Southwestern Ontario New Home and Condo Guide - Jan 17, 2014

Jan 18 - Feb 01, 2014 Volume 17 Issue 1

Baldwin Place IN TILLSONBURG

Where adult lifestyle meets contemporary living

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

LONDON: CITY OF GROWTH & OPPORTUNITY

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WHAT CONDO BUYERS LOOK FOR IN AMENITIES

PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION: GET TO KNOW YOUR HOME

1/15/14 2:33 PM

Your builder of choice STONEY CREEK

TRUE Freehold 2-Storey Towns from

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TRUE Freehold Towns from

289,990

296,990

$

$

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34' Detached from

503,990

371,990

$

$

facebook.com/EmpireVictory

@EmpireVictory

22 Green Mountain Rd. W., STONEY CREEK 905.930.7934

READY TO LIVE HOMES

BRANTFORD

Freehold Towns from

224,990

259,990

$

$

TRUE Freehold Towns from

3

36' Detached from

296,990

214,990

$

$

3

44' Detached from

30' Detached from

331,990

254,990

$

$ @EmpireWyndfield

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309 Blackburn Dr., BRANTFORD 519.756.4554

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2013 WAS AN AMAZING YEAR. We sold more homes in more communities for families like yours, than anyone else in Southern Ontario. We believe in building each home as if it were our only one and giving each family the personal care they deserve. Today's the day to discover why hundreds of families have chosen Empire as their builder of choice.

EEK. FASHIONABLE. MODERN. COME FIND YOUR VICTORY.

Detached from

289,990

$

3 MODELS TO TOUR TRUE Freehold Townhomes from

30' Detached from

286,990

209,990

$

36' Detached from

326,990

44' Detached from

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$

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46' Detached from

359,990

376,990

$

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facebook.com/EmpireImagine

McLeod Rd. & Kalar Rd., NIAGARA 905.354.1710

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Prices, sizes and specifications are subject to change without notice. *Please see Sales for full details, the Easy Buy ™ Program is not available at Imagine. E. & O.E. Map not to scale. Exclusive listing brokerage: TFN Realty Inc. Broker Protected.

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mattamyhomes.com

Enjoy Detached Living In Wildflowers For As Little As $296,990.

Open Concept Plans, Perfect For Entertaining.

Wildflowers is Kitchener’s popular new neighbourhood offering wide variety in styles and a perfect community setting that includes park spaces, playgrounds, walking/biking trails, pleasant ponds and a charming old-growth forest.

Right now we are featuring a special package of upgrades on our 30' and 36' Detached Homes.

We’ll include granite kitchen countertops and main floor hardwood.

Come and pick your perfect home among our Wildflowers in Kitchener.

36' Home, The Avens, Elev. ‘C’, 1,631 Sq.Ft., $352,990

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30' Home, The Angelica, Elev. ‘B’, 1,284 Sq.Ft., $304,990

Presentation Centre Hours: Monday to Thursday 1pm-8pm; Friday 1pm-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-6pm Follow us: 6

All illustrations are artist’s concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. E.&O.E.

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NOW’SYOURCHANCE!

from the mid

200s

$

CountryGreenHomes.com | 905-690-7600

CENTRE RD.

Come see for yourself how big city convenience can nestle perfectly with small town charm, only in Waterdown.

WATERDOWN

PARKSIDE DR.

6 DUNDAS ST.

403

HAMILTON ST.

New release of freehold three storey urban towns that will suit your lifestyle.

407 QEW

Monday to Wednesday 2-7pm Thursday/Friday by Appointment Saturday & Sunday 11-4pm JAN 18 - FEB 1, 2014 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 7

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contents p. 14

JAN 18 - FEB 1, 2014 || VOLUME 17 ISSUE 1

ON THE COVER

TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS

Baldwin Place in Tillsonburg: where adult lifestyle meets contemporary living

16

regular and special features IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Editor’s Note 71 Hot Dates 76 Ad Index COLUMNISTS 42 Building Blocks

Condo amenities and extras: what do buyers want?

by Jeff Paikin

54 Money Matters

January is “make do” month

by Gail Vaz-Oxlade

60 Tarion Report

Pre-delivery inspection: getting to know your new home

by Howard Bogach

77 Fundamentally Speaking

Learning as much as you can about mortgages is time well spent

by Wayne Karl

IN THE NEWS 18 Finances

Tips to find the money to begin investing today

30 HHHBA

HHHBA confers its 2013 member awards

44 OHBA

A look back at the 2013 OHBA Awards of Distinction winners

53 Losani Homes

Award-winning builder humbled by new honours

66 Losani Homes

sets the bar at 5th Annual Toy & Turkey Drive

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP 27 City focus

London: a city of growth and opportunity

47 Finances

24

Managing post-holiday debt

65 Mortgage Intelligence

Supersize your mortgage payments

67 homebuyers’ resources

Mortgage Calculator & Rate Table

community focus features

36

16 Waterdown

Branthaven Homes Get ready to live the life at Bohemian Towns in Waterdown

24 Ilderton

Sifton Properties Timberwalk, Ilderton – small town living and amenities deliver the best of both worlds

50

36 Grimsby

Bucci Homes Life is Bliss at Bucci Home’s new Lakeside Community

50 Stoney Creek

Rosehaven Homes & Homes by DeSantis are coming this April to On the Ridge in Stoney Creek

54

56 HHHBA

HHHBA builds a mountain of toys for City Kidz

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New Home WATCH

20 London 31 Hamilton 57 Waterloo

1/16/14 3:20:25 PM

ENJOY

the

FROZEN

things in life

FROZEN yogurt

Mountainview’s FROZEN PRICES

building a SNOWMAN

we’ve frozen our 2013 prices at all Mountainview communities! plus for a limited time receive

$3,000 off townes | $5,000 off singles!

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DON’T WAIT! Offer Ends Jan 31, 2014! www. mountainview.com | 905-323-6232 Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. Offer is subject to change without notice. Not valid with any other promotion. Offer valid for a limited time.

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//EDITOR’S NOTE

Taking advantage while you can Low interest rates are still in your favour

T

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

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

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

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

Start the New Year off right by taking advantage while you still can.

VICE-PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA

Jacqueline Hill

DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL

Josh Heppner

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Susan Maxwell EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge ART DIRECTOR

Daiana Garay EDITOR

Wayne Karl CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Sara Duck Elisa Krovblit Lydia McNutt

DISTRIBUTION & SALES CO-ORDINATOR

Jennifer Bistron

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Antoinette Jackson MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Bala Gnanapandithan CO-ORDINATOR

SUSAN LEGGE

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Wall2Wall Media Susan.Legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge Like us on Facebook. Search: New Home Guide

Laura Northmore GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Viosa Barileva CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Joanne Keenan Jeffrey Reed

Published By

Resolve to plan carefully in 2014 Low rates mean opportunity, but not at any cost

T

he past year certainly presented some interesting times – simultaneous talk of slowdowns and soft landings in some markets, increases, upticks and value gains in others. Indeed, now more than ever, housing and economic conditions serve as reminders of how local real estate is. What’s going on in one part of the country or province or in a specific property type, may be completely different from another.

On the positive side as we head into 2014 are interest rates that are still at or near historic lows, with the next Bank of Canada rate announcement to come Jan. 22. Many experts don’t expect rates to begin rising until mid-year at least, while cautioning that Canadians should not confuse cheap money – if they qualify – with free money. The BoC continually keeps a close eye on household debt and other signposts for any warnings that we’re taking on more debt than we should.

Fixed versus variable rate? Long versus short? Open versus closed? These are among the questions you may be pondering as you prepare for your next steps as a homebuyer.

Your best strategy? Meet with your broker or banker to see how you can take advantage of these opportunities, without getting in over your head.

WAYNE KARL

EDITOR Wall2Wall Media Wayne.Karl@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/WayneKarl Like us on Facebook. Search: New Home Guide

#500-401 The West Mall Etobicoke, ON M9C 5J5 T 416.626.4200 F 416.784.5867

newhomeandcondoguide.com

Call Susan Maxwell at 416.580.1654 FAX: 416.784.9554 Toll Free: 1.877.269.8257, follow prompts, ext. 4260; e-mail: susan.maxwell@wall2wallmedia.com Office hours are Mon-Thurs. 9-5; Fri. 9-12

ADVERTISING:

Free distribution. Published bi-weekly from Sept.-Nov. & from Feb.-June and monthly in June, July & Dec.

CIRCULATION:

TERMS: Advertisers, Editorials and New Home & Condo Guide 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. EDITORIAL: Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the address above, to the attention of the Editor.

All rights reserved by New Home & Condo Guide, Toronto, Ontario.

Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Contents of this publication are covered by Copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law. The views and data expressed by columnists do not necessarily represent those of the publication.

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Please recycle this magazine! Wall2Wall Media participates in the Partners in Growth Reforestation Program through St. Joseph Communications. To date, Partners in Growth has planted over 2.5 million trees in parks, recreation and conservation areas, and other public spaces across Canada. Established in 1990, this program was started with Scouts Canada to help replenish the environment.

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CONSTRUCTION HAS STARTED!

Move in this summer and live in the of Beamsville!

Stunning Detached and Townhome Designs from

269,900

$

Spacious 30’ detached homes with ensuites, second floor laundry and charming brick & stone exteriors.

• Loaded with great standard features • Located on historic Beamsville Fairgrounds site steps to shopping + downtown • Short commute to GTA, Niagara Wine Region and border

Final Release!

BU

LAKE ONTARIO

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SERENA DR. KIN G ST .

From Niagara

ONTARIO ST.

BARTON ST.

GRIMSBY

ONTARIO ST.

STONEY CREEK

From GTA

FIFTY RD.

D

10,000

$ worth up to

Sales Centre: Intersection of Ontario & May Street, (Serena Drive), Beamsville Hours: Monday - Thursday 1pm - 6pm Saturday & Sunday 12pm - 5pm, Fridays by appointment only 289.566.8889 or visit HomesByDeSantis.com

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Register now on your mobile device For community updates, contests, new home owner information and more, follow us on:

IMPORTANT: Take Ontario St. (Hwy #18)/Beamsville Exit #64 (From GTA Do Not Take Ontario St./Grimsby exit) Illustrations are artists concept. Prices and specifications are subject to change.

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TACT Architecture Inc. 660R College Street [rear lane] Toronto Ontario M6G 1B8 416-516-1949 info@tactdesign.ca

Note: This drawing and all copyright thereinNote: This drawing and all copyright therein are the sole and exclusive property of TACTare the sole and exclusive property of TACT Architecture Inc. Reproduction or use of thisArchitecture Inc. Reproduction or use of this drawing in whole or in part by any means or indrawing in whole or in part by any means or in any way whatsoever without the prior writtenany way whatsoever without the prior written consent of TACT Architecture is strictlyconsent of TACT Architecture is strictly prohibited. Do not scale this drawing. prohibited. Do not scale this drawing. ďŹ le: 1311 457 Plains Road East v6.0.pln

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//cover story

Baldwin Place in Tillsonburg

Where adult lifestyle meets contemporary living Location Tillsonburg Housing Type Adult lifestyle, single-detached custom freehold bungalows Sales Centre 3 Esseltine Dr., open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday through Thursday, Fridays and holidays by appointment only.

Contact 519.842.4251 or 1.800.265.5709 baldwinplace.ca

T

he town of Tillsonburg is a Southwestern Ontario gem, offering both the idyllic lifestyle of a cosy community, and every modern amenity necessary to contemporary living. Baldwin Place, Tillsonburg Developments’ premier adult lifestyle community, is a perfect fit for this community. Qualitybuilt freehold homes with all-brick exteriors on spacious lots please even the most discerning of homebuyers.

Already winning praise from purchasers, Tillsonburg Developments is proud of its two new model homes, and will soon announce a third model to showcase its unique offerings. In total, there are nine different home designs to choose from, available on generous sized lots of 40-, 45- and 50 ft. Or, have Tillsonburg Developments custom design a home plan for you – you can even bring in your own home plan!

Gorgeous new homes at Baldwin Place start at a very affordable $232,000, including HST. There is a monthly $30 residential association fee that goes directly towards operation of the recreation centre, a vital part of the community. It’s an ideal space for neighbours to meet, and includes facilities such as a kitchen, fitness centre,

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TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS | Baldwin Place

Tillsonburg Developments takes great pride in the fact that its team of professionals consists of local businesspeople, all of whom live and work in the community. library, salt water pool and salt water spa and numerous meeting rooms. There are also a variety of activities for Baldwin Place residents – chosen and run by the residents themselves, through the volunteer board of directors.

Baldwin Place also offers selected homes finished to drywall stage, allowing Tillsonburg Developments to offer quicker possession dates, while still allowing customers the option of choosing interior colours and finishes.

Clients always have a choice of elements, including flooring, wall colours and cabinetry, among others. An interior decorator is also available free of charge for Baldwin Place residents.

Each of the new homes at Baldwin Place, such as the 1,490-sq.-ft. Ashby model with double garage, includes a laundry room, two washrooms, air conditioning and high-efficiency forced-air gas furnace. In fact, four models at Baldwin Place, including the 1,373-sq.-ft. Sherwood model, have single garages, while five boast a double-car garage.

In addition to the recreation centre, there are a myriad of recreation and leisure activities within the town of Tillsonburg and surrounding area. There are approximately 30 golf courses within a 30-minute drive of Baldwin place.

Downtown Tillsonburg and other municipal trails are easily accessible via a lighted, paved path extending from the Baldwin Place community. The Municipal Tillsonburg Community Senior’s Centre is another local hot spot.

During the summer months, enjoy Tillsonburg’s Farmer’s Market. No matter what the season, there’s always an activity to enjoy in Tillsonburg.

The city of Tillsonburg boasts a bustling core with a variety of restaurants, retail outlets and the Tillsonburg Town Centre, making it the perfect spot for a day of shopping or a night out on the town. There are two medical centres and a hospital, too.

Tillsonburg Developments takes great pride in the fact that its team of professionals consists of local businesspeople, all of whom live and work in the community. The pride that these professionals take in their workmanship and community is obvious with the quality of life offered at Baldwin Place. With this strong commitment to the community, plus such a wide variety of options in home customization, everyone feels at home at Baldwin Place.

Visit the new sales centre today, and see for yourself how Baldwin Place embraces a modern lifestyle within a community-driven town. jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 15

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BRANTHAVEN HOMES | Bohemian Towns

//community focus

Get ready to live the life in Waterdown with fresh new thinking by

Branthaven Location Waterdown

Housing Type Two-storey traditional towns on 20-ft. lots, three-storey brownstone style towns, threestorey Back-to-Back towns, Rear Lane Townhomes and four-bedroom townhomes Contact branthaven.com

I

n the weeks to come, Branthaven Homes will be launching its much-anticipated Bohemian Towns community in Waterdown. Preview signs are up and the registration list has been growing as loyal fans of Branthaven Homes and locals are quick to respond to the invitation to Live the Life at Bohemian! Branthaven will be offering a collection of two- and three-storey condo towns nestled in a private landscaped enclave.

There’s more exciting news… for the first time ever, Branthaven is introducing an exciting lineup of brand new “Fresh Thinking” interior bonus items too! Branthaven has sourced and selected a range of custominspired, value added, smart design features and finishes that are forward thinking, practical little luxuries that everyone will appreciate. These features are designed to improve your quality of life, the look of your home, and even your resale value, and they are all included standard at Bohemian Towns!

The “Fresh Thinking” kitchen will boast 36-in. extended height upper cabinets, cutlery compartments, deep pull out drawers, a pull

out garbage organizer under the sink, portable under cabinet mount for an iPad or tablet, ceramic subway tile backsplash, premium gooseneck kitchen faucet, modern cabinet pulls and many more little indulgences you’ll appreciate in your social kitchen.

Bohemian’s bathroom designs take their direction from boutique hotel and spa environments, with a deep spa tub, sleek glass shower panel, elevated floating-affect designer vanity with practical banks of drawers, integrated sink and contemporary faucet, a convenient built-in accessories shelf and lighting above. On-trend horizontal floor and tub tiles, and an extra stainless shower shelf, make this bathroom spa-stylish.

Bohemian Towns will also have “Fresh Thinking” smart home technology.

These are innovative tech features that make your technology more accessible, such as USB plugs in the kitchen and master bedroom and a light switch at your bedside.

Every home comes with a Hippo Home Controller, which is part of Urban Hippo’s SmartHome solution. The controller acts as the “brain” of your home automation, where you can control the heating system. (There are expandable options such as sound, video and lights available through Urban Hippo).

With just 58 townhomes, the upcoming Bohemian community offers an intimate and relaxing home environment in a well-designed neighbourhood, with a variety of appealing home styles to choose from. There will be something for everyone’s lifestyle needs at Bohemian. Just consider the mix of townhomes: elegant two-storey traditional towns on 20-ft. lots backing onto established neighbourhoods, beautiful three-storey brownstone style towns, wider than average three-storey Back-to-Back towns and even rare Rear Lane Town homes with two-car garages. There will even be a four-bedroom townhome plan available!

Register now for Preview Bonus and get ready to Live the Life at Bohemian in Waterdown from $270’s.

Register now for Bohemian Towns VIP Preview Event at branthaven.com Also visit branthaven.com to view all current and upcoming communities.

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//In the news

Tips to find the money to begin investing today With the RSP deadline just weeks away, Scotiabank’s Annual Investment Poll found that three in 10 (31 per cent) Canadians plan to contribute to their RSP this year, a decrease from 39 per cent in both 2012 and 2011. Three-quarters of Canadians (74 per cent) who hold

RSPs, and have thought about contributing more, cite lack of affordability as the top reason for not contributing more often (84 per cent in 2012).

The study also found that among Canadians who hold an RSP, 40 per cent have withdrawn funds from their RSP, up four per cent from 2012 (36 per cent). Again this year, the top reason for taking money out of RSPs is to take advantage of the Home Buyers’ Plan to buy/build a first home (16 per cent vs. 15 per cent in 2012), followed by covering day-to-day living expenses (eight per cent vs. five per cent in 2012) and paying down debt (eight per cent vs. six per cent in 2012).

“With the new year underway and the RSP contribution deadline less than two months away, we want to encourage Canadians to meet with a financial advisor,” says Mike Henry, senior vice-president of retail payments, deposits and lending at Scotiabank. “RSPs continue to be an important and tax-effective way to maximize retirement savings. If affordability is an issue, a financial advisor can help identify ways to make that all-important contribution, big or small, as well as develop a financial plan to help achieve retirement goals.”

RSP contribution tips: »T alk to your financial advisor to make a plan to find out what works best for you for both long and short-term financial goals. » Set-up pre-authorized contributions, such as Scotiabank’s Pay Yourself First plan, that let you make regular and automatic contributions from your bank account directly into your RSP. Start with a small amount and adjust it depending on your financial situation. » Spousal RSPs can be an effective tool in planning for retirement, giving you the ability to contribute to your spouse’s RSP, realize income splitting opportunities and potentially reduce your family’s overall tax burden. »C onsider borrowing to top up any unused contribution room and maximize your RSP, as the contribution may generate a tax refund that can be used to pay off the loan. The Scotia RSP Catch-up Line of Credit, for example, is an opportunity to maximize both your current and previous years’ contributions.

Take advantage of online tools to help you get started with your investment planning. Scotiabank’s Investment Centre can help you find out where you are in planning for retirement.

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Invest in an Affordable Lifestyle

Collingwood Waterfront Living Minutes to Blue Mountain

169,990

From

$

Register For Winter Grand Opening WyldewoodCondos.ca 1-888-445-9608 Wyldewood Cove is a private enclave bathed in nature and is immediately adjacent to a 15-acre environmentally protected preserve.

Stroll along the private trail system or walk along the water, steps from your home. Enjoy a barbeque on your terrace and a Great Room with gas fireplace. Choose from 1, 1+den, 2, 3-bedroom and spectacular loft layouts, with fabulous features.

• Spectacular Blue Mountain and Georgian Bay vistas • Immediately adjacent deep water access to swim platform and floating docks • The Wyldewood Cove Club with year-round “apres-ski” outdoor pool • Lighthouse Lookout waterfront pergola • Wyldewood Cove winter skating rink

Prices and availability correct at press time. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. Illustrations are artist’s concepts. See sales representative for details. *Based on 1 year builder’s cap rate as of December 4, 2013 with 20% down payment.

Your final interest rate may be less. Carrying cost includes principle, interest, taxes and maintenance.

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LONDON

New Home Watch BUILDERS: If you would like to include your new model home or site opening,email wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com. Please say you saw it in New Home & Condo Guide!

preview registration eastforest homes London | Andover Trails

The preview continues – last chance for preconstruction pricing in this community of quadroplex and townhome designs.

eastforesthomes.com

new openings sifton properties London | Westwood Village

Grand opening of luxury one-floor Energy Star condos from the low $300’s.

sifton.com

geranium homes Woodstock | The Village at Sally Creek

Designer decorated models open – semi-linked and fully detached bungalows and bungalowlofts in this adult lifestyle community.

Bayfield Blyth Clinton Grand Bend Ingersoll London Mitchell Seaforth Shakespeare St.Thomas Stratford Tavistock Tillsonburg Wingham Woodstock

new releases auburn developments London | Foxfield Community A variety of housing options are available in this community, including single-family lots.

auburndev.com

Sifton properties Ingersoll | HarrisView

Single-family homes on 40- to 50-ft. lots, with some wooded and pond-view lots available.

sifton.com

Cachet reid heritage homes London | Copperfield

Final single-family homes available in this community. Single-detached designs close to schools, shopping, recreation and parks.

cachetreid.com

geraniumhomes.com claysam homes Woodstock | Sally Creek

Premium twin town designs now including finished basements.

claysamhomes.com

claysam homes Woodstock | Neighbourhoods of Devonshire

Get affordable homeownership in this community of single-family homes minutes from Hwy. 401.

claysamhomes.com

20 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

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London:

WINGHAM, GODERICH, CLINTON, MITCHELL, STRATFORD, WOODSTOCK, INGERSOLL, TILLSONBURG, AYLMER, ST. THOMAS, STRATHROY, DUNWICH

401

403

402 401

402

401

De t.

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LOCATION BUILDERS

SITES

PRICES

Ilderton

SIFTON

Timberwalk

• • from mid $300's

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Ingersoll

SIFTON

HarrisView

• • from the $290's

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London

EASTFOREST HOMES

Andover Trails

London

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Cachet Reid's Heritage Homes

• •

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SIFTON

Ballymote Woods

• • from mid $300's

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South London

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Andover Trails

• • from mid $300's

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South London

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Westwood Village

• from low $300's

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Tillsonburg

TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS Baldwin Place

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JAN 18 - FEB 1, 2014 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 21

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choice style

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Prices correct at press time. Pictures are for illustration purposes only. Promotions available on new construction only. Offer only valid for sales that firm up on or before February 28th 2014, is not applicable with any other promotion unless stated and may be cancelled or discontinued at any time. See Sales Representative for details.

Broker protected.

E. & O. E. Effective January 1st, 2014

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BP2013 NH&C Ad 2 :Layout 1

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//community focus

Timberwalk, Ilderton

Where small town living and proximity to amenities deliver the best of both worlds

I

magine living in a small community just outside the city. Your family is settled into your comfortable new home and enjoying being close to nature, the quiet, the clean air and all the other benefits of living in a small-town setting. But you are also happy to be just a short car ride away from London and the amenities the city has to offer. You really do have the best of both worlds!

That dream is about to become a reality as Sifton Properties Ltd. embarks on its next new home building project in Timberwalk, Ilderton. Located off Ilderton Road in Middlesex Centre, homes in Timberwalk offer deep country lots with frontages of 55 ft. There is plenty of room for a growing family and ample frontage for a double car garage. With a short drive to major shopping centers at Fanshawe Park and Hyde Park road, this

community is perfect for busy families looking to escape the city, while remaining near to the convenience of modern amenities.

Ilderton is a charming village just minutes from London, with a population of about 2,000 people. Residents can enjoy nature trails, cycling and community parks, one of which has a splash pad for children and in the winter, snowmobile trails and winter sports. There are also ball diamonds, a skateboard park, a local library, pubs and restaurants and shops along the main street. Being situated halfway between Lake Erie and Lake Huron, residents can reach the beach in about 40 minutes.

Homes featured in Timberwalk, Ilderton will be Energy Star qualified and will range in size from 1,727 to 2,728 sq. ft. on a selection of beautiful 55-ft. lots. Bungalow and two-storey home designs offer modern floorplans and an

24 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

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SIFTON PROPERTIES – Timberwalk

Location Ilderton Sales Centre Ilderton Rd. west of Hyde Park Rd., open Monday to Wednesday noon to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m.

Contact Megan Corfield, 519.518.5007 sifton.com

Residents can enjoy nature trails, cycling and community parks, one of which has a splash pad for children and in the winter, snowmobile trails and winter sports. There are also ball diamonds, a skateboard park, a local library, pubs and restaurants and shops along the main street.

assortment of luxurious interior options. Home designs will feature attractive exteriors including brick, stone, stucco, and siding combinations, creating a stunning streetscape. With homes starting in the mid $300’s, Timberwalk is the ideal location for second time homebuyers looking to upsize, or empty nesters seeking the relaxed nature of small town living.

Sifton is committed to making the homebuilding process easy. Our dedicated sales team will help you choose which home and lot size are right for you, and provide all the information you need to make the right decision. A professional design consultant will accompany you through the interior design process in our 3,000-sq.-ft. decor centre, where you’ll be able to select from home finishes that will allow you to personalize your new home. Our customer care co-ordinator will take you through the home inspection process before you move in, and provide you with any warranty needs after purchasing your new home. Overall, you’ll spend less time worrying about the process and more time enjoying the journey of building your new home.

Now is the perfect time to become a Sifton homeowner. When you purchase one of the first 20 homes in Timberwalk in 2014, you’ll receive $15,000 off the price of your new home, with an additional $2,500 in free upgrades. Visit our sales centre and speak with our professional sales representative to learn more about becoming a Sifton homeowner in 2014.

For more information, call Megan Corfield at 519.518.5007 or visit sifton.com jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 25

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In a Sifton home.

Pricing and lot availability subject to change without notice E. & O. E.

In a Sifton home, you will experience the difference of our expertise with a new home of impeccable quality and innovative design inside and out.

Environmental Stewardship is important to all of us at Sifton. Winners of London’s Builder of the Year Award in 2012, we believe in building homes that save you heightened utility bills, and also work to save the environment for our future generations. As an Energy Star qualified builder, Sifton creates homes that are 25% more efficient - just one of our incredible standard features.

Energy Star Qualified | Cost Effectiveness | Sustainable Building $17,500 IN INCENTIVES*

HarrisView

Andover Trails

RiverBend

Ballymote Woods

Westwood Village

RiverBend Park

Timberwalk

Ingersoll 40-50 Foot Singles

South London 50 Foot Singles

West London Bungalow Villas & Singles

North London 40-50 Foot Singles

South London Bungalow Condominiums

West London 40 Foot Singles

Ilderton 55 Foot Singles

From the $290’s

From the mid $300’s

From the $290’s

From the mid $300’s

From the low $300’s

From the mid $300’s

From the mid $300’s

*See a Sales Representative for more details.

Find Your Perfect Home at Sifton.com | 519-850-0756

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city focus//

London

A city of growth and opportunity

T

he city of London is much more than the hub of southwestern Ontario. True, the city of 360,000 residents (470,000 including surrounding villages and towns) is known as The Forest City for its abundance of urban forests. Yet London offers a cornucopia of sights and sounds that truly make it a beloved destination, and concurrently the perfect place to call “home.”

The history of London dates back to 1793, when LieutenantGovernor John Graves Simcoe selected the Forks of the Thames as his choice for the future site of the province’s capital. Indeed, the Thames River winds its way through much of the sprawling city. The present site of London’s Old Court House was Colonel Thomas Talbot’s choice to house provincial government buildings, but this decision did not come to fruition, as Toronto was chosen over London.

In 1838, soldiers moved into London’s Victoria Park, today a centrally located gorgeous greenspace and host to a number of summer music and art festivals. Covent Garden Market, still a

London at a glance Population

360,000

Major employers

Advanced manufacturing, education, life sciences, financial services Average home prices

Sept. 2013: $247,662 Sept. 2012: $240,750

Distance from Toronto

160 kilometres

Source: Canadian Real Estate Association, City of London, other sources: photos courtesy of Tourism London

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magnet for downtown London, was established in 1845. This era also saw commercial and industrial growth, thanks to John Labatt and Thomas Carling. Labatt Breweries remains an important part of London’s business sector and city identity.

London’s population in 1848 stood at 4,584. The town was incorporated as a city on Jan. 1, 1855. New institutions including St. Joseph’s Hospital, now a part of London Health Sciences Centre, were established in the 1870s. In 1874, the London Life Insurance Co. was founded; it remains a city staple. In 1914, on the eve of First World War, London’s population stood at 55,000.

London’s population was boosted by 60,000 people with a 1961 annexation, and by 1976 there were 250,000 residents. Another annexation in 1991 changed the city forever.

Famous Londoners, too, have put the city on the map in a big way. Big band leader Guy Lombardo and His Royal Canadians hailed from London. So do actors Hume Cronyn, Victor Garber and Rachel McAdams, Country singer Tommy Hunter, Canadian Baseball Hall of Fame’s George “Mooney” Gibson and Canadian Golf Hall of Fame’s Sandy Sommerville. More recent local heroes

employing more than 38,000 people or about 16 per cent of the overall workforce.

The LEDC continues to aggressively pursue the sectors that have been the foundation of London’s economy in the past, including the automotive parts and food processing industries, and is also dedicated to the expanding in information technology and life sciences.

London also boasts a wealth of local attractions, such as the Western Fair Raceway, Fanshawe Pioneer Village, Boler Mountain, the Royal Canadian Regiment Museum, Museum London, Theatre London, London Regional Children’s Museum and Storybook Gardens.

While the city continues to grow, it remains affordable. The average home

London’s economic diversity comes from such large companies as Labatt Breweries and London Life, and it’s home to the Canadian headquarters or major production centre for 3M Canada, EllisDon, Kellogg Canada, Diamond Aircraft and Trojan Technologies. include 2010 Winter Olympic Ice Dancing Gold Medalists Tessa Virtue and Scott Moir. The list goes on. Banting House Museum and its Flame of Hope recognizes Sir Frederick Banting and is a National Historic Site remembering the former Londoner’s research en route to his co-discovery of insulin.

Today, London’s demographics showcase a diverse, multicultural mosaic, with English, Scottish, Irish, German, Italian and Latin ethnic origins all heavily represented.

Not to be tightly defined, London’s commercial identity demonstrates a diverse flavour. Manufacturing, health care and social assistance, retail, education and accommodation/food services top London’s industrial chart. A combined effort from the city, the London Economic Development Corp. (LEDC), London Chamber of Commerce and Tourism London ensures the city remains vibrant in its efforts to attract business and cater to its residents who love the small-town feel within a large city.

London’s economic diversity comes from such large companies as Labatt Breweries and London Life, and it’s home to the Canadian headquarters or major production centre for 3M Canada, EllisDon, Kellogg Canada, Diamond Aircraft and Trojan Technologies. And thanks to a growing advanced communications infrastructure and well-qualified workforce, London is also the location of choice for many customer call centres.

An increasingly diverse economy has allowed London to endure cyclical downturns in certain sectors and it provides a strong base from which to expand. Manufacturing is still the largest sector, 28 New home & coNdo guide Swo | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

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price in London as of September 2013 was about $247,662, with two-storeys and bungalows among the popular choices.

London’s north end is growing substantially. New highrise condominiums are being erected in a rejuvenated city core.

Numerous builders have long seen the potential from developing communities in the city, as Eastforest Homes, Sifton Properties and Fusion Homes have projects underway. In neighbouring communities New Hamburg, St. Thomas, Tillsonburg and Woodstock, Senator Homes, Geranium Homes, Claysam Homes, Stonecroft Homes, Doug Tarry Homes, Fusion, Van El Condominiums and Tillsonburg Developments all have new-home offerings.

The south end of London lies at a junction of Hwys. 401 and 402, an important landmark symbolic for commerce, industry and trade, situating the town conveniently just two hours east of Detroit and two hours west of Toronto.

Healthcare and education are important to the London area.

London Health Sciences Centre, including Victoria and University hospitals, provides a growing population with health services and research. London is also home to Fanshawe College of Applied Arts & Technology, and the University of Western Ontario.

London is a big sports town, too. The University of Western Ontario Mustangs have captured numerous national titles in everything from football to squash. The London Knights of the Ontario Hockey League have a new home at the John Labatt Centre. The London Majors of the Intercounty Baseball League play at Labatt Park – the oldest baseball venue in North America. London is also known as the Golf Capital of Canada, with more than 100 public courses within an hour’s drive of the city’s core.

jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & coNdo guide Swo 29

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//In the news

HHHBA confers

2013 member awards The Hamilton-Halton Home Builders’ Association recently held its annual President’s Gala at Liuna Station in Hamilton, recognizing the efforts of hard working members and friends of the building industry.

The night is also a celebration of the hard work and success of the association and president Anthony Chiarella of Marz Homes.

More than 250 people attended to thank Anthony Chiarella for his successful year of presidency, a year in which the HHHBA was awarded the distinguished honour of Ontario Local Association of the Year Award by the OHBA. Accompanied by his wife, Julia, and two children Cassandra and Daniel, Anthony concluded his term as president with one of the most well-reviewed industry events of the year.

The HHHBA congratulates its members on their well-deserved awards and for their hard-work and dedication to our industry.

1

The following is a list of 2013 award recipients:

1. DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD – BUILDER MEMBER Presented to a builder member who, during the past year, has made an outstanding contribution to the housing industry and our local association.

2013 Recipient: John Bruce Robinson, Homes by John Bruce Robinson

2. DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD – ASSOCIATE MEMBER

2

Presented to a non-builder or associate member who has made an outstanding contribution to our local association throughout the past year.

2013 Recipient: Allan Roshko, Burlington Post

3. PAUL WRIGHT MEMORIAL AWARD Presented to a member or a non-member who contributed remarkably to the housing industry.

2013 Recipient: Vince Molinaro, Molinaro Group

4. PRESIDENTIAL AWARD Presented by President Anthony Chiarella of Marz Homes to recognize an individual who has helped to make his year successful.

2013 Recipient: Arden Semper, Branthaven Homes 2000 Inc.

3

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halton hills wellingto

hamilton halton niagara

New Home Watch BUILDERS: If you would like to include your new model home or site opening,email wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com. Please say you saw it in New Home & Condo Guide!

preview registration DAWN VICTORIA homes South Burlington | Village West

Coming soon – register now for this small enclave of urban townhomes located on Plains Road. Ideal for commuters and young families.

dawnvictoriahomes.com

Dicenzo homes Stoney Creek | Blue Shores

Waterside semis and singles from the mid $300’s.

blueshores.info

branthaven homes Waterdown | Bohemian Towns

Coming soon – towns from the $270’s.

branthaven.com

COUNTRYGREEN homes Waterdown | Uptowns of Waterdown

Coming soon – urban two- and three-storey back-to-backs, traditional and executive towns priced from $264,900.

countrygreenhomes.com

kingwood homes Paris | Village on the Grand

Register now for riverfront townhomes in historic downtown Paris, from the $230’s.

TOBYN park homes Stoney Creek | Stoneywood Park

Coming spring 2014 – detached homes and townhomes, on-site greenspace, easy access to highways, conservation area and other amenities.

stoneywoodpark.com

rosehaven homes Mount Albert | Victoria Highlands

Coming soon – 50-ft. detached singles.

rosehaveninmountalbert.com

new horizon homes Bronte | Harvest

Coming soon – register now for these luxury freehold townhomes backing onto Bronte Provincial Park.

newhorizonhomes.ca

new horizon homes Oakville | Mint Condominiums

Coming soon – living well for less in Oakville, condos at Bronte and Dundas from the mid $200’s.

newhorizonhomes.ca

spallacci homes Hamilton | Eden Park

Coming soon – Simona Place The Towns of Eden Park Exquisite collection of executive townhomes.

villageonthegrand.ca

spallaccihomes.com

rosehaven homes/Homes by Desantis/CDI developments Ancaster | Tiffany Hill

spallacci homes Hamilton | 101 Locke Condos

Phase II coming early 2014 – freehold townhomes and 36- and 45-ft. detached.

tiffanyhill.ca

rosehaven homes/ homes by desantis Stoney Creek | On the Ridge

Register now – Boutique condo living is coming to Hamilton’s hip Locke Street.

spallaccihomes.com

schuit homes Ancaster | Perth Park

Exclusive community of residences fronting landscaped parkland onto a ravine setting.

Coming early 2014 – semis, 35- and 40-ft. singles.

schuithomes.com

ADI Development Oakville | Link Condos + Towns

The new Burlington opens soon – a new standard of condo living from the $200’s.

liveontheridge.ca

Register now for this modern condo community on Dundas at Sutton, adjacent to Bronte Provincial Park.

adidevelopments.com

forest park homes Fonthill | The Village Landing

Pre-register for Fonthill’s newest community – single-family homes and village homes.

thevillagelanding.com

Ancaster Beamsville Binbrook Brant Brantford Burlington Catharines Grimsby Hamilton

Molinaro Group Burlington | Paradigm paradigmcondos.ca

new openings cosmopolitan homes St. Catharines | Vintner Estates

Bungalow and two-storey freehold townhomes located just steps from shopping, dining and more in an intimate enclave neighbourhood.

Milton Niagara Oakville Paris Port Dover St. Catharines Stoney Creek Vineland

Empire communities Niagara Falls | Imagine

Now open – master-planned community of towns and detached homes in heart of Niagara.

empirecommunities.com spallacci homes Hamilton | Eden Park

Grand Opening of Chateau-inspired semis collection.

spallaccihomes.com

phelps homes Grimsby | The Bedford Collection

Model home now open at this private enclave of 28 bungalows a short walk from downtown Grimsby.

bedfordcollection.ca

mountainview homes Fonthill | The Residences at Lookout

Second phase now open – new bungalow collection on 50-ft. lots.

mountainview.com

bucci homes Grimsby | Bliss

Two-storey freehold executive towns located near 50 Point Conservation Area, priced from the mid $260’s.

buccihomes.com

Augustine Group Stoney Creek | Treviso

Select suites still available at this condominium in downtown Stoney Creek – including corner units and penthouses.

trevisostoneycreek.ca

new releases Rosehaven homes Chippawa | Lyon’s Creek

Coming soon – model homes plus new release of 50-ft. detached lots.

rosehavenhomes.com

spallacci homes Hamilton | Eden Park

Phase 4 release of exceptional 32and 40-ft. lots.

spallaccihomes.com

Emery condominiums Burlington | Appleby Club

Limited release of Country Club Condominiums at Appleby and Dundas. applebyclub.com

vintnerestates.ca

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Paris

Port Dover

Binbrook

Grimsby

Georgetown

Caledon

Smithville

Welland

Fonthill

Thorold

OAKVILLE, BURLINGTON, HAMILTON, ANCASTER, PARIS, BRANTFORD, STONEY CREEK, VINELAND, LINCOLN, THOROLD, FONTHILL, NIAGARA, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, FORT ERIE

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

Ridgeway

Stevensville

Chippawa

Fort Erie

De t.

Se m Bu i ng To alo wn w h Ad ome u l /C t L on ife do sty le

SITES

PRICES PAGE

Aldershot

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Jazz Condos • from low $200's 12

Ancaster

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Tiffany Hill

•

Beamsville

HOMES BY DESANTIS

Lincoln Square

• •

Beamsville

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Hillside Estates

•

9

Binbrook

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Celebrations

•

13

Brantford

EASTFOREST HOMES

D'Aubigny Forest Estates • •

22

Brantford

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Wyndfield

Caledon

MONARCH

The Village of SouthFields • • from high $300's 44&45

Chippawa

ROSEHAVEN

Lyon's Creek

Fonthill

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

The Residences at Lookout • •

9

Fort Erie

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Beaver Creek Estates

•

9

Grimsby

BUCCI HOMES

Bliss • from mid $260's 38

Grimsby

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Wave • from $177,990

Hamilton

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Summerlea

Niagara

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Imagine •

from $209,990

2&3

Niagara, Fonthill

FOREST PARK HOMES

The Village Landing

• •

from $249,900

34

Niagara

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Fernwood

• •

9

Niagara

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Thundering Waters

• •

9

Niagara on the Lake BW HOMES

Niagara on the Green

• • •

5

Oakville

MENKES

Millstone • from $329,990

48

Oakville

NEW HORIZON

Mint Condominiums • from $239,990

43

Paris

EASTFOREST HOMES

Grandville

Paris

KINGWOOD HOMES

Village on the Grand

Simcoe

EASTFOREST HOMES

Woodway Trails

• • •

St. Catharines

BW HOMES

Victoria Village

• from low $300's

4

St. Catharines

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Generations

•

9

Stevensville

PARK LANE HOME BUILDERS

Village Creek

• •

Stoney Creek

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Victory

• • from $289,990 2&3

Stoney Creek

HOMES BY DESANTIS

On The Ridge

• • from mid $200's 39&52

Stoney Creek

ROSEHAVEN

On The Ridge

• • from mid $200's 47&52

Thorold

GREAT GULF

Rolling Meadows/Edgewood • from $299,990 78&79

Thorold

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

West Community

• • •

Thorold

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Gibson Heights

• • from the $250's 39

Waterdown

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Bohemian Towns

•

from the $270's

17

Waterdown

COUNTRY GREEN HOMES

The Uptowns of Waterdown

• from mid $200's

7

Welland

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Harvest Estates

• •

9

from $480's

39

from $269,900

11

• • from $214,990 2&3

from the $320's

39

13

• • from $286,990 2&3

from mid $200's

• • • from the $230's

from $245,000

22 35 22

47

9

OAKVILLE, BURLINGTON, HAMILTON, ANCASTER, PARIS, BRANTFORD, STONEY CREEK, VINELAND, LINCOLN, THOROLD, FONTHILL, NIAGARA, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, FORT ERIE

• • •

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

Port Dover

LOCATION BUILDERS

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MODEL

HOME

NOW

OPEN

FONTHILL. A COMMUNITY WITH MORE. PANTONE

MORE SELECTION. MORE SPACE. MORE SAVINGS. VILLAGE TOWNES PRICED FROM

Since 1920 Fonthill has been a destination community for those seeking comfortable, quality, custom homes in the town of Pelham. Today, Fonthill offers much more. This historic community offers incredible value, plus a beauty and quaint presence that remains unchanged with the changing times.

VILLAGE SINGLES PRICED FROM

Forest Park Homes is excited to become part of this tradition. Bringing a history of award-winning designs and exceptional finishes, Forest Park Homes offers residents more than they could possibly imagine in The Village Landing in Fonthill.

$249,900

$349,900

PMS Black 7C

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034-Forest Park-Village Landing 01-18-14.indd 34

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1/15/14 12:07 PM

TOWNS BACKING ONTO THE GRAND RIVER IN PARIS

NOW OPEN

80 WILLOW ST. PARIS Choose from the finest homes at the “Village on The Grand” VISIT OUR WEBSITE

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35

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//community focus

Life is Bliss at Bucci’s new Lakeside Community Location Grimsby Housing Type Executive townhomes of 1,600 sq. ft.

Sales Centre Lake Street, off Bartlett, open 2 to 7 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and weekends from noon to 6 p.m.

Contact Kathie Pillar 905.945.1656 buccihomes@bellnet.ca buccihomes.com

A

private setting, close to the lake, low maintenance and all the features of a Bucci-built home – this truly is Bliss for those with a penchant for placing lifestyle first and foremost.

Bliss, executive lakeside towns, is Bucci Homes’ newest townhome community in the Niagara region. Nestled within an established neighbourhood, these two-storey freehold townhomes offer Craftsman-styled exteriors, an attractive prelude to the open-concept design you’ll discover inside. This enclave of 56 beautifully designed and constructed homes is located in the picturesque Town of Grimsby. Enjoy Bliss by the lake from one of the most renowned, respected and trusted names in the home building industry.

With your new home at Bliss, you are just a five-minute walk to Lake Ontario and just minutes from Fifty Point Marina. In mere moments you can reach Niagara wine country and the Bruce Trail that links to other trails. With the QEW close by, Bliss is a commuter’s dream while also making it a breeze to reach the Canada- U.S. border. There are also plans for a future GO Station.

36 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

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Bucci Homes | Bliss

This enclave of 56 beautifully designed and constructed homes is located in the picturesque Town of Grimsby. Enjoy Bliss by the lake from one of the most renowned, respected and trusted names in the home building industry.

Model homes of The Jordan and The Jamison, both of about 1,600 sq. ft., are under construction within the first block of homes. When finished, these models will showcase Bucci style with a blissful blend of standard features and inspiring upgrades. All plans feature contemporary designs, three bedrooms, walk-in closets and plenty of storage.

Comfort features include central air and nine-ft. main floor ceilings. Gourmet kitchens are outfitted with finely crafted cabinetry complete with extra height uppers. A three-piece rough-in is found in the basement to conveniently add an additional bathroom in the future. Finishes are of the highest quality with details that include brushed chrome lever style handles on two-panel flat interior doors, complete with a matching set at the front entrance. All units come with main or second floor laundry with upper cabinets above the washer/ dryer making it easy to stay organized.

The Jamison offers a main floor laundry with a Great Room that opens into the kitchen with breakfast bar. Three options are available for this plan, with two offering walk-in closets for each bedroom and a shared bath. The model will showcase the luxury of an ensuite bath for the master and a shared bath for the other bedrooms. The Jordan offers a different twist with a Great Room that extends across the back of the home to take advantage of the full width of the space. It easily embraces the kitchen and breakfast area to offer expansive living space. Upstairs, the master suite mirrors the Great Room below with three optional layouts, all including a second-level laundry.

Right now, Bucci Homes is offering buyers a special pre-construction bonus package of $5,000 in Builder’s Design Dollars to decorate your Bliss home to suit your style and needs, as well as a $2,000 appliance credit.

Like all its projects, Bucci Homes maintains its commitment to excellence by providing innovative designs that address customers’ needs. The quality of their construction reflects the care and concern they have for long-term customer satisfaction.

Visit Bliss and experience a Bucci home with all its finishes and features. The sales centre, located on Lake Street, off Bartlett, is open 2 to 7 p.m. Monday to Thursday, and weekends from noon to 6 p.m. For more information, contact Kathie Pillar at 905.945.1656 or buccihomes@bellnet.ca or visit buccihomes.com jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 37

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Visit Our 2 Model Homes & Sales Center in Grimsby 2-Storey Freehold Executive Towns

E X E C U T I V E L A K E S I D E TOW N S

Priced from the mid

260’S

$

Up to 1,615 sq ft.

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QEW to Bartlett Street exit, north to Lake Street Monday – Thursday 2-7pm, Friday by appointment, Saturday & Sunday 12-6pm

Kathie Pillar, Sales Representative buccihomes@bellnet.ca • www.buccihomes.com Toll Free: 1-800-290-0163 • Site: 905-945-1656

Located near 50 Point Conservation Area

Town living has never been this good!

038-Bucci-Bliss 11-23-13.indd 29

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CURRENT COMMUNITIES

CHIPPAWA/NIAGARA 50’ Singles & Freehold 35’ WIDE Bungalow Loft Townes from the $320’s Sodom Rd. & Mann St. 6 MODELS NOW OPEN

THOROLD 45’, 40’, 36’ Singles, Semis, Attached Singles & Towns from the $250’s Quick Closings Available on Select Towns & Attached Singles Richmond St. & Winterberry Blvd.

8 MODELS OPEN

COMING SOON

STONEY CREEK 40’ & 35’ Singles and Semis Mud St. & Upper Centennial Pkwy.

COMING EARLY 2014 Register at LiveontheRidge.ca

Also building communities in Waterdown, Oakville, Brampton, Kleinburg, Nobleton & Mount Albert.

Visit

rosehavenhomes.com

for directions, hours and community information. For all our projects or call the hotline at

(1-888 / 416) 410-0175 Prices and specifications correct at press time. E. & O.E. Prices quoted are in $ thousands.

039-Rosehaven-Corporate 01-18-14.indd 39

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Monarch first.

Before the ‘60’s changed the world.

Before the Baby Boom began. Before the Roaring ‘20’s took us dancing to the Charleston or out to the movies, Monarch was here. First. For 96 years, families have trusted Monarch for the most important investment of their lives.

So choose the one builder who has always been there for Canadian families.

And visit Monarch. First.

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MONARCH COMMUNITIES KLEINBURG | KLEINBURG CROWN ESTATES | GRAND OPENING OF DESIGNER MODELS SINGLES FROM THE LOW $800,000’s Sales Centre located at 165 Timber Creek Boulevard 416-495-3513 CALEDON | SOUTHFIELDS | BRAND NEW RELEASE SINGLES FROM THE LOW $600,000’s TOWNS FROM THE UPPER $300,000’s Sales Centre located at 12515 Kennedy Road (Kennedy Rd. and Mayfield Rd.) 905-843-0707 AJAX | TRANQUILITY | DESIGNER DECORATED MODELS SINGLES FROM THE MID $500,000’s Sales Centre located at 3 Bignell Crescent (Salem Rd. North & Rossland Rd. East) 416-495-3542 SCARBOROUGH | EVERGREEN | A FEW CHOICE HOMES REMAIN TOWNS FROM THE UPPER $400,000’s Sales Centre located at 70 Town Centre Court (Town Centre Crt. and Borough Dr.) 416-495-3574 SCARBOROUGH | DANFORTH ROAD & EGLINTON | COMING SOON KITCHENER | TOPPER WOODS | COMING SOON

ALSO BUILDING HIGH RISE COMMUNITIES IN:

ETOBICOKE WATERFRONT | THE KINGSWAY | DOWNTOWN TORONTO HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 1pm – 8pm, Friday: 12pm – 5pm, Weekends & Holidays: 11am – 6pm

discover more

first.

MonarchGroup.net *Some conditions apply. Please ask a sales representative for full details.

Prices, specifications and promotions are subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. 9040

JAN 18 - FEB 1, 2014 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 41

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//building blocks

Condo amenities & extras What do buyers want? » by Jeff Paikin In today’s highly competitive condo market, the main differentiators for prospective buyers will always be location, space and pricing. Still, with the marketplace

Jeff Paikin

Past President of HHHBA, has been in the building industry for more than 20 years. As President and CEO of New Horizon Development Group (Builders of the inaugural CHBA Green Home of the Year), there isn’t much in the housing world he hasn’t seen. Jeff will provide regular insight and perspective of what’s going on in today’s market and what buyers should be aware of as they prepare to make a purchase.

He can be reached at info@newhorizonhomes.ca

saturated by ads showing modern design concepts, it’s sometimes hard to make one stand out from another.

Thus, the quest for a unique and alluring product has led many premier condo developers to come up with innovative common space facilities and services that afford today’s condo shopper conveniences likely not possible in the typical single-family address. From fitness centres and wine cellars to daycare programs and guest suites, developers are meeting demands of busy condo dwellers with amenities that are anything but common.

Common spaces or common areas are those portions of the property not owned individually by unit owners, but in which all residents hold an indivisible interest. This generally includes the grounds, parking areas, recreational facilities and external structure of the building.

With buying trends gravitating toward smaller suites, new condo owners can now enjoy a tailored unit, and still reap rewards of cool and convenient onsite amenities without having to forfeit any living room. This also means not having to give up things important to them in limited free time, such as hitting the gym.

Social or party rooms which residents can reserve and use are becoming popular among younger buyers who like to have friends in to hang out or watch a movie, meaning they no longer have to entertain exclusively in their suite. Many midrise

condos also offer landscaped rooftop terraces, which are often appointed with ample patio furniture and barbecue grills.

Car and bike share programs, where residents can easily and quickly book a vehicle or bike for their use on an as-needed basis, have also grabbed the attention of condo shoppers. Such programs allow them to gain many of the benefits of a private vehicle or bicycle without the costs and responsibilities of ownership.

The main upside to the aforementioned amenities is that they require relatively low maintenance in comparison to other common space features. For example, with something like a theatre, the most you have to do is make sure there is no popcorn on the floor. In the past, condo builders may have dived into perks such as pools and hot tubs – some still do – but these extras come with a price tag and tend to drive up condo fees, not to mention the increased concern over issues such as insurance and maintenance.

Before investing in a condo with fitness facilities, a business centre, party/recreation room, billiards room, hair salon or coffee shop, consider how important each amenity is to you. There is no right or wrong answer to this; there is just a better or best option for you. Amenities such as the fully equipped fitness centre or tennis court may sound prestigious and exclusive, but if you don’t foresee yourself using them regularly, it may not be worth the extra money it will cost you in condo fees.

Also keep in mind that most condos are located in areas thriving with businesses and amenities. Condo dwellers in large part are keen on taking advantage of what urban experts refer to as the “20-minute circle” – an area in which people live, work and play. Condo living is essentially synonymous with convenience. Being able to get to work, complete errands and socialize in a close vicinity is precisely why people decide to move into a condominium. A fitness room might not seem like the most valuable perk if there is a gym very close by. So having every feature and facility under the sun in your building, while prestigious and ultra-convenient, isn’t always necessary.

At the end of the day, luxury and convenience can be very subjective concepts, so it’s really up to the prospective buyers to determine which amenities suit their needs and wants.

Ultimately, whether it’s prestige or prudence you covet, today’s market has something for you. Happy hunting!

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//year in review

A LOOK BACK AT THE

2013 OHBA Awards of Distinction winners Homebuyers in the GTA and Southwestern Ontario are blessed with an abundance of choice of new-home excellence from some of the finest builders in the province. Indeed, many of them celebrated as winners of the 2013 Awards of Distinction from the Ontario Home Builders’ Association.

Here, we revisit are some of the prize-winning projects:

1| Ontario Home Builder of the Year Reid’s Heritage Homes – Cambridge

2| Project of the Year, Lowrise, Great Gulf Homes, King Oaks “The Ascot,” York Region 3| Most Outstanding Production Home One Story 1,901 sq. ft. and up Geranium Homes, Forest Trail Estates “Alderley,” Whitchurch-Stouffville

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4| M ost Outstanding Production Home Two Storeys up to 2,500 sq. ft., Eastforest Homes, Baden Country Estates, “Wentworth II,” Baden 5| Most Outstanding Production Home Two Storeys 2,501 sq. ft. and up, Great Gulf, King Oaks, “The Ascot,” York Region

6| Most Outstanding Attached Multi-Unit Home (semi/town/ stacked) The Minto Group for: Orchard Park, “Juniper,” Stouffville

8| Most Outstanding High or Midrise Condo Suite (801 sq. ft. and Over) Rosehaven Homes Ltd. for: The Randall Residences, “The Tetherington,” Oakville 7| Most Outstanding Midrise Building (4 - 10 Storeys) Rosehaven Homes Limited for: “The Randall Residences” – Oakville

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Model Home Compliments of Bayview Wellington Homes. www.bwhomes.ca

S TRENGTH IN E XPERIENCE

Trendy Niagara on the Green in posh Niagara on the Lake offers freshly modern living at its best starting at 1353 sq. ft. up to 1962 sq. ft. Walk to the Golf course or the new Outlet Mall. Definitely the place to be!

JANUARY2014 Bayview Wellington Homes has been featured as “MODEL HOME OF THE MONTH” as seen in the new home & condo guide model home calendar

FINANCES//

Managing post-holiday debt Holiday parties are over, gifts are unwrapped and festive decorations are put away.

Now it’s time to tackle the daunting pile of bills.

Follow these three steps to avoid a debt spiral in 2014: 1 Get fi nancial advice

A financial adviser can help you pull together a plan to budget and pay off your debt in a short period of time.

“Ensure that you bring all of your financial information, including outstanding debt, when meeting an adviser, to help them understand your entire situation,” says Stephen Reichenfeld, private wealth counsellor of Fiduciary Trust Company of Canada.

More information on how to find an investment adviser is available at franklintempleton.ca

beach vacation may seem tempting, keep your sights set on your goal.

Remember, if you struggle to make payments and take too long to pay off debt, interest charges will continue to accumulate. You may find yourself in an even deeper debt hole by the end of the year.

Niagara’s Best Value 3 Avoid the cycle by planning ahead

Once you have paid off your debt, create a plan for the next holiday season. Make a list of possible expenses and gifts, and then figure out a budget you can stick to.

Next time, save money in advance rather than charging more than you can afford to your credit card.

Experience the Quality and Value of a ParkLane Home!

2 Stick to your payment plan Cut back on frivolous expenses so you can pay down your debt sooner. While a new spring wardrobe or a

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JAN 18 - FEB 1, 2014 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 47

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//community focus

Rosehaven Homes and Homes by DeSantis

are coming this April to On the Ridge in Stoney Creek Location Stoney Creek Housing Type Freehold townhomes, semis and detached homes on 35and 40-ft. lots Contact liveontheridge.ca

W

hen these two renowned builders get together, remarkable things happen!

Their first Hamilton-area collaboration was the launch of Lake Pointe in Stoney Creek, where their joint efforts resulted in a community so spectacular it was awarded the Grand SAM at the Hamilton Halton

50 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

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ROSEHAVEN HOMEs & homes by desantis | On the Ridge

The name says it all! On The Ridge is located on the Escarpment just off Upper Centennial Parkway north of Highland Rd West and south of Mud Street West for one of the most coveted settings in the entire Stoney Creek area.

Home Builders’ Association Awards. Then Tiffany Hill, in Ancaster, set sales records and established a new level of luxury and community design.

And now, Rosehaven and Homes by DeSantis are coming together again to bring On The Ridge to Stoney Creek, a remarkable new neighbourhood with French Country inspired home designs in a breathtaking setting. The neighbourhood will be opening in April of this year, but you can register right now at liveontheridge.ca The name says it all! On The Ridge is located on the Escarpment just off Upper Centennial Parkway north of Highland Rd West and south of Mud Street West for one of the most coveted settings in the entire Stoney Creek area.

Poised high on the Niagara Escarpment where nature is spectacular, families who

live at On The Ridge will enjoy a lifestyle that’s a touch above. You will be able to choose from elegant freehold townhomes, spacious semis and beautiful detached homes on 35- and 40-ft. lots with brick, stone and stucco exteriors – most with extra-deep backyards, designed for growing families, or for couples who just want space to spread out.

“There are a number of new home communities under development in the Stoney Creek area but none like On The Ridge. A community worth waiting for, our standard features will be unparalleled and our bonus incentives will be outstanding” adds Gabriel DeSantis, president of Homes

by DeSantis This is an established neighbourhood in an already successful community where there’s an abundance of shopping and new power centres nearby, including the RioCan Mall.

Nestled next to the existing Saltfleet Secondary School, elementary schools and neighbourhood parks are all near by.

On The Ridge will be a great family community designed for people who love the outdoors with parks, golf courses and a whole world of recreation so close at hand.

You’re just minutes away from Satellite Golf Centre and Pro’s Golf Centre as well as Glendale Golf and Country Club and King’s Forest Golf Course. You’re so close to the Maplewood Park, Devil’s Punchbowl Conservation area, Dofasco recreation park and Battlefield Park.

There is great highway access as the community is close to the Red Hill Parkway, the LINC (Lincoln Alexander Parkway) and the QEW as well as the new GO Train Station at Centennial is only eight kms away.

So, if you’re interested in a neighbourhood that will help elevate your family above the rest, then register now at liveontheridge.ca. Rosehaven Homes and Homes by DeSantis are coming to the escarpment in Stoney Creek. Just imagine what life will be like when you live On the Ridge. jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 51

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Coming April 2014

Towns, Semis, Singles,

200’s

$

from the mid

Walk, Bike or Play

at Stoney Creeks’ Newest Community On The Ridge is coming to Mud St. and Upper Centennial Pkwy. in Stoney Creek this April. It’s the kind of community where neighbours greet each other by name and kids make best friends for life. Where nature is spectacular along the Niagara Escarpment. And the stone and brick homes offer exceptional charm and are as special as the families who will call them home.

Register today at LiveOnTheRidge.ca

52

*Prices and specifications correct at press time. Rendering is artist’s concept. E. & O.E. Prices quoted are in $ thousands.

052-Rosehaven HBD-On the Ridge 01-18-14.indd 52

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In the news//

AWARD-WINNING BUILDER HUMBLED

BY NEW HONOURS

Fred Losani and Losani Homes capture multiple honours in 2013 Last year was a milestone for one of the Niagara region’s most awarded home builders, Losani Homes, and its CEO Fred Losani. Fred Losani was named the 2013 Italian-Canadian Citizen of the Year by the Order of the Sons of Italy, to recognize his success in business and philanthropy. The award honours the

Canadians of Italian descent who, through their service, charitable efforts and personal achievements have made a positive impact on the world we live in.

He was also honoured as the 2013 Distinguished Graduate

by Brock University’s Goodman School of Business, and was awarded the Bruce Trail Conservancy’s highest environmental award, the Calypso Orchid Environmental Award, along with Peter Turksta for their work educating children about environmental preservation. Fred Losani was also a finalist in the Real Estate/Construction category for the 2013 Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year, acknowledging his business excellence. Out of 128 nominees in Ontario the judges narrowed the field down to 36 finalists in nine categories.

In addition to these honours, Losani Homes also received the 2013 Consumers Choice Award (CCA) for the second year in a row for its quality, service and value; recently won three Hamilton-Halton Home Builders’ Association awards; and

holds Gold Member Status as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies.

These honours, “mean a great deal to my family, company, our staff and myself.

We all work very hard, and believe in giving back, and it’s incredibly humbling for our continuous efforts to be so well recognized,” says CEO Fred Losani. jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 53

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//MONEY MATTERS

JANUARY IS

“make do” month » by GAIL VAZ-OXLADE

If there’s any month when you’re most likely to wonder if all the bills will get paid, it’s January. After the

GAIL VAZ-OXLADE

is the host of Til Debt Do Us Part, author of Debt Free Forever and blogs daily at gailvazoxlade.com.

Follow Gail on Twitter at twitter.com/GailVazOxlade

feverish rush of the holidays and all the unexpected expenses that popped up, no doubt things will be a little tight.

Add the extra cost of heating and the jump in “fresh” food prices and you’ll be looking for ways to trim back.

Enter Make Do Month. Th is is the

month when you stretch everything a little farther so you spend a lot less. If you get invited to a party, you don’t rush out and buy something new, you get creative and shop from your closet. And if you need a little something different, you shop from a friend’s closet. Or hold a clothing exchange.

What you don’t do is spend money!

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

Sure, there’s that great movie you’d love to take the family to for a night out of the house. For a family of four, you’re

January is a good month to experiment with a new routine as you make do. If you’re used to buying coffee every day, brew your own at home or work and save big-time.

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three nights of free babysitting. Maybe you’re a computer genius and can offer to do maintenance or repairs. Perhaps you’re a mechanic and can offer a tune-up. Substitute your energy for spending money.

After the buzz of the holidays, you’ll no doubt be happy to stay home for the fi rst couple of weeks. Then you may start feeling itchy. You’ve got to get out. You can feel the walls closing in. Time to hit that great new restaurant that just opened up, or head out to the clubs. Wait a minute.

Th is is Make Do Month. probably looking at $100 or more with popcorn and drinks. Recycle a movie you already own or do a movie swap with friends, add some home-made popcorn and a 12-pack of pop and you can probably do it for $10. Now that’s making do!

January is also a good month to experiment with a new routine as you make do. If you’re used to buying coffee every day, brew your own at home or work and save big-time. If you regularly go out for lunch, pack one from home for four out of every five days and not only will you drop those holiday pounds, you’ll be able to pay off that holiday debt.

But what if you have family or friends whose birthday falls in January.

You’ll have to buy something. No you don’t. You can give something of yourself instead of something purchased. Make their favorite cookies, offer to cook them a meal or a bunch of meals for the freezer for those extra busy workdays, or create a coupon for

Start a tradition of once-a-month games or poker nights and rotate from one friend’s home to another. No one says you can’t have fun in Make Do Month. You just can’t spend gobs of money.

Call up a couple of friend and throw a pot-luck game night instead. See if you can do it at their house this time.

Start a tradition of once-a-month games or poker nights and rotate from one friend’s home to another. No one says you can’t have fun in Make Do Month. You just can’t spend gobs of money.

Make Do Month is a conscious decision to stretch every dollar as far as it will go. Try it and see if just becoming conscious save you money. I’ll bet you’re pleasantly surprised.

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//In the news

Left to right, HHHBA President Anthony Chiarella, Suzanne Mammel (board of directors) and HHHBA Executive Officer Mathieu Langelier.

HHHBA builds a mountain of toys

for City Kidz

The Hamilton-Halton Home Builders’ Association recently held its annual Holiday Social and Toy Drive, collecting 135 toys that were donated to City Kidz. This year’s toy drive was a great

success, with 30 per cent more toys donated than last year thanks to the generous support of association members and partners. Every year, the HHHBA answers the call to collect much needed toys for kids in our community and every year the success of this event continues to grow.

The new toys were donated to City Kidz, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of children living in the inner city. City Kidz hoped to collect 4,000 new toys for children in the Hamilton community, and distributed the gifts at their annual Christmas parties, where they provided children with

dinner, candy bags, prizes and a personally selected gift.

Anthony Chiarella, HHHBA president, says “Giving back to our community is something our Association strives to do. As a father of two, I understand first-hand the joy that the Christmas season brings to children and being able to share that joy with children who might not have otherwise experienced it is heart-warming. Our members went above and beyond, bringing more toys than ever before.”

About 50 per cent of the toys donated fit into the most needed category for boys aged 10 to 12.

The HHHBA is delighted to have contributed to such a wonderful cause and inspirational organization and we would like to thank everyone who donated gifts for children in our community.

56 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

056 News HHHBA Toy Drive_VB-WK.indd 56

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New Home Watch BUILDERS: If you would like to include your new model home or site opening,email wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com. Please say you saw it in New Home & Condo Guide!

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Country living at its finest at one of Ontario’s premier adult lifestyle communities.

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Coming soon – Mattamy’s first master-planned community in Kitchener, with affordable townhomes and detached homes.

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Energy Star model home is now open. Visit at Watson Road and Couling Crescent for details on available single and semi-detached homes.

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Grand opening of new 56-suite condominium.

Offering a great selection of floorplans that suit a variety of budgets and lifestyles in an established community.

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New building release at Kingsbury Square, as a result of the first Kingsbury building selling out quickly.

New standard features and finishes. Located in desirable South Guelph.

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Two-storey townhomes just released, midrise coming soon. Master-planned community in Fergus. Choose from a variety of single-detached homes, and bungalow and executive townhomes – close to amenities and trails.

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Brand new semi-detached and 30-ft. detached lots.

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Final release now underway for this collection of bungalow townhomes.

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Semi-detached homes from the $320’s, including A/C and granite kitchen counters. Walkouts available.

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jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 57

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58

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New Hamburg

Plattsville

Stratford

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PRICES

PAGE

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MONARCH

Tranquility

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Baden

EASTFOREST HOMES

Baden Country Estates

•

22

Cambridge

EASTFOREST HOMES

Carriage Lanes •

22

Cambridge

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Highland Ridge

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Wildflowers

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Guelph

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Village by the Arboretum

Guelph

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Kitchener

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Joy •

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EASTFOREST HOMES

Doon South

•

22

Kitchener

EASTFOREST HOMES

Eby Estates •

22

Kitchener

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Grasslands of Stauffer Woods • •

22

Kitchener

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Huron Point •

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The Oaks

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Meaford

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Gates of Kent

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Riverside at New Hamburg

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Owen Sound

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The Residences of Cobble Beach

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BC

Port Elgin

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Summerside

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REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Heritage Lake Estates

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Scarborough

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Evergreen

Thornbury

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Lora Bay

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•

•

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•

•

22

•

•

from $296,990

•

6 BC

from the $180's 61&BC

• BC •

BC

The Highlands at Hunter Ridge • •

BC

• •

BC

from $280,590

•

•

•

•

•

•

from low $800's

13

22

BC 45

from high $400's 40&41

MILTON, GEORGETOWN, ROCKWOOD, GUELPH, FERGUS, ELORA, ALMA, CAMBRIDGE, KITCHENER, WATERLOO, AYR

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LOCATION BUILDERS

59

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//tarion report

Get to know your new home » by howard bogach The home building process is an exciting time, and we know you can’t wait to get a good look at your new home. Your first real chance to get a top to bottom look at

Howard bogach

is President and CEO of Tarion Warranty Corp. His column appears monthly in New Home Guide.

For more information about how Tarion helps new-home buyers, visit tarion.com or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/ TarionWarrantyCorp.

your home in its completed state will be during your PreDelivery Inspection, or PDI. When you purchase a new home or condominium, your builder is required by Tarion to conduct a PDI with you on or before the day you take possession. The PDI is more than just a first look around, it’s your opportunity to view your home in its entirety, learn about how to properly maintain it and take stock of anything that may be damaged, incomplete, missing or not working properly.

You may be excited to show your new home to your friends and family, but this isn’t the time. The PDI is an important part of taking possession of your new home and deserves your full attention. If you are not able to attend yourself, you can ask someone you trust to be there on your behalf.

During the inspection, you should carefully examine your home both inside and out. Look for things like chips in bathtubs and sinks, scratches on countertops, damage to floors, walls, cabinetry or other finishings, and doors and windows that are not secure or do not open and close easily.

Outside, check things like the quality of brickwork and siding, whether window screens have been installed, and the appearance of the driveway and landscaping.

Your builder’s representative is responsible for making notes of any areas of concern on a PDI form. Review the form carefully to make sure it’s complete. This will become the official record of the condition of your home before you moved in. In case of a disagreement between you and your builder over whether any damage occurred before or after you took possession, Tarion will refer to the notes on your PDI form.

The builder is required to provide you with a copy of the completed PDI, but you may want to take your own notes as well.

Feel free to take pictures of any damaged or incomplete items. If necessary, those photos can be submitted to Tarion at a later date.

You should take your time looking over your new home. As a general rule of thumb, a PDI may take about an hour for every 1,000 sq. ft. of home being inspected.

We’ve heard from buyers who said the condition of the home made it impossible to accurately assess any defects.

Sometimes there is still too much construction dust and debris or even weather factors that prevent you from getting a good look. If this happens, make sure to note the items that could not be inspected on the PDI form.

Use the PDI as an opportunity to ask questions and learn about how your home functions. Your builder will show you how to operate your home’s systems, like heating, electrical, air conditioning and plumbing and provide you with operating manuals.

Buyers sometimes hire a professional home inspector to accompany them during the PDI. While you are welcome to bring along a trusted companion or professional, I encourage buyers to really think about the purpose of the PDI, which is to form a record of the state of your home before you take possession.

You might want to consider waiting for the 30-day or year-end warranty period to hire a home inspector. You’ll have much more time to get to know your home and its systems and will have a better indication of any potential problems that your home inspector can look into. If you do hire a home inspector, I recommend you find one who is certified in conducting new construction inspections.

The new-home buyer section on tarion.com has a number of resources to help you prepare for your PDI including a PDI checklist and a guide to getting ready for the PDI. You’ll also find the Homeowner Information Package, or HIP, which your builder will provide on or before your inspection date. I always recommend buyers read the HIP before their PDI. Being informed and well prepared is the best way to start your homeownership experience!

If you have questions about your warranty, visit tarion.com or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/ tarionwarrantycorp

60 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

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64 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | JAN 18 - FEB 1, 2014

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MORTGAGE INTELLIGENCE//

SUPERSIZE YOUR

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

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

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

For more information, visit rbcroyalbank.com NC

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

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

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

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

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

JAN 18 - FEB 1, 2014 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 65

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//In the news

//In the news

LOSANI HOMES ONCE AGAIN SETS THE BAR FOR SPREADING CHRISTMAS CHEER

5th Annual Toy & Turkey Drive Raises $280,000 and 850 Toys Losani Homes staff, trades, partners and friends recently came together for the largest Toy & Turkey Drive in their history, raising $280,000 and collecting 850 toys.

The appreciation barbecue for the company’s trades and friends, featured live music, an outstanding buffet lunch put on by the Losani Family and Nonna’s Cucina Ristorante in Burlington, and lots of good cheer.

The funds were collected through the Hamilton Community Foundation, Ontario’s first organization of its kind, which helps support all aspects of community life and has distributed $64 million worth of grants to the community. At $25 per turkey, the funds raised will support various children’s charities in throughout the Greater Hamilton area. The toys collected will be shared amongst the Hamilton Catholic and Public School boards, as well as the Catholic Children’s Aid Society, to ensure that hundreds of children have a present under the tree this Christmas.

CEO Fred Losani says, “I would like to thank everyone who attended and participated in our annual event to help ensure the families in our community have the Christmas they deserve. Giving back is important to the Losani family, and all of our staff, and we’re overwhelmed by everyone who came out to support the community through this highly successful event.”

The first Toy & Turkey Drive in 2009 raised $30,000, a groundbreaking number at that time, and has continued to grow exponentially each year. The Toy & Turkey Drive is the largest annual fundraising event hosted by Losani Homes, in addition to all of their other initiatives throughout the year.

Over the course of 2013, Losani Homes has donated more than $300,000 to local charities, and looks to set the bar even higher for local builders in the coming year.

66 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

066 News Losani Toy Drive_VB-WK.indd 66

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homebuyers’ help//

Homebuyers’ Resource Section You love the home, see what you can afford! » Compare mortgage rates for your best deal

» Calculate your mortgage payments using the mortgage payment calculation chart

jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 67

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hot dates//

Jan 24-26

jan 24-26

Hamilton Woodworking A Taste of Niagara on the Lake Show/Canadian Woodcarving 493 REGENT ST. Championship NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE CANADIAN WARPLANE HERITAGE MUSEUM HAMILTON

The show features woodworking tools and machinery, ongoing demo, seminars and the Canadian Woodcarving Championship, which provides a superior championship where all woodcarvers, regardless of their degree of expertise. woodshows.com

Jan 18 to Feb 1 Calendar of events beginning from Jan. 18 to Feb. 1, 2014

jan 18 - feb 22

Winter Jazz Series –Hamilton All Star Jazz Band

FIELDCOTE MEMORIAL PARK & MUSEUM ANCASTER

A new winter jazz series at the Old Fire Hall in the historic village of Ancaster. The series of six concerts will take place on Saturday evenings in January and February. hamilton.ca

A wine and cheese reception on the Friday night kicks off the event, and on Saturday night, enjoy a five-course progressive dinner through five of the top restaurants in town. Each course paired with wine. atasteofniagara.ca jan 24-26

SportsFest Niagara

5400 ROBINSON ST. NIAGARA FALLS

A multi-sport, multi-age group event consisting of traditional and nontraditional, amateur sporting competitions with each of the tournaments taking place at venues throughout the Niagara Region. sportsfestniagara.com jan 24-26

Lifestyle Homeshow

WESTERN FAIR DISTRICT LONDON A variety of products and services for in and around the home. Interesting stage presentations, contests and much more. westernfairdistrict.com

jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 71

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Calculate your mortgage payments interest rate

amortization period

chart figure

example: 5%

25 years

5.82

mortgage amount ÷ 1,000 (mortgage amount $125,000)

125

monthly payment

$

Follow these steps to see if you’ll qualify for a mortgage on your dream home

01 02 03

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

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

Take the total price of the home and subtract the amount of money you expect to make as a down payment. This is the money you will have to borrow.

04

Refer to the chart on the opposite page. Look down the left column and locate the interest rate you expect to pay.

Line this up with the amortization period of your choice. (Most firsttime buyers take the 25-year amortization.)

05

06 07

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

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

Multiply this figure by the amount you need to borrow.

Divide by 1,000. » Bear in mind that this is a rough estimate. If you have several other large loans already, you may qualify for less. Also, banks and trust companies vary in their policies. The best way to know what you can afford is to go to the lending institution of your choice andget pre-qualified.

72 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

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Mortgage payment calculation chart %

Interest Rates

10 years

Amortization Periods

15 years

20 years

25 years 4.73

4.21

4.99

4.48

3.00%

9.65

6.90

5.54

3.50%

9.88

7.14

5.79

3.25% 3.75%

9.76

9.99

4.00%

10.11

4.50%

10.34

4.25% 4.75%

5.00% 5.25%

5.50% 5.75%

6.00%

6.50%

6.25% 6.75%

7.00%

7.25%

7.50%

7.75%

10.23 10.46 10.58

9.25%

9.50% 9.75%

10.00%

10.50%

10.25% 10.75%

11.00%

11.25%

11.31 11.43

7.88

8.14

8.40 8.53

8.66

8.80

11.81

9.21

11.68

6.44 6.57

9.07

6.85 7.12 7.41

7.55

7.69

5.67

5.82

7.84

9.90

12.84

10.33

12.71

12.97 13.10

13.24 13.37 13.50

13.64

13.77

12.50%

10.19

10.48

10.63 10.77 10.92

11.06

11.22

11.36

11.52

8.74

8.12

9.20

8.62

9.52

8.95

9.05

9.36 9.68

5.64 5.79 5.95

6.11

6.26 6.42

6.59

6.75

7.76

7.93

8.45

9.12

9.63

9.46

10.32

9.80 10.15

10.98

7.59

8.78

10.16

10.49

7.42

8.10

9.29

10.00

7.08

8.45

9.84

11.97

12.28

7.79

8.28

14.32 14.59

7.47

8.86

10.65

12.13

5.49

7.95

11.66

14.46

7.16

5.34

8.59

14.04

11.82

7.00

5.19

7.25

8.44

10.05

6.85

5.04

7.63

9.62

12.58

6.70

4.90

8.28

12.19

12.45

6.40

4.76

6.91

8.14

9.76

6.10

4.61

7.32

9.34 9.48

5.96

4.34

7.99

11.94

12.75%

7.75

8.93

14.18

5.53

11.56

12.00% 12.25%

6.30

6.55

11.19

7.63

5.40

7.26

11.07

13.91

11.75%

5.26

6.17

6.25

11.50%

6.04

7.50

6.98

12.32

9.00%

7.38

8.27

8.50% 8.75%

5.13

10.94

10.82

5.91

6.74

12.06

4.86

8.01

8.00% 8.25%

7.26

5.66

10.70

7.02

30 Years

9.97

8.28 8.63

8.80 8.98 9.16

9.34

9.52

9.70

9.88

10.81

10.32

10.06

11.15

10.67

10.43

11.31

10.49

10.85

10.25 10.61

This table shows the monthly payment of principal and interest for each $1,000 of mortgage. Example: The monthly principal and interest payment for a $125,000 mortgage with a 25-year amortization period at 5% is as follows: ($125,000 รท 1,000) X 5.82 = $727.50 jan 18 - feb 1, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 73

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Compare mortgage rates for your best deal CHARTERED BANKS

Variable

6 Months

1 Year

2 years

3 years

4 years

5 years

ATB Financial 2.7 2.94 2.89 3.19 3.59

6.30op 6.30op 6.50op Alterna Svgs/Alterna Bk 3 4 3.09 3.14 3.19 3.35

6.30op 6.30op Bank of Montreal 3.1 4 3.24 3.24 4.05 4.84

6.30op 6.30op Bank of Nova Scotia 2.7 4.55 3.75 3.89 2.89 4.39

6.45op 6.50op Canadian Western Bank 4 3.14 3.14 3.95 4.74

6.45op 6.30op CFF Bank 3.69 3.75 3.79 3.79 CIBC 3 3.09 3.14 2.99 3.59

6.70op 6.35op HSBC Bank Canada 3 4.45 2.7 3.95 3.13 4.99

6.20op 6.35op ICICI Bank Canada 3.05 3.15 3.65 3.64 3.69 ING Direct 3 3.19 3.24 3.59 3.69 Manulife Bank 2.8 4.45 3 3.2 3.25 3.4

4.00op National Bank n/a 4.4 3.14 3.14 3.95 4.74

6.70op 6.70op President’s Choice Finan 3 3.24 3.59 3.69 Royal Bank 3 4 3.14 3.14 3.85 3.49

6.30op 6.30op TD Canada Trust 3 3.09 3.14 3.95 4.74

6.30op

3.79 3.59 3.89 3.59 5.34 3.69 3.79 3.69 3.89 4.09 3.69 5.34 4.09 3.79 3.79

TRUST COMPANIES

Community Trust n/a Effort Trust n/a

Home Trust Company 2.6 Investors Group Trust n/a

MTCC 2.7

6.5 4.45 6.30op 3.95 4.2 6.50op 4.55 6.45op

3.14 3.25 3.95 4.74 3.25 3.6 3.95 4.7 6.30op 2.89 2.89 3.09 3.39 3.14 3.14 3.95 4.74 6.30op 3.75 3.89 2.89 4.39 6.50op

5.34 4.95

Airline Financial C.U. 4

Comtech Credit Union 2.95 6.2

6.40op First National Fin. LP 3.95 FirstOntario C.U. 2.7

6.34op London Life n/a 4.2

6.50op Luminus Financial 2.95

MCAP 2.7

Meridian Credit Union 2.75 4

Parama Credit Union 2.85 Steinbach Credit Union 2.5

3.01 3.1 3.33 3.65 6.25op 2.99 3.25 3.29 3.24 6.30op 2.99 2.79 3.09 3.39 3.09 3.14 3.34 3.39 6.34op 3.14 3.14 3.95 4.74 6.30op 3.05 3.1 3.55 3.65 3.95 3.6 3.95 4.35 4.89 7.00op 3.09 3.14 3.65 3.49 6.30op 2.95 3.05 3.25 3.4 2.5 2.7 2.9 3.05

3.99

3.49 5.34 3.59

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

3.59 3.59 3.59 5.34 4.05 5.14 3.59 3.6 3.25

Notes: **Interest rate charged subject to adjustment during term mortgage. Please consult institution for term of years available. All rates are prime rates and subject to change without notice.

R.O.R. RATES ON REQUEST op OPEN ----- NOT QUOTING N/A NOT AVAILABLE January 13, 2013. Prepared By Fiscal Agents Financial Information Services 905.844.7700

74 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

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IN THE MARKET FOR A

NEW HOUSE

OR A CONDO?

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

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

Search your favorite neighbourhood

Find out about nearby services and amenities

View new construction projects and register to get the latest info

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

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Advertiser index Bayview Wellington: Victoria Village

4

menkes developments: Millstone on the Park

48

Bayview Wellington: Niagara-on-the-Green

5

menkes developments: Enclaves of Upper Canada

49

Brandy lane homes: Wyldewood Cove

branthaven Homes: Multi-site

19

12, 13 & 17

bucci Homes: Bliss

Countrygreen Homes: The Uptowns of Waterdown

eastforest Homes: Corporate

Empire Communities: Multi-site

forest park homes: The Village Landing

Great gulf: Rolling Meadows & Edgewood

Monarch: Corporate

Mountainview Homes: Corporate

40 & 41

9

38

new horizon Homes: Mint Condominiums

43

7

PARK LANE HOME BUILDERS: Village Creek

47

reid’s heritage: Westminster Highlands

61

22

2&3

34

78 & 79

reid’s heritage: Corporate

BC

rosehaven homes: Corporate

39

RosehavenHomes: On the Ridge

52

Homes by DeSantis: Lincoln Square

11

sifton properties: Corporate

26

Homes by DeSantis: On the Ridge

52

tillsonburg developments: Baldwin Place

23

kingwood homes: Village on the Grand

35

williamsburg homes: Eby Estates

63

mattamy homes: Wildflowers

6

76 New home & condo guide SWO | jan 18 - feb 1, 2014

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FUNDAMENTALLY SPEAKING//

Mortgage essentials It’s a hot topic in a changing landscape, so learning as much as you can is time well spent » by WAYNE KARL

WAYNE KARL

is an award-winning writer and editor with experience in real estate and business.

In Fundamentally Speaking, Wayne explores the basics – such as economic fundamentals – you need to examine when buying property.

He can be reached at

wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com

or follow him on Twitter at Twitter.com/WayneKarl

Mortgage interest rates, still at historical lows and expected to remain so well into this year and maybe 2015, represent a window of opportunity for those looking to buy a home.

The mortgage industry is ultra-competitive, lenders often introduce new products and otherwise there are plenty of options for borrowers.

If you could lock in at a low rate over 10 years, for example, that gives you the comfort of knowing what your mortgage payments will be over that period, while over that time you can also take advantage of any pre-payment and lump-sum payment options to pay down your mortgage.

Another appeal of this scenario is that, as we often point out, experts advise you take a long-term view of your home purchase.

For example, there has been some talk recently about cooling prices and softening sales. But even if that were to happen in your market and housing type, ask yourself: in 10 years, is a home you buy today likely to be worth more or less? If you need an answer to this question, just take a look back at prices 10 years ago. Of course, there are no guarantees, but if you’re in the homebuying mode anyway, today’s low rate environment makes a pretty compelling reason to act sooner than later to take advantage of these opportunities.

Low rates notwithstanding, the banks, financial firms, brokers and other experts still advise homebuyers to practice smart borrowing – everything from putting down a larger down payment to taking advantage of pre-payment options and even “stress-testing” your mortgage at a higher rate to ensure your finances can accommodate rate fluctuations or other unforeseen circumstances.

The mortgage market is a complex beast, and as a prospective homebuyer, these are not lessons you’re going to

But just as important is to also spend as much time as necessary to find a broker or banker you trust and who knows their business. learn overnight – nor do you likely want to. You’re focused on saving a down payment, getting your finances in order, searching potential neighbourhoods, choosing a home and selecting interior finishings.

But just as important is to also spend as much time as necessary to find a broker or banker you trust and who knows their business. More so than in any other area of homebuying, you’re going to rely on the advice of this member of your team – now more than ever.

It will prove to be time well spent.

JAN 18 - FEB 1, 2014 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 77

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NIAGARA

“WE’RE LIVING THE DREAM IN NIAGARA” Leo and Ada have it all. They can get to the city easily for work and come home to paradise.

“We love our new Great Gulf home.

The quality and design are excellent and it cost us significantly less than we would pay anywhere else,” says Leo. “And, we’re just 10 minutes from everything — great shopping, Niagara-on-the-Lake, the US border, and more.”

“We have access to all the shopping and leisure activities that we’ve ever dreamed of.”

Leo and Ada, Great Gulf Homeowners

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Leo and Ada saved thousands on their new Niagara home — so can you!

With homes priced up to $300,000 less than the GTA, Southern

•

Just 90 minutes from Toronto

Ontario’s best kept secret is waiting to be discovered.

•

Enjoy more than 50 golf courses and 75 wineries

From world-class golf to lush natural wonders, Niagara’s outdoor

•

Close to shopping, casinos, entertainment and more

lifestyle has something for everyone.

Great Gulf’s two award-winning neighbourhoods of bungalow and two-storey homes offer the best of life in Niagara.

ROLLING MEADOWS

299990

$

35, 42 and 50 Ft. Detached 1,580 - 3,315 sq. ft. from •

Niagara’s landmark master planned community with parks, schools, walking trails and more

•

Two fabulous designer-furnished model homes

•

Kitchens with islands, pantries, breakfast areas and walk-outs

•

Second floor family rooms and computer lofts

•

Endless hiking, biking, and boating opportunities

•

Dining alfresco in the beauty of the Niagara Escarpment

•

Minutes to the US border and Buffalo Airport

EDGEWOOD $

40 and 50 Ft. Detached 1,610 - 3,035 sq. ft. from

307990

•

A fully established neighbourhood backing on to woodland

•

Directly across from Niagara Golf and Country Club

•

Three award winning designer-furnished model homes

•

Master bedroom retreats with ensuites and his-and-hers walk-in closets

N

N

Thorold Stone Rd. Garner Rd.

Thorold Townline

SALES OFFICE 1 Sunset Way off Barker Parkway and Hwy. 58 Thorold (905) 680-0841

Lundy’s Ln. McLeod Rd.

SALES OFFICE 9118 Forestview Blvd. off Garner Road Niagara Falls (905) 356-9408

GREATGULF.COM Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. Illustrations are artist’s concept. All square footages are approximate. Actual usable space varies from stated floor area.

Rolling Meadows sales office hours: Sat. & Sun. 11pm - 5pm • Mon. - Thurs. 2 - 8pm • Closed Fri. • Edgewood sales office hours: Sat. & Sun. 12pm - 5pm • Mon. - Wed. 2 - 7pm • Closed Thurs. & Fri.

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Build with the best.

Reid’s Heritage Homes is recognized as an industry leader – named 2013 Ontario Home Builder of the Year, and honoured with many environmental, quality, customer service, and employee satisfaction awards.

All of this simply underlines the reality that when you choose a home in one of Reid’s Heritage Homes’ fine communities throughout Ontario, you are investing in the best: the best quality, the best reputation, the best team – the best for you and your family.

reidsheritagehomes.com Cambridge | Collingwood | Fergus | Guelph | Kitchener | Meaford | Owen Sound | Port Elgin | Puslinch | Thornbury

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