The Home Builders' Annual - Eastern Ontario 2012

2012 The Only Complete Resource Directory of Eastern Ontario Home Builders

Discover Ottawa/Gatineau’s top builders and developers – one success story at a time ›› EXPERT PANEL: Why now is a great time to buy ›› MORTGAGE ADVICE: Beware of mortgage rate fixation

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b u i ld e r sto ry Car d e l H o m e s

Room to grow.

Built for real life. cardelhomes.com

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Have it your way. cardel homes—something for everyone.

Cardel has quickly become a household name around Ottawa, offering a range of products to suit every lifestyle, vision, and budget. Cardel customers can choose anything from spacious multi-family condos and townhomes to award-winning single-family and custom built homes. Cardel has taken over 37 years of experience and gone back to their roots to reintroduce their custom built division. This will appeal to customers who desire an even more unique product to suit their vision.

Homebuyers looking for a quality home, innovative designs and a better overall buying experience are consistently choosing Cardel. Homes designed for real life— Marrying craftsmanship and value-added features with locations in sought-after communities, along with design options that allow customers to craft a home suited to the way they live are just a few of the top qualities that continues to set Cardel apart. This year will see the launch of the masterplanned communities of Blackstone and Richardson Ridge.

Cardel has already seen a huge interest in these Kanata communities and with both offering a blend of Cardel’s most popular models along with exciting new plans and options, that interest is only expected to grow.

“We’re seeing a lot of interest in communities outside the greenbelt,” says Cardel Ottawa president Greg Graham.

“Living just a few minutes outside of Ottawa makes a world of difference in terms of lot size and value for dollar.”

Cardel also has much more to offer in bordering communities. Located just 15 minutes from Kanata, the Village of Richmond boasts a small-town lifestyle with convenient access to surrounding amenities and major routes. Richmond’s abundant greenspace, garden nurseries and protected conservation areas are complemented by a multi-use community centre, an arena, soccer fields and a curling rink. Cardel recently released the

last phase of 65-foot lots in King’s Grant, a neighborhood offering everything you won’t find in the city; generous lots and spacious floorplans at more affordable prices.

In nearby Stittsville, the well-established community of Deer Run offers a relaxed, unhurried lifestyle close to urban conveniences. Here, in the final phase, Cardel’s singlefamily lots are located on a private crescent with many backing onto green space. Just minutes from Kanata, Stittsville offers a variety of shopping areas, schools, churches, medical services and recreational facilities all nearby— which might explain why more people are embracing it’s small community feel.

A further 10 minutes down the road, tucked along the Mississippi river in Carleton Place, sits Stonewater Bay, a neighbourhood surrounded by waterfront scenery. With a new 4 lane highway, this nature-draped community is just a laid-back drive from downtown Ottawa but feels worlds away. For those who love the outdoors Carleton Place was an obvious choice for Cardel, promising four seasons of recreation. In addition to offering their most popular bungalows and 2 storey models; clients can also build their custom dream home on these wide and exclusive riverfront lots.

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The community of Notting Hill South Orleans is where Cardel has expanded its offerings to include open-concept condos and inspired townhomes. With its cozy streets, urban comforts and a 10-acre Kiwanis centrepiece park, this community has been extremely popular among a variety of buyers. “Notting Hill South is definitely one of our most popular communities,” says Graham. “ With sales now launched on their second condo building, Cardel expects to break ground in the summer of 2012.

The project features a 4 storey, 56 unit building with underground parking & elevator. These stylish open concept 1 & 2 bedroom models also include 6 appliances, radiant in-floor heating, air conditioning and storage; offering incredible value for both the first time and move-down buyer. Just down the road are Cardel’s latest townhome models offering 3 new open concept plans. Ranging from 1,100 – 1,900 square feet, these towns will surprise you with their well-planned use of space and single home feel.

Over 70% sold, these popular plans include a finished basement, hardwood and ceramic tile floors, and customized designer finishes for every taste.

Beyond their prime locations and top-quality product lines, Cardel has set itself apart from other builders by offering full custom home building services. Whether working with a client’s architect, customizing an existing Cardel model or designing a brand new concept from the ground up, Cardel will make your dream a reality. Customers can build on their own lot or in one of the two Cardel Communities of Stonewater Bay or Ridgewood Estates.

Mere minutes from the heart of Stittsville, a limited collection of estate lots are now available at Ridgewood Estates. Surrounded by hardwoods and fragrant cedars, these striking lots could well be the last chance to build a large estate home on an oversized country lot. Each home site presents endless creative opportunities to include terraces, gardens, pools, play structures and much more.

“We’re seeing a lot of interest in communities outside the greenbelt,” says Cardel’s Greg Graham.

Regardless of which product or community a customer chooses, they will experience a personalized sales process designed to take the stress out of buying a new home.

Cardel buyers enjoy a full range of value-added benefits, including interior design expertise accompanied by highly knowledgeable sales consultants that work with customers every step of the way. This level of service along with higher standard build specifications throughout every product line has Cardel positioned for continued success. Moving ahead buyers can look forward to exciting new offerings across all communities slated for 2012, 2013 and beyond.

To learn more about cardel, view interactive floorplans, find sales centre locations and register for community updates, visit cardelhomes.com.

Built for real life. cardelhomes.com

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Editor’s Note

C

A unique opportunity to be a part of something special

hances are your dream home or condo 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 Home Builders’ Annual features a myriad of the best new communities that the city has to offer. Our goal is to help you find just the right home for the lifestyle that you’ve been dreaming of.

We have profiled several of the most popular new communities in the Ottawa 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-home or condo 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 builder 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 New Home Guide | New Condo Guide | Home Décor & Renovations susan.legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter: twitter.com/susanlegge

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2012 table of contents

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19 11 05 Editor’s Note 14 Mortgage Mechanics

Beware of mortgage rate fixation

by Nelly Van Berlo

22 OHBA Report

Why buying a new home or condo is a great choice

by Doug Tarry

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36 Legal Advice

49 Expert Panel

44 Choosing a Builder

53 The Eastern Ontario

New-home purchase transactions

by Grant R. Poulsen Finding a new-home builder you can trust

Voices of experience explain why now is great time to buy

Home Builders’ Roster A comprehensive list of new-home builders in Eastern Ontario

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2012 The Only Complete Resource Directory of Eastern Ontario Home Builders

vice-president, national real estate

Jacqueline Hill

regional sales manager, eastern ontario

Paul Bimm

editor-in-chief, national real estate

Susan Legge art director

Sarah Jang Editor

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Wayne Karl contributing writers

Joanne Keenan Candice Vetter

sales co-ordinator, eastern ontario

Nashrun Kamaludin production manager

Bala Gnanapandithan production co-ordinator

Dennis Ng

graphic designers

Debbie Loo Daniel Mera Caroline Wassef

2012 Eastern Home Builders’ Annual 1 Raymond St., Suite 300 Ottawa, Ontario K1R 1A2 phone 613.729.1221

Advertising: Call 613.729.1221 for advertising rates and information.

Circulation Polybagged with the March 24 issue of Eastern Ontario New Home & Condo Guide

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Copies available through direct distribution and by consumer request year round by calling 613.729.1221 or by e-mail: nashrun.kamaludin@wall2wallmedia.com (one copy per mailing address)

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Copyright 2012 All rights reserved by New Home & Condo Guide, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Contents of this publication are covered by Copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law.

Eastern New-Home Builders’ Index

Cardel Homes

30-32

Holitzner

08-10

Ashcroft Homes

33-35

Valecraft Homes

11-13

Phoenix Homes

38-40

02-04

16-18

19-21

24-26

27-29

eQ Homes

Condos du Rivage

41-43

Condo Chateau Cartier

Monarch Homes

46-48

Domicile

Metric Homes

57-59

The VIU

BC

Mattamy Homes

• Information correct as of press time. Pricing and availability of properties, specifications and features in the 2012 Ottawa Home Builders’ Annual are subject to change without notice – Errors & Omissions Excluded.

• 2012 Ottawa Ontario Home Builders’ Annual is not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints in editorial or ads Terms Advertisers, Editorial Content and 2012 Eastern Ontario Home Builders’ Annual are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All prices are correct as of press time and are subject to change without notice. E. & O. E. PUBLISHED By:

Campanale Homes

Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada.

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b u i ld e r sto ry AS H CR O FT H O M E S

Ashcroft Homes

Setting trends, not following them, for the future of Ottawa

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hink of beautiful homes, wonderful surroundings, innovative communities, cutting edge style and you’ll think of Ashcroft Homes. Ashcroft has long been known for producing superior homes in Ottawa’s most appealing settings whether it’s on the edge of the city or in the midst of downtown hustle and bustle.

The company’s latest foray has been a pursuit of tired areas poised for growth and ready to burst forward with some strategic help.

Each Ashcroft community represents a new vision in an ongoing pursuit of projects that breed vitality into Ottawa’s urban landscape. With diversity its forte, its locations, designs and concepts are determined by multiple factors far beyond supply and demand.

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David Choo is the ambitious president of Ashcroft Homes, an entrepreneur who has established himself during the past 19 years as a mover in Ottawa’s urban housing market. He believes the city is at a critical juncture, with citizens hungry for the urban lifestyle, as opposed to just urban working.

Grenwich Circle, Central Park: Located in the Central Park neighbourhood just off Merivale Rd., Ashcroft has produced an enclave of exclusive Signature Series homes. These are a reinforcement of Ashcroft’s commitment to offering the best of the best--location, lifestyle and luxury in a one-of-a-kind residence – a fusion of form, function, fashion, fun and freedom. It’s where luxury, elegance and amenities transform urban living into an experience for those who want more out of life, much more.

Tucked between the Experimental Farm, Ottawa’s downtown core and the west end, all that the city has to offer is literally beyond the front door.

Retaining diverse architectural character, each home expresses the stylistic variety and continuity found in the community of Central Park that has taken shape over time. The enclave of Grenwich Circle is where Ashcroft has relaunched 10 spectacular, and vastly upgraded designs.

The Signature Series includes the 2,020 sq.ft. Arden, with its cottagestyle appeal; the stately 3,155 sq.ft. Dior; the elegant Gucci; and the spectacular 3,563-sq.-ft. Mayflower and the piece de resistance, a stunning model home of the Versace, showcasing 3,016 sq.ft. of elegance.

CitiPlace Like all of its projects, Ashcroft Homes has created CitiPlace as a defining statement on how new city spaces will be. CitiPlace offers a hip and trendy mix of residential and commercial to blend business and pleasure for residents and entrepreneurs alike, partnered with innovation and affordability. CitiPlace offers opportunities to work and live in the same community making it possible to operate a thriving home business or walk to your storefront through recreational greenspace. Large condo lofts continue to be a part of the modern developing of CitiPlace and soon to be released luxurious condominium apartments strategically located with a view to the ravines and a bicycle path.

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Eastboro, Navan Town meets country in this growing Ashcroft community nestled between Orleans and Navan. Those seeking an escape from the city will be drawn to its selection of singles, semis, and townhomes.

An elementary school is coming soon, as is a medical centre, while down the road residents will discover theatres, health clubs and a variety of shops and services to complete the lifestyle picture. Terrace townhomes offer an innovative taste of urban living in the country with two- level units offering upper and lower placement. New Yorker townhomes (also available at CitiPlace) offer four levels of living including garage and utility basement for storage. Urban towns are another variation offering four levels that feature two spacious bedrooms on the upper level and a choice of open-area great room plans or defined spaces. Completing the Eastboro picture are bungalow semis, one with a loft option and singles designed for placement on lots 35 or 43 feet. A few Terrace and Towns are still available for sale in Phase One. Phase Two coming soon.

Condo Living in Westboro Ashcroft is at the vanguard of urban renewal in the city’s older neighborhoods by taking tired spaces and rebuilding them into desirable communities. QWest in Westboro is the vision of this new Ottawa capturing the success of Ashcroft’s neighbouring condos of 101 Richmond and 111 West, a blend of lifestyles and amenities. Like other Ashcroft master-planned communities, QWest will be self-sufficient, not only for those who live there, but for those who visit, complete with shopping, dining, outdoor plazas and greenspace. QWest addresses this increasing demand for cosmopolitan living partnered with a lifestyle of attractive amenities and nightlife providing an urban link between Island Park and Wellington West for a continuous cosmopolitan experience.

Alavida lifestyles Defining the very best of an adult lifestyle for those approaching retirement, Ashcroft’s Alavida Lifestyles campuses offer total freedom, convenience and amenities, suited to the most discriminating tastes and desires. Three campuses in three distinctive settings address the transitions that may become necessary over the years through various health care services and transitional accommodations without residents needing to move from the community, friends and family. Ashcroft offers The Ravines in the CitiPlace community, The Promenade in Orleans, and The Astoria in Central Park, with a full complement of lifestyle options: elegant, independent community living, luxury senior suites and full-service retirement residences with assisted living.

A Canadian icon Created for only the most discerning clients, Ashcroft’s re Hotel and Residences is destined to become a Canadian icon. This luxury five-star boutique hotel and condominium is the first of its kind in Ottawa. Located within the Parliamentary Precinct, re offers every amenity imaginable, combined with exclusive condominiums, to satisfy those who demand the highest quality. The luxuriously appointed units are eight floors above the street, for priceless unobstructed Canadian views owned by no one else in the city. Along with a concierge, there is a doorman, valet service, full maid service, state of the art fitness room, dog-walking service, pet spa, and room service. This is where residents need never concern themselves with the mundane.

Grenwich Circle at Central Park Executive Singles.

1280 Merivale Rd. 613-727-1887 Ashcroft-Homes.com CitiPlace Townhomes & Condos.

81 Colonnade Rd. N. 613-226-1777 Ashcroft-Homes.com

Eastboro Singles, Semi-Detached, Townhomes.

3253 Navan Rd. 613-834-4319 Ashcroft-Homes.com

101 Richmond 111 West 108, 98, 88 Richmond Road 613-221-5926 liveqwest.com 101richmond.ca 111westcondo.com

Re Hotel and Residences 106 Sparks Street 613.232.1081

Alavida The Ravines: 626 Prado Private 613-288-7900 The Promenade: 110 Rossignol Cres.

613-451-1414 The Astoria: 120 Central Park.

613-798-2686 Website: www.alavidalifestyles.com

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B U I LD E R STO RY PH O E N I X H O M E S

Phoenix Homes Location, location.....and stellar people

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o get a feeling for the care and attention this family owned business takes when developing a site, building a single family home, town home or condo, or providing after care service; lets review the Phoenix Homes experience.

The Sales agents are educated, informed, caring and trustworthy. You would expect to find the latter two traits in a friend and not necessarily in a sales person.

However these attributes, and a very friendly demeanor is what makes the Sales Team at Phoenix Homes unique. Sales Agents take time to suggest the right house for the needs and wants of potential Purchasers. They will take potential Purchasers through the model home, arrange Owner occupied viewings (of homes not featured as models but where homeowners are proud to show off their homes to potential purchasers) or meticulously review floor plans so each Purchaser knows exactly what to expect when they move in.

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The Sales Agent then confidently places you into the hands of the Design Center Consultants.

Other builders may just be catching on to the importance of interior finishes for their Purchasers but Phoenix Homes has had two full time Design Center Consultants and a fully equipped Design Center to assist Purchasers in customizing their home, condo or town house for over 10 years. Our professional consultants book 4 appointments and spend countless hours going over your home with you step by step, room by room, from the front door to faucets, from cove molding to carpets, until the picture is complete. Once you have completed your Design Centre process the Consultants confidently places your home in the hands of our Construction Team.

The Construction Team ensures your home is built as specified by you using top notch trades people and 12

quality products. Once your home has been framed and plumbing, ductwork and electrical installed, a Phoenix Homes representative will take you for a pre drywall walk through. This unique service offered by Phoenix Homes gives you, the homeowner, a chance to see your home under construction, take pictures, ask questions and share in the excitement of the build. During the building process your Sales Agent is always available to you to answer questions and provide service as well as welcome you into your new home with a fantastic welcome basket on your day of closing. Once you have moved into your new home, the Construction Team and Sales Agent confidently place you in the hands of your Client Service representative.

Phoenix Homes’ Client Service department is there to answer your questions and provide service as you enjoy

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living in your new Phoenix home, condo or town house. They can answer questions about the Tarion Warranty program, book a repair, or any numbers of things that come up while in your new home. They confidently, competently and professional answer your calls and emails to ensure your Phoenix experience is enjoyable to the very end, or until you are ready to move into your next Phoenix Home. We are very proud of our Referral Program and Repeat Buyer Program which has been hugely successful, a testament to the Phoenix Homes Sales Agents, Design Center Consultants, Construction Team and Client Service personnel. Though Phoenix Homes has built more than 4,000 homes throughout the region and has become Ottawa’s premier land development company, it still maintains the care and attention of a family owned business. We invite you to our website www.phoenixhomes.ca to view our floor plans, videos, photos, established communities, present sales locations and future sites. Or call Marlene Borsboom, Director of Sales and Marketing at (613) 723-9927 x 123 for more information.

We look forward to welcoming you into a Phoenix Home.

Phoenix Homes Head Office: 18 Bentley Ave. Ottawa, ON K2E 6T8 Phone: 613-723-9227 Website: phoenixhomes.ca

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Mortgage Mechanics

Beware of

mortgage rate fixation

by NELLY VAN BERLO

THERE HAS BEEN A LOT OF CHATTER SURROUNDING ULTRA-LOW RATES that were introduced by many banks early this year. But, it’s important to look beyond mere rates into the bigger picture surrounding what’s significant when it comes to your specific mortgage needs.

While “no-frills” mortgage products typically offer a lower – or more discounted – interest rate when compared with many other available products, the lower rate is really their only perk.

The biggest problem with looking at rate alone is that you may end up paying thousands of dollars in early payout penalties if you opt for a five-year fixed-rate mortgage, for instance, and then decide to move before five years have passed.

No-frills mortgage products won’t let you take your mortgage with you if you purchase another property before your mortgage term is up – so portability is not an option with this product.

Portability is an important option that could save you money over the long term if the home of your dreams is within your

reach before your mortgage term is up and rates have risen, which they have a tendency to do over a five-year period.

This type of product is only plausible for those who have minimal plans to take advantage of benefits that will help pay off your mortgage faster – such as pre-payment privileges including lump-sum payments.

Essentially, this product is only ideal for: first-time homebuyers who want fixed payments and have limited opportunities to make lump-sum payments during the first five years of their mortgage; and property investors who need a low fixed rate and aren’t concerned with making lumpsum payments.

It’s understandable why these products may seem appealing. After all, not everyone feels they have the extra cash to put down a huge lump-sum payment. And who needs a portable mortgage if you’re not planning on moving any time soon?

WHILE “NO-FRILLS” MORTGAGE PRODUCTS TYPICALLY OFFER A LOWER – OR MORE DISCOUNTED – INTEREST RATE WHEN COMPARED WITH MANY OTHER AVAILABLE PRODUCTS, THE LOWER RATE IS REALLY THEIR ONLY PERK.

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But it’s important to remember that a lot can change over the course of five years – or whatever term you choose for your mortgage. You could get transferred, find a bigger house, have babies or change careers. Five years is a long time to be anchored to something.

Many people won’t sign a cell phone contract for longer than three years that they can’t get out of, so why would they then sign a mortgage for five years that they can’t get out of?

The thing is, you can still obtain great mortgage savings without giving up the perks of traditional mortgages. For starters, many lenders are willing to offer significant discounts if you opt for a 30-day “quick” close.

And there are many other ways to earn your own discounts. For instance, by switching to weekly or bi-weekly mortgage payments, or by obtaining a variable-rate mortgage but increasing your payments to match those of the going five-year fixed rate, you’ll be ahead of the typical 0.1 per cent discount of a no-frills product before you know it – and you won’t have to give up on options.

Banks don’t give anything away for free – they’re there to make money. That’s why it’s essential to discuss the full details surrounding the small print behind the low rates with an independent mortgage professional.

Aside from finding you the best available mortgage product and rate that meets your unique needs, your mortgage professional will take your longer-term goals into account, explain the benefits of shorter or longer mortgage terms, suggest ways to help you pay down your mortgage quicker and review all the costs involved with purchasing a home – such as property taxes, mortgage insurance (if applicable) and mortgage life insurance.

Nelly Van Berlo AMP, CPMB Mortgage Broker/Owner Dominion Lending Centres The Mortgage Source Licence #10145 TEL 613.232.0023 ext. 227 TOLL FREE 1.800.663.2397 ext. 227 EMAIL nelly@nelly.ca WEBSITE nelly.ca

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B U I LD E R STO RY CO N D O S D U R IVAG E

Love life along the river at

Condos du Rivage

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rban living at its best defines Condos du Rivage in Aylmer. Situated just off Lucerne Blvd (Lower Aylmer Road), these beautiful condominiums let you live near downtown and close to nature at the same time.

For the discerning buyers who want space without expensive home maintenance, who want freedom, access to nature, and convenience in life, Condos du Rivage is the place. You can live just minutes from Parliament Hill and everything else neighbouring Ottawa offers, while tucked in your own enclave of natural beauty.

These large and spacious high-quality condos

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sit peacefully only 3.7 km from Champlain Bridge, alongside the natural grandeur of the majestic Ottawa River. Only four levels high, every unit is a corner—maximizing the natural light—allowing you to wake or end your day with the sun. Up on the top floor nine-ft. ceilings and 11-ft. cathedral ceiling living areas provides the type of stunning space unheard of in most condominiums.

This exclusive neighbourhood of executive single-family homes nestles steps away from the sounds and sights of the Ottawa River shoreline.

The shore is protected by the National Capital Commission, so you can be assured it will always be there for you and your visitors to enjoy.

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Condos du Rivage is the latest project from Sam Chowieri, who has teamed up with Marcel Raymond of Construction GMR.

Set in one of the National Capital area’s most accessible yet natural locations, Condos du Rivage is a refined product made for discriminating tastes. Enjoy plenty of space in units as large as 1617 sq. ft., with storage and underground parking. Gorgeous views are enhanced by large balconies and bay windows. A secure and attractive lobby welcomes you and your guests.

Condos du Rivage lets you work with their design consultant and/or meet with the actual cabinet-makers, flooring specialists and other tradespeople there for you. The model is only the starting point for your vision.

Customize and personalize your unit completely, for a home that is truly yours.

If you are exchanging the time and maintenance of a larger home for worry-free condo living you will not have to compromise lifestyle. Each of the buildings have four units per level, all on corners, so your privacy is assured.

Superior concrete construction and special acoustic sound barriers enhance that quality. At Condos du Rivage the investment has been made in high-quality, efficient mechanicals such as air-conditioners, air exchangers and elevators. Because maintenance costs are lower on wellmade systems, this type of attention to quality helps keep condo fees remarkably low.

Condo fees here don’t compare to anything in Ottawa and suites are affordably priced, starting in the mid-200s, which includes secure indoor parking, both taxes and even your notary fees. Inexpensive the fees may be, but free is better. For a limited time the first 36 months—yes three whole years—of condo fees are free, so act fast!

For the person who enjoys a healthy, active lifestyle, everything is available. Sailors are minutes from the Aylmer Marina. Runners, joggers, cyclists, cross-country skiers can all enjoy the trails, one of which is just outside the door.

Golfers will be overwhelmed by the choices, with four of the regions most beautiful courses only seconds away. Go fishing. Go boating. Swim in the indoor pool at the nearby Château Cartier Hotel.

Yes, home ownership at Condos du Rivage includes an executive membership card* for access to the hotel’s pool, sauna, gym, Jacuzzi and other amenities. Take guests to the pub, order room service, or take advantage of cleaning services. Besides the hotel, any amenity wanted is near in Gatineau. Stores, restaurants and entertainment are in close proximity—with everything from large shopping areas to unique, quaint bistros.

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Condos du Rivage is the latest project from Sam Chowieri, who has teamed up with Marcel Raymond of Construction GMR. Together they’ve made the most of this stunning location.

The Aylmer area has a long history of English settlement, so non-francophones can feel comfortably at home while enjoying the special flair of a truly bilingual city. Condos du Rivage provides security and safety. Let them take care of the mowing and snowblowing while you travel. Take the opportunity to meet with financing consultants for pre-evaluated mortgage approvals. Immediate possession is available, or plan for Phase II in spring, 2012; Phase III in fall, 2012; and newly released Phase IV in 2013.

To learn more about this great opportunity visit condosdurivage.com, call 819.778.7125, or go to the sales office at 102-140 Pavillon Street, Gatineau. Just take Island Park Drive across the Champlain Bridge, turn left on Lucerne, and follow the signs. Hours are Monday- Wednesday 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Friday by appointment, Saturday and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

You’ll love your lifestyle along the river at Condos du Rivage.

CONDOS DU RIVAGE Location: Gatineau Aylmer Condos 1300-1600 sq. ft.

Price: from mid $200s Closings: spring and fall 2012 Site office: 140 Pavillon Street Call: 819.778.7125 Website: condosdurivage.com

*some conditions apply

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B U I LD E R STO RY M O N AR CH

Last Chance

to live on the golf course in Stonebridge. Ever.

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As a pivotal Ottawa community, Stonebridge’s success lies in its longevity and commitment to the growth and development of Nepean.

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n the heart of Nepean is Stonebridge, one of Monarch’s most successful communities to date.

Set over 700 acres of lush green hills, treed woods and ample park space, Stonebridge is surrounded by the prestigious Stonebridge Golf & Country Club, one of the finest 18-hole championship courses in the province.

A true master-planned community, Stonebridge offers a variety of recreational amenities nearby including Kilbirnie Park, with two soccer fields and an ice rink, and a network of walking trails. A five-minute walk north takes you to the Jock River where canoeing and biking are popular.

As a pivotal Ottawa community, Stonebridge’s success lies in its longevity and commitment to the growth and development of Nepean. The community of Stonebridge was built in 2007 and today thousands of families call it home. Within Stonebridge, 400 families live right on the golf course. As there are only a few remaining golf course lots left, opportunities to live on the green are limited and going quickly. There is no better time than the present to make an investment in both real estate and quality of life.

Large single-family homes range in size from 1,663 to 3,567 square feet on 40’ and 50’ lots, offering luxurious living and stunning vistas of the golf course.

Upon entering, you will be impressed by the features and finishes that have helped define Monarch as one of the premier builders in the country. Standout details include ceramic-tiled foyer, traditional colonial trim throughout and a gas fireplace, as per plan. Kitchens are designed with the ultimate of convenience in mind with large islands for cooking, eating and entertaining.

Walk-in closets and soaker tubs are standard features in the master suites. Priced from the low $500’s, purchasers can further upgrade their lifestyle with Monarch’s $30,000 Design Studio incentive offer.

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Stonebridge offers something for everyone – whether you’re looking for the delights of living on a golf course or want to enjoy the carefree convenience of a townhome. The Executive two-storey townhomes at Stonebridge have bright, expansive floorplans ranging from 1,547 to 2,219 square feet. If you are looking for affordable luxury, be sure to view The Links at Stonebridge. Beautiful stacked townhomes set within Monarch’s prestigious Stonebridge golf club community are available from the low $200’s.

Designer decorated model homes are available to view, showcasing the elegance of the Stonebridge Single family, Townhome and The Links stacked townhome designs. Visit our Experience Centre located at 610 Kilbirnie Drive, Nepean. Open from 1 to 8pm. Monday to Thursday; from noon to 5 pm Fridays, weekends and holidays. For more information, call 613-692-9284.

Stonebridge Experience Centre 610 Kilbirnie Drive,Nepean, Ontario, K2J 0G7

www.monarchgroup.net

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OHBA Report

Adding up the

pluses

Why a new home or condo is a great choice

by DOUG TARRY

FOR MANY FAMILIES, BUYING A HOME IS MOST LIKELY

the largest financial purchase they will ever make. And quite frankly, there has never been a better time to be a buy new home. As consumers, you do a lot of homework and research about what style of home, which community and what price best suits your needs.

And for many families, that means choosing a newly constructed home or condominium. Last year, there were 67,821 new home starts in Ontario, and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. is forecasting about 63,450 housing starts in 2012.

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SO WHAT MAKES THOUSANDS OF CONSUMERS CHOOSE TO BUY A NEW HOME OR CONDO VERSUS A RESALE HOME? Well, consider some of these pluses that you can expect to enjoy in a new home or condo: » Prescribed energy-efficient construction » Bright, open interiors » A healthy, comfortable indoor environment » Low-maintenance materials inside and out » Modern, innovative features that meet the needs of today’s lifestyle

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For many families, buying a home is most likely the largest financial purchase they will ever make. And quite frankly, there has never been a better time to be a buy new home.

to code, improved electrical components or products that reduce gas emissions, a new house is built to a stringent code. A newly-built home is also inspected during various phases of construction, ensuring that the home is built to minimum energy efficiency as well as code and safety requirements.

Warranty Program In Ontario,

In a very competitive marketplace, new-home builders are using advanced design, materials and construction techniques to provide homebuyers with a wide range of options and great value.

builders must be registered with the Tarion Warranty Program which offers one of the best, most comprehensive warranty coverage Design It all begins with design. Good home design begins with an programs in the country. New-home understanding of how people live in their homes. Times have changed. buyers benefit from deposit Families have changed and with it, our lifestyles have evolved. New-home protection as well as protection builders offer fresh, innovative plans and designs to meet the needs of against delayed closings or today’s consumers, using modern technology to build homes and condos occupancies without proper written that are attractive, highly functional and feel good to live in. Homes that notices. New homeowners are also include efficient use of space, open layouts, plenty of natural light, kitchens covered against defects in work and that work, flexible space and of course, lots of storage (something that’s materials, major structural defects. usually absent in older homes).

So, the pluses to buying new versus resale really add up.

Energy Efficiency The energy efficiency of Canadian homes has improved There’s a saying you often hear greatly over the years, especially with changes to the Ontario Building Code people say about new homes – that came into effect in 2012. Thanks to major advances in building “They don’t build them like they techniques and product innovation, a house built today uses less than half used to.” I say, that is very, very the energy of a home built in the 1950s and provides a far more comfortable true! And that’s a good thing. living environment. From windows to insulation to state-of-the-art heating Because the reality is… We build and air conditioning systems, today’s new homes are superior when it comes them better – much better. to energy efficiency. And we can expect that advances in energy efficiency will continue, as the price of energy continues to increase and we, as a society, recognize our responsibility to conserve energy and reduce our own environmental footprint.

Environmentally Responsible Products No doubt about it, today’s new-home buyers have the opportunity to build a much more environmentally-friendly home than was built even just 10 years ago, let alone 40 or 50 years ago. Great advances have been made in developing and manufacturing building products that contribute to the “Greening” of Canadian homes and condos. Manufacturers and suppliers are continually looking for ways to make their products and systems more acceptable to today’s environmentally savvy customer.

Safety In part because of changes to Ontario’s Building Code over the years, new homes boast many products and features that ensure your family home is a safe environment. Whether it’s superior air ventilation and heating systems, hard-wired carbon monoxide detectors, stair railings and risers built

Doug Tarry is President of the Ontario Home Builders’ Association. The OHBA is the voice of the residential construction industry in Ontario representing 4,000 member companies organized into 29 local associations across the province. The industry contributes over $34 billion to Ontario’s economy, employing over 334,000 people across the province.

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B U I LD E R STO RY M ET R I C H O M E S

Metric Homes

A Few Words On Our Unique Process

M

etric often jokes with their potential purchasers before they ask questions: “whatever your question is: the answer is “YES”. Metric always finds a way to accommodate their clients’ needs: COMPLETE FLEXIBILITY in the design and the construction of your home.

Over the years, Metric Homes has always insisted on strong customer service and superior construction quality, including the practice that each home buyer receives personal service from either one of the two owners or Metric’s Executive Vice President.

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Pierre, Michel and Stephan spend a lot of time with each customer, encouraging buyers to customize their homes and get the maximum possible results. This attention to detail produces better quality, service and flexibility in order to give the buyers what they want. Homeowners benefit from Metric’s 25-plus years of building experience which is evident in superior craftsmanship and finishes. They also appreciate the special attention Metric gives to detail, customization and true pampering throughout the entire process of designing and building their dream home.

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You can bring your own dream plan or choose from one of Metric’s exciting plans, including one of the award- winning designs by Metric Homes. Metric Homes won AWARDS FOR BEST DESIGN from the Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association and for the MOST OUTSTANDING PRODUCTION HOME IN ONTARIO, from the Ontario Home Builders’ Association. Metric Homes is also the FIRST BUILDER IN CANADA to have a home built, inspected, qualified and certified as an ENERGY STAR home. Metric Homes, through its innovative designs, was recently the FIRST BUILDER IN OTTAWA to obtain a building permit and build under the city new program: a HOME-WITHIN-A-HOME, offering 2 dwelling units in 1 home. Metric Homes has since designed and build several homes geared for 2 separate families (often adding a bungalow to a 2-storey home for a parent’s).

As all satisfied and happy Metric homebuyers know, the Principals of Metric Homes enjoy making it very easy and comfortable to build your home – from choosing the perfect lot to selecting just the right upgrades, without forgetting to add your personalized touches.

awesome flexibility, this as been an incredible journey of pleasure… and are enjoying a unique experience. This was my vision of how one should go through the biggest expense of one’s lifetime and only Metric has made our dream come true.The house was built within the agreed price; there were no hidden surprises.”

Jean and Line “The house is everything we expected and more. Being able to visit the site during all stages of the house being built was great. …you were always available to discuss issues we had. Erin and I made the right choice in selecting Metric as our builder, and we will be back when we are ready to build our next house.”

Erin & Scott “Pierre always had a way of making us feel as though we were his only clients. We went through months in the planning stages before we even signed on as buyers and Pierre never pushed us to make a decision, or gave up on all our crazy ideas…They finished a week ahead of schedule. There were absolutely no surprises.”

Christina

Here are a few testimonials of past purchasers “Michel and Pierre have, on several occasions, exceeded the standard builder-client relationship … They have made us feel a part of the team… For Line and I, because of their

“We not only found a great builder but also found new friends!”

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METRIC HOMES Your design or ours. Our lot or yours! www.MetricHomes.com (613) 296-7000

WESTLAKE SOUTH ESTATES between Stittsville & Carp 2 to 4 Acre Estate Lots From Mid $500’s Decorated & Furnished Award Winning Model Home/Sales Office - open 7 days per week DESIGN AWARD WINNER DEER RUN IN STITTSVILLE 50’ to 54’ wide Lots in a private crescent pie shape lots - Lots backing on farmland. Direct access to parkland.

From the low $400’s For more information about Metric Homes, call Pierre at (613) 296-7000 or e-mail at Pierre@MetricHomes.com.

You can also call Michel at (613) 222-6692 or by e-mail at Michel@MetricHomes.com and Stephan at (613) 836-8079 or e-mail at Stephan@MetricHomes.com • You will enjoy personal customer service from one of Metric Homes’ two owners: Pierre or Michel, or Executive Vice President Stephan.

• Start with one of Metric’s plans, or bring your own plan or just a hand sketch.

Open Weekends and Holidays from Noon to 5am CAMELOT ESTATES IN CUMBERLAND 2 Acre Estate Lots From the High $600’s Visit our Model Homes in Arbourbrook Estates ONLY 3 LOTS REMAINING NAVAN

• Make ALL the changes or modifications you want and provide Metric with your “wish list”

1/2 acre wooded lot on Mustang St.

• Let Pierre, Michel or Stephan complete your design and apply themselves in accommodating you and helping you balance your wish list with your budget.

CUSTOM HOMES OTTAWA CARLETON AREA ON OUR OR YOUR LAND

At Navan Rd - From the High $600’s

• Pay no premium for the above services. All Metric homes are priced using the same costing formula. There is no cost to you for the custom design consultation, plans or working drawings. This is all part of Metric standard service.

• While your house is being built, participate and visit as much and as often as you like.

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B U I LD E R STO RY T H E V I U

Choose Location, Style, Amenities, Price — or get them all at The Viu

O

ne of the Heafey Groupe’s most exclusive and stylish projects yet is The Viu in Gatineau/Hull. This gorgeous 19-storey condominium rises elegantly alongside the Ottawa River in one of the National Capital Region’s most beautiful locations. Only a few minutes walk from Parliament Hill and the Byward Market, and just a short drive or bicycle ride from all of downtown Ottawa’s shopping and amenities, The Viu is the only comparable building on the Quebec side of the Ottawa River.

Aptly named The Viu, the building is brilliantly designed to take full advantage of every unit’s

panoramic scenery. From your large balcony you can gaze over the river, which stretches from eastern to western horizon, or watch the changing colours of the Gatineau Hills and the city’s urban forest. Look at Parliament Hill, Major’s Hill Park, or other historic Ottawa sights.

The views are enhanced by tall, elegant, energyefficient windows. High ceilings of nine feet, or even ten feet on the upper floors, natural beauty, and windows which flood the condo with light provide a manageably-sized space which feels wide open.

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The very top floor not only has one of the most outstanding lookouts in the area, it is also the site of the gym, spa, sauna, and steam bath. Relax on deck chairs and swim in the spectacular endless pool. Inside the units be welcomed by hardwood and ceramic flooring throughout, quartz kitchen counters, and luxurious fixtures in bathroom and kitchen.

The Viu also offers full underground parking, plenty of storage, and high-tech security for your peace of mind.

All this plus beautiful landscaping and the river’s majesty at your feet. Prices start at $247,900. Take a look at the website, leviu.ca. You won’t believe your eyes.

That sounds impossible, but isn’t. Living on rue Laurier near Jacques Cartier Park in Hull has the advantages of living in downtown Ottawa—but doesn’t have the Ottawa prices. The renewal of downtown Gatineau/Hull means home values will rise, and a 75 per cent municipal tax rebate on mortgages for seven years could save as much as $2000 to $4000 per year.

Another lifestyle change to consider is that you may not need a car at all. Everything is central when you live across from Parliament Hill. Walk to work, walk to the Byward Market, walk to museums, restaurants, movies and stores.

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The path beside the river can lead you by foot or bicycle all the way to Dow’s Lake, the Aylmer Marina, Rockcliffe and the Aviation Museum—anywhere you want to go. And don’t forget the stunning architecture and fascinating exhibits of the Canadian Museum of Civilization, which is right on your doorstep.

Take friends sliding in Jacques Cartier Park during Winterlude, have a ringside view of Canada Day, and watch the fireworks from the best spot around. Or stroll across the MacDonald-Cartier or Alexandria Bridges and join in. Try the blackjack tables of the nearby casino, explore the 200 kilometres of trails in Gatineau Park and enjoy quick access to Quebec’s wild lake and cottage country.

The Outaouais area has incredible attractions, and homes here are considerably less expensive than a similar home on the Ontario side of the river. In addition, Gatineau is a truly bilingual city. Speak English or French, whichever you’re comfortable in, and enjoy the cultural mélange.

Condos start at a roomy 795 sq. ft. for a one-bedroom and go up to whatever size you want. If so desired The Heafey Group will put several units together to make one large condominium, so there is no restriction on available space.

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Individual meters, programmable thermostats, cable and telephone pre-wiring, homeautomation, stainless steel undermount sink, solid-core white birch unit doors with deadbolt, four-inch baseboards, water-cooled air-conditioning, quartz countertops, engineered hardwood flooring, and ceramic tile flooring in entrance, kitchen and bathroom, all make your home low-maintenance and efficient.

The VIU strikes the perfect blend of urban architecture and a socially active lifestyle with a wide array of unique benefits that will turn your condo into a dream home.

Live in the most fashionable condominium building in the Outaouais region.

To see these very special homes visit leviu.ca, and check out the luxurious condos with spectacular views and stylish common areas. The sales office is at 315 Notre Dame de l’Ile. Call 819.665.3659 for an appointment. Yes, there are affordable luxury condominium units less than 10 minutes from downtown Ottawa. Reserve yours today!

The Viu Location: Gatineau High-rise luxury condos sq. ft.

Price: From $247,900 Closings: Summer, 2013 Call: 819.665.3659 Website: leviu.ca

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A new private enclave of award winning designed, single-family home just 10 minutes from Kanata. Bungalows and 2-storey homes are being built on spacious 60’ wide and deep fully serviced sites.

139 Charlie’s Lane, Carp (613) 839-6675

Your choice of bungalows, main floor master homes and large two-storey homes.

Beautiful 46’-50’ wide lots backing onto green space or pie-shaped.

606 Birchland Crs, Stittsville (613) 831-3711

ONLY THREE LEFT. Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of our Fraser Field site before they are gone.

203 Broxburn Crs, Barrhaven (613) 843-9150

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B U I LD E R STO RY VAL E CRAFT

Valecraft Exceed Expectations W

ith over 30 years of craftsmanship Valecraft Homes understands the importance of offering a variety of different home styles to meet the evolving needs of their homeowners.

Executive Townhomes, Rearlane Townhomes, Executive Terrace homes, Bungalows and 2-Story Single homes are amongst the various styles creating vibrant communities within the Greater Ottawa region.

Your Ideas Valecraft’s architectural team provides a technologically advanced canvas allowing you the homeowner to apply your personal touch creating a home that is exclusive to you and your family.

With colours and styles that compliment your personal palette Valecraft offers a variety of upgrades. Gleaming hardwood, ceramic or porcelain tile surround your granite breakfast bar in an oversized kitchen ideal for entertaining.

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Your Home Embracing archways, stately columns, coffered ceilings in an open style concept are among the architectural elements that set Valecraft apart. Living spaces infused with contemporary comfort for your first home, growing families or empty nesters. Designs offering winding staircases, oversized windows and beautiful kitchens adjoining great rooms form the heart of these homes while second floor galleries enhance the spaciousness, with private retreats, additional bedrooms and finished basements essential to your lifestyle.

Your Style At Valecraft Homes every homebuyer has the opportunity to sit down with our interior designers to assist in the selection of interior colours and finishes.

You also receive a consultation with a home technology specialist whose expertise lies in technical innovation in the home. Each Valecraft community has its own décor center for the ease and convenience of our homebuyer.

Your Investment The Streetscapes of a Valecraft community are distinctive, as you choose the style of home for your lot, enhanced amongst colour choices and elevations.

Architecturally engineered maintenance-free exteriors create more than just curb appeal; they ensure your investment is protected now and in the future.

Our Commitment Our commitment to our homebuyers is to deliver a fully complete home on closing day while ensuring the highest standards of quality and workmanship. In over 30 years we have never missed a closing date.

Communities Sohowest Delivering innovation enriched with advanced construction and technology Ottawa’s first wired, wireless & networked IQ community; offers unparalleled convenience and quality of life in a prime Kanata location.

With phase 3 nearly sold out, Valecraft is preparing for Phase 4 – consisting of 126 generous lots perfect for your luxurious executive townhome. Starting from $289,900, there are 11 stunning model designs to choose from.

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Bradley Estates Backing onto Mer Bleue, Bradley Estates is one of Ottawa’s most desired locations. An impressive and well-established community by Valecraft Homes consists of a collection of elegant two-storey singles, bungalows and executive townhomes. The area is a haven for nature enthusiast with wildlife observations, boardwalks and an abundance of nature trails.

Aviation Private Inspired by Canadian Aviators, life takes flight when convenience meets style in this brand new community. Launching this spring Valecraft Homes is excited to introduce a first class community with smart designs, beautiful décor and an ideal location. Modern conveniences abound, with enviable proximity to all amenities, spectacular trails and downtown Ottawa.

The community will feature 84 Executive Terrace Homes, followed by 22 luxurious Rearlane Townhomes.

Valecraft Homes Head Office: 1455 Youville Drive, Suite 216 Orleans, ON K1C 6Z7 Tel: (613) 837-1104 Fax: (613) 837-5901 info@valecraft.com www.valecraft.com 2012 Home Builders’ Annual

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Legal Advice

New-home purchase

transactions

by GRANT R. POULSEN

WITH RECORD LOW INTEREST RATES, buying a home continues to be one of the best strategies for saving for the future. Buying a newly constructed home allows you to own without having to worry about major repairs that sometimes can arise with a resale property.

SIGNING THE AGREEMENT OF PURCHASE

There are certain issues that need to be addressed when it comes to buying a home from a builder. In most new-home transactions, the builder will have a standard agreement that they wish to use. These agreements are lengthy but contain a great deal of information about your purchase including:

» The financial specifics of the purchase (purchase price, deposits, and other fees); » What taxes are owing (HST) » The items included in the purchase price » The timelines for selecting extras and colours » The timelines for closing including how a condominium occupancy will happen » Any restrictions on what can be done with the land » Will any items be rented (such as a hot water tank) » Will the purchaser be responsible for any additional fees or charges such as water meter installation, Tarion enrollment fees or the builder’s legal fees » What happens if there is a dispute Although many builders will not permit changes to their standard contract, many problems can be prevented by a careful review of the document by your lawyer prior to signing. The importance talking to your lawyer prior to signing is crucial so that you at least know your rights and obligations under the contract.

Without such a review, the fine print in a builder’s contract could mean additional government taxes, possible delays, or extra costs on your closing date.

TARION COVERAGE

All new homes bought in Ontario include coverage under the Tarion Warranty Program. Normally, purchasers pay for this coverage on closing so it is important to know what is and what is not covered under your warranty. As well, there are important limits as to when you can report any problems and have them fixed under warranty.

All builders should be giving their purchasers an information package about the warranty which needs to be carefully reviewed. As well, your agreement must have a schedule showing the various dates until which a builder can change the closing date without any consultation with you.

Purchasers can find more information at the Tarion website located at tarion.com to ensure they are getting the most out of their warranty.

HST

Most builders will show a purchase price that is inclusive of any HST rebates available from the government. Usually

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Buying a newly constructed home allows you to own without having to worry about major repairs that sometimes can arise with a resale property. these rebates are only paid if you are a Canadian resident and you (or a direct family member) plan to occupy the house as a principal residence. If you are buying for an investment or rental property, make sure you know what additional taxes may be owing on top of the purchase price.

This can be a significant amount of money if you are not expecting it and it is best to know the costs before you sign the Agreement.

portion cannot be billed by the city until the assessment is completed.

This can take a year or more to occur, but once the new assessment is complete, buyers will receive a supplemental tax bill for property taxes on the building from the purchase date. Make sure you save up this money, as it can often be a considerable amount to pay at once.

TITLE INSURANCE

GETTING YOUR KEYS

One of the most important changes to real estate recently has been the introduction of title insurance. This is often the easiest and most cost effective way of protecting you from various problems that may occur before or after closing.

Not all title insurance policies are the same but a good policy will protect you from title problems (such as unpaid debts or building violations), will pay for things such as a seller’s unpaid water bill, and will even protect you in the future if you lose your property as a result of a property or mortgage fraud.

Not all title insurance policies are the same. Your lawyer should advise you about the various options and companies available and will arrange for a title insurance policy on your behalf.

On the closing date, your lawyer will ensure that your money (both the down payment and the mortgage) goes to the builder. In exchange, the builder will send over the keys. Once all the items are exchanged, the lawyers will electronically register the deed and your mortgage and they will call you to get your keys. This will usually happen in the afternoon, so it is a good idea not to expect to be in your new home until 5 p.m.

Buying a home is one of the most exciting times of a person’s life. Although it is easy to forget – especially when visiting so many beautiful model homes – there is a lot of money at stake! With proper planning and good legal advice, you can make sure that your new home purchase is a smooth and enjoyable experience.

NEW CONDOMINIUMS

If your new property is a condominium, most likely you will have an occupancy period prior to the legal closing date.

Condominium corporations cannot be formed until owners move in so builders will usually specify a date where you will take occupancy of your unit but not legal title. During this occupancy period, you will pay a monthly fee consisting of city taxes, common expenses and interest on the amount of the unpaid mortgage. This means you will not start paying off your mortgage until the final closing which the condominium is legally formed.

SUPPLEMENTAL TAXES

Often the municipal property taxes on new homes have not been calculated yet. This is because the Ontario Municipal Property Assessment Corp. has not assessed the value of the new house portion for city taxes yet. Although the builder has often paid the property taxes on the land itself, the house

Grant R. Poulsen Poulsen Law Office 305-150 Isabella St. Ottawa, Ont. K1S 1V7 TEL 613.788.7986 FAX 613.788.7987 poulsenlaw.ca

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B U I LD E R STO RY e Q H O M E S

eQ Builds Outstanding Communities

The Glenn Abbey, eQuinelle

A

t eQ Homes they say their objective is simple: to build homes that are attractive, pacious and functional, while providing their buyers with great value. The principals of eQ Homes bring over 40 years of experience, and they have used those years to fine-tune their craft.

Unique designs, attentive customer service, quality construction, pride of workmanship, and stunning locations create outstanding communities. eQ Homes is proud to build some of the region’s most outstandingly beautiful communities, including their gorgeous golf course communities in Kemptville— eQuinelle and The Legends at eQuinelle.

Only minutes south of Ottawa and 250 metres

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eQuinelle from the Rideau River, these communities surround the exceptional eQuinelle Golf Course. Bracketed by parks and nature trails, the course is a mere two km from the heart of Kemptville. The Highway 416 exit is less than 20 minutes south of Barrhaven, so you’re close to Ottawa, but the town of Kemptville itself has everything anyone needs. This includes a full service hospital; legal and health professional services; a new community centre and arena with two full ice pads; schools; major stores like Canadian Tire, Shoppers Drug Mart, and Walmart; and of course the neighbourly personal service only small towns can provide.

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“Every homebuyer in Ottawa owes it to themselves to come and see this amazing community of eQuinelle. Where else can you get a championship golf course, hiking / cross country ski trails, access to the Rideau River and the soon to be announced exquisite Residents Club and Golf Clubhouse at prices that are $50,000 to $100,000 below comparable homes in Ottawa.”

Denis Laporte President, eQ Homes

The Royal Montreal, eQuinelle The convenience of urban living combines perfectly with the country lifestyle. Set on the lovely shoreline of the Rideau River, homes are within easy walking distance of the water. Just imagine exploring miles of nature trails and picnicking in nearby Rideau River Provincial Park. Go boating and fishing, or bike to downtown Kemptville.

And life in this gorgeous community just keeps getting better. Right now, says founder Denis Laporte, a clubhouse is under design for the eQuinelle community, with further amenities to come. He is also looking forward to introducing a series of larger bungalow homes later this year, expanding your choices. He suggests prospective buyers start looking

soon, though, as there is currently a great selection of lots that are 50 to 60 feet wide.

Besides the single family homes, eQ Homes offers semi-detached, townhomes and apartment-style condominiums. The condos are proving to be hugely popular, and the second block is already 50 per cent sold.

Laporte also stresses that here you get a lot more home for less money. A home here can be $75,000 to $100,000 lower than a comparable home in Barrhaven or Kanata. Enjoy reduced traffic, less noise, and lower property taxes. And don’t forget stepping out of your door and onto the links!

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B U I LD E R STO RY e Q H O M E S

The Nicklaus, Legends at eQuinelle

The Pebble Beach, eQuinelle

Foxwood in Kanata

of the legendary Le Fontainbleau in Montreal and the breathtaking Le Maitre at Mont Tremblant, created this semi-private, championship-calibre, par 72 course.

Featuring five acres of natural waterways; bentgrass greens, tees and fairways; five sets of tee decks to vary the yardage; and an abundance of demanding and exhilarating shots, this course will test and reward players of all abilities. eQuinelle and The Legends at eQuinelle are five minutes from Dilworth exit off Highway 416 south. Once you see the place, you’ll fall in love with it! eQ Homes is also building Village Walk in Carp. Of the 24 homes available, over half are sold. Carp, like Kemptville, is a self-contained village, but is still only minutes from the city, offering homeowners the best of two worlds.

In Kanata, eQ Homes’ Foxwood condominiums is offering its final release, and the attractive and spacious condos are selling quickly. The eQ Homes trademark assures the finest quality and ensures that the purchasing experience will be a pleasure from start to finish.

As they say, “No matter how many times we achieve it, excellence is always our goal.”

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A One-of-a-Kind Community!

eQuinelle and The Legends at eQuinelle Bungalows, semi-detached, townhomes, singles and condominiums 88 eQuinelle Drive, Kemptville 613.258.6488 or 1.866.829.3117 email: sales@equinelle.ca eqhomes.ca

Village Walk Townhomes and semi-detached homes 101 Villageview Private, Carp 613.839.4663 email: info@villagewalk.ca eqhomes.ca

Foxwood Condominiums Corner of Tillsonburg and Terry Fox Drive, Kanata 613.404.8075 email: sales@foxwoodkanata.ca Foxwoodkanata.ca

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B U I LD E R STO RY CHÂT EAU CART I E R

Live the good life in a

Château Cartier Condominium

T

he second phase of Condos Château Cartier’s quality condominium residences adjoining the luxurious Château Cartier Hotel and its world-class golf course has

launched!

These luxurious yet reasonably priced condos provide access to five-star dining, gym, pool, sauna and a grand hotel’s other pleasures, all while you live in your own private home. And, for a limited time, ownership comes with two executive hotel memberships, two golf course passes, and two secure lockers to store your clubs, an extraordinary value, with no extra cost.

Set lightly amongst the trees and trails of one

of the National Capital Region’s most beautiful locations these condominium cost a fraction of the price of a similar condo in Ottawa. Here homeowners live surrounded by nature, gorgeous golf courses, fantastic amenities, and within easy walking distance of the majestic Ottawa River, yet starting price is only $189,900.

The benefits of being mere seconds from the Champlain Bridge, eight minutes from Parliament Hill, and just a short distance from Westboro in Ottawa cannot be emphasized enough. Château Cartier is a refined product made for discriminating tastes, combined with one of the National Capital area’s most accessible natural locations.

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Tall, elegant, energy-efficient windows show off the spectacular scenery surrounding your home. Suite sizes range from 837 to 2004 sq. ft.

At Château Cartier highly sought-after amenities are provided inexpensively. Every owner has access to facilities at the hotel such as the gym, restaurant, pool, Jacuzzi, and others. Because they are amenities owned by the hotel, later costs for maintenance or repairs will not affect your condo fees at all, which is unique.

Invite your friends for a drink in your own pub or a swim in your pool. Stay in for room service and take advantage of cleaning services. Life here is as comfortable as you wish.

Walk, bicycle or cross-country ski along miles of trails, try your luck and enjoy the shows at the nearby casino, and explore the lakes and mountains of Gatineau Park, the entrance of which is just around the corner. Skip rocks on the river’s surface. Take up sailing (or just go for the fabulous brunch) at the Aylmer Marina. Golf on four of the region’s most beautiful courses. Be challenged or have fun. Relax on your balcony. Stroll in the landscaped grounds and enjoy the peace and quiet. This stunning location is very quiet, with little traffic. Stay fit, healthy and happy without stress.

Leisure time is a treat here, with all kinds of stores, restaurants, theatres and entertainments nearby.

Shop in large shopping areas or eclectic shops. Dine at unique bistros or visit Tim Horton’s. Every amenity is right there in Gatineau/Aylmer. You can also hop across the river and be right in downtown Ottawa.

Aylmer began as an English settlement and centuries later it is still easy to converse and do business in either English or French. It is a truly bilingual community with a unique flair.

Tall, elegant, energy-efficient windows show off the spectacular scenery surrounding your home. Suite sizes range from 837 to 2004 sq. ft. Even for retirees who have recently reduced their space, the high ceilings and natural light make these homes spacious and bright—so there is no sense of feeling closed in.

Inside, condos feature engineered hardwood flooring throughout, wooden cabinetry, luxurious kitchen and bath fixtures, and many other quality finishes.

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Having guests or grandchildren stay overnight? Each bedroom has its own full bathroom. Have more than one car? Have stuff you don’t use often but want to keep?

There is a huge underground parking garage and plenty of storage space. Elevators, lobby, and security systems keep you safe and secure. Travelers need not worry about having the home watched while away. It’s the lockand-leave lifestyle at its best.

The condo buildings have attractive exteriors and are cleverly designed so that every unit commands a beautiful view. The spectacular sixth-floor, two-storey units extend into the seventh storey, and most sixth-floor owners have a private terrace on the rooftop, as well as mezzanine access.

If you’re unsure of how to make the move Condos Château Cartier offers assistance in many ways, including having financing consultants, pre-evaluated mortgage approvals and décor consultants.

To learn more see condoschateaucartier.com, call 819.966.5798, or visit the sales office at 1170 Aylmer Street, Gatineau. Just take Island Park Drive across the Champlain Bridge, turn left on Aylmer Road, and left at the hotel. Hours are Monday-Wednesday 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., Thursday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., Friday by appointment, Saturday and Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

Freestyle living

Château Cartier Location: Gatineau (Aylmer) Mid-rise condos 837-2004 sq. ft.

Price: From 189,900$ Closings: Summer, 2013 Site office: Hôtel Château Cartier Call: 819.966.5798 Website: condoschateaucartier.com 2012 Home Builders’ Annual

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Choosing a Builder

Finding a new home builder you trust Essential advice from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.

WHEN 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.

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 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?

What you want to know

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 Call or check the website of the provincial 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 find 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 finishes.

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 file 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.

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.

Begin your search 01 Check your local newspaper (and New Home Guide) to find

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.

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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.

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 you would like 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? » 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 fixed? » 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.

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 pre-delivery 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.

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 the website at cmhc.ca or call CMHC at 1.800.668.2642. For more than 65 years, CMHC has been Canada’s national housing agency and a source of objective, reliable housing expertise.

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B U I LD E R STO RY D O M I CI L E

Domicile

Developments Enhances Neighbourhoods

J

ohn Doran and Jose Dinis founded Domicile Developments in 1976, starting by renovating and restoring aged homes in central Ottawa neighbourhoods. They understood, long before others, that certain neighbourhoods within the city could provide homes for new residents, adding an energizing factor to the benefit of all, while maintaining the essential characters of those neighbourhoods.

That philosophy of enhancing existing communities still holds true to this day. Says vice-president David Chick, “The opportunity to live in a vibrant area, to be surrounded by eclectic stores, family businesses, vintage building styles and fantastic restaurants, all within walking distance, is just as important as features and finishes.”

Not only does Domicile provide urbanites of Ottawa with new low-carbon footprint condominiums built in some of Ottawa’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, they also support those communities directly.

Domicile celebrates local culture and history, often through supporting and featuring local artists in their buildings.

The sculpture “Timber” by Wolf Mohaupt, just installed outside their Second Avenue West building in The Glebe, is a testament to the historical importance of lumber 46

baron J.R. Booth.

In Wellington Village their state-of-the-art One3One condo building rises across the street from the Great Canadian Theatre Company’s grand theatre. Domicile has been a major benefactor of the GCTC, and in 2011 they donated $100,000 to the theatre’s important capital campaign. In gratitude GCTC renamed their lower lobby Domicile Hall.

They are long-time supporters of Westboro’s annual Westfest, where thousands enjoy music for free from the Domicile Main Stage. Last January Domicile was awarded a Business Recognition Award from the Council for the Arts in Ottawa.

Domicile’s quality construction and service was also recently recognized. In 2011 Domicile won the Tarion Award of Excellence for Ontario High-Rise Builder of the Year, the only Ottawa company to win an award that year.

Then this January they received the Smoke-Free Champion Award from Ottawa Public Health for One3One — their first completely smoke-free building. Domicile’s gorgeous building in the Little Italy and Dow’s Lake area is also completely smoke free, and so is their newest project, The Kavanaugh on Beechwood.

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Maintaining a low-carbon footprint is made easier in a walkable neighbourhood, and even better in a Domicile home. Sustainable, natural, efficient, all these words apply, along with extras like the Vrtucar car-sharing program.

Keeping fit and healthy is easier too, with places like New Edinburgh’s eclectic streetscape, the working Central Experimental Farm, or Rideau Canal to walk to. Their spectacular projects are built in neighbourhoods you’ll no doubt recognize: Dow’s Lake and Little Italy, Wellington West, The Glebe, Beechwood Village.

Go paddle-boating, dine in the best restaurants, buy unique gifts and shop at family-owned businesses. Then go home and enjoy a panoramic view from a large balcony, entertain in a state-of-the-art kitchen, or relax in a luxurious ensuite.

Domicile is duly proud of their service to clients as well, and of how great service can help save homeowners money.

Their blog at domicile.ca/blog showcases a recent example.

At Second Avenue West the condo was registered in record time. The interim occupancy period between occupancy and registration was only three days, thereby avoiding large interim occupancy fees (“phantom rent”) for its buyers.

Their latest project is The Kavanaugh on Beechwood, which will integrate the green features of recent projects, and then some. Set in a unique area that combines up to-the-minute homes and businesses with long-established amenities, Beechwood Avenue is the dividing line between Rockcliffe Park, New Edinburgh and Vanier. There is a vibrant mix of activities just out the door — from diverse shopping experiences to huge parks, including Rockcliffe’s little hideaway, MacKay Lake. Domicile has just started taking priority registrations at thekavanaugh.ca.

Each of Domicile’s sustainable, efficient, and beautiful buildings offer all the amenities of condominium living — with large balconies and terraces, storage, security, fitness facilities, outdoor areas — and the special feeling of being part of genuine community.

To check out Domicile’s central locations and fascinating communities, and to view their models and current projects, visit the One3One Presentation Centre, 140 Holland Ave., 613.237.0088, one3one.ca; and Models and Sales Centre at 100 Champagne Ave. South, 613.728.7873, hombydomicile.ca, or preregister for The Kavanaugh on Beechwood at thekavanaugh.ca.

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Ontario’s 2011 High-Rise Builder of the Year UPCOMING PROJECTS

current PROJECTS

The Kavanaugh

one3one

Pre-register today.

This is life in the village. Domicile’s newest condo development It’s everything you love in a village—now in the city.

Advance Sales: May 2012 Location: 222 Beechwood Avenue, Ottawa l Beechwood Village Occupancy: Estimated for Summer through Fall 2014 613-237-0088 l 613-728-7873 www.thekavanaugh.ca

CURRENT PROJECTS

Now under construction.

Hom is located beside Little Italy and just steps from the green spaces of Dow’s Lake. Live in a condo that’s as welcoming as the neighbourhood — and just a short walk to every convenience.

Location: 100 Champagne Avenue South l Dow’s Lake & Little Italy.

Occupancy: Spring/Summer 2013 613-728-7873 www.hombydomicile.ca 48

Now under construction.

One3One is located at the prominent intersection of Holland and Wellington. Stroll over to the art galleries, one of a kind speciality shops, epicurean row, and that’s just the beginning in a neighbourhood full of possibilities.

Location: 131 Holland Avenue l Wellington Village Occupancy: Spring/Summer 2013 613-237-0088 www.one3one.ca

Second Avenue West

Immediate occupancy.

Second Avenue West is located in one of Ottawa’s most sought after neighbourhoods: The Glebe. You’ll enjoy exploring the community’s wide variety of shops and restaurants — and the Canal and Dow’s Lake are only a short walk away, too..

Location: 808 Bronson Avenue l The Glebe 613-237-0088 www.domicile.ca

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Expert Panel

Why buy a home in this economy?

Plenty of reasons There’s no substitute for experience – including seeing changes in economic trends. We’ve asked some noted professionals in the home building industry for their opinions on buying a home in the current economy. We ended up learning plenty about the benefits of homeownership from those on the inside – the voices of experience.

Greg Graham is Cardel Ottawa regional president.

When asked if this was a good time to buy a new home or condominium, he said, “Absolutely!”

Says Graham, “Interest rates are at an all-time low and will remain there for the foreseeable future. Land prices continue to increase based on governments’ desire to force intensification. Estate lot development has been frozen, thus any estate lot is considered a prime opportunity. House prices continue to rise, and although the rate is slower than it was a few years ago, real estate is still an appreciating investment.”

As the past president of GOHBA, Graham is tuned in to the statistics. “Rental vacancy rates are at an all-time low in Ottawa, so condo development, both inside and outside the downtown core, presents excellent opportunities for investors and rental tenants alike.” He touches on the future value of land ownership.

“Remember – the one thing no one is making any more of is land.”

He firmly believes in personal home ownership. “It remains the Canadian dream to own property, and more importantly, a home. Where do families grow, nurture, love and live life but in their home? Homeownership is an integral part of investment strategies, retirement equities and owners’ aspirations for future generations.”

Location, of course, is a crucial factor. “Look at the global economy and then look at Ottawa. Ottawa offers all the amenities, the lifestyle choices and the career opportunities. Here in Canada’s capital, we not only retain but also attract new citizens.”

GREG GRAHAM

OTTAWA REGIONAL PRESIDENT OF CARDEL

But the cost? “Ottawa is one of the most affordable places in North America to live and raise a family.

Lot sizes are becoming smaller, but homeownership remains affordable and consumer choices continue to expand. There are products available for every demographic and income level – single-family homes, semi-detached, adult lifestyle, townhomes and condos.

With prudent planning and research into the best product to meet the individual homebuyer’s needs, homeownership is a realizable goal.”

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Builders are offering competitive pricing in an effort to achieve the sales volumes of previous years.

Mortgage rates remain the lowest they have been in a long time. Buyers are spoiled for variety, as many new housing formats on the multi-family side have been created.

RAHUL KOCHAR

RAHUL KOCHAR

ENTREPRENEUr AND VICE-PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS OF DCR/PHOENIX HOMES

Rahul Kochar is vice-president of operations of DCR/Phoenix Homes and one of Ottawa’s top “Forty Under Forty” entrepreneurs. He looked at our question from the financial angle.

He says it is indeed a good time to buy, and listed the reasons. “Builders are offering competitive pricing in an effort to achieve the sales volumes of previous years. Mortgage rates remain the lowest they have been in a long time. Buyers are spoiled for variety, as many new housing formats on the multi-family side have been created.”

He is a strong proponent of the financial benefits of homeownership at any time. “A person can make a rental property feel just as personalized and comfortable as their own, but the obvious difference is there is no potential

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for equity growth in a rental.” Equity growth is one of the keys to personal wealth. “Getting yourself into a financial situation where you can take the leap to homeownership should be the number one priority.”

The importance of looking at the long term over the short term is part of his philosophy.

“Although the opposite could hold true in a declining market, data over the last few decades indicate there is always a rising longterm trend in the growth of real estate value.

Even in a stagnant market, in the worst case scenario, your cost of living is far lower than that of a renter.”

Phoenix Homes specializes in producing sustainable homes, too. “Consider the future,” Kochar says.

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KEVIN O’SHEA

DIRECTOR OF MONARCH corporation’s OTTAWA OPERATIONS AND CHAIR OF BUILDER TRADE COUNCIL OF GOHBA

Kevin O’Shea is Monarch Corporation’s director of Ottawa operations and he also chairs the Builder Trade Council of GOHBA. Is it a good time to buy? Says O’Shea, “The simple answer is yes! The continued low interest rates make the cost of borrowing money inexpensive.” But he cautions, “As a footnote, over-extending your financial resources is never a good idea.

Practical borrowing should always be top of mind for today’s home buying consumer.”

He points out the healthy home availability in the city of Ottawa. “Builders continue to seek and gain approvals to expand existing neighbourhoods and create new ones. Since provincial planning requirements have changed, most new communities offer a wide range of product options that will suit any budget. For example, in Monarch’s master-planned community of Stonebridge, we offer housing options that include single-family homes, twostorey townhomes and stacked townhomes with a range from the $200,000s to $400,000s.”

It’s always better to ‘get in the game’ of new home ownership and start building equity.

Paying someone else’s mortgage through rent may be a means for a segment of the market, but purchasing real estate and building equity is the advice I offer to potential first-time homebuyers who are sitting on the fence.

KEVIN O’SHEA

He, too, is adamant about the value of equity.

“It’s always better to ‘get in the game’ of new home ownership and start building equity.

Paying someone else’s mortgage through rent may be a means for a segment of the market, but purchasing real estate and building equity is the advice I offer to potential first-time homebuyers who are sitting on the fence.” And he believes in strategic use of equity to move up. “Notwithstanding the ‘dream’ property, for existing homeowners moving up can greatly contribute to equity growth and being mortgage free, provided the timing is right.”

It’s not all about money. “One of the nonfinancial intangible benefits to home ownership is the sense of belonging to a community. I feel an enormous amount of pride when I walk through one of our carefully designed communities and see families enjoying the parks or congregating in a quiet street and sharing a glass of wine with their neighbours.

That is fundamental.”

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VINCE CAMPANALE

VICE-PRESIDENT OF CAMPANALE HOMES

Vince Campanale is vice-president of Campanale Homes. He, with his brothers Rocco and Tony, founded the company more than 30 years ago, and they have seen a lot of changes in the market.

He says, “Right now it is difficult for builders to find land and get approvals to build. It takes years for the city to approve these sites.” But he sees that scarcity as another good reason to buy now.

“That’s one of the reasons why values on lands and homes appreciate.”

With many paper investments seeming unattractive, Campanale stressed the importance of owning something tangible. “Real estate is real. You live in it. You invest in it. You pass it on in your estate.

As an investment it’s the best. It’s something you can see, touch and feel. You cannot go wrong.”

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MARK PARSONS

PRESIDENT OF MATTAMY HOMES

Mattamy Homes Ottawa president Mark Parsons agrees prospective buyers should consider equity.

“A home is the best investment out there right now.

Compare it to mutual funds, which are going nowhere. Real estate still appreciates in price, but you are living in and using the asset.” He says buying a home generates two major benefits, the eventual return on the investment, and quality and enjoyment of life.

But is this the right time? “We are never going to see interest rates like this again. Low rates have opened up a whole segment of the market. When that window closes homes will become less affordable. Now is definitely the time to make the jump if you can.”

Low mortgage rates are not the only incentives.

“In Ottawa, there’s lots of new product out there with competitive new urban designs. Right now, Mattamy is giving great incentives, and we’re not the only builders doing that. All of Ottawa’s products are being revamped. In fact, this isn’t just the right time to buy, it’s a very exciting time.”

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see ad on page...

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Cardel Homes Ltd. 3368 Carling Ave. Ottawa, Ontario K2H 5A8 613.820.1959 www.cardelhomes.com

Ashcroft Homes Inc. 18 Antares Dr. Nepean, Ontario K2E 1A9 613.226.7266 www.ashcroft-homes.com

Phoenix Homes 18A Bentley Ave. Ottawa, Ontario K2E 6T8 613.723.9227 www.phoenixhomes.ca

Construction Salura Inc. c/o Condos du Rivage Coin Robert Stewart et Boulevard Lucerne Gatineau, Québec J9H 7K7 info@condosdurivage.com

2012

Eastern Ontario Annual Roster A & B Bulat Homes Ltd. 11 Gifford St., Suite 202 Nepean, Ontario K2E 7S3 613.723.1008

Belmont Homes 1046 King St. L’Original, Ontario K0A 1K0 613.675.2728

Canada Land Company CFB Rockcliffe, Building 167 Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0K4 613.998.8650

A. Rollin Developments 880 Smith Rd. Navan, Ontario K4B 1E2 613.835.3036 www.rollindev.ca

Benckhuysen Construction 5780 Osgoode Ridge Rd Osgoode, Ontario K0A 2W0 613.826.0920 www.benckhuysenconstruction.ca

Cardel Homes Ltd. 3368 Carling Ave. Ottawa, Ontario K2H 5A8 613.820.1959 www.cardelhomes.com

Admirable 2000 Homes Ltd. 2 Lillian Way Kanata, Ontario K2K 1X7 613.839.2623 www.admirable2000homes.com

Bonneville Modular Homes 82 Calabogie Rd. Arnprior, Ontario K75 3G8 613.622.0399 www.bonnevillehomes.com

Carolyn Munro Design Inc 3 Nelford Crt. Kanata, Ontario K2K 2L8 613.831.9984 www.carlinhomes.ca

AMT Life Style Homes 221 - 300 Earl Grey Drive Ottawa, Ontario K2T 1C1 613.614.3244

Braebury Homes Corp.

366 King St. E., Suite 400 Kingston, Ontario K7K 6Y3 613.546.3400 www.braeburyhomes.ca

Cassone Construction Ltd. 272 Billings Ave. Ottawa, Ontario K1H 5L3 613.523.6570 www.cassoneconstruction.ca

Brenmar Construction Corp 1 - 1341 Coker Street Greely, Ontario K4P1A1 613.821.1162 www.brenmarconstruction.com

Cedarstone Homes Ltd. 384 Richmond Rd., R.R. 3 Ashton, Ontario K0A 1B0 613.838.4663 www.cedarstonehomes.com

Ashcroft Homes Inc. 18 Antares Dr. Nepean, Ontario K2E 1A9 613.226.7266 www.ashcroft-homes.com

Brian Shane Construction 1823 Boundary Rd., Suite 200 Chesterville, Ontario K0C 1HO 613.448.1230

Chabitat Construction 391 Front St – Suite 1 Gatineau, Quebec J9J 2X3 819.682.0682 www.chabitat.com

Avalon Home Builders Ltd. 203 Colonnade Rd. S., Suite 201 Ottawa, Ontario K2E 7K3 613.226.6158 www.avalonhomebuilders.ca

Brigil Homes 98 rue Lois Gatineau, Quebec J8Y 3R7 819.243.7392 www.brigil.com

Avatar Development Group Ltd. 15 Capella Crt., Suite 121 Ottawa, Ontario K2E 7X1 613.228.3375 www.avatardevt.ca

Campanale Homes 1187 Bank St., Suite 200 Ottawa, Ontario K1S 3X7 613.730.7000 www.campanale.com

Andre Godin Design Inc. 6 Shiregreen Dr. Nepean, Ontario K2J 3M7 613.823.8833 www.andregodindesign.com

Charlesfort Developments 787 Bank St. Ottawa, Ontario K1S 3V5 613.567.7800 www.charlesfort.ca

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Monarch 3584 Jockvale Rd. Nepean, Ontario K2C 3H2 613.692.8672

Metric Homes 114 Arbourbrook Blvd.

Ottawa, Ontario K0A 1L0 613.296.7000 www.metrichomes.com

Groupe Heafey 1885 Saint-Louise St., Suite 101 Gatineau, Québec J8T 6G4 819.568.1723 www.groupheafey.com

Holitzner Homes (1995) Ltd. 580 Terry Fox Dr., Suite 401 Kanata, Ontario K2L 4B9 613.831.3484 www.holitzner.com

Claridge Homes Corp.

210 Gladstone Ave., Suite 2001 Ottawa, Ontario K2P 0Y6 613.233.6030 www.claridgehomes.com

eQ Homes Inc. 1737 Woodward Dr., 2nd Floor Ottawa, Ontario K2C 0P9 613.288.0412 www.eqhomes.ca

John Gerard Homes P.O. Box 40 Greely, Ontario K4P 1N4 613.720.0494 www.johngerardhomes.ca

Construction Katasa c/o Chateau Cartier 1170 Aylmer Rd Gatineau, Québec J9H 7L3 www.condoschateaucartier.com

Gordon Weima Design Builder 7 Foxglove Pl Nepean, Ontario K2R 1B2 613.850.1559 www.gordonweima.com

Junic Construction 8 Blvd. du Plateau Gatineau, Quebec J9A 3K7 819.595.5962 www.junic.ca

Construction Salura Inc. c/o Condos du Rivage Coin Robert Stewart et Boulevard Lucerne Gatineau, Québec J9H 7K7 info@condosdurivage.com

Gallivan Developments 35 Auriga Dr., Suite 218 Nepean, Ontario K2E 8B7 613.727.0222 www.gallivandevelopments.com

Junicon Homes 555 Winnards Perch Way Manotick, Ontario K4M 0A1 613.692.1414 www.juniconhomes.com

Cornelis Grey Construction Inc. 139 David Drive Nepean, Ontario K2G 2N6 613.693.0914 www.cgreyconstruction.com

Greenmark Builders Inc. 4320 Owl Valley Drive Ottawa, Ontario K1V 1L3 613.822.0147 www.greenmarkbuilders.com

KRP Residential Inc 555 Legget Dr., Suite 206 Kanata, Ontario K2K 2X3 613.591.0594 www.krpc.net

Corvinelli Homes 24 Drentex St. Russell, Ontario K4R 1A7 613.445.8035 www.corvinellihomes.com

Group Lepine - Ottawa 320 March Rd., Suite 600 Kanata, Ontario K2K 2E3 613.591.9090 www.grouplepine-ottawa.com

Lagois Drafting & Construction Inc. Box 496 North Gower, Ontario K0A 2T0 613.489.2345 www.lagois.com

Dharma Developments 45 Armstrong St. Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 2V6 613.482.2800 www.dharmadevelopments.com

Groupe Heafey 1885 Saint-Louise St., Suite 101 Gatineau, Quebec J8T 6G4 819.568.1723 www.groupheafey.com

Land Ark Homes P.O. Box 324 Stittsville, Ontario K2S 1A4 613.836.7565 www.landark.com

Domicile Developments Inc. 371A Richmond Rd., Suite 1 Ottawa, Ontario K2A 0E7 613.728.0388 www.domicile.on.ca

Guildcrest Building Corp.

Box 10 20 Mill St. Morewood, Ontario K0A 2R0 613.448.2349 www.guildcrest.com

Lapointe Developments Ltd. 1199 Notre-Dame Embrum, Ontario K0A 1W0 613.443.5263 www.lapointhomes.com

Doyle Homes 124 Reis Road Carp, Ontario K0A 1L0 613.831.7924 www.doylehomes.ca

Holitzner Homes (1995) Ltd. 580 Terry Fox Dr., Suite 401 Kanata, Ontario K2L 4B9 613.831.3484 www.holitzner.com

Larco Corp.

104 Centrepointe Dr., Suite 200 Nepean, Ontario K2G 6B1 613.225.0040 www.larcohomes.com

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Valecraft Homes Ltd. 1455 Youville Dr., Suite 216 Orleans, Ontario K1C 6Z7 613.837.1104 www.valecraft.com

eQ Homes Inc. 1737 Woodward Dr., 2nd Floor Ottawa, Ontario K2C 0P9 613.288.0412 www.eqhomes.ca

Construction Katasa c/o Chateau Cartier 1170 Aylmer Rd Gatineau, Québec J9H 7L3 www.condoschateaucartier.com

Legacy Homes 217 Ancaster Ave. Ottawa, Ontario K2B 5B2 613.726.0606 www.legacyhomesottawa.com

Metric Homes 114 Arbourbrook Blvd.

Ottawa, Ontario K0A 1L0 613.296.7000 www.metrichomes.com

Patterson Homes 8299 Rodney Farm Dr. Metcalfe, Ontario K0A 2P0 613.850.6275 www.pattersonhomes.ca

Lemay Homes 5330 Canotek Rd., Suite 8 Ottawa, Ontario K1J 9C2 613.746.6430 www.maisonslemayhomes.ca

Minto 180 Kent St. Suite 200 Ottawa, Ontario K1P 0B6 613.782.2325 www.minto.com

Petrelli Construction and Renovations Inc. 89 Holland Ave Ottawa, Ontario K1Y 0Y1 613.889.3466 www.petrelliconstruction.com

Les Habitations Bouladier 142 des Varennes Gatineau, Quebec J8T 8G5 819.568.0884 www.habitationbouladier.com

Monarch 3584 Jockvale Rd. Nepean, Ontario K2C 3H2 613.692.8672 www.monarchgroup.net

Longwood Building Corp.

1010 Polytek St., Suite 5 Gloucester, Ontario K1J 9H8 613.746.1300 www.longwoodbuilders.com

Muirfield Homes Inc. 1420 Blair Place, Suite 601 Gloucester, Ontario K1J 9B8 613.748.5060 www.muirfieldhomes.ca

Pierre Garand Enterprises 49 Loch Isle Rd. Nepean, Ontario K2H 8G6 613.733.0060

Luxart Homes Inc. P.O. Box 421 Stittsville, Ontario K2S 1A6 613.253.7571 www.luxarthomes.com

Neilcorp Homes Box 1510 Almonte, Ontario K0A 1A0 613.256.3006 www.neilcorphomes.com

Princiotta Custom Built Homes 1491 Manotick Station Rd. Greely, Ontario K4P 1P6 613.821.4205 www.princiotta.com

Mattamy Homes Ltd. 123 Huntmar Dr. Ottawa, Ontario K2S 1B9 613.831.4115 www.mattamyhomesottawa.com

OakWood Design + Build 1200 Colonial Rd., Suite 100 Navan, Ontario K4B 1J4 613.236.8001 www.oak.ca

R.M. Gardiner Const. Co. Ltd 2940 Baseline Rd. Ottawa, Ontario K2H 7T3 613.829.2176

Melanie Construction 900, Route 500 Russell, Ontario K4R 1E5 613.443.2402 www.melanieconstruction.com

Olympia Homes 1914 Merivale Rd Nepean, Ontario K2G 1E8 613.226.6573 www.olympiahomes.net

Melkart Developments 2025 Lanthier Dr. Ottawa, Ontario K4A 3V3 613.834.7555

Parkview Homes R.R. 2, North Gower, Ontario K0A 2T0 613.489.3838 www.parkviewhomes.info

Phoenix Homes 18A Bentley Ave. Ottawa, Ontario K2E 6T8 613.723.9227 www.phoenixhomes.ca

Regional Group 1737 Woodward Dr., 2nd Floor Ottawa, Ontario K2C 0P9 613.230.2100 www.regionalgroup.com Rescom Developments 227 Blvd. St. Joseph Gatineau, Quebec J8Y 3X5 819.770.6446

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Domicile Developments Inc. 371A Richmond Rd., Suite 1 Ottawa, Ontario K2A 0E7 613.728.0388 www.domicile.on.ca

Mattamy Homes Ltd. 123 Huntmar Dr. Ottawa, Ontario K2S 1B9 613.831.4115 www.mattamyhomesottawa.com

Campanale Homes 1187 Bank St., Suite 200 Ottawa, Ontario K1S 3X7 613.730.7000 www.campanale.com

Revelstoke Developments Corp.

209 Pretoria Avenue Ottawa, Ontario K1S 1X1 613.234.5571 www.revelstokedevelopments.com

Settlers’ Grant Homes Inc. 39 Garrison Dr. Kemptville, Ontario K0G 1J0 613.258.7550 www.settlersgrant.ca

Tega Developments 799 Kingsmere Ave. Ottawa, Ontario K2A 3J8 613.729.9993

RGB Construction 277 Kirchoffer Avenue Ottawa, Ontario K2A 1Y1 613.265.2700 www.rgb-group.com

Shellstar Homes 5 Granite Ridge Dr., Box 569 Stittsville, Ontario K2S 1A6 613.831.9041

Richcraft Homes Ltd. 2280 St. Laurent Blvd., Suite 201 Ottawa, Ontario K1G 4K1 613.739.7111 www.richcraft.com Rideau Cliffe Developments Ltd. P.O. Box 8275, Station T Ottawa, Ontario K1G 3H8 613.260.7946 www.rideaucliffe.com RND Construction Ltd. 203 Balmoral Pl. Ottawa, Ontario K1H 1B2 613.523.8598 www.rndconstruction.ca Roca Homes 24 George St. W. Ottawa, Ontario K1S 3J2 613.422.3737 www.rocahomes.ca Rojo Construction Management Inc. 1368 Greely Lane, Suite 2 Greely, Ontario K4P 1A1 613.821.4193 www.rojoconstruction.com Savvy Custom Builders Ltd. 1440 Heron Rd., Suite 301 Ottawa, Ontario K1V 0X2 613.860.9895 www.savvybuilder.com

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Sherbrooke Urban Developments 43 Okanagan Dr. Ottawa, Ontario K2H 7E9 613.820.1040 Springcress Properties Inc. 6 Gurdwara Road, Suite 200 Ottawa, Ontario K2E 8A3 613.225.6000 www.springcress.com Starwood Group Inc. 2525 St.Laurent Blvd.

Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8P5 613.247.7616 www.starwoodgroup.com Talos Homes Ltd. 1-5509 Canotek Rd. Ottawa, Ontario K1J 9J8 613.747.3993 www.taloshomes.com Tamarack Developments Corp.

3187 Albion Rd. S. Ottawa, Ontario K1V 8Y3 613.739.2919 Tartan Homes Corp.

233 Metcalfe St. Ottawa, Ontario K2P 2C2 613.238.2040 www.tartan.com

Terra Nova Building Corp.

P.O. Box 4185. Station E Ottawa, Ontario K1H 1B2 613.769.2697 www.terranovabuildingcorp.com Terridar Builders Inc. 14 Cedar Lane Smith Falls, Ontario K7A 4S5 613.283.8347 www.terridar.com Tomar Homes Ltd. 54 Bert. G. Argue Dr. Stittsville, Ontario K2S 2H2 613.836.1179 www.tomarcustomhomes.com Uniform Urban Developments 117 Centrepointe Dr., Suite 300 Nepean, Ontario K2G 5X3 613.225.0770 www.uniformdevelopments.com Urban Capital 17 Nelson St. Toronto, Ontario M5V 0G2 416.304.0431 Urban Edge Developments Corp.

104 Rossland Ave. Nepean, Ontario K2G 2L1 613.720.1357 www.urbanedgedevelopments.com Urbandale Construction Ltd. 2193 Arch St. Ottawa, Ontario K1G 2H5 613.731.6331 www.urbandale.com

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Mattamy Model Home Interior In Half Moon Bay, Barrhaven

What Does It Take To Be Homebuilder Of The Year?

Great Homeowners.

In 2011 we were honoured to receive our 3rd Home Builder of the Year Award from the Ontario Home Builder’s Association.

This award is truly appreciated for one very important reason: It is based on comments from our current homeowners and there is no greater award than praise from the families who live in our homes.

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