nexthome-new-home-and-condo-guide-toronto-january-4-2020

Greater Toronto Area Jan. 4–18, 2020

The first and only complete guide to pre-construction homes and condos

MODERN. BOUTIQUE. right on the water’s edge.

Fairy Lake | Huntsville | Perfection

LakesideMuskoka.ca Fairy Lake | Huntsville | Perfection

LakesideMuskoka.ca

INSIDE:

NEW YEAR, NEW CONDO?

TARION HOME WARRANTY PROGRAM UPDATES

INTRODUCING THE Villa Collection Mobilio's 3 Storey Townhomes create the perfect balance between a traditional residential community and an emerging metropolitan centre. Lush green space acts as a prominent feature throughout the Mobilio community, with parkettes, pedestrian mews and courtyards greeting you at every turn. Whether your lounging on your private rooftop terrace or enjoying the 1.7 acre linear park, you will feel connected to the outdoors as part of your daily lifestyle.

Have it all, and be within minutes to the VMC mobility hub!

3 STOREY TOWNHOMES STARTING FROM THE LOW $900’S TOWNHOMES – COMING SOON TO VAUGHAN METROPOLITAN CENTRE CONDOMINIUMS & TOWNS | REGISTER AT MENKES.COM/MOBILIO

THE MENKES STORE

THE MENKES CONDO GALLERY

MON TO THUR 12PM – 6PM SAT & SUN 12PM – 5PM FRIDAY CLOSED

MON TO THUR 12PM – 6PM SAT & SUN 12PM – 5PM FRIDAY CLOSED

110 HARBOUR ST. UNIT 106

4954 YONGE ST.

accessible via 416.730.1600

416.323.0100

@MENKESLIFE | MENKES.COM See sales representative for details. Illustrations are artist’s concept only. E.&O.E.

CONNECTED LIVING IN VAUGHAN METROPOLITAN CENTRE

PATH-CONNECTED WATERFRONT RESIDENCES

Mobilio Condominiums & Towns

Sugar Wharf Under Construction

Now Previewing

Now Previewing

CHURCH & SHUTER

YONGE & EGLINTON

DUNDAS E. & JARVIS

Fleur Under Construction Move In Next Year From the Mid $700’s

The Eglinton Completed Move In Now From $1.3 Million

in.DE Under Construction Now Previewing From the Mid $600’s

COMING SOON

Register Now to Live Vibrantly in Beamsville

3-STOREY TOWNS

300’s

$

from the

TOWNS & SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

40, 46 & 50 Foot Lots Backing onto Greenspace

600’s

$

from the low

BEAMSVILLE | BRANTFORD | CALEDONIA | HAMILTON | PARIS

LosaniHomes.com Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E.&O.E.

N PE O W O N

NOW OPEN Luxury Suites from the mid $600s Bijou is situated in the heart of charming Bloor West Village. Just steps away from the subway and right next door to a wonderful world of boutique shops and restaurants, Bijou blends sleek modern design with grand Parisian style.

For a limited time, enjoy an array of excellent incentives.

CLOSING COSTS WAIVED • NO DEVELOPMENT CHARGES •

NO TARION ENROLMENT FEES • NO ADMINISTRATIVE FEES

Presentation Centre 2450 Bloor Street West 416.862.0888 | bijou@plazacorp.com

Rendering is an artist’s impression. Certain design elements are subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. E.&O.E. 2019

CONTRIBUTORS

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

CHIEF REVENUE OFFICER

Jacky Hill jacky.hill@nexthome.ca EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Susan Legge susan.legge@nexthome.ca ART DIRECTOR

STAT CHAT | BEN MYERS Ben Myers is President of Bullpen Research & Consulting. Ben provides pricing recommendation, product mix, and valuation studies on new residential housing developments for builders, lenders and property owners. www.bullpenconsutling.ca

Tammy Leung CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Sara Duck Marlene Eisner Amanda Pereira SENIOR MEDIA CONSULTANTS

Jessica Wilson 416.873.1049 jessica.wilson@nexthome.ca

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

Natalie Chin 416.881.4288 natalie.chin@nexthome.ca SALES & MARKETING CO-ORDINATORS

Gary Chilvers Sarah Khan DISTRIBUTION

distributionteam@nexthome.ca ACCOUNTING INQUIRIES

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

accountingteam@nexthome.ca DIRECTOR OF PRINT MEDIA

Lauren Reid–Sachs GRAPHIC DESIGNER & ASSISTANT MANAGER

Alicesa Pullan GRAPHIC DESIGNER & PRE-PRESS COORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNERS

MARKET PLACE | SARA DUCK With more than a decade of experience in the magazine world, Sara Duck brings her passion for writing and expert eye for what’s on trend to our pages.

Sandra Hanak–Vujnovic, Johannah Lorenzo, Mike Terentiev, Kathleen Walker, Alice Wu Published by

nexthome.ca

NEWBIE NOTES | AMANDA PEREIRA Amanda Pereira is a writer, new-home owner, coffee aficionado, Miniature Dachshund dog-mom, and the editor for the New Home + Condo Guide’s Calgary and Edmonton editions.

STYLE FILE | JO ALCORN Jo Alcorn is a design specialist and designer on HGTV’s Home to Win. She has her own furniture collection, signature pillow and dog bed line and is known for her savvy design concepts.

Visit Jo at whitewashco.ca

Advertising Call 1.866.532.2588 for rates and information. Fax: 1.888.861.5038 Circulation Highly targeted, free distribution system aimed at real estate buyers using street level boxes and racking.

Call 1.866.532.2588 to discuss distribution opportunities.

Copyright Notice All copyright and other intellectual property rights in the contents hereof are the property of NextHome, and not that of the individual client. The customer has purchased the right of reproduction in NextHome and does not have the right to reproduce the ad or photo in any other place or publication without the previous written consent of NextHome. Contents of this publication, in hard copy format as well as online, are covered by copyright law, and offenders will be prosecuted.

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

8 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

EDITOR’S NOTE

LOOKING AHEAD

SUSAN LEGGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF New Home + Condo Guide

While real estate analysts are busy crunching last year’s sales numbers, predictions of what 2020 will bring are already rolling in.

Although sales numbers in the pre-construction real estate will be vastly different than the resale market, understanding resale trends, in terms of supply and demand, can help predict where housing prices may go in the year ahead in either case.

The Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA), which captures resale data across Canada, suggests housing activity “will continue to improve into 2020, with prices either continuing to rise or accelerating” in parts of the country.

CREA noted that price gains due to a lack of supply may exceed forecast levels should shortages become more acute than anticipated. This is indeed an important detail to note if you’re sitting on the fence wondering if prices are going to drop.

When ready-made homes become scarce, there’s a renewed focus on the pre-construction market. Yes, you’ll wait a little longer to enjoy your new digs, but it can be well worth the wait financially, and there are no bidding wars or bully offers to deal with.

You have in your hand a guide to some of the finest projects in the GTA — stay ahead of the trends by enjoying our first issue of 2020. And, Happy New Year!

EMAIL: susan.legge@nexthome.ca TWITTER: @SusanLegge

WANT MORE NEWS IN YOUR INBOX? Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest highlights by visiting nexthome.ca/subscription.

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Interact with us on social media: nexthome

10 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

LIVE BOLD. LIVE SMART. Life Begins Here.

Entrepreneur. Avid foodie. Loves exploring and finding those hidden gems in the city. Always on the go, so she runs her life off her phone. She knows what she wants, and knows that IQ3 has it.

Condos Coming Soon To Islington & The Queensway

MyIQ3condos.com

Jan. 4-18, 2020 | volume 29, issue 1

Contents

20

Cover Story

Lakeside Muskoka live life by the lake!

12 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

Property profile 23 Westdale and Reserve Properties Design plans unveiled at new Yonge & Eglinton project

51

23

36 #InsidetheGTA 14

by susan leGGe

18

by amanDa PeReiRa

bilD Report BILD members help build better lives

by Dave Wilkes

24 stat Chat Without investors Toronto’s condo market would be much worse by ben myeRs

26 market Place

#BeyondtheCity 48 Trending Looking for a winter retreat? Here’s the latest Canadian hot spots.

30 legally speaking Tarion improves consumer transparency and disclosure

Trending Flato Developments’ Canvas on the Rouge is now under construction

newbie notes Homeownership before marriage

#insideTheGTa The latest news, numbers, trends and events

16

28

by Jayson sCHWaRz

32

51

Jeff Bridges sells to neighbour Oprah Winfrey

Condo Pro Start the new year with a new condo by baRbaRa laWloR

36 interior Design show A peek at this year’s line up of exemplary speakers and features

42 Design File Kitchen on a budget

by Jo alCoRn

Celebrity Homes + Condos

In every Issue

8

Contributors

55

Hot Properties GTa

46 Glossary 59 Hot Properties sWo 63 index of advertisers 66 What’s online

A new view of Classic Blue by saRa DuCk

nexthome.ca 13

#InsidetheGTA

by SUSAN LEGGE

GTA

UNTITLED WILL OPEN IN EARLY 2020

DESiGn PLAnS unVEiLED AT yonGE AnD EGLinTon PRoJECT. The design team behind ‘untitled’, the two-tower residential development from Reserve Properties and Westdale Properties, has just released their design plans.

Reserve and Westdale collaborated with U.S. fashion designer, rapper, songwriter, record producer, and entrepreneur Pharrell Williams on the designs, alongside architects from IBI Group and designers from U31.

The condominium towers share a natural stone podium and will contain 751 suites ranging from studios to three bedrooms as well as 32,000 square feet of amenity space. Prices will start in the low $400,000s.

As part of the block master-plan, the development team will also be building a separate 413-unit purpose-built rental building adjacent to untitled, along with a new public park. The rental building will contain 200 affordable housing units, 165 mid-range units, and 49 market units, delivering a range of housing options.

Check out the story on page 23 of this issue for more images and info.

Junk removal pilot aims to recycle, repurpose, reuse

14 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

Niagara Region franchisee Cotie Drinkwater. “We save residential and business clients time and hassle. The junk removal service can be part of a move, or a separate service.”

The new junk removal program covers furniture, garage items, appliance and mattress disposal, hot tub removal, exercise equipment, seasonal items such as patio furnishings, office remodels, and old unwanted electronics and construction debris. Exceptions include hazardous materials such

as propane tanks, gasoline, paint, chemicals, motor oil, biological or medical waste, and firearms.

PHOTO: MICHELLE BODEN

With a commitment to continually exceeding customer’s expectations and encouraging sound environmental practices when moving, Two Men and a Truck – Canada is expanding its services to include junk removal.

Two Canadian franchisees (Kitchener-Cambridge-Waterloo and St. Catharines-Niagara Region) are the first to pilot this program.

“We recycle, repurpose, reuse, and donate as much of the junk as we can, so we avoid taking items to the dump,” said St. Catharines-

Left to right: Cotie Drinkwater and Justin Prittie are Two Men and a Truck franchise owners. Drinkwater covers St. Catharines-Niagara Region and Prittie operates the KitchenerCambridge-Waterloo area.

+

DiD you know?

Statistics Canada announced that employment in Ontario increased by 15,400 in November. Since June 2018, employment in Ontario has risen by 271,600.

Graywood’s ‘Peter & Adelaide’ breaks ground Graywood Developments’ landmark mixed-use tower, Peter & Adelaide, broke ground recently.

Located in the heart of Toronto’s vibrant Entertainment District, the new community presents an opportunity to live minutes away from globally acclaimed restaurants, coffee shops, boutique fitness, shopping, sports, nightlife, and entertainment that are hallmarks along Toronto’s King St. West corridor – all the while, the 47-storey tower remains within arm’s reach of the Financial District, TTC, and GO Transit. A few suites remain at Peter and Adelaide.

Visit PeterandAdelaide.com to find out more.

Mattamy Homes was recently named one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers for the second year in a row.

“Being recognized as one of Greater Toronto’s top employers has special meaning for us, as the GTA is where it all began for Mattamy, and it continues to be an important area for our business,” says Mattamy Homes Canada CEO, Brad Carr.

Now in its 14th year, the Greater Toronto’s Top Employers competition is an editorial project that recognizes employers with exceptional human resources programs and forward-thinking workplace policies.

With 40 per cent of Canada’s business headquarters located in the GTA, it is a growing battle to retain and hire top talent. This year saw a record number of employers take part in the selection process, with 130 employers selected to represent the GTA. “Mattamy was the only homebuilder on this list,” said Brent Carey, Mattamy’s Vice President, Communications.

“The Greater Toronto Area continues to be the most competitive employment market in the country,” said Kristina Leung, Senior Editor of the Canada’s Top 100 Employers project at Mediacorp. “The rapid growth in technology employers has created opportunities across a wide range of occupations, from healthcare to education and manufacturing.

The region’s strong economy draws tens of thousands of new residents each year - local employers are working overtime to attract the best and brightest to their organizations and you can see their efforts in this year’s list of winners.”

Photo: Arthur MolA

Now 98 % sold, WestBeach celebrates rooftopping

Mattamy Homes recognized as a top employer for second year in a row

Marlin Spring principals and partners recently topped off the six-storey, 88-suite WestBeach condo project in Toronto’s Beach neighbourhood.

Left to right: Marlin Spring President Ashi Mathur; CFO Elliott Kazarnovsky; CEO Benjamin Bakst; Terra Firma’s Carolyn Montgomery; CSCD Holdings’ Christopher Salt and Carla DeGasperis. Milborne Group is handling sales with two suites still available, including a penthouse with a 40ft. terrace facing Lake Ontario. Visit marlinspring.com

Mattamy Homes employee Rachel Suh is the Sales and Marketing Manager at the company’s Greater Toronto West Division. nexthome.ca 15

Trending

CANVAS ON THE ROUGE CONDOS CONSTRUCTiON haS beguN! Construction has started at Canvas on the Rouge Condos, a new condo project

by Flato Developments in uptown Markham.

“Flato has been focussed on developing master-planned communities in Ontario for over a decade,” said Shakir Rehmatullah, Flato Developments’ President.

“Markham is an incredible location for growing families, which is why we’ve designed a condominium project that appeals to them.

Regardless of the size of your family, there’s truly something for everyone,” he said. “Canvas allows homebuyers to live in the safety and security of an established community near the Rouge River.”

The Canvas community is close to nearby transit, with highways just minutes away. Greenspace surrounds the property and the location offers scenic views of the greenbelt and Rouge River.

Luxury, location, and an

unparalleled quality of life, living in Markham means homebuyers never have to give up any amenities.

Canvas on the Rouge is a unique collection of condominium suites with one, two, and three bedrooms ranging from 605 square feet to 1,024 square feet.

Specifically designed with families in mind, Canvas offers countless building amenities such as a party room, gym, guest suite, whirlpool, concierge, and rooftop terrace, not to mention an incredible array of nearby conveniences.

From its enviable location in North Markham near Little Rouge Creek, Canvas is minutes from amenities such as the Mount Joy GO Station, Hwy. 407, the Centennial Community Centre, Markham Stouffville Hospital, and an abundance of greenspace.

Canvas on the Rouge Condos is now over 70 per cent sold.

Those interested in

Markham Mayor Frank Scarpitti, left, with Flato Developments’ President Shakir Rehmatullah.

ownership opportunities should register now for information at canvasmarkham.ca ABOUT FLATO deVeLOPMenTS

Offering a full range of home designs, Flato Developments has long been a recognized developer and builder of quality built and backed communities brimming with pride. From townhomes and semis, to luxury singles and highrise condominium residences, Flato’s quality materials, impeccable craftsmanship and uncharacteristic flexibility to homeowner’s demands has made them one of the GTA’s premiere homebuilders. Learn more by visiting flatogroup.com 16 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

SOLVING THE HOUSING AFFORDABILITY EQUATION IN THE GTA With the GTAʼs population growing by 115,000 people every year and our housing supply problem, our housing market is out of balance.

THE MATH IS SIMPLE.

simpler

+faster +fairer

We must streamline the process of bringing new homes to market.

We must shorten the time it takes to build new homes.

We must ensure that fees, taxes and charges on new homes are fair and equitable.

=

MORE HOUSING SUPPLY AND A MORE AFFORDABLE MARKET

THATʼS WHY WE SUPPORT THE PROVINCIAL GOVERNMENTʼS EFFORTS TO INCREASE HOUSING SUPPLY AND BALANCE THE HOUSING MARKET IN ONTARIO AND THE GTA.

BUILDING A BETTER GTA FOR TOMORROW, TODAY To find out more visit bildgta.ca/themathissimple *Altus Report – 2019.

Creative by

ADVICE | bIlD rEport

BILD memBers help build Better LIves for habitat GtA homeowners

dave Wilkes

When Dionne Carter received the news that her family was accepted to be Habitat homeowners on Pinery Trail in Scarborough, it was one of the happiest days of her life.

When the news sunk in, Dionne’s daughter drew a picture of what she wanted her new bedroom to look like. She wanted her own bedroom space to do the things that she loves – drawing, dancing, and having alone time with her 18 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

mom. The picture hung on their fridge to remind them of the Habitat home they would soon call their own.

The Carter family’s apartment was a hazard. The apartment was poorly insulated and caused it to get too cold in the winter and very hot in the summer. At times, Dionne and her children had to wear jackets in the winter just to keep them warm. The building suffered from rat and roach infestation. Managing the issue was especially difficult on Dionne’s youngest son who suffers from asthma and the chemicals to fight the problem affected his breathing.

In response to the growing

need for affordable housing in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and to help families like the Carters, BILD has partnered with Habitat GTA to raise $80,000 to help the family. Since 2003, BILD has raised 1.2 million dollars for families in need and have built a total of 16 homes. To raise funds, BILD hosts annual events like a charity BBQ, the builder baseball tournament, a charity volleyball tournament and the Race for Humanity, an Amazing Race-style scavenger hunt that pit teams of industry professionals against each other. These events help engage and educate BILD members, connecting them with Habitat GTA’s mission and vision.

Founded in 1988, Habitat GTA is a non-profit housing organization working toward a world where everyone has a safe and decent place to live. They mobilize communities to help working; lower-income families build strength, stability and self-reliance through affordable homeownership. With the help of volunteers, donors, and community partners; they provide a solid foundation for better, healthier lives for families in the GTA. Since 1988, Habitat GTA has built 22 new communities, which has helped thousands of parents and children have a safe, decent and affordable place to call home.

Habitat for Humanity GTA knows that affordable homeownership plays a critical role in helping families to create a new cycle, one filled with possibilities and progress. With a little help, Habitat homeowners are able to achieve the strength, stability and selfreliance they need to build better lives for themselves and their children.

It’s reported that 87 per cent of Habitat homeowners have

“

Habitat for Humanity GTA knows that affordable homeownership plays a critical role in helping families to create a new cycle, one filled with possibilities and progress.

less asthma and allergy-related conditions, 88 per cent report improvements in their children’s confidence, 76 per cent report improvement in overall family health and 76 per cent report improvements in children’s grades.

For BILD and its members, our partnership with Habitat GTA is more than just cutting a cheque, we go the distance. This past August I had the privilege in joining 25 BILD members on Habitat Build Day, as we laced up our steel-toe boots, rolled up our sleeves and spent the day framing, insulating and installing windows on the Carter family’s new home in Scarborough. Habitat Build Day is a one-of-a-kind membership engagement opportunity that offers our association members the chance to give back to the communities that they live in.

”

Dionne and her family took possession of their new home this month. Owning her own home has given Dionne greater confidence and makes her feel like she is a better parent to her children. It also provides her children with the motivation to work hard and accomplish their own dreams.

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

+more ADvICe online nexthome.ca/news/advice

nexthome.ca 19

Cover Story

Life by the Lake WHeRe It aLL BeGINS

“

Located just 35 feet from the shores of Fairy Lake, Lakeside Muskoka is a boutique four-storey residence with suites ranging between 579 and 1,283 sq. ft.

”

If there’s one unbreakable thread that weaves through Chris Napior’s story, it’s family. As the president of Lakeside Developments Inc., Chris was born in Ajax, Ontario in a local hospital built by his grandfather Ken Smith who also served as the town’s mayor.

At a young age, Chris learned the value of honesty and hard work from his grandfather, who owned Kenmil Construction and was responsible for building the province’s Brewer’s Retail outlets, as well as many Cashway Lumber stores.

Muskoka living in Huntsville

Like many generations of Ontarians, Chris and his family spend plenty of time in the Muskoka region, and he traces his family’s roots back to the 1930s where they 20 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

had a hand building the historic log buildings that exist in the area, including the original Patterson Kaye Lodge on Lake Muskoka.

With his deep roots in planning and construction and his team’s passion for providing innovative, Green technologies, Chris is building a project unlike any other in Muskoka. steps froM fairy lake

Located just 35 feet from the shores of Fairy Lake, Lakeside Muskoka is a four-storey boutique residence with suites ranging between 579 and 1,283 sq. ft. The selection of floorplans includes one-bedroom suites, one bedroom-plus-den designs, and two-bedrooms suites with or without den, starting from the $400,000s.

“

The selection of floorplans includes one-bedroom suites, one bedroomplus-den designs, and two-bedrooms suites with or without den, starting from the $400,000s.

”

nexthome.ca 21

“

...the building features a private terrace and lounge and modern features such as a fitness studio, a pet spa and a party room, all for the exclusive use of residents and their guests.

MoDern aMenities anD spectacular views

Designed to take advantage of the spectacular lifestyle and views around Fairy Lake and Huntsville, the building features a private rooftop terrace and lounge area, and modern amenities such as a fitness studio, a pet spa and a party room, all for the exclusive private use of residents and their guests.

”

entertainment venues that make Muskoka a one-of-a-kind lifestyle.

Along with his partner Karen, who has worked on largescale projects for decades, and Milborne Group, one of Canada’s largest and most experienced condominium specialists, Chris and the Lakeside Developments team are excited to be launching this new development in early 2020.

opening soon!

Located within walking distance of downtown Huntsville, Lakeside Muskoka is close to all of the unique restaurants, shops and 22 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

To register for priority updates, and your invitation to preview, visit lakesidemuskoka.ca or email sales@lakesidemuskoka.ca

+

location Huntsville Developer Lakeside Developments Inc. DevelopMent Lakeside Muskoka HoMe type Midrise condominium sales centre 203 Hwy. 60 in Huntsville contact sales@lakesidemuskoka.ca lakesidemuskoka.ca

PROPERTY PROFILE

Design plans unveileD for ‘untitled’

After announcing a collaboration with Pharrell Williams in the fall, Reserve Properties and Westdale Properties have released design and development plans for untitled, the name of this new Yonge and Eglinton project.

The seed for untitled’s architecture is rooted in lead architect Mansoor Kazerouni of IBI Group’s cultural background. Kazerouni introduced the concept of a jugalbandi, a performance in Indian classical music featuring an intricate duet between two solo musicians. The term translates to mean entwined twins and for Kazerouni, a jugalbandi informed how his work could entwine with sound waves from one of Pharrell’s songs.

Using parametric design, the sculpted, fluid form of the balconies follows the wave pattern of Pharrell’s hit song Gust of Wind, articulating the building as a visual abstraction of music.

“We arrived at the concept fairly early in the process and worked with Pharrell to select a song that really meant something to him and could help bring this idea to life. There is a sophisticated, elemental feel to the building, which is why Gust of Wind works so well,” said Kazerouni. “Once we had the song, there was a lot of testing and iterating to find the right notes

that would produce the most fluidity. What’s cool is as you go around the building, no two faces are the same. They all represent different moments from Gust of Wind.” A natural stone podium follows the same rhythmic pattern of the tower, anchoring the building on the site. In the courtyard, a Japanese maple tree grows out of a slate, rock water feature, offering a pop of colour framed against the dark stone backdrop.

Interior spaces, helmed by Kelly Cray of U31, aim to articulate notions of universality throughout the common areas, amenities and suites. Rather than projecting a lifestyle onto the residents, the goal was for each individual space to serve as a backdrop to the user’s own experience. “There was a real evolution to the process working with Pharrell and the whole team, from where we started with the interiors and where we ended up,” says Cray. “The palette is fairly unique in how it emphasizes darker tones balanced with natural materials. They combine to create these really compelling environments. Everything is engineered towards supporting the function of the room. When we transition into the gym or the rec room, the palette shifts to brighter tones in specific spaces to encourage activity and play.”

For more information, register at untitledtoronto.com nexthome.ca 23

ADVICE | stAt ChAt

without investors toronto’s condo market would be much worse

ben myers

If you’re reading this article you’re probably in the market for a new home and you’ve probably had your eyes bulge at the starting prices of some of these new developments.

No doubt that these prices probably make you angry. I’m guessing you already have someone in your mind to blame.

Maybe you’re someone who blames foreign buyers, maybe you blame developers for setting their pricing too high, or maybe you blame the boomers for hogging all the real estate. If you’ve read any articles on the new housing 24 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

market in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), you’ll know the blame is often placed on the shoulders of investors.

I started tracking the new condominium apartment market in the GTA in close detail in 2005, just when the market was starting to take off. By 2007, investors were buying about 30 per cent of all pre-construction condominiums in the metro area; by 2011 that share had nearly doubled. All anyone wanted to talk about was investors.

Clearly demand from investors has picked up significantly, however developers responded to that increased demand by drastically increasing the size new condo projects. Gone were the 25-storey, 250-unit towers of 2007, developers were introducing

45-storey towers with 450 units by 2011. After a temporary market blip, investors came back strong in 2016 and 2017 capturing 70 to 80 per cent of all new condominium purchases in those two years.

Developers again responded by launching 60-, 70-, 80-, and now 95-storey condominium towers with up to 1,000 units apiece.

More demand meant more supply.

However, despite the attempts of developers to build as much supply as there is demand, they have failed, and prices continue to rise rapidly. Instead of blaming government red tape, high development charges, restrictive zoning, a dearth of available construction workers and capable architects, the blame fell on investors (both domestic and foreign).

Some of you would like to go back 2007, you like the 25-storey towers with 250 units, but that level of building will not satisfy underlying demand. According to RBC Economics, the GTA needs 22,000 new rental units per year to satisfy tenant demand, and we haven’t even made it to ownership demand yet. You might look at that 22,000 number and conclude that it’s not that much, but in fact its 88 buildings with 250 units. Are you rethinking your perspective on the need for pre-construction investors?

Perhaps you’re in the camp that believes that if investors didn’t buy any pre-construction units, that end-users would be lining up to buy all 1,000 suites in a 95-storey project. If you believe this, chances are you’ve never spoken to a sales and marketing director, or an on-site sales agent for a new condominium apartment project. There are end-users that are turned off by the fact that they can’t envision a suite from a two-dimensional floorplan, other end-users don’t want to wait three to five years to take possession of their unit, others don’t want to pay a 20 per cent down payment, while a smaller portion of those end-users is nervous about the project getting cancelled prior to completion.

Investors provide a valuable service to the industry by renting units out, in fact, close to 60 per cent all new condominiums completed over the past couple years are leased out. But couldn’t all of those people leasing those new units actually purchase those new units? Not likely. The down payment required for the average unsold new condo in the GTA is $166,000 — that is a big amount to save up. Some of those tenants

“

Investors provide a valuable service to the industry by renting units out, in fact, close to 60 per cent all new condominiums completed over the past couple years are leased out.

don’t want to wait for a new condo to be built, some tenants don’t want to own, some of those tenants are only here for a short period of time, and some tenants don’t want to have their $166,000 down payment tied up for four to five years.

There is plenty of blame to go around for why we have high new condominium apartment prices in the Greater Toronto Area, but if it wasn’t for pre-construction condo investors, the market would be much worse.

”

Ben Myers is President of Bullpen Research & Consulting. Ben provides pricing recommendation, product mix, and valuation studies on new residential housing developments for builders, lenders and property owners. Ben’s firm produces monthly rental housing analysis and publishes a quarterly report on high-rise land values. Visit www.bullpenconsutling.ca or find him on Twitter @benmyers29

+more adviCe online nexthome.ca/news/advice

nexthome.ca 25

INSPIRATION |

blue

style file Gurli cushion cover, dark blue. $5. Ikea.ca

PERIOD

For the start of the new decade, Pantone has declared “Classic Blue” as its Colour of the Year for 2020.

by SARA DUCK Stand mixer professional 5-plus stand mixer. $630.

Kitchenaid.ca

Croc embossed cross-body. $40.

Marshalls.ca

Vinyl couture mascara by Yves Saint Laurent. $41.

Sephora.ca

26 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

Indigo-striped ceramic stool. $168.

Anthropologie.com

Shibori patterned quilt. $60. Homesense.ca

Savary chair in lapis blue. $899. Article.com

Blue modern geometric rug. Starting at $299.

Crateandbarrel.ca

We are living in a time that requires trust and faith. It is the kind of constancy and confidence that is expressed

by PANTONE 19-4052 Classic Blue, a solid and dependable blue hue we can always rely on. Imbued with a deep resonance, Classic Blue provides an anchoring foundation. A boundless blue evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky, Classic Blue encourages us to look beyond the obvious to expand our thinking, challenging us to think more deeply, increase our perspective and open the flow of communication.

– Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Colour Institute

Strimmig Mug, stoneware blue. $4. Ikea.ca

+MORE INSPIRATION ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/inspiration

nexthome.ca  27

NEWBIE NotEs

THe millennial Trend:

HomeownersHip before marriage

by AmAndA pereirA

28 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

my parents lived with my dad’s sister for the first two years of their marriage before they bought their first home in 1989. They were in their early 20s. The house was a foreclosure that needed a lot of elbow grease, but they closed on it for a whopping $75,000 and secured a mortgage rate that was a little over 12 per cent.

My partner M and I lived with his family for two years when we decided it was time for us to spread our proverbial wings and leave the nest. After a few months of looking, settling on a new build, and solidifying our buy by signing on the dotted line, the agent representing our builder looked at my partner seriously, pointed a finger at him and said: “You got her the house, now it’s time you made an honest woman out of her.”

I gave him a weak smile in response. The statement, though perhaps well-intentioned, was completely out of this century.

Still, it made me consider just how much the trend has shifted in terms of the order of life’s traditional milestones.

A decade ago, my ultraconservative and very traditional Portuguese grandmother might have erupted into histrionics while collapsing dramatically to the floor at the idea of me living out of wedlock – never mind buying real estate without a ring on my finger. When I told her in 2017 that M and I had bought our first home, she touched my hand tenderly and said, “Parabéns.”

– congratulations. There were no tears or fear surrounding the cultural perception that came with me and M living together, just pride for our accomplishment in a landscape that makes it challenging for Millennials to get into the market to begin with.

According to two recent reports, we are not alone in choosing to buy a home before committing to matrimony. A study of homebuyers conducted by the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation in 2018 found that less than half of Millennial firsttime homebuyers surveyed were married, compared to Gen Xers based on a survey in which nine per cent of responders were firsttime homebuyers.

A 2019 report by Pew Research Center substantiates this claim, noting that not only are Millennials less financially secure next to their predecessors, but the trend for getting married later in life has been going on for nearly two generations. Only 46 per cent of surveyed Millennials between the ages of 25 to 37 were married, compared to 67 per cent of Baby Boomers and 57 per cent of Gen

Xers at the same age.

It’s not just the perception on marriage that’s changing, it’s the size of home desired

by Millennials, too. First-time homebuyers are purchasing smaller homes, with 61 per cent having purchased a singledetached home in 2018. Long gone are the days of aspiring to own a home like the McCallister’s à la Home Alone: Pew Research Center notes that Millennials are experiencing a shift in priorities with a renewed focus on convenience and minimalism.

McMansions are now a thing of holidays’ past, thanks to the mortgage stress test and the weight of student debt.

The emphasis on marriage before buying real estate isn’t what it once was. Call it a change in trends, a shift in priorities, or financial and emotional maturity.

The only thing that is for certain is while we may be delaying exchanging vows, we aren’t giving up on our aspirations for homeownership – we’re just delaying the nuptials in exchange for the keys and the satisfaction of saying ‘home sweet home.’

nexthome.ca 29

ADVICE | LEGALLY SPEAKING

TaRION imProVeS TRaNSPaRENCY AnD dISCLOSURE BY mArK lAUriolA ll.B., ll.m. AnD JAYSon SCHWArZ ll.m.

JAYSon SCHWArZ

Pre-construction condominiums can be great investments, either to live in as a principal residence or to rent to someone else and earn income. It may not, however, be all wine and roses.

A significant question on everyone’s mind these days is whether the project will be completed.

Recently, two developers cancelled developments in Vaughan because they stated they could not receive satisfactory financing for the projects.

The developers notified the purchasers who signed the Agreements of Purchase and Sale (“Agreement”) that the contract was being terminated, the project cancelled, and all deposits were returned to the purchasers.

The current Tarion Addendum included in the Agreement allowed for this because a permitted condition to terminate is if the vendor does not acquire satisfactory financing.

For purchasers who made their deal and gave a deposit three years or more before, this was a very unhappy conclusion. They may now be shut out from purchasing 30 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

“

Every Agreement signed after January 1, 2020 will include a mandatory information sheet (“MIS”) that will outline risks and considerations for prospective buyers.

”

“

The Tarion amendments are a significant improvement but they do not guarantee your unit you have purchased or the project therein, will be completed.

”

a new home because of price escalation or as an investment they have missed on a rising market.

There was a lot of press about this and today purchasers are asking, “What rights do I have if the project is cancelled? What happens if the project is not completed?”

We are recommending as we have in the past to research your builder; check the Tarion site and ask the builder a lot of questions.

You are not buying a toaster or a car. You are spending a lot of money. Do your research.

As a result, changes were made to Tarion effective Jan. 1 to allow for more disclosure and transparency for buyers.

Every Agreement signed after Jan. 1 will include a mandatory information sheet (“MIS”) that will outline risks and considerations for prospective buyers. As Tarion notes: “Common element, vacant land, and leasehold condominiums are excluded from this requirement.” Section 1 of the MIS emphasizes that the project may never be completed, to review the Agreement with a lawyer who is familiar with pre-construction condominium transactions, and that purchasers have a 10-day period to cancel the Agreement per the Condominium Act, 1998.

A major focus of the MIS is the chance that the project may never be completed. In Section 3, the MIS highlights the early termination conditions by the vendor. The vendor can terminate the purchase if: The sales goal set for the project has not been achieved; certain zoning and/or development approvals have not been obtained; and satisfactory financing for the project has not been obtained.

It is a shout-out to a prospective purchaser to review and weigh the risks on a particular project in order to make an educated decision on whether to proceed.

Furthermore, in Section 4 and 5 of the MIS, the vendor represents

and warrants that the vendor owns the freehold ownership interest in the property and that the property is free from any registered title restrictions that binds the project that would prevent completion of the project and/or sale of the unit to the purchaser.

Tarion has also made changes to the Ontario Builder Directory.

These changes are now in effect and include information about builder history and condominium projects. Initially, it was difficult for prospective purchasers to be able to search builders and projects.

Now, purchasers can search for different project names, different builders, status of the project, and the number of units in the project. In addition, the changes allow purchasers to search for cancellations of condominium projects and any builders convicted under the Ontario New Home Warranties Plan Act. The Tarion amendments are a significant improvement, but they do not guarantee the unit you have purchased or the project therein, will be completed. The amendments simply highlight the risks more effectively to prospective buyers of pre-construction condominiums.

It is important to have your preconstruction agreement reviewed by a lawyer, knowledgeable in this area of law, who can review the agreement in full and provide proper guidance and direction.

Jayson Schwarz LL.M. is a Toronto real estate lawyer and partner in the law firm Schwarz Law LLP. Visit online at schwarzlaw.ca or email info@schwarzlaw.ca with your questions, concerns, critiques and quandaries.

+more adVICE online nexthome.ca/news/advice

nexthome.ca 31

ADVICE | ConDo pro

STarT THE New YeAR wITH a New CONDO!

BarBara LawLor

why do people love new condominiums?

Let me count the ways.

1. In today’s market, with lowrise homes priced out of the realm of most buyers, condos represent the relatively affordable choice. With our low mortgage interest rates and the fact that many condo suites appreciate in value before owners even move in, the object is to buy sooner than later. In addition, with increasing immigration, condominiums will continue to be in demand for people who want to live in Toronto and the GTA. 2. Location, location, location takes a starring role in this scenario. Nowadays, because of provincial legislation, condominiums are situated close to traffic nodes and local amenities to make the most of existing and future infrastructure. You can find a beautiful condo in just about any area where you’d like to live.

32 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

3. And let’s talk ease of living.

Convenience is one of the main reasons why people of all ages opt to live in a condo. They leave behind exterior maintenance and landscaping, as well as the upkeep of shared amenities in the building, so they have more time to spend on leisure pursuits and with family and friends.

4. Condominiums also provide excellent security measures that offer tremendous peace of mind. These range from the eyes on the street by the concierge, to strategically placed cameras. Even the very fact that neighbours meet each other so often in these vertical communities means they are likely to notice if something is amiss with someone.

“

Condominiums also provide excellent security measures that offer tremendous peace of mind.

These range from the eyes on the street by the concierge, to strategically placed cameras.

”

styles, and each is carefully planned out to maximize views and living spaces. Even the most compact of studios lives larger than its square footage might suggest because of efficient design.

7. Keep in mind as well that when you buy new and make your decision early in the sales process, you get to select the features and finishes that will make your suite feel like home to you as soon as you walk in.

5. Another fabulous aspect of condo living is having gorgeous amenity spaces right in the building! It is pure luxury to swim, exercise, entertain a crowd, lounge, barbecue, watch a movie or a big game with a group, and/or any other activity without leaving “home.”

6. Design factors in as well. Today’s buildings range in architectural

8. Oh, and did I mention that with a NEW condominium suite, you benefit from it featuring the most up-to-date materials and construction techniques as set out by Ontario Building Code?

New condos are more energy efficient and sustainable than ever before. How wonderful it is to walk into a brand spanking new suite that is completely

clean and equipped with superb features and finishes, and to know you are the first person to use them.

So for a great way to kick off 2020, how about looking seriously at purchasing a new condominium suite as a place to live or a financial investment? What a way to make 2020 a Happy New Year!

Barbara Lawlor is president and CEO of Baker Real Estate Incorporated, winner of the pinnacle 2017 Riley Brethour Award from BILD, and an in-demand columnist and speaker.

A member of the Baker team since 1993, she oversees the marketing and sales of condominium developments in the GTA and overseas. Keep current with The Baker Blog at blog.bakerrealestate.com

+morE ADVICe onLInE nexthome.ca/news/advice

nexthome.ca 33

2020

INSPIRATION |

home decor file

DECOR

resolutions

BY SARA DUCK

Stuck in a decorating rut? We hear you. Be resolved to follow these five decor resolutions for your best living space yet.

Mixing textures Afraid of mixing textures? Don’t be.

You can create a balanced look in any space by choosing different finishes on your decor finds. Think satin, velvet, wool, faux-fur and wood on everything from cushions to rugs, thus avoiding a sterile look and creating a custom, unique space. Sofa, table, chair, lamp, rug and wall art from Urban Barn.

Urbanbarn.com

Sustainable life 2020 is your year to live more sustainable. Little changes to your lifestyle can have a large impact on our Earth. Live Green: 52 steps for a more sustainable life by Jen Chillingsworth will inspire you to live a more environmentally friendly existence. $19. Indigo.ca

34 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

Plant love Do you covet your friend’s succulent sanctuary? It’s time to create your own plant family! Did you know that plants can provide a calmer space and clean the air?

Those are just a few bonuses.

Remember to choose plants according to your decor aesthetic and lifestyle (cacti if you are an avid traveller) and enjoy a little bit of the outdoors, inside. We suggest starting with one plant at a time. We love the way the plant pictured is incorporated with the decor. It’s the perfect shelfie. Jars, mugs, bowls and artwork from HomeSense. Homesense.ca

Pastel power While dark and dramatic colours certainly have their place, pasteltoned hues help create a relaxed atmosphere at home, and who doesn’t need that these days? If you are a little skeptical, avoid painting your entire living room Millennial pink and instead, opt for decorative objects and textiles in softer shades to incorporate this look. Visto blush dinnerware.

Crateandbarrel.ca

Local artisanal touches Support local small businesses by shopping for decor and lifestyle products in your community. Not only is this great for the environment (smaller carbon footprint), it also allows for the flow of money back into the community, plus you can pick up some super cool one-of-a-kind pieces to furnish your pad! Solid, wormy maple dining table with satin poly finish. $1,500. Knottys.ca

+MORE INSPIRATION ONLINE nexthome.ca/news/inspiration

nexthome.ca 35

trending

2020 inTerior Design Show ToronTo launches into new decade with Design Your FuTure

Burkina Faso National Assembly - Francis Kéré

iDs20/20 Theme To Discover, inSpire and empower FuTure-ForwarD Design Canada’s largest design exposition and conference, the Interior Design Show (IDS20), returns to Toronto with a future-forward vision for 2020. IDS20/20 will bring together global minds, leading designers, makers, changers, shapers and dreamers of today who are creating the new worlds of tomorrow.

Canada’s premier showcase of new products, furniture, superstar designers and avantgarde concepts became a hybrid event last year, catering to trade construction, design professionals and design-savvy consumers.

IDS20 takes place January 1619, 2020 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.

36 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

“For over 20 years, IDS has been both a catalyst and authority for Canadian design,” says Karen Kang, National Director, IDS Canada.

“During the past two decades, we have witnessed a lot of change.

Yesterday’s designer has become today’s problem solver and tomorrow’s visionary. This year’s IDS 20/20 theme will explore how designers now create experiences at the intersection of technological and social problems, imagining new roads to alternative realities.”

idS ContraCt In 2019, IDS expanded to include IDS Contract, a hyper-curated B2B trade-only exposition and conference focused on all

verticals of design including: workplace, healthcare, retail, hospitality, education, public spaces, government and more. IDS Contract Trade Days will continue in 2020 on Thursday and Friday.

New this year, Trade Day attendees will also bene t from full access to the IDS Main exhibit hall.

IDS Contract brings an additional 100+ exhibitors and several new feature areas aimed at B2B trade professionals. Along with IDS Contract is IDS Conference, a series of 65+ sessions including keynote speakers, reside chats, seminars and workshops. The 2020 installment will explore the business of design, the future of work, the future of living and technology.

idS20 ConCept HouSe reSet HoMe: design for the Senses

This year’s IDS Concept Home is a multi-sensory experience of the future of living and an exploration of the role that our homes can play in improving our overall wellbeing.

Blending theories of spatial perception and human wellness, Hummingbird Hill Homes, VFA Architecture + Design and Victoria Taylor Landscape Architect bring you the RESET Home; a space that transcends contemporary design to reset the way we perceive, interpret, experience and thrive within our living habitats. The fully realized space will allow IDS20 guests to walk through the home and explore how materials, textures, sounds, scents and light affect the five senses, mind and body, impacting the way we live and interact within the private sanctuary of our home.

IDS Contract: Yellow Goat Design Custom Fixture Burkina Faso National Assembly - Francis Kéré

nexthome.ca 37

Keynote ConFerenCe SpeaKerS Frida eSCobedo

Joining IDS20 as a keynote conference speaker for the Dezeen Trade Talks on Thursday, January 16th is Mexican architect and designer, Frida Escobedo.

Principal and founder of her studio based in Mexico City, Escobedo is known for her interesting use of materials. Her work focuses largely on the reactivation of urban spaces that are considered to be residual or forgotten, through projects that range from housing and community centers, hotels, galleries and public art installations. The intention to provide possibilities for growth and exibility can be read as much in large scale social housing projects, such as those developed for INFONAVIT, as in more modest interventions like Casa Cruz Castillo or Casa Negra.

In addition to her practice, Escobedo has taught at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation and during spring 2019 was a visiting professor at RICE University.

She is currently teaching at Harvard Graduate School of Design. She is the recipient of the 2016 Architectural Review Emerging Architecture Award, the 2017 Architectural League Emerging Voices Award, and in 2018 was the youngest architect to design the 18th Serpentine Summer Pavilion in London.

Surgical and Clinic Center in Leo - Francis Kéré

Gando Primary School - Francis Kéré FranCiS Kéré

IDS20 is pleased to be hosting internationally acclaimed architect Francis Kéré as a keynote conference speaker for the AZURE Trade Talks on Friday, January 17th.

Kéré has garnered critical praise from the beginning of his architectural practice when awarded the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture (2004) for his rst ever building - a primary school he designed, raised the funds for and realised in collaboration with the residents of his native Gando, Burkina Faso.

Kéré is regarded as one of the most distinguished contemporary architects thanks to his pioneering of a communal approach to design and his commitment to sustainable materials and modes of construction.

He has gathered a diverse, agile team at his Berlinbased Kéré Architecture o ces, to take on projects across four continents. Most prominently these include his design for the Burkina Faso National Assembly, the Léo Surgical Clinic & Health Centre (2014), the Lycée Schorge Secondary School (2016), the Serpentine Pavilion (2017) and Xylem (2019), a gathering pavilion for the Tippet Rise Art Center.

38 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

iDs20 scheDule tHurSday, January 16 10 am - 4 pm trade day + idS Conference 7 pm - 11 pm opening night party Presented by PurParket

Friday, January 17 9 am - 6 pm trade day + idS Conference Saturday, January 18 10 am - 6 pm public day + design Classes Sunday, January 19 10 am - 6 pm public day

Metro Toronto Convention Centre, South Building, 222 Bremner Blvd, Toronto, ON M5V 2T6 IDS Contract (Halls F&G) and IDS Main (Halls D&E)

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Discover new ideas and inspiration from the world’s top designers.

Keep up with the latest products – including hundreds launching for the first time.

See Jonathan Adler speak on Saturday, January 18 at the Ceasarstone Stage.

Buy tickets at InteriorDesignShow.com

Interior Jan 16-19 Design 2020 Show Toronto Sponsors

Metro Toronto Convention Centre South Building

Trade Days Jan 16-17

The Party Jan 16 (Open to all, 19+)

Public Days Jan 18-19

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iNspiratioN |

design file

KITCHEN

BY Jo AlCorn

Sometimes the best design decision is not to change things too much.

Let me explain. I was recently working with a client who wanted to update her kitchen. She consulted with me to figure out how to spend her modest budget wisely while accomplishing a new look.

storage Like most people, her dream plan included replacing the cupboards to have more efficient storage.

After an honest appraisal with a critical eye, I could see that wasn’t entirely necessary. She didn’t even need to paint them – she just 42 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

budget

needed to lighten the space up and get creative with functionality, and there were far less expensive and easier ways to do that. The overall footprint of the kitchen was good, so just a few adjustments to the cupboards were necessary.

By adding Gliding Shelf Solutions (glidingshelf.ca) within the cabinets, we were able to solve the efficiency issue and add extra storage on a budget. Not having to do a full demolition of the existing kitchen put money back into the budget for what truly mattered, and splurging on the proper key elements.

couNtertop Changing out the countertops was mandatory. We needed to lighten up the space to make it feel more open, and to balance the darkness of the cabinet colour. We chose Caesarstone’s (caesarstone.ca) Empira White marble quartz because of its classic white base with deep grey veins to accent and complement the cabinet colour. This beautiful countertop modernized their kitchen instantly. Plus, it’s durable and easy to clean, so it’s a perfect balance of fashion and function for a busy household.

Designer Jo Alcorn shows you how to give your kitchen a refresh without the price tag of a total renovation

Backsplash This kitchen needed a new backsplash. We chose white, bevelled edge subway tile for its timeless simplicity, and to play off the new countertops. By using larger tiles, this kitchen kept its clean lines, but the tapered edge offered elegant detailing. The custom range hood became the focal point of this space. We removed the small useless cabinet above the metal range hood that was more of an eye-sore than a focal point. By making it white, it pulled the colour scheme of the kitchen together perfectly.

New appliaNces A Whirlpool black stainless-steel kitchen suite (whirlpool.ca) kept the continuity of colour in this kitchen.

I love to match cabinet colours and appliances whenever I can; making your appliances blend into the shades of the kitchen gives the illusion of a larger space. The appliances are fingerprint resistant, which helps keep things looking sleek and fresh with minimal upkeep. Having the counter-depth refrigerator further made the space more open and accessible. On top of that, the French door option allows for more clearance when the door is open, which makes it easier to have two people in the kitchen at once. While the kitchen used to have a microwave stand to the right of the range, replacing it with a custom wine rack, colour matched to the cupboards, was far more visually appealing. Fear not – they still have a microwave, its tucked out of sight and utilizing a wasted corner.

shelviNg with purpose Notice the floating shelves? I removed the closed cabinets to modernize the look. By tiling that whole wall and adding the natural wood tone of the shelving, it creates a more up-to-date, open look. I wanted to replace the tan floor tiles, but the cost, timing and mess didn’t warrant it. Instead, I used the shelves, chairs and accessories to tie it all together, making the floor seem more purposeful, instead of like the elephant in the room.

It’s also nice to have an element from nature (wood) to help ground the space and add an organic feel to the design.

FiNishiNg details While the cupboards were able to be used, the hardware had to go!

The new, modernized, brass handles were the perfect accents. And I was able to include a pendant light over the sink to match. I would have liked to include pendant lighting all around the kitchen, but the light locations didn’t align with the table, so this was a perfect compromise. As I shopped for the appliances, I found an ultra-useful stand mixer in blue, and I knew it would be so useful and fun for this busy family! I choose accent pieces like the dishware and vase in a coordinating blue. The floor runners also have a blue tie accent. While many people hesitate to include a runner in a kitchen, I love it. They keep your feet warm, add softness to the space and tie colours in. The secret is to buy ones that are machine washable.

I know this once basic-builder kitchen has transformed into a kitchen that suits the family’s modern lifestyle. Remember, don’t be too quick to replace your entire kitchen; sometimes, a strategic update is the better way. And it can save you a bundle!

+more InspIratIon online nexthome.ca/news/inspiration

nexthome.ca 43

Upper West Side Condos Coming Soon to Oakville.

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All renderings are artist’s concept. Prices, sizes and specifications are subject to change without notice. E&O.E.

BRANTHAVEN is pleased to announce a brand new luxury condominium community is coming soon to the successful Oakvillage neighbourhood. Upper West Side Condos is perfectly located on Trafalgar Road and Dundas, at the gateway to Upper Oakville. From the soaring lobby to the stunning rooftop terrace, smart coworking space and social lounges to the New York-style fitness studio, Upper West Side Condos delivers high style and attainable luxury.

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TOWNS & SINGLE FAMILY HOMES

REAL ESTATE GLOSSARY AdjuSTAbLE-RATE And fixEd RATE moRTgAgES There are generally two types of conventional mortgages – a fixed-rate and an adjustable-rate mortgage. An adjustable-rate mortgage means the interest rate can change over the term of the loan. A fixed-rated mortgage simply means that the interest rate stays the same through the entire term of the mortgage and is “locked in”.

AmoRTizATion This process combines the interest and principal together in an established schedule of payment installments, rather than simply paying off interest at the start, which helps build home equity early on.

ASSESSEd vALuE This is how much a home is worth according to a public tax assessor who makes this determination in order to figure out how much city or state tax the owner owes.

CLoSing Closing refers to the meeting that takes place where the sale of the property is finalized. At the closing, buyers and sellers sign the final documents, and the buyer makes the down payment and pays closing costs. It is advisable to have a lawyer facilitate closing.

Condo ownERShip Condominium ownership is real estate that is independently owned and sellable, but the owners of the individual units also collectively own the common areas, amenities and utilities which are managed collectively by the owners as outlined in the Ontario Condominium Act.

CLoSing CoSTS In addition to the actual price of a home, there are also closing costs, which will typically make up about two to five percent of the purchase price, not including the down payment. Examples of closings costs include the mortgage processing costs, title insurance, and excise tax, and legal fees.

dEbT To SERviCE RATio This amount shows the ratio of your household’s debt payments to gross household income. Banks look at this when assessing how much money to loan you.

fREEhoLd ownERShip Freehold means permanent and absolute tenure of land or property with freedom of full use and control of the land and buildings on it, subject to any rights of the Crown, local land-use bylaws and any other restrictions in place at the time of purchase.

see page 2 for more info

gRoSS dEbT SERviCE RATio The percentage of your gross monthly income that housing-related payments (mortgage, property taxes and heating) eats up. Depending on your situation, to qualify for a mortgage, your GDSR should be 39 per cent (or less) of your gross monthly income.

46 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

FOCALPOINT

e-NEWS!

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NEW CONTESTS

Benjamin Moore Paint Contest Enter for your chance to WIN five gallons of premium Benjamin Moore paint and a professional colour fan-deck for you to create your own uniquely colourful decorating experience! Prize value $500 Cdn.

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Trending

Looking for A winter retreat?

Lucky enough to have some leftover cash after buying or selling a home or condo last year?

You may want to take a look at Canada’s winter property market.

According to Royal LePage, year-over-year price appreciation in Canada’s winter recreational property markets varied significantly across the country’s most popular alpine destinations, and there are some bargains to be had in some markets and potential investment opportunities in others.

Mont-Tremblant’s village posted the highest median price appreciation in Canada’s winter recreational markets for both single-family homes and condominiums during the 12-month period ending September 30, 2019, rising 37.3 per cent and 37.8 per cent year-overyear to $583,500 and $232,500, respectively. The increase in median price reflects both strong price appreciation overall as well as a surge of sales in the upperend of the market as the region continues to attract Canadian and international buyers.

The median price of a singlefamily home decreased 13.8 per cent to $2,391,979 in Whistler while the median price of a condominium in the area grew 5.2 per cent year-over-year to $884,227. The decrease in singlefamily home prices reflects a decline in consumer confidence in the province’s real estate stemming from provincial taxes affecting foreign buyer purchases and demand for luxury properties.

In Ontario, continued high demand from boomers releasing 48 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

equity from their Greater Toronto Area homes and relocating to Blue Mountain and Collingwood has resulted in year-over-year price gains for both single-family homes and condominiums. This trend of boomers relocating to cottage country is expected to continue.

Quebec

In the province of Quebec, many of the largest recreational markets reported a solid gain in sales activity while price appreciation in the 12-month period ending September 30, 2019 varied across regions. Families looking for a winter recreational property are competing to buy in some of the most coveted areas where high-end homes that are listed at market value and well located sell quickly as we approach the ski season.

High demand coupled with low inventory in the Mont-Tremblant area resulted in significant price appreciation. The median price for a single-family home and condominium in Mont-Tremblant’s village rose 37.3 per cent and 37.8 per cent to $583,500 and $232,500, respectively. Demand from highly motivated buyers has resulted in multiple offer scenarios for homes between $500,000 and $1 million. Just south of MontTremblant, Saint-Faustin/Lac-Carré offered among the lowest prices in recreational areas in the province.

The median price of a singlefamily home in Saint-Faustin/LacCarré was $190,000.

“Inventory is very low in MontTremblant. When a new property enters the market, buyers line

up and offers flood in,” said Paul Dalbec, manager at MontTremblant Real Estate, a division of Royal LePage. “This supply shortage in the region has led to an increase in land sales as some buyers are choosing to build over buying a home as what they are looking for isn’t on the market.”

Quality of life and affordability offered in the recreational areas surrounding Montreal continue to drive sales in Saint-Sauveurand Morin-Heights, where the median price of a single-family home remained relatively flat decreasing 0.5 per cent and 0.6 per cent year-over-year to $283,500 and $310,000, respectively.

• High demand for upperend properties in MontTremblant’s village results in significant price appreciation and multiple offer scenarios • The median price of a single-family home in Collingwood rose 8.3 per cent year-over-year, outpacing condominium price appreciation in the area reflecting high demand from boomers • Condominiums in Whistler, Kimberley, and Invermere post year-over-year price gains ranging from 5.0 per cent to 9.8 per cent; softened demand for singlefamily homes in Whistler favours potential buyers

“Healthy inventory in the by 12.6 per cent and 0.1 per with the median price rising 7.4 per Central Laurentians has kept cent, respectively, to $330,000 cent to $270,000. prices affordable and offered and $348,875. In Sutton, the “The majority of our clients excellent selection to potential median price of a single-family come from Montreal searching for buyers. Eager sellers are lowering home decreased 14.5 per cent to year-round activities so they can their prices creating even more $295,000 for the same period, spend their winter on the slopes opportunities for those looking to reflecting an increase in sales and their summer on the water,” purchase in the region,” said Éric in the lower-end of the market. said Christian Longpré, broker Léger, real estate broker, Royal Among the three regions, only owner, Royal LePage Au Sommet.

LePage Humania.

Bromont witnessed a decline in Longpré added that winter In the outskirts south of the sales for single-family homes, home sales close fairly quickly in 2018 12.7 per cent yearPrices 2019autumn as buyers Variation Price Greater Montreal Area, the median Prices decreasing want to move in (Oct. 1 2017 - Sept. 20 2018) (Oct. 1 2018 - Sept. 20 2019) (%) price of a single-family home in over-year, while condominium and prepare for the holiday season Condo Orford and Bromont increased sales in that region nearly doubled, Condo before snow accumulates.Condo

Single-family and condominium prices in Canada’s largest winter recreational markets

Province BC BC BC

Market

Single-family home

(Apartment style)

Single-family home

(Apartment Single-family (Apartment …continued on page 50 home style) style)

Single-family and condominium prices in Canada’s largest winter recreational markets Whistler

Invermere

$ 2,773,185

$ 840,679

$ 2,391,979

$ 884,227

-13.8%

5.2%

$ 461,956

$ 242,183

$ 509,821

$ 254,266

10.4%

5.0%

$ 236,500

$ 434,500

$ 259,750

-16.8%

9.8%

Kimberley

$ 522,000

AB

Canmore

Prices 2018 $ 925,000 $ 492,536

ON

Collingwood

$ 485,000

ON Province QC BC QC BC QC BC QC AB

Blue Mountain

$ 750,000 Single-family home $ 183,000 $ 2,773,185 $ 348,500 $ 461,956 $ 332,500 $ 522,000 $ 230,000 $ 925,000

Market

Baie-Saint-Paul Whistler Bromont Invermere Cantley Kimberley Mont-Tremblant (St-Jovite) Canmore

(Oct. 1 2017 - Sept. 20 2018)

$ 360,000 Condo $ 354,100 (Apartment

Prices 2019 $ 906,270 $ 479,000 (Oct. 1 2018 - Sept. 20 2019)

$ 525,000

N/A $ 840,679 $ 251,500 $ 242,183 N/A $ 236,500 $ 189,450 $ 492,536

$ 780,000 Single-family home $ 189,500 $ 2,391,979 $ 348,875 $ 509,821 $ 316,000 $ 434,500 $ 233,500 $ 906,270

style)

$ 385,000 Condo $ 369,000 (Apartment style)

N/A $ 884,227 $ 270,000 $ 254,266 N/A $ 259,750 $ 202,450 $ 479,000

Variation Price -2.0% -2.8% 8.3%

(%)

4.0% Single-family home 3.6% -13.8% 0.1% 10.4% -5.0% -16.8% 1.5% -2.0%

6.9% Condo 4.2% (Apartment style)

N/A 5.2% 7.4% 5.0% N/A 9.8% 6.9% -2.8%

$ 485,000 N/A

$$ 360,000 280,000

$ 525,000 N/A

$$ 385,000 322,000

8.3% N/A

6.9% 15.0%

ON QC QC

Mont-Tremblant Collingwood (Station) Blue Mountain Mont-Tremblant (Village) Baie-Saint-Paul

$ 750,000 $ 425,000 $ 183,000

$ 354,100 $ 168,750 N/A

$ 780,000 $ 583,500 $ 189,500

$ 369,000 $ 232,500 N/A

4.0% 37.3% 3.6%

4.2% 37.8% N/A

QC QC

Morin-Heights Bromont

312,000 $$ 348,500

N/A $ 251,500

310,000 $$ 348,875

N/A $ 270,000

-0.6% 0.1%

N/A 7.4%

QC QC

Orford Cantley

293,000 $$ 332,500

N/A N/A

330,000 $$ 316,000

N/A N/A

12.6% -5.0%

N/A N/A

QC QC

Saint-Faustin/ Mont-Tremblant Lac-Carré (St-Jovite)

194,250 $$ 230,000

N/A $ 189,450

190,000 $$ 233,500

N/A $ 202,450

-2.2% 1.5%

N/A 6.9%

$ 285,000 N/A $ 345,000

$ 270,000 $ 280,000 N/A

$ 283,500 N/A $ 295,000

$ 235,000 $ 322,000 N/A

-0.5% N/A -14.5%

-13.0% 15.0% N/A

ON QC

QC QC QC

Saint-Sauveur Mont-Tremblant (Station) Sutton Mont-Tremblant Stoneham(Village) Tewkesbury Morin-Heights

$ 425,000 $ 282,500

$ 168,750 $ 160,000

$ 583,500 $ 318,000

$ 232,500 $ 190,000

37.3% 12.6%

37.8% 18.8%

$ 312,000

N/A

$ 310,000

N/A

-0.6%

N/A

QC

Orford

$ 293,000

N/A

$ 330,000

N/A

12.6%

N/A

QC

Saint-Faustin/ Lac-Carré

$ 194,250

N/A

$ 190,000

N/A

-2.2%

N/A

QC

Saint-Sauveur

$ 285,000

$ 270,000

$ 283,500

$ 235,000

-0.5%

-13.0%

QC

Sutton

$ 345,000

N/A

$ 295,000

N/A

-14.5%

N/A

QC

StonehamTewkesbury

$ 282,500

$ 160,000

$ 318,000

$ 190,000

12.6%

18.8%

QC QC QC

Price data was compiled by Royal LePage for the period between October 1, 2018 and September 30, 2019 and compared to the preceding 12-month period.

Data was sourced through local boards, Centris and RPS Real Property Solutions.

royallepage.ca

nexthome.ca 49 Price data was compiled by Royal LePage for the period between October 1, 2018 and September 30, 2019 and compared to the preceding 12-month period.

Data was sourced through local boards, Centris and RPS Real Property Solutions.

…continued from page 49

OnTariO

Southwest of Blue Mountain resort, 98 upper-end properties in Collingwood priced over $1 million sold in the 12-month period ending September 30, 2019 pushing up the median price of a single-family home by 8.3 per cent year-over-year to $525,000.

Meanwhile, the median price of a condominium increased 6.9 per cent to $385,000.

“Demand remains strong among buyers who are purchasing retirement properties in Collingwood,” said Rick Crouch, broker and manager, Royal LePage Locations North. “They’re cashing out in the GTA and buying a similar-sized, or an even bigger property, to enjoy yearround activities and amenities in Collingwood.”

For those looking to purchase in the Blue Mountain area, the median price of a single-family home rose 4.0 per cent yearover-year to $780,000, while the median price of a condominium rose 4.2 per cent year-over-year to $369,000. Despite healthy price appreciation, price growth was likely hampered by new short term accommodation rules that dampened demand from investors as well as buyers looking to offset mortgage and ownership costs through rental income.

Crouch predicts sales will be brisk this winter, as the early snowfall inspires more people to buy. alberTa

Situated in Alberta’s Bow Valley, Canmore remains an appealing area for both recreation and retirement. Over the past 12-month period ending September 30, 2019, the median price for a single-family home dipped by 2.0 per cent yearover-year to $906,270, while the median price of a condominium decreased by 2.8 per cent yearover-year to $479,000.

50 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

“The modest decline in median price reflects more sales of smaller condo units as builders seek to meet buyer demand for relatively more affordable properties. This shift in the inventory mix offers new opportunities for buyers who thought they were priced out of the market,” said Brad Hawker, managing broker, Royal LePage Rocky Mountain Realty. “With the slower Alberta economy, the upper-end single-family market had fewer sales this past year, leading to a lower median singlefamily home price. Tourism is strong and the overall local market is thriving. Visitors are attracted to our beautiful landscape and with bike and running paths cleared throughout the winter, Canmore is an attractive place for those who want to be active year-round.”

Hawker anticipates healthy demand for condominiums in the region to continue well into 2020.

“Land for development is limited as we are situated among protected park area and mountain terrain, which should stabilize single-family home prices in the long term,” said Hawker.

“Condominiums will always be an important sales driver in the region as this segment’s lower price point and low maintenance lifestyle is very attractive to many buyer segments.” briTish cOlumbia

Situated in the Kootenay Rockies, Kimberley is experiencing a surge of younger buyers, which is contributing to demand for condominiums in the area. Over the 12-month period ending September 30, 2019, the median price of a condominium increased 9.8 per cent year-over-year to $259,750. Future demand is expected to be met as permits for new builds are on the rise. During the same period, the median price of a single-family home decreased 16.8 per cent year-over-year to $434,500, partially as a result of

fewer upper-end home sales.

“We are seeing young families return to Kimberley for the lifestyle offered by our four-season recreational region,” said Darren Close, managing broker, Royal LePage East Kootenay Realty. “We are leading the way with one of the fastest growing municipalities in the province and our population growth should keep demand very strong for the single-family home segment.”

Meanwhile, in Whistler the median price of a condominium increased 5.2 per cent yearover-year to $884,227 during the 12-months ending September 30, 2019 while the median price of a single-family home decreased 13.8 per cent over the same period to $2,391,979.

“Whistler’s condominium market is returning to balance after a season of pent-up demand and not enough entry-level inventory,” said Frank Ingham, associate broker, Royal LePage Sussex.

“Condominium prices are more affordable, which allows for a broader buyer demographic.

Single-family homes are more price sensitive since they are a luxury product in the region.”

Situated a short drive north of Whistler, Pemberton’s real estate market attracts buyers who want immediate access to a wide range of outdoor activities but to remain within a short distance to Whistler’s world class skiing and luxury amenities.

“Pemberton is the perfect choice for someone who wants access to Whistler’s five-star restaurants and year-round activities but retreat to a more quiet community with additional outdoor recreational activities,” added Ingham.

Ingham added that he is expecting single-family home prices to stabilize in both Whistler and Pemberton as improved consumer confidence releases pent up demand and increases sales.

Celebrity Homes + Condos

Jeff BRIDGES sells tO neighbOur

Oprah WInFREy F

or more than a decade, the super wealthy have been parking their money in real estate. In fact, they’re buying up a lot of the planet in the form of islands, vast ranches, resorts and glamorous homes. Yes, Oprah owns at least six homes currently after selling her Chicago and Atlanta homes. Lately, her focus has been on the Montecito neighbourhood of Santa Barbara, where with the purchase of actor-friend Jeff Bridges’ home, totals three including The

nexthome.ca 51

Celebrity Homes + Condos

Montecito is a soughtafter neighbourhood at the western tip of Santa Barbara with commanding views over the Pacific Ocean.

Always lush with large trees and thick with greenery, the neighbourhood has recovered from the 2018 Thomas Fire that destroyed many of the area’s homes.

52 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

Photo by ElEvatEd horizon courtEsy of coldwEll bankEr

Promised Land as she named her 40-acre main home and grounds now worth about $90 million. She purchased the Bridges’ home after waiting for the price to be reduced from the original $7.495 million and ended up buying it for $6.85 million - the exact price Bridges and his wife, Susan Geston, paid for it five years ago. Oprah also owns homes in Maui, Hawaii, Orcas Island, Washington and a ski chalet in Telluride, Colorado.

The Bridges’ 3,517-square-foot, two-bedroom, three-bath Spanish Revival-style home was originally built in 1919 by architect James Osborn Craig sited on four acres of gardens. Meticulously cared for and having undergone restorations

The Bridges’ 3,517-square-foot, twobedroom, three-bath Spanish Revivalstyle home was originally built in 1919 by architect James Osborn Craig sited on four acres of gardens.

and updates, it still has its original windows, doors, hardwood floors and five fireplaces. The kitchen and bathrooms were remodeled to bring them into the 21st century.

The kitchen, with its new cabinetry and quartz countertops, adjoins a large family room. High ceilings, expansive windows and French

doors illuminate the home with every room opening to lush gardens. The master suite features an open-beamed ceiling, large bay window, French doors and fireplace. If Oprah continues to buy her neighbour’s properties, it won’t be long before they can rename Montecito as Oprah Village.

nexthome.ca 53

If Oprah continues to buy her neighbour’s properties, it won’t be long before they can rename Montecito as Oprah Village.

Montecito is a sought-after neighbourhood at the western tip of Santa Barbara with commanding views over the Pacific Ocean. Always lush with large trees and thick with greenery, the neighbourhood has recovered from the 2018 Thomas Fire that destroyed many of the area’s homes. Though Oprah’s and Jeff’s homes remained safe with little damage to the grounds, Gwyneth Paltrow’s home sustained damage and Ellen DeGeneres and wife, Portia de Rossi, had to evacuate.

Jeff Bridges and Susan Geston have been downsizing their homes with the sale of their 20-acre, Tuscan-style vineyard estate two years ago for $15.925 million and their current smaller Montecito home to neighbour Oprah for $6.85 million. They also sold some land parcels in Malibu last year.

Sally Hanseth of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage, Montecito, handled the sale for both seller and buyer.

For more, visit: https://www. toptenrealestatedeals.com/ weekly-ten-best-home-deals/ home/jeff-bridges-sells-tofriendly-neighbor-oprah-winfrey

54 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

HOT PROPERTIES

find your next home

The latest properties in the greater toronto Area to keep your eye on d. impressions By: Fieldgate Homes City: The Village of Kleinburg Housing type: Luxury singles fieldgatehomes.com

e. illumina By: Molinaro Group City: Burlington Housing type: Condo illuminacondos.ca

h. aqualuna

Gta prevIew reGistration 1. saturday in downsview park By: Mattamy Homes City: Toronto, North York Housing type: Condominium mattamyhomes.com

2. suGar wharf By: Menkes City: Toronto Housing type: PATH-connected waterfront condos menkes.com

3. klein estates By: Lindvest City: Kleinberg Housing type: Upscale detached homes on 42 and 50 ft. lots lindvest.com

4. Bijou on Bloor By: Plaza City: Toronto Housing type: Condo pureplaza.com

5. whitBy meadows By: Fieldgate Homes Location: Whitby Housing type: Detached fieldgatehomes.com

7. thirty six zorra By: Altree Developments Location: Toronto Housing type: Condominiums thirtysixzorra.com

+

8. edenBridGe kinGsway By: Tridel Location: Toronto Housing type: Condominium Tridel.com

13. moBilio By: Menkes City: Vaughan, Concord Housing type: Condo menkes.com/mobilio

17. eleven altamont By: Heathwood Homes City: Toronto, North York Housing type: Townhomes Heathwood.com

By: Tridel City: Toronto Housing type: Condo tridel.com/aqualuna

j. evermore By: Tridel City: Etobicoke in Toronto Housing type: Condo Tridel.com

k. auBerGe on the park By: Tridel City: Toronto Housing type: Condo www.tridel.com/auberge

21. 55 charles By: Mod Developments City: Toronto Housing type: Condominium 55charlesresidences.com

new openinGs a. country lane By: Heathwood Homes City: Whitby Housing type: Detached homes. Models now open Heathwood.com

B. upper valleylands By: Fieldgate Homes City: Brampton Housing type: Semis, single-detached and freehold townhomes from upper $500s fieldgatehomes.com

maps Locate properties using the map on the following page

Builders If you would lIke to Include your prevIew regIstratIon, new release or sIte openIng In thIs feature, just emaIl the detaIls to editorial@nexthome.ca nexthome.ca  55

HOT PROPERTIES | GREATER TORONTO AREA

D 3

13

1

C

K

B 21 8

J

MAPS Match the map numbers with property listings on the previous Hot Properties page

®

56 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

C

2

H

A

5

NEW HOMES NEW CONDOS

CARTOGRAPHY: MARKETMAPS.COM

MAP LE GE N D

nexthome.ca  57

PRINT

Your trusted source Did you know…

59

+5

56 54

54

54

54 54

52 53

print

(journalism)

53

53

51

50 51

2012

2013

2014

2015

-2

platforms

2016

2017

2018

Average trust in traditional and online-only media Average trust in search engines and social media platforms

Source: 2018 Edelman Trust Barometer. COM_MCL. When looking for general news and information, how much would you trust each type of source for general news and information? Please use a nine-point scale where one means that you “do not trust it at all” and nine means that you “trust it a great deal.” (Top 4 Box. Trust), question asked of half of the sample. General population, 25-country global total. Journalism is an average of traditional media and online-only media. Platforms is an average of search engines and social media.

Your trusted authority for the latest real estate news and trends

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Find your next home The latest properties in southwestern ontario to keep your eye on e. elements By: Mountainview Homes City: St. Catharines Housing type: Luxury oneand two-bedroom condos elementscondo.com

F. the PreserVe By: Mattamy Homes City: Oakville Housing type: Townhomes mattamyhomes.com

9. homestead

sWo prevIew registration 1. casa di torre By: Branthaven Homes City: Stoney Creek Housing type: Condos from 550 to 978 sq. ft. from the low $300s branthaven.com

2. one tWenty condominiums By: Mountainview Homes City: Fonthill Housing type: Condominiums mountainview.com

3. the mcKenzie By: Losani Homes City: Caledonia Housing type: Towns and singles mckenziecaledonia.ca

4. Brant West By: Losani Homes City: Brantford Housing type: Towns and singles brantwest.com

5. the Peninsula By: Losani Homes City: Paris Housing type: Towns, semis and singles parispeninsula.com

6. synergy By: Branthaven Homes City: Oakville Housing type: Urban trailside condos branthaven.com

+

By: Branthaven Homes City: Mount Hope in Hamilton Housing type: 33, 36, 38 & 40 ft. singles branthaven.com

10. Winona county By: Branthaven Homes City: Winona county Housing type: 36 & 40 ft. singles branthaven.com

g. FallingWaters By: Losani Homes City: Stoney Creek Housing type: Luxury townhomes email: Pronto@LosaniHomes.com

h. timBerWood estates By: Mountainview Homes City: Thorold Housing type: Townhomes, detached homes timberwoodestates.ca

11. WaterWorx By: Losani Homes City: Hamilton Housing type: Townhomes LosaniHomes.com

neW oPenings a. lyon’s creeK By: Mountainview Homes City: Niagara Falls Housing type: Semis lyonscreekhomes.com

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i. saFFron estates By: Mountainview Homes City: Fonthill Housing type: Townhomes, detached homes saffronestates.ca

J. simPly grand By: Losani Homes Location: Paris Housing type: semis and singles losanihomes.com

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c. sParroW meadoWs By: Mountainview Homes City: Welland Housing type: Singles and townhomes sparrowmeadows.com

d. lincoln estates By: Losani Homes City: Lincoln Housing type: Single-detached homes losanihomes.com

maPs Locate properties using the map on the following page

Builders If you would lIke to Include your prevIew regIstratIon, new release or sIte openIng In thIs feature, just emaIl the detaIls to editorial@nexthome.ca nexthome.ca  59

HOT PROPERTIES | SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO AREA

KITCHENER–WATERLOO

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9

3

London

MAPS Match the map numbers with property listings on the previous Hot Properties page

60 New Home + Condo Guide | January 4–18, 2020

Mississauga

MAP LE GE N D NEW HOMES

F 6

E

NEW CONDOS

Oakville

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11

G B

E D

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2

A

I

C

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10

nexthome.ca  61

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It’s diverse Did you know…

95

%

of adults 18–29 read magazines vs. 81% who use Facebook.

People of all ages read magazines — especially younger adults.

Your trusted authority for the latest real estate news and trends Sources: the Magazine Media Factbook 2018 – MPA–The Association of Magazine Media; Pew Research Center Social Media Fact Sheet, Feb 2018; GfK MRI, Fall 2017

ADVICE

How to saVE largE on a real EstatE purChasE

The first consideration in purchasing real estate in Ontario is to make sure you do not overpay.

To prevent overpayment utilize the services of a realtor who will determine by comparison a fair price to be paid.

A second significant way of saving large is through choosing the best financing terms. Of course we all realize that we need to find the best interest rate available but most people don’t realize the amount of savings that are realized just by doing one of or as many as the following: 1. Choosing no more than a 25 year amortization and find out what the payments would be if you reduced the amortization term further, even if by one year, easier to do when the interest rates are as low as they

are today. Every year of interest that you can save is substantial.

Some lenders and mortgage brokers are trying to push a 30and 35-year amortization, while this may help some people keep their mortgage payments lower right now, in the long run they are paying more in interest and the true benefits of these longer amortization terms are realized by the lender not the borrower.

2. Choose weekly or bi-weekly, never monthly payments as this will help to accelerate the amount of time that would be required to pay off your mortgage as you will be lowering the principle at a quicker rate.

3. Most mortgage products offer a prepayment privilege where you can put a lump sum of money down on your mortgage, usually

once a year on the anniversary date, without penalty. If you are able to do this, you will realize a large savings.

4. If you can’t manage to do a lump sum prepayment than doing something as simple as adding a few dollars to your weekly or bi-weekly mortgage payment would help significantly also. You would be surprised how much time and paying of interest you can save by even making your mortgage payment $10 more than what the lender has calculated your weekly or bi-weekly payment to be.

+more adVICE online nexthome.ca/news/advice

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Valleylands

•

Mid $900’s

9

Welland

Mountainview Homes mountainviewhomes.com

Sparrow Meadows

•

Inquire

41

Welland

Mountainview Homes mountainviewhomes.com

Timberwood Estates

•

Inquire

41

Winona

Branthaven Homes branthaven.com

Life

Inquire

44, 45

Winona

Branthaven Homes branthaven.com

Winona County

Inquire

44, 45

Beamsville

Losani Homes losanihomes.com

Vista Ridge

Brantford

Losani Homes losanihomes.com

Brant West

caledon/Brampton Border

fieldgate Homes fieldgatehomes.com

Upper Valleylands

• •

caledonia

Losani Homes losanihomes.com

The McKenzie

•

Fonthill

Mountainview Homes mountainviewhomes.com

One Twenty Condominiums

Fonthill

Mountainview Homes mountainviewhomes.com

Saffron Estates

Fonthill

Mountainview Homes mountainviewhomes.com

Homestead

Hamilton

Losani Homes

Waterworx

Kleinburg

fieldgate Homes fieldgatehomes.com

Impressions

Lincoln

Losani Homes losanihomes.com

niagara Falls

•

• •

•

• • • • • • •

•

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Rendering is an artist’s impression. Certain design elements are subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. E.&O.E. 2019