U I L D E R

w

hen you decide to buy a brand-new home, choosing the right builder is as important as choosing your home. When you purchase a home, you also “buy” the company that will build it. Your satisfaction will depend on their experience, their skills and their commitment to customer service.

An important part of the homebuying process lies in determining that you are dealing with a builder who has these qualifications and is able to meet your needs and expectations – for the home and for the buying experience.

WHAT YOU WANT TO KNOW

There are thousands of builders in Canada, ranging from small companies building a few houses a year to large builder-developers constructing thousands of homes annually. Whether you live in a large urban area or a smaller community, you will have a number of builders to choose from. Each company may offer a different selection of homes.

Some may focus on specific market segments or neighbourhoods. Others may specialize in particular types of homes or have certain distinctive expertise, such as adult lifestyle design or energy efficiency. And every company does business in its own unique way.

As you look at homes and communities, also think about the company behind them. Before choosing which one to buy from, take a close look at each builder you are

FINDING A NEW HOME BUILDER YOU CAN TRUST considering and ask these questions: » Who are they? » Do they build a quality home? » What are they like to buy from? » What is their after-sales service like? » What’s their reputation, what do others say about them?

BEGIN YOUR SEARCH

01 Check your newspaper (and this publication) to fi nd out which companies are building in your area, the types of homes they offer and the prices you can expect to pay.

02 Ask friends, family and coworkers for names of reputable builders they have dealt with.

03 Contact the provincial or local builders’ association and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association for the names of builders in your area.

04 Contact new-home warranty providers for a list of registered builders.

05 Visit the websites of builders in your community.

06 Call builders to fi nd out where they are building, or where you can see some of their homes.

07 Check the Yellow Pages.

08 Go to home shows to meet builders and to explore the latest in features and fi nishes.

09 Visit builders’ sales offices, model homes and communities. As you go through your home search, collect as much information as you can – pamphlets, brochures, builder’s packages, product literature, warranty information

and so on. Read through it all and create a fi le of everything that interests you.

10 Always carry a notebook with you and write down information about the builders and the homes that you see. If you don’t, it can be difficult later to remember the details of a particular home or discussion, or to recall which builder said what.

You may also want to bring a camera along. When you keep track, it is easier to remember to collect the right information from every builder you visit. It also makes it much easier to compare the companies, their products, their selling process and their reputation, when you are ready to make a decision PREVIOUS BUYERS

Builders should be able to give you a list of references – past customers who have bought from them within the last couple of years. Do check the references – too often homebuyers neglect this step. Don’t worry about disturbing people; they have agreed to let the builder give out their names and will not mind you contacting them.

Before you call, make a list of questions to ask, such as: » In general, what was the builder like to buy from? Was it a good experience? » What particularly did they appreciate about the company?

What did they not like about it?

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» Did they run into any problems, and if so, were the problems solved to their satisfaction? » Was the home completed on time and on budget? If not, what were the circumstances? » Were there missing or incomplete items at the time of possession, or items that had to be fi xed? » Were all of their colour selections, upgrades and extras done as requested? » How was the company’s after-sales service? » Are they happy with their home?

If not, why?

» Would they buy from the company again? » Would they recommend the company?

You may also want to do a random check of past customers. Visit communities on a Saturday morning and talk to people who may be outside doing chores: “I’m considering buying a home from such and such builder.

Can I ask you a few questions about your home and the community?” Most people are happy to talk about their experiences and offer their opinion and advice.

SOURCE CMHC. For more information or a free copy of the About Your House fact sheet,

Selecting a New Home Builder, or for information on any other aspect of owning, maintaining or buying a condo, visit cmhc.ca or call 1.800.668.2642.

WHO IS WHO IN HOME BUILDING? The type of builder you will be looking for depends on the area you live in, and the home you want. Here is a general overview of different types of home building companies.

Developers are responsible for getting large tracts of land ready for building.

This can involve infrastructure and services (utilities, roads, sewers), community layout and design, including recreational spaces – whatever it takes to turn the land into a neighbourhood.

Developers may also construct the homes, or the lots may be sold to individual home building companies.

Large building companies specialize in building homes in bigger developments.

These companies generally offer a selection of homes designed specifically for the development. Minor customization by homebuyers is usually permitted, but there are usually limits to the amount of change possible. Most will also have a set process for all aspects of the purchase, from the contract signing to the predelivery inspection.

Medium-sized companies range from 10 to 50 homes a year, depending on your region. Medium-sized companies can be quite diverse – building in developments as well as on individual lots; constructing single-family dwellings as well as townhouses and other low-rise buildings.

Small-sized companies build under 10, and often less than five homes a year.

Custom builders build one-of-a-kind homes, each one usually designed and built for a particular customer who may or may not already own the lot. The custom building process allows for complete flexibility, within the limits of municipal regulations and what’s possible technically.

Construction contractor is another term for builder. Most commonly, it is used for companies who are contracted by purchasers to build a home on land they already own.

Manufactured housing builders construct homes in a factory and bring them to the building site as panels, modules or fully completed units. The amount of work required on-site to complete the home depends on the type and size of the building, the type of foundation and the customization required.

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