Southwestern Ontario New Home & Condo Guide - February 16, 2013

Feb 16 - Mar 2, 2013 Volume 16 Issue 03

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

MORTGAGES: SEPARATING FACT FROM FICTION

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HAMILTON SETS RECORD FOR HOME BUILDING

DREAM AMENITIES IN ANCASTER

2/14/13 2:42:55 PM

Model Show of the Year!

Empire Communities is proud to present our new 2013 Models.

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The Deal of a Lifetime.

There’s never been a better time to buy an Empire home.

Get the best price on your new Empire Communities home and historically low interest rates.

All of our amazing communities are master-planned, with parks, schools and friendly front porches. Buying now is truly the deal of a lifetime.

The whole world is right at your fingertips.

Act now and get*…

Guaranteed Lowest Price Guaranteed Historically Low Interest Rates • Guaranteed Great Service • Guaranteed Amazing Community • Guaranteed Energy Savings • •

Your time is now.

STONEY CREEK

COMING SOON: 42’ HOMES! TRUE Freehold Towns from

276,990

$

@EmpireVictory

34' Detached Homes from

346,990

$

facebook.com/EmpireVictory

22 Green Mountain Rd. W., STONEY CREEK 905.930.7934

HAMILTON

BRANTFORD

4 NEW MODELS NOW OPEN! TRUE Freehold Towns from

221,990

$

30’ Detached from

281,990

$ @EmpireSummerlea

TRUE Freehold Towns from

36’ Detached from

191,990

321,990

$

$

44’ Detached from

30' Detached from

371,990

229,990

$

$ @EmpireWyndfield

facebook.com/EmpireSummerlea

rook

Rd

Summerlea

56

Join the conversation Y

@Empire_Living

Stoney Creek

facebook.com/EmpireCommunities EMPIRE IS ENERGY STAR PLUS! EMPIRE IS ENERGY STAR PLUS!

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Victory

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311,990

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Mon-Thurs 1-7pm Fri 1-6pm Sat, Sun & Hol. 11am-5pm

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44' Detached from

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Brantford

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281,990

$

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: Toronto

Mississauga

Cambridge 401

QEW

36' Detached from

310 Blackburn Dr., BRANTFORD 519.756.4554

3 Binhaven Blvd., BINBROOK 905.692.6000

407

4 MODELS TO TOUR!

empirecommunities.com

Prices, sizes and specifications are subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. Map not to scale. *Please see Sales for full details. Exclusive listing brokerage: TFN Realty Inc. Brokers Protected.

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The Anticipated New Model S

Join us in our new showroom at the corner of Binbrook and Binhaven a

Featuring 4 decorated models, including 2 of our brand new designs, this is your opportunity to see the featu

EMPI 5001 NH SWO Cover-Gatefold-F.indd 3-5

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del Show of the Year Is Here!

inhaven and see why everyone’s moving to Summerlea!

o see the features and finishes that will bring your dream home one step closer to reality.

Wyndfield

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mattamyhomes.com

Wildflowers Are Now Growing In Kitchener.

A Mattamy’s Chef’s Kitchen.

We are now open in our very first Kitchener community. Wildflowers is a master-planned community offering inspirational community features such as park spaces, playgrounds, walking/biking trails and scenic ponds scattered throughout the neighbourhood. You’ll enjoy a mature forest bordering Wildflowers which provides a beautiful backdrop to an evening’s walk. A school is planned right in the community and local shops will be coming for added convenience.

Come and see our collection of very affordable and stylish Townhomes and our wide selection of well-appointed Detached Homes.

Our inspired and colourful collection of Wildflowers is open in Kitchener.

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Townhomes From $249,990 · Detached Homes From $294,990

Townhome, The Bellflower, Elev. ‘B’, 1,263 Sq.Ft, $251,990

Rd

36’ Home, The Lupin, Elev. ‘C’, 1,950 Sq.Ft, $370,990

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

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

SW_NH&C_Wildflowers Feb16.indd 1 006-Mattamy-Wildflowers 02-16-13.indd 6

2013-02-11 11:14 AM 2/13/13 3:23:56 PM

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007-Country Green-West Bloom 01-19-13.indd 7

FEB 16 - MAR 2, 2013 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 7

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contents

FEB 16 - MAR 2, 2013

||

VOLUME 16 ISSUE 03

34

42

cover story

p.14 EMPIRE COMMUNITIES launches four new model homes at Summerlea in Binbrook

regular and special features IN EVERY ISSUE 10 EDITOR’S NOTE

75 76

community focus features IN THE NEWS 20 OHBA

OHBA ready to work with Premier Kathleen Wynne

HOT DATES AD INDEX

COLUMNISTS 26 THE MORTGAGE MINUTE

22

77

BMO

Canadians plan to save nearly $10,000 in 2013: BMO report

Separating fact from fiction for first-time buyers

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP 18 HOT SHEET

HHHBA REPORT

24

TAX MATTERS

by Mathieu Langelier

29

HOT SHEET

46

CITY FOCUS

57

HOT SHEET

64

TAX MATTERS

London

by Peter Kinch

56

2012 was a record year for home building in Hamilton

FUNDAMENTALLY SPEAKING

Watch the changing retail landscape to see if your neighbourhood is on the rise

by Wayne Karl

69

008 TOC_DN-WK.indd 8

14

Canadians relying on RRSPs for retirement but not contributing

BINBROOK

Empire Communities launches four new model homes at Summerlea in Binbrook

34

BRANTFORD

Brookfield Homes

Grand Valley Trails in Brantford presents the best in the west for less

42

ANCASTER

Winzen

The Kensington in Ancaster showcases Winzen’s style and substance

Hamilton Ancaster – bedroom community with dream amenities for residents

Waterloo Canadians embracing do-ityourself investing

HOMEBUYERS’ RESOURCES

Mortgage Calculator & Rate Table

2/14/13 1:33:47 PM

ice skating

ice cream

Mountainview’s prices

good things come frozen.

To celebrate the chilly winter, we’ve frozen our 2012 prices at all Mountainview communities! plus for a limited time receive $3,000 off townes $5,000 off singles!

NIAGARA FALLS

NIAGARA FALLS

THOROLD

NIAGARA FALLS

FONTHILL

BEAMSVILLE

WELLAND

RIDGEWAY

mountainview.com | 905-323-6232 Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. Offer is subject to change without notice. feb 16 - mar 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 9

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editor’snote

Taking advantage while you can Use low interest rates to your benefit

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 are likely 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 in markets that 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 much movement until early 2014. The Bank will make its next scheduled rate announcement on March 6. Don’t wait until then to get pre-approved for a mortgage. It can take a few days. Many lenders now offer online pre-approvals to make the process faster and easier.

Susan Legge

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

VICE-PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA

Jacqueline Hill

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Susan Maxwell

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF, NATIONAL REAL ESTATE

Susan Legge ART DIRECTOR

Julie Yoo EDITOR

Wayne Karl CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Janine Druery Elisa Krovblit Silvana Longo Lydia McNutt (on leave) Sara Duck (on leave) DISTRIBUTION & SALES CO-ORDINATOR

Jennifer Bistron

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Antoinette Jackson

MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Bala Gnanapandithan CO-ORDINATOR

Laura Northmore GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Alexander Yakubovich NATIONAL ACCOUNT MANAGER, MEDIATIVE

Paul Slizys

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Joanne Keenan Jeffrey Reed

Know your builder – and warranty

New-home buyers in Ontario should take comfort in knowing every home is backed by Tarion

I

magine buying a new car, TV or other big-ticket item without first inquiring about the manufacturer’s warranty. You wouldn’t dream of it, would you? But when it comes to buying a new home, many consumers are not always as diligent.

Perhaps it’s a matter of some people being so excited about buying a new home that they’re more interested in choosing finishes than reading the fine print of a sales agreement or warranty. Or maybe they assume all builders are created equal, and that certain things are covered, when in fact they may not be. Or it might be a lack of awareness of just how new-home warranties work in Ontario.

Welcome to Tarion Warranty Corp. – a non-profit, private company designed to protect the rights of new-home buyers and to regulate new-home builders. With four main responsibilities – homeowner education, warranty enforcement, builder licensing, and identifying and prosecuting illegal building – it is, unfortunately, a necessary but extremely valuable body. It is also one you should get to know.

That’s why, beginning next issue, we’re going to run regular content on Tarion, to help educate readers on what the organization does and how it can help.

Just like for cars or electronic devices, all manufacturers and products are not created equal. Learning about your new-home builder and warranty is a crucial part of the homebuying process.

Wayne Karl EDITOR Wall2Wall Media, wayne.karl@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/WayneKarl

PUBLISHED BY

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

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

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

COPYRIGHT 2013: 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. Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada.

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.

10 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEB 16 - MAR 2, 2013

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U9041_NHC_SWO_Feb16_U9041_NHC_SWO_Feb16 2/11/13 4:48 PM Page 1

10,000

$

CASH BACK

*

On All Freehold Townhomes! Limited Time Only!

5% Down • Flexible ‘Low Deposit’ Program Executive Freehold Towns Spacious Detached Homes

249,900 324,900

$ From

$ From

• Located on historic Beamsville Fairgrounds site • New 46,000 sq. ft. community centre with public library & hockey arena steps away • Short commute to GTA, Niagara Region and border

BU

LAKE ONTARIO

RL

IN

GT ON

BEAMSVILLE

W PK LL HI D

BEAMSVILLE SALES CENTRE

SERENA DR. KI NG ST .

ONTARIO ST.

BARTON ST.

NIAGARA

GRIMSBY

ONTARIO ST.

RE

QEW STONEY CREEK

FIFTY RD.

N

EXIT

64 CENTENNIAL PKWY.

Y.

SK YW AY HAMILTON

MAY ST.

DOWNTOWN BEAMSVILLE

IMPORTANT: Take Ontario St. (Hwy #18)/Beamsville Exit #64 Do Not Take Ontario St./Grimsby exit

504

$

Bi-Weekly

From

OWNERSHIP MADE EASY!

Live In The

†

Of Downtown Beamsville.

Sales Office Hours & Location Sales Centre: Intersection of Ontario & May Street, (Serena Drive), Beamsville Hours: Monday - Thursday 1pm - 6pm Saturday & Sunday 12pm - 5pm Fridays by appointment only

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

289.566.8889

† Calculation results are approximations and for information purposes only. The calculations assumes all payments are made when due. Calculations assume that the interest rate would remain constant over the entire amortization period, but actual interest rates may vary over the amortization period. Price includes P&I and is based on buyer using $10,000 incentive to lower purchase price and providing 20% deposit. Price has been rounded by two decimal places – actual amount $504.25. * Cash Back refers to discount off purchase price that will be credited upon final statement of adjustments towards sale price.

Illustrations are artist’s concept. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. February 2013.

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coverstory

Empire launches four new model homes in Summerlea Two brand new designs come to popular Hamilton community

T

he popular community of SumInterior design by Decorenza, the new Manhattan design is set on a merlea in Binbrook launched four 44-ft. homesite and features four bedrooms with four ensuite baths. This fully decorated new model homes, spacious 2,921-sq.-ft. home boasts details such as a huge, open concept including two brand new designs this past kitchen, large foyer with its own built-in bench and an expansive walkweekend and the response was very excit- in closet, a welcoming entertaining space on the main level and a mud ing. Many of the visitors to the showroom room off the garage also with a built-in bench, great for taking those had been eagerly awaiting these models winter boots on and off. The most striking feature of The Manhattan is and were not disappointed. its massive master bedroom and ensuite, which comprises one-half of Already a big hit with purchasers, the the second floor. The master bath includes couples’ sinks, separate his quaint, vibrant neighbourhood of Sum- and hers walk-in closets, separate shower and baths and a make-up bar. merlea features charming freehold town- A laundry room on the second level makes laundry days a breeze. Prices homes, as well as detached homes on vari- for the Manhattan start at $396,990. ous homesite sizes.

The second new design is the Hampton, a 2,137-sq.-ft. home on a

14

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EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Summerlea

30-ft. homesite. Features of the Hampton include an open concept designer kitchen and two family rooms, including one which is two storeys. Prices for the Hampton start at $326,990.

Summerlea is also featuring two new model homes for the already-popular 2,214-sq.-ft. Hudson model and the 2,683-sq.-ft. Lanier model. Prices for the Hudson and the Lanier start at $357,990 and $381,990, respectively.

Empire has created several different elevations for these popular home designs with fabulous layouts and lots of space for families. Some of the homes feature a spacious open concept design encompassing two family rooms, a large eat-in kitchen with a walk-in pantry, an office nook off the kitchen, perfect for checking the Internet for a new recipe. These homes are great for enjoying time with family or entertaining

with a group of friends.

Located just minutes from downtown Hamilton, life at Summerlea offers the best of small town country living with all the amenities of the big city just around the corner. Whether it’s exploring the Lake Niapenco reservoir, hiking the Binbrook Conservation Area, swimming in its waterways, or golfing on its world class courses, outdoor living is a feature attraction in this part of Southwestern Ontario.

Empire Communities is one of the region’s leading builders and has provided local families with outstanding homes in Hamilton, Ancaster, Dundas and Stoney Creek.

To learn more, visit empirecommunities.com or contact the sales office at 905.692.6000 or via email at summerlea@empirecommunities.com

location Binbrook housing type Detached homes and freehold townhomes contact 905.692.6000 summerlea@empirecommunities.com empirecommunities.com

feb 16 - mar 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 15

014-015 Cover Story Empire_JY-WK.indd 15

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Model Home

Grand

Opening

BILD 2012 HOME BUILDER OF THE YEAR

CHBA 2011 GRAND SAM AWARD WINNER

Sizes, prices and specifications are correct at press time and subject to change without notice. All illustrations are artist始s concept. The ENERGY STAR庐 mark is administered and promoted in Canada by Natural Resources Canada. Used with permission. *See sales representative for complete details. E.&O.E.

WQ-1169 NHG SWO DPS 02.16.13.indd 1 016-017-Geranium-Sally Creek 02-16-13.indd 16

2/13/13 3:24:57 PM

e

d

g

Woodstock’s Premier Four Season Golf Course Community Geranium Homes Presents 3 Spectacular Model Homes By Acclaimed Designer Bryon Patton! ✔ 4 season adult lifestyle golf course community. ✔ Fabulous bungalows with loft options. ✔ Sensational walk-out and golf course lots. ✔ Steps to Sally Creek Golf Course, Bistro and on site residents only recreation centre. ✔ Minutes to the new Woodstock Hospital, downtown shopping and dining, Theatre Woodstock and Highway 401 and 403.

Semi-Links & 50’ Lots

$

from

up to

2,719 sq.ft.

17 59

r w D evie Lak y

geraniumhomes.com

SITE & SALES CENTRE Dundas St h Ave Norwic

519-290-3466

2

Rd

t Mill S

Saturday, Sunday, Monday – Wednesday 11 am – 5 pm. Or by appointment

Ave

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a

Sales Centre Hours:

Rd

rt sitta Van

289,900

rd Oxfo

401

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ered

BA L L A N T R A E • S TO U F F V I L L E • P O RT H O P E • WO O D S TO C K

17

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2/13/13 3:25:01 PM

LONDON

hot sheet

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!

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

new releases

new openings

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

geranium homes Woodstock | The Village at Sally Creek Now open – semi-linked and fully detached bungalows and bungalowlofts in this adult lifestyle community. geraniumhomes.com

rembrandt homes London | River West Third and final phases coming soon for this bungalow condos surrounded by a beautiful garden oasis. rembrandt-homes.ca

claysam homes Woodstock | Sally Creek Premium twin town designs now including finished basements. claysamhomes.com

Sifton properties Ingersoll | HarrisView Phase One now available – new homes located just minutes from Hwy. 401; small town charm close to schools, parks, greenspace and amenities. sifton.com

18 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

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Wingham

London:

Wingham, Goderich, Clinton, Mitchell, Stratford, Woodstock, Ingersoll, Tillsonburg, Aylmer, St. Thomas, Strathroy, Dunwich Goderich 8 21

4

Clinton 4

Kitchener Waterloo

8

Mitchell

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Grand Bend

Stratford

24 101

7 19

4

7 8

New Hamburg

To K i t c h e n e r

401 7 403

Woodstock

London

21

Ingersoll

4 402

Strathroy

19

Hyde Park

White Oak 402

401

Norwich Tillsonburg

4 3

St. Thomas

Aylmer

3

401

Dunwich

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Tillsonburg

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Woodstock

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feb 16 - mar 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 19

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inthenews

“Together we worked to update the Ontario Building Code and explore opportunities to improve Ontario’s land-use planning system.”

Ontario home builders ready to work with

Premier Wynne

The Ontario Home Builders’

Association (OHBA) congratulates Kathleen Wynne on her election as the new leader of the Ontario Liberal Party and Ontario’s 25th Premier of Ontario.

“OHBA has a long and productive history with Premier Wynne,” says Joe Vaccaro, COO of OHBA. “Premier Wynne, in her various roles as Minister, has always found time to meet with OHBA and discuss issues of mutual concern. We welcome Premier Wynne’s plan to govern and believe that in order to build a stronger Ontario we must have a healthy economy and a stable government. We look forward to continued communication and dialogue with the Premier.”

OHBA’s past president, Doug Tarry, and current president, Leith Moore, were among the first among industry leaders to meet with the premier following her ap-

pointment as the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

It was slightly more than a year ago that Premier Wynne served as the keynote speaker at OHBA’s 2012 Annual Industry Leaders’ Dinner, addressing more than 300 industry leaders as the Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

“Together we worked to update the Ontario Building Code and explore opportunities to improve Ontario’s land-use planning system,” says Vaccaro, adding, “OHBA is ready and eager to work on these and other issues including the College of Trades and fighting the underground economy.”

OHBA will continue working with the Premier to build a stronger economy, improve infrastructure across the province and deliver necessary transit across Ontario while focusing on improve housing affordability and choice.

The Ontario Home Builders’ Association is the voice of the residential construction industry in Ontario representing 4,000 member companies organized into 30 local associations across the province. The industry contributes more than $42 billion to Ontario’s economy, employing more than 325,000 people across the province.

20 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

020 News OHBA_JY-WK.indd 20

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dream

Believe

achieve

in home ownership in Woodstock

per month P&I*

from

MODEL HOME p Road

Townshi

OWNERSHIP

2

Oxford

ire Ave

Affordable Home

Devonsh

Road 4

e

wne Av Lansdo

s Dunda

St 401

n Rd

Parkinso

e Rd

Towerlin

403 401

For information contact the Model Home at 519.421.1077 or William Cattle direct at 519.868.6447

Single family homes minutes from Toyota Manufacturing and 401

Neighbourhoods of Devonshire brings you peaceful and attainable family living in the growing community of Woodstock. With convenient highway access and all major amenities just minutes away, Claysam offers you the perfect opportunity to own your home.

visit us online for model hours claysamhomes.com *Limited time offer. $783.00 per month based at 2.5%, 5 year closed mortgage amortized over 25 years with 25% down payment on purchase price of $219,900. P&I only.

Applicable to the price of the home and does not include upgrades. Please visit the sales center for details. Offer and conditions may be subject to change without notice. E. & O. E.

believe you can have it all 21

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inthenews

Report finds Canadians plan to

save nearly $10,000 in 2013

dent, Personal Banking, BMO Bank of Montreal. “While it’s important to pay down debt – particularly high-interest debt – it’s essential that households build themselves a financial cushion as well, whether it be for retirement or other goals.”

Yet, despite the positive nature of the findings, the poll shows the optimism is tempered by the fact that only half (48 per cent) say they are saving enough to meet their goals, with high expenses (71 per cent), low income (65 per cent), and debt repayment (52 per cent) cited as the top barriers to increased savings.

The personal savings rate in Canada, calculated by Statistics Canada, currently lies near historic lows at 3.9 per cent. By comparison, the rate climbed above six per cent during the height of the latest recession, and reached almost 20 per cent in the early 1980s.

Canadians who are planning to

save in 2013 are aiming to put away an average of $9,859 in order to meet their goals – an increase of nearly $600 over last year, or approximately seven per cent.

This is one of the findings of a new BMO Household Savings Report conducted by Pollara, which also revealed the different investment vehicles people plan to use to reach their savings goals: ›› T he majority of Canadians use a Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP) or a chequing account (63 per cent and 57 per cent, respectively) ›› Half (49 per cent) use a Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) ›› One-third (29 per cent) use a high-interest savings account ›› Another 25 per cent put their savings in Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs)

The report also identified the most common savings goals in 2013 among Canadians: ›› Retirement savings and emergency savings tied for second (42 per cent respectively) on the priority list ›› Nearly one-third of Canadians are putting aside money for home renovations, while 20 per cent will be saving towards the purchase of a new vehicle ›› Education savings are on the priority list for 19 per cent of Canadians, followed by the purchase of a new home (15 per cent) ›› Vacations and the purchase of luxury items, entertainment and hobbies topped the list, with 66 per cent of Canadians putting cash away for these purchases

“It’s encouraging to see Canadians are planning to maintain or increase their per- “It is sometimes difficult to balance financial priorities and responsibilisonal savings this year, particularly as we ties with spending on items and experiences we enjoy,” notes Johannson. look to balance increasing debt loads and “However, given the economic realities, it is key that we don’t let the turn around decreasing rates of savings,” nice-to-dos overshadow our must-dos. Having a balanced savings apsays Ernie Johannson, Senior Vice Presi- proach allows us to live for today while saving for our future goals.”

Planned Savings for 2013 by Region and Gender region

gender

atl

qc

on

mb/sk

ab

bc

men

women

$6,698

$5,477

$10,465

$9,702

$18,035

$11,109

$11,631

$8,091

22 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

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BP2013 NH&C Ad1:Layout 1

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Great Friends, Wonderful Recreation, Fabulous Shopping, Quality Homes

UNBEATABLE You can’t beat the new home value at Baldwin Place. Onsite fully-equipped recreation centre, all major shopping and extensive medical facilities right in town.

Come and see for yourself why Baldwin Place is so popular with retirees of all ages.

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E.& O.E. Prices & Specifications are subject to change without notice. feb 16 - mar 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 23

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taxmatters

Canadians relying on RRSPs for retirement but not necessarily contributing: Scotiabank Poll

With the RRSP contribution deadline just weeks away,

Scotiabank’s annual Investment Poll found that two-thirds of Canadians who plan to retire say their RRSPs will be their source of retirement funding (65 per cent), yet half of Canadians say they do not plan to contribute to their RRSPs this tax season (49 per cent).

“We want to encourage as many Canadians as possible to consider contributing to an RRSP and take advantage of this important investment opportunity as part of their overall financial plan,” says Mike Henry, senior vice-president, retail payment, deposits and lending, Scotiabank.

“It is a bit worrying that people might be relying on investments that they have yet to make. Even making small contributions every month or year can really help your plans down the line.”

In addition to their RRSPs, top sources of retirement funding for Canadians include their savings (60 per cent), the government (57 per cent), work pension (52 per cent) and selling their home (22 per cent).

Two-thirds of those who expect to retire say they are concerned about not having enough money to support their retirement (68 per cent).

Four in 10 of those who expect to retire in the future (41 per cent) think they will need less than $300,000 for their ideal retirement. Over the past five years, Canadians say they have saved an average of $24,469 (this is down from the $31,824 they reported saving over a five year period in 2011).

The study also found that four-in-10 Canadians who are currently saving for retirement (44 per cent) have been doing so for the past one to 10 years. As well, more people are setting aside less than $200 each month (43 per cent versus 34 per cent in 2011).

“As I like to tell my pre-retirement clients, there is no one dollar amount that you’ll need for your retirement as every person’s idea of retirement

is unique,” says Bev Moir, senior wealth advisor, retirement planning at ScotiaMcLeod. “The key is to start investing early, invest regularly and stay invested. Having a financial plan in place to help you map out what you can do throughout the year is a simple way to stay on track and look forward to making that all-important RRSP contribution worry-free. From automatic contributions to your RRSPs to choosing financial products that help you save as you spend, a financial advisor can help you develop a plan to suit your lifestyle.”

Additional findings from the study found that while many Canadians say they are optimistic about the future of the Canadian economy (46 per cent), a growing number of Canadians who have yet to retire say they have pushed back their planned retirement age because of the state of the economy (33 per cent versus 27 per cent in 2011).

The majority of those planning to hold off on retiring say they have pushed their retirement back by five to nine years (58 per cent). A smaller group of Canadians say they plan to push it back by 10 or more years (27 per cent).

24 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

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2/14/13 11:00:22 AM

The Best of Both Worlds

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themortgageminute

mortgage smarts

SEPARATING FACT FROM FICTION FOR FIRST-TIME BUYERS

by PETER KINCH

IF YOU’RE A FIRST-TIME HOME-

buyer, you’re hearing a lot of talk in the real estate market these days. Will prices go up? Will the market crash?

Will I ever be able to afford a house?

How will the new mortgage rule changes affect me? How will I ever pay off this debt?

It’s easy to get caught up in all the noise, but harder to separate the fact from the fiction. As I edge closer to celebrating my first half century on this planet, I find myself using the phrase “If I knew then…” more and Time is your ally. more – which got me thinking about Time can turn next wave of any bad real estate the first-time homebuydecision into a ers, and what pearls good one. of wisdom I could bestow on them.

I had an interesting conversation with a colleague the other day regarding property values in Vancouver. He relayed me a story of a friend who had bought a house on the west side of Vancouver in the mid 1990s and it is now worth more than four times the amount he paid. In terms of equity, it was the equivalent of winning the lottery. We pondered the question, what will people be saying 20 to 25 years from now? Is it quite possible that a young 25-yearold couple today might look back in the year 2033 and say “If only we had bought that house back in 2013? Why didn’t we? Oh yeah, there were new mortgage rules and a lot of global uncertainty….” here are a few things that i’ve learned about real estate 1. Real estate has peaks and valleys, but there has never been a future peak that is lower than the past one. Just give it time.

2. Time is your ally. Time can turn any bad real estate decision into a good one.

3. Equity is your safety net. It can supplement a pension and give you financial options in later years.

4. Your mortgage is a forced savings program.

26 New home & coNdo Guide Swo | fEb 16 - mAR 2, 2013

026-027 Peter Kinch Mortgage Minute-DN-WK.indd 26

2/14/13 11:00:25 AM

Peter Kinch is an award-winning mortgage broker and best-selling author of The Canadian Real Estate Action Plan Visit peterkinch.com or contact him at peter@peterkinch.com

heated housing market. Again, this is to the advantage of first-time buyers because it will help to bring house prices back within your range.

So let’s assume that 20 to 25 years from now, you’ll be looking back and saying to yourself one of two things ›› I ’m sure glad I bought that first house, or ›› I wish I had just bought something back in 2013 A lot of people are in this situation today and paralyzed by all the noise around them. And in the absence of facts or perspective, fear will take over. So what are the factors that are influencing your decisions today?

Global uncertainty There is no doubt that we live in an age of global uncertainty and face the threat of financial chaos in Europe and a pending credit crisis in the U.S. However, this is not the first time our world has faced these challenges, and it won’t be the last. The key factor to look at is what you can control in your world. Ask yourself about your own employment options – your own employment future.

The key to creating long-term wealth in real estate through equity is your ability to afford your monthly mortgage payments and making them consistently over a long period of time – regardless of what is happening on the other side of the world. If you do so, one day you’ll wake up and realize two things: 1. Your mortgage is paid off, and 2. Your house is worth more than the day you bought it – regardless of what happened during the years in between.

New mortgage rules Yes, there are new mortgage rules that have been implemented over the past Your mortgage is paid few years, but in some respects, this could be to your advantage. Many off, and your house is So if you’re a first-time homebuyer in first-time homebuyers are unaware here’s my advice to you: create worth more than the 2013, that you can still buy a home with as a budget that you can afford and be day you bought it – little as five per cent down. The main comfortable with. Buy a home that regardless of what rule change that impacts your ability does not put a strain on your budget. to afford a home is that you can no happened during the Focus on taking baby steps and don’t longer access a 30-year amortization. get overwhelmed by the big picture. years in between.

Your payments will now be deterMake the monthly payments into that mined based on you paying off that forced savings program called a mortmortgage over a maximum 25-year period. Although this gage, and then let time be your friend and real estate will does make your payments a little higher in the beginning, do what it has done for many generations before – eventuit increases the amount of equity you build with each ally go up as your mortgage goes down – and that is what payment (remember your forced savings plan). we call “creating equity.”

In addition, the rule changes imposed by the governAnd then maybe, just maybe, as you’re about to celment have had the exact effect they were hoping to ac- ebrate your first half century on this planet, you‘ll look complish, which was to slow what was becoming an over- back and say, “I’m glad I got started in 2013.”

feb 16 - mar 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 27

026-027 Peter Kinch Mortgage Minute-DN-WK.indd 27

2/14/13 11:00:26 AM

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hot sheet

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

Ancaster Beamsville Binbrook Brant Brantford Burlington Catharines Grimsby Hamilton Milton

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

new openings

new releases

eastforest homes Simcoe | Woodway Trails Single-detached homes on 45-ft.-wide lots, as well as semis. woodwaytrails.ca

Great gulf homes Thorold | Rolling Meadows Model homes now open for this upcoming community of singles on 42- and 50-ft. lots from 1,845 to 3,035 sq. ft. greatgulf.com

empire communities Stoney Creek | Victory New release of 34-ft detached home designs, and 42-ft. homes coming soon. victoryempire.com

adi development group Burlington | Mod’rn Condominium Register now for this four-storey condo in the heart of Burlington. adidevelopments.com

menkes & fernbrook homes Oakville | Millstone on the Park Urban towns close to schools, shopping, major highways and more. millstonepark.ca

empire communities Hamilton | Summerlea New release of freehold townhomes to go along with 30-, 36- and 44-ft. detached homes. empirecommunities.com

Bayview-wellington homes Niagara | Niagara on the Green Register now for these executive townhomes backing onto the Royal Niagara Golf Course. bwhomes.ca

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

branthaven homes Grimsby | Bravo by the Lake Phase 2 lot release coming soon, in masterplanned community of two- and three-storey lakeside townhomes. branthaven.com

new horizon homes Brant County | Royal Highland Estates Now under construction – custom bungalows on large estate lots. newhorizonhomes.ca

countrygreen homes Hamilton | West Bloom Premium lots available in this intimate enclave of 35 single-family homes. countrygreenhomes.com

autumn lea developments Welland | Silverwood Manor Freehold bungalow townhomes with doublecar garges and stylish designs – now under construction.

905.401.3610 or 905.321.5440

brookfield homes Brantford | Grand Valley Trails New release of bungalow towns; also parkside singles and attached singles. brookfieldgrandvalley.ca

branthaven homes Waterdown | The Portraits Coming soon, intimate collection of just 47 townhomes in a landscaped enclave. branthaven.com dawn victoria homes Burlington | Village West Register now for this small enclave of urban townhomes on Plains Road West. Ideal for commuters and young families due to proximity to the GO station, QEW, parks and downtown. dawnvictoriahomes.com tobyn park homes Burlington | ParkCity Coming soon to Burlington – condos with a two-acre private park with landscaped walkways, green rolling hills and ground floor terraces. parkcityliving.ca

eastforest homes Brantford | D’Aubigny Forest Estates New model now open for these singles on 40-ft. lots. eastforesthomes.com Bayview Wellington homes St. Catharines | Victoria Village New model homes grand opening – affordable lifestyle, overlooking the historic Welland Canal. bwhomes.ca

dicenzo homes Niagara | Blueshores Final phase released – waterside living in luxury singles, attached singles and towns. blueshores.info spallacci homes Hamilton | Eden Park Phase 4 release of exceptional 32and 40-ft. lots. spallaccihomes.com

feb 16 - mar 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 29

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Paris

Port Dover

Grimsby

Smithville

Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Ancaster, Paris, Brantford, Stoney Creek, Vineland, Lincoln, Thorold, Fonthill, Niagara, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Fort Erie

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

Thorold Fonthill

Ridgeway

Chippawa

Fort Erie

Prices

Ancaster

Rosehaven Homes

Tiffany Hill

•

Beamsville

Homes By DeSantis

Lincoln Square

•

•

Beamsville

cambridge homes

Brownstones at the Vineyards

Beamsville

losani

Discovery

Beamsville

Mountainview Homes

Binbrook

from $460's

37

from $249,900

11

•

from $246,900

38

•

from the $300's

49

Hillside Estates

•

•

from $274,900

9

losani

The Fairgrounds

•

•

•

from the $300's

49

Binbrook

losani

Parkside

•

from the $200's

49

Brantford

eastforest homes

Vista Hills

•

from $389,990

39

Brantford

Empire communities

Wyndfield

•

•

from $191,990

2&3

Brantford

brookfield homes

Grand Valley Trails

•

•

from $219,990

36

Burlington

adi development

Mod'rn Condominium

•

from the $200's

51

Burlington

tobyn park homes

ParkCity

•

from the $180's

53

Caledon

monarch

The Village of SouthFields

•

•

from high $300's 54&55

Chippawa

Rosehaven homes

Lyon's Creek

•

•

from low $300's

37

East Hamilton

losani

Green Hill Glen

•

•

•

from the $270's

49

Fonthill

Mountainview Homes

The Residences at Lookout

•

•

from $315,900

9

Georgetown

menkes

The Enclaves of Upper Canada

•

•

from $409,990

41

Grimsby

Branthaven homes

Bravo! By the Lake

•

from $219,990

12

Hamilton

Country Green Homes

WestBloom

•

from $329,900

7

Hamilton

empire communities

Summerlea

•

from $221,990

2&3

Hamilton

new horizon

City Square

•

from $252,990

32

Hamilton

SPALLACCI homes

Eden Park

•

33

Hamilton

winzen

Stoneridge

•

from the $300's

44

Hamilton

winzen

The Kensington

•

from low $200's

44

Niagara

Mountainview Homes

Thundering Waters

•

•

•

from high $200's

9

Niagara Falls

Mountainview Homes

Deerfield Estates

•

•

from $224,900

9

Niagara Falls

Mountainview Homes

Fernwood

•

•

from $202,900

9

Niagara on the Lake BW Homes

Niagara on the Green

•

•

from low $200's

4

Oakville

MENKES

Millstone

•

from $299,990

40

Ridgeway

Mountainview Homes

Beaver Creek Estates

•

from $283,900

9

St. Catharines

BW HOMES

Victoria Village

•

from $260,900

5

Stoney Creek

BRANTHAVEN homes

Paramount

•

from $200,000

13

Stoney Creek

empire communities

Victory

•

•

from $276,990

2&3

Thorold

great gulf

Thorold

•

from $307,990

78&79

Thorold

Mountainview Homes

West Community

•

•

•

from $239,900

9

Thorold

Rosehaven homes

Gibson Heights

•

•

from $240,000's

37

Welland

autumn lea developments inc. Silverwood Manor

•

from low $200's

45

Welland

Mountainview Homes

•

from $213,900

9

Harvest Estates

•

Page

•

•

•

•

•

Oakville, Burlington, Hamilton, Ancaster, Paris, Brantford, Stoney Creek, Vineland, Lincoln, Thorold, Fonthill, Niagara, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Fort Erie

Builders SiteS

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

De t.

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

Location

31

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Spallacci_EdenPark_PHASE4_NHC_Sept11_HR.pdf

1

12-09-12

10:27 AM

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communityfocus

Grand Valley Trails in Brantford presents the best in the west for less

A

ffordability and a grand setting go hand in hand at Brookfield Homes’ kitchen, luxurious ensuite and main or master-planned community of Grand Valley Trails in Brantford. upper floor laundry. Two homes are under This is where first-time and move-up buyers can discover the home construction with July occupancy available. of their dreams at prices that address both ends of the homebuying spec- Right now, when you purchase an attached trum. Homeowners can celebrate the good fortune they’ve discovered here single, you will receive stainless steel appliat a spring event Saturday, March 31, with an egg hunt for the kids and ances and air conditioning. light refreshments.

Attached single models such as the Along with affordability, is the increased value you’ll find at Grand Niagara rival detached singles for design and Valley Trails. Entry-level prices begin at $209,990 for freehold homes of space. At 1,830 sq. ft., it offers a three- or 1,050 to 1,830 sq. ft. built as attached singles, a breakthrough idea that four-bedroom plan, including a master suite offers single-family homes in every sense. Privacy and soundproofing is with walk-in closet. Its luxury ensuite includes maintained as they are attached only at the garage. They enjoy all the a corner tub and separate shower. On the other benefits of detached living including the ability to customize inte- main floor, you’ll find a family room that spans rior colours and selections at Brookfield’s Inspiration Studio. The extensive the width of the home, a kitchen with a breaklist of features includes a generous backyard with direct access, and single- fast area, as well as a dining room, powder and double-car garages. Each of these attached singles will have a gourmet room and full laundry room. The garage offers

34 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

034-035 CF Brookfield_JY-WK.indd 34

2/14/13 11:00:29 AM

BROOKFIELD HOMES

Grand Valley Trails

location Brantford housing type Attached singles from the low $200,000s, 36and 43-ft. singles from $249,990 contact 519.720.9500 1.888.720.9508 brookfieldhomes.ca

a door to the home as well as access to the yard for the ultimate in convenience.

The Birch, at 1,295 sq. ft., is a smaller plan but with many of the same features including a master suite with walk-in closet and shared bath, and a main floor with spacious family room, kitchen and breakfast room, powder room and garage access to the home and the yard.

In addition, there are two collections of detached singles designed for 36- and 43-ft. lots with many that are extra deep for added privacy. Lots of these sizes are few and far between in the GTA, and yet they are standard fare at Grand Valley Trails where you’ll find a detached single of 1,300 sq. ft. with a double-car garage starting at $249,990.

For those wanting to be as close to nature as possible, there is a limited release of parkside settings on 36- and 43-ft. lots with some offering walkout and lookout lots. These premium-priced lots offer placement along the creek, walkways and natural woodlots.

Be inspired by Brookfield’s three model homes, including two Energy Star qualified homes and the Stuart, a home dressed with Brookfield’s high level of standard features as it strives to educate homebuyers about the environmentallyconscious options available to them. Energy Star homes have been found to be about 30 per cent more energy efficient than homes built to standard construction codes.

For a limited time, every home at Grand Valley Trails includes nine-ft. ceilings on the main floor and granite counters – a great housewarming gift for those entering home ownership for the first time. Commuters recognize the value as well as the community’s proximity to Hwy. 403 for easy access to Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo and the GTA. Grand Valley Trails offers a refreshing blend of natural tranquility and city living. Situated right along the Trans Canada Trail, you’ll discover over three hectares of greenspace right within the community making it a grand place to live. feb 16 - mar 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 35

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36 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEB 16 - MAR 2, 2013

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It’s the feeling Rosehaven designs into some of the most desirable homes in Southern Ontario.

Homes that are as unique as you are. So choose Rosehaven and every time you step through the front door you’ll say I am happy, I am comfortable… I am home!

Chippawa / Niagara - Lyon’s Creek Construction well underway!

New 35’ bungalow loft towns & 50’ singles from the low $300’s.

Lyon’s Creek Blvd. & Sodom Rd., east of the QEW

Thorold - Gibson Heights Model home inventory release! Towns, semis & attached singles from the $240’s.

Plus 45’, 40’ & 36’ lots from $300’s.

Richmond St. & Winterberry Blvd., south of Hwy. 58

Ancaster - Tiffany Hill Luxury stone, stucco & brick detached homes on 45’ lots from the $460’s and 4 models to tour!

Garner Rd. E. & Raymond Rd., east of Hwy. 6

Also building communities in Nobleton, Brampton & Kleinburg.

For directions, hours, community information, visit:

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

037-Rosehaven Homes 02-02-13.indd 37

37

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communityfocus

The Kensington in Ancaster SHOWCASES WINZEN’S STYLE AND SUBSTANCE

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ow under construction, Winzen is building boutique condominiums to offer luxurious style and substance for a carefree lifestyle with modern convenience and classic charm.

Located at 95 Wilson St., The Kensington stands at only three storeys high, creating an intimate collection of 39 condominiums, only minutes from the heart of old Ancaster. Ranging from 636 to 721 sq. ft., they are bright and airy with a touch of elegance, perfect for those looking to simplify their lives but not their tastes.

With that in mind, the building amenities include an outdoor patio space, perfect for entertaining friends and family. Residents can look forward to spending summers under the gazebo, barbecuing or enjoying the lounge area.

An exterior of stone and brick complements the surrounding homes with a façade that resembles the estates you’ll find in this history community. Inside, each suite features nine-ft. ceilings with a California finish, a choice of plush 50-ounce broadloom or laminate flooring throughout the living spaces, with ceramics underfoot in the kitchen bathroom and foyer.

The open-concept design maintains an easy flow as the kitchen opens into the living/dining area. A breakfast bar is an essential aspect of the easy-living lifestyle at The Kensington. Maple and oak cabinetry contributes a sense of simple elegance. There are four floorplans available with the larger suites offering a den. With Winzen’s Smart

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WINZEN

The Kensington

location Ancaster housing type Condos from 636 to 721 sq. ft., from the low $200,000s sales centre 95 Wilson St. contact 905.575.7070 | winzen.ca

Home Wiring Package, the suites will come pre-wired with hook-ups for Internet, cable and phone. As a registered builder with Tarion Warranty Corp., Winzen guarantees each home it builds meets all building codes and standards while providing a comfortable and welcoming place to call home.

Ancaster enjoys a fabulous location along the Niagara Escarpment.

It is conveniently located between Brantford and Hamilton and minutes from Hwy. 403, the LINC and McMaster University. The Kensington is just a short walk to grocery stores, banks and dining spots. It will enjoy the old world charm of downtown Ancaster with its picturesque shops, boutiques and services, while the Meadlowlands shopping centre and its retail offerings is a short drive away.

This enchanting town is home to an abundance of natural beauty.

Offering a variety of recreational activities as well as an array of shopping and dining destinations, the town is as exciting as it is charming. With access to The Ancaster Rotary Centre, Morgan Firestone Arena and swimming pools, not to mention a short drive to Dundas Valley Conservation Area and direct access to the famous Bruce Trail, Ancaster offers year-round recreation for walkers, runners, hikers, cyclists, equestrians, cross-country skiers and snowshoers.

Winzen has been building quality homes in southern Ontario for more than 25 years and is dedicated to meeting the needs, wants and lifestyles of their homebuyers. A commitment to professionalism, quality workmanship and customer satisfaction is the Winzen promise while making their clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; dream home a reality.

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WIN 248 NHC HP Combo Ad-resize__ 10/10/12 12:36 PM Page 1

LAST CHANCE TO LIVE Only a few lots remainin IN THE AREA’S MOST g!

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Stoneridge on Tiffany Creek Mon. to Thurs. 3pm - 6pm, Fri. by appt.

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cityfocus

Ancaster A bedroom community with dream amenities for residents

by Wayne Karl

Ancaster at a glance Population

33,000

Major employers

Manufacturing, health care, education, retail Average home prices*

dec. 2012: $360,059 dec. 2011: $333,498

Distance from Toronto

75 kilometres

Source Canadian Real Estate Association,

other sources; *Hamilton-Burlington & District

J

udging by population growth alone, Ancaster is the place to be.

But thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s much more than that to this thriving bedroom community adjacent to Hamilton. Its historical village of shops, pubs and restaurants and an abundance of recreational walking trails and scenic surroundings and even a tiny, treed roadway known as Lovers Lane make it a picture-perfect community in which to live and raise a family.

Ancaster presents an intriguing dichotomy that offers an old-town atmosphere that contrasts with new-home communities and substantial retail services wrapped within greenspace and

conservation lands. Ancaster is one of five other communities absorbed by the city of Hamilton in 2001. From 1970 to the present, the population has essentially doubled to 33,000. Even in 1823, Ancaster had the largest population in Upper Canada with 1,681 townspeople in comparison to Torontoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1,376 and Hamiltonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 1,000 residents.

Located on the Niagara escarpment, the former town offers a 200year history of industry, agriculture and military. Ancaster was settled in the 1790s and played a role in the War of 1812. By the 1830s, Ancaster was the commercial centre for the area. In an age before electricity, Ancaster was

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able to tap an abundance of energy through its mills from streams and creeks within a break in the escarpment. It is located at the end of Mohawk Rd., which, in the 18th century, was one of the most important transportation routes in Upper Canada, making it a strong candidate for capital of Upper Canada. Unfortunately, transportation was key to economic success in those days. The Desjardins Canal was built in the rival village of Dundas giving lakers access and the railroad was introduced to Hamilton – both drawing industry away from Ancaster and ending its days as a commercial hub.

Fortunately, agriculture ensured Ancaster remained a vibrant community.

Today, local markets such as Lindley’s Farm & Market and Carluke Orchards draw visitors to their seasonal outdoor events as well as to purchase locally grown fruits and vegetables. The Ancaster Fair remains a popular attraction each fall for farmers and visitors alike.

Ancaster’s population began to increase after the Second World War when subdivisions around the village were established. The population increased again with the completion of the Hamilton-Ancaster section of Hwy. 403 in 1968 and the introduction of sewer systems in 1974. True to history, Ancaster offers the most growth of the five communities within Hamilton, and has double the growth rate of the province of Ontario. Ancaster’s population of very young is the fastest growing in Hamilton, a figure attributed to the family-oriented lifestyle and sense of community in this area. At the other end of the scale, there is also considerable growth in the population over 65 given the number of adult-lifestyle communities, retirement residences and long-term care facilities that have been built here.

The original farming community of Ancaster began its metamorphosis from old town to shiny new urban centre decades before amalgamation with a small-town atmosphere that drew families and caused a boom in home building and commercial development. Best known is The Meadowlands, a master-planned community of retail and service-oriented businesses designed to serve thousands of new homes that have been built in the past 20 years in the residential component across the road. At the junction of Hwy. 403, just moments from the QEW, and the Lincoln Alexander Pkwy., this prime position places residents within moments of downtown Hamilton and Burlington, Brantford and Stoney Creek. Commuters are a predominant part of the Ancaster population.

In addition to being at the crux of all of the region’s highways and byways, Ancaster is only moments from the John. C. Munro Hamilton International Airport, which is gaining popularity as an alternative to the busier airport in Toronto. Hamilton now has great links with low-cost air carriers to the rest of Canada as well as charter flights to a variety of destinations.

As part of the amalgamated city of Hamilton, Ancaster also has a labour force in flux with the downsizing and closure of a number of manufacturing operations. But, being a bedroom community, employment in Ancaster isn’t dependent on operations only within the town, but also the opportunities beyond. Residents of Ancaster can be found in the employ of Hamilton’s largest employer – Hamilton Health Sciences and the five hospitals under feb 16 - mar 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 47

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Along much of the escarpment lies the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, that protects part of the carolinian forest of southern ontario

its umbrella. Other major employers include McMaster University and the public and separate school boards.

While not the giants they were a decade or more ago, the manufacturing sector and the steel industry remain prime employers in the Hamilton area. Ancaster’s retail sector is thriving with retail giants such as Costco, Walmart and The Home Depot and neighbouring retailers employing hundreds of individuals.

In terms of new-home developments, builders such as Losani Homes, Homes by DeSantis, Rosehaven Homes, Branthaven, Starward, Landmart and Winzen have carved out community niches throughout Ancaster offering luxury townhomes and singles, along with adult-lifestyle options on a grand scale to meet the growing demand for well-adorned

homes in this area where comfortable living is sought after.

The Niagara Escarpment and the Bruce Trail run through the community.

Ancaster serves as the location of the offices of the Hamilton Region Conservation Authority from scenic lands on Mineral Springs Rd. Waterfalls are a notable feature within these lands and include such popular hiking areas as Tiffany Falls. Along much of the escarpment lies the Dundas Valley Conservation Area, that protects part of the Carolinian forest of southern Ontario.

Historic buildings, most notably the Old Town Hall (1871) and the Fieldcote Memorial Park and Museum, are local attractions in the old town.

Ancaster is also home to numerous golf courses including the Hamilton Golf and Country Club, host to the PGA tour in 2003 and 2006, and host of four Canadian Opens. It has been regarded as one of the top golf courses in Canada and ranks second on Canada’s list of best golf courses by Scoregolf magazine.

Recreation got an added boost to serve this growing community with the addition of the Ancaster Rotary Centre and Morgan Firestone Arena. It includes a full-size gym, workout complex and meeting rooms. It is surrounded by the Robert E. Wade Park with four baseball diamonds and five soccer fields. Nearby is the Lions Pool, an outdoor pool still enjoyed throughout the summer months. for more than two centuries, people have been drawn to ancaster’s beauty and location and there are no signs of that slowing down now or in the future.

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Losani_InventoryAD_NHC_Jan29.pdf

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30/01/13

12:24 PM

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... y o

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ANNUA

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Presented By:

FEBRUARY 22-24 th, 2013 New Ancaster Fairgrounds, 630 Trinity Rd at Hwy 2

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A9076_Modrn_NHC_SWO_Feb2-2013_A9076_Modrn_NHC_SWO_Feb2-2013 1/28/13 2:19 PM Page 1

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STRAWBERRY FIELDS IS MAKING A SPLASH INTO THE VILLAGE OF SOUTHFIELDS.

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Prices, specifications and promotions are subject to change without notice. Renderings are artistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s concept and images are for mood and impression only. *Square footage includes finished space in lower level. E.&O.E. Febraury 2013. 20561.

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HHHBAreport

Mathieu Langelier is Executive Officer of the HHHBA. He can be reached at mathieu@hhhba.ca or 905.575.3344.

A RECORD BREAKING YEAR FOR HAMILTON

We are also pleased that the residential construction industry accounted for nearly half of the $1.5 billion worth of building permits. We are proud that our industry generates more than 32,000 jobs in the Hamilton-Halton region, representing more than $1.6 billion in yearly wages. We provided a roof over the heads of close to 3,000 households in 2012 and consequently generated over $7.6 million in new tax revenues for the City. The 2012 numbers show that the residenby MATHIEU LANGELIER tial construction industry is one of the most important drivers of ecoTHE CITY OF HAMILTON RELEASED ITS nomic activity in the region. annual numbers regarding building permits reThis year already looks encouragcently, and reported record breaking figures. ing for our industry, with healthy The Hamilton-Halton Home Builders’ Associa- market forecasts and coming off a tion is very pleased and proud about the City of great year in 2012. Anthony ChiarelHamilton’s new record of $1.5 billion worth of la, HHHBA president, stated, “We building permits issued in 2012. We would like are excited to continue building a to congratulate the City for breaking its previous great Hamilton along with our City record set in 2010, and look forward to working officials and staff and feel that Hamwith our municipality to continue building a ilton is in a great position for many better Hamilton. positive years to come.”

Positive numbers in 2012

56 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEB 16 - MAR 2, 2013

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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 gemini homebuilders Guelph | The Highlands Coming soon – executive townhomes and semis – register today.

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queensgate & losani homes Kitchener | Victoria Common Coming soon – carefree living condo suites and townhomes in downtown Kitchener-Waterloo.

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claysam homes Guelph | Creekside Freehold walkout townhomes starting at $299,900.

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monarch Kitchener | The Poplar

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dunsire developments Kitchener | Mill Creek Village Releasing Phase II – a fresh selection of townhome units with walkouts available, and save at Phase I pricing.

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Following the tremendous success of Waterscape Phase 1, Haastown is now opening the second and final phase of this exclusive condominium community.

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Retirement planning at the click of a mouse: Canadians embrace DIY investing

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manage their investments the same way they make common lifestyle purchases: they go online. The TD Direct Investing Poll found the majority of Canadians now book travel (60 per cent), research car purchases (59 per cent) and buy event tickets (58 per cent) online. Many also enjoy the ease and convenience of the Internet to manage their financial future, with 41 per cent researching investment options online and 22 per cent managing their investments online. In addition, 13 per cent said they invest online more frequently than they did five years ago.

“Self-directed investing is a great way to plan and manage your retirement nest-egg – and it’s never too early to start planning for your golden years,” says Rowena Chan, vice-president, TD Direct Investing. “There is a wide variety of innovative tools and resources available to support investors in their long-term strategies and help them make informed decisions. That’s one of the reasons we recently changed our name to TD Direct Investing from TD Waterhouse Discount Brokerage – to reflect that our services enable investors to personally navigate the markets, and help them become confident and successful investors.”

Going online to maximize your time When you’re busy, you look for ways to make the best use of the limited hours in the day, and cut down unnecessary activities. The poll found that Canadians who perform tasks online rather than the traditional way, say the greatest benefits are: saving time (82 per cent), doing things on their own timeline (75 per cent) and having access to lots of information (55 per cent).

There is a wide variety of innovative tools and resources available to support investors in their long-term strategies and help them make informed decisions. continued on page 66. . .

64 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

064-066 Tax Matters TD Poll_JY-WK.indd 64

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“Even with everything Canadians have on the go, it’s essential to prioritize planning and saving for retirement. The earlier you start, and make it a part of your lifestyle, the easier it will be to accumulate your retirement savings. There are many benefits to managing your own investments – including the ability to view and make changes to your portfolio where and when it’s convenient for you – you have power and control over investing for your financial future.”

With the start of a new year, many are open to trying new things to improve their lifestyle. With the March 1, 2013 RSP deadline just around the corner, Chan offers some tips and online resources that can help you get started and meet your financial goals: Decide what you want, and how you’ll get there: There are helpful tools online such as calculators that will help determine what you need to save for retirement. There is also a variety of research resources online including articles, webinars and online videos.

“When you’re familiar with the investment products available and how they can fit within your portfolio and your retirement savings strategy, you can feel confident that you’re making informed decisions,” says Chan.

dent you are taking the right steps towards a comfortable retirement,” says Chan.

Make your financial Start slowly, then work future a priority: your way up at your own pace: It’s important to invest the time to research, You can start by moving one or a few of your determine your strategy and get comfort- investments online until you’re familiar with able with the different products and plat- the platform and tools. When you’re comforms at your disposal, especially if you’re fortable, you can use direct investing to a new investor. This will give you greater more actively control your entire portfolio. control and flexibility to manage your port“There is a variety of online resources and folio when and where it’s convenient for platforms available, tailored to investors at you, either at home, at work, or on the go any level, from new investors, to experienced with the TD Mobile App. and active traders,” adds Chan. “If you have “When you invest online, you control questions, we have 24/7 support available your portfolio, and you still have access to online and by phone, as well as in-person tools and resources, so you can be confi- support in our 33 investor centres.”

66 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

064-066 Tax Matters TD Poll_JY-WK.indd 66

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CONDOMINIUMS

Gordon St.

CHANGING THE CONDO LANDSCAPE

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Get more at Serene in Guelph from the high $200’s CONDOMINIUM MARKET LOCATION

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Serene in Guelph

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$324,900

KW

$390

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$25,000

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$448

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COST SAVINGS IF CHOOSING SERENE

•

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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

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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

05

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

Multiply this figure by the amount you need to borrow.

Divide by 1,000.

02

06

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

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

03

07

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

04

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

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

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

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

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

72 New Home & CoNDo guiDe swo | FEB 16 - MAR 2, 2013

069_072-073-074TO UPDATE Homebuyers Resource-DN.indd 72

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mortgage paYmeNt CALCULATION CHART % iNterest rates

AMORTIZATION PERIOdS 10 Years

15 Years

20 Years

25 Years

3.00%

9.65

6.90

5.54

4.73

3.25%

9.76

7.02

5.66

4.86

3.50%

9.88

7.14

5.79

4.99

3.75%

9.99

7.26

5.91

5.13

4.00%

10.11

7.38

6.04

5.26

4.25%

10.23

7.50

6.17

5.40

4.50%

10.34

7.63

6.30

5.53

4.75%

10.46

7.75

6.44

5.67

5.00%

10.58

7.88

6.57

5.82

5.25%

10.70

8.01

6.74

5.96

5.50%

10.82

8.14

6.85

6.10

5.75%

10.94

8.27

6.98

6.25

6.00%

11.07

8.40

7.12

6.40

6.25%

11.19

8.53

7.26

6.55

6.50%

11.31

8.66

7.41

6.70

6.75%

11.43

8.80

7.55

6.85

7.00%

11.56

8.93

7.69

7.00

7.25%

11.68

9.07

7.84

7.16

7.50%

11.81

9.21

7.99

7.32

7.75%

11.94

9.34

8.14

7.47

8.00%

12.06

9.48

8.28

7.63

8.25%

12.19

9.62

8.44

7.79

8.50%

12.32

9.76

8.59

7.95 8.12

8.75%

12.45

9.90

8.74

9.00%

12.58

10.05

8.86

8.28

9.25%

12.71

10.19

9.05

8.45

9.50%

12.84

10.33

9.20

8.62

9.75%

12.97

10.48

9.36

8.78

10.00%

13.10

10.63

9.52

8.95

10.25%

13.24

10.77

9.68

9.12

10.50%

13.37

10.92

9.84

9.29

10.75%

13.50

11.06

10.00

9.46

11.00%

13.64

11.22

10.16

9.63

11.25%

13.77

11.36

10.32

9.80

11.50%

13.91

11.52

10.49

9.97

11.75%

14.04

11.66

10.65

10.15

12.00%

14.18

11.82

10.81

10.32

12.25%

14.32

11.97

10.98

10.49

12.50%

14.46

12.13

11.15

10.67

12.75%

14.59

12.28

11.31

10.85

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 FEB 16 - MAR 2, 2013 | New Home & CoNDo guiDe swo 73

069_072-073-074TO UPDATE Homebuyers Resource-DN.indd 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 3

4 6.30op

3.1 6.30op

3.14 3.7 4.39 6.50op

3.19

Alterna Svgs/Alterna Bk 3

4 6.30op

3.05 3.09 3.09 3.29 6.30op

3.24

Bank of Montreal 3.1

4 6.30op

3 3.04 2.79 2.99 6.30op

3.09

Bank of Nova Scotia 3

4.55 6.45op

3.75 3.89 2.79 4.39 6.50op

3.99

Canadian Western Bank

4 6.45op

3.1 3.14 3.7 4.64 6.30op

5.24

CIBC 3.2

6.70op

3 3.14 3.5 4.39 6.35op

5.24

HSBC Bank Canada 3

2.7 3.95 2.98 4.99 6.35op

3.49

ICICI Bank Canada

4.45 6.20op

3.15

3.65

3.64

3.69

3.44

3

3

2.79

3.25

3.08

3.09 3.14 3.7 3.64 6.30op

3.79

3 3.05 3.1 3.1 4.00op

3.09

MonCana Bank

2.94

2.99

3.04

National Bank n/a

3.1 3.14 3.7 3.19 6.30op

3.79

ING Direct

3.05 3

Laurentian Bank n/a

4.4 6.70op

Manulife Bank 3 4.45

Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice Finan

4 6.70op

3.2

2.94

3.35

3.44

3 3.04 2.99 4.64 6.30op

3.29

TD Canada Trust 3.2 3 3.04 2.79 2.99

6.30op

TRUST COMPANIES

3.19

AGF Trust

n/a

2.99

3.1

3.5

3.64

3.14

Community Trust

n/a

6.5

3.1

3.35

3.95

4.64

Effort Trust n/a

4.45 6.30op

3.25 3.6 3.9 4.5 6.30op

4.95

Home Trust Company

3.95

2.74

3.15

2.99

4 6.50op

3 3.14 3.65 4.64 6.30op

5.24

MTCC 3 4.55 3.75 3.89 2.79 4.39

6.45op 6.50op OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

3.99

Airline Financial C.U. 4

2.99 3.25 6.25op

3.09

3.49

Comtech Credit Union 2.79

6.6 8.40op

2.99 3.25 3.29 3.19 9.00op

3.29

First National Fin. LP

3.95

2.74

Royal Bank 3.2

3.2

Investors Group Trust n/a

4 6.30op

3.2

2.94

2.69

2.89

3.29

2.99

3.09

3.09 3.19 3.24 3.29 6.34op

3.24

London Life n/a

3 3.14 3.65 4.64 6.30op

5.24

MCAP 2.9

3.6 3.95 4.35 4.89 7.00op

5.24

Meridian Credit Union 2.85 4.45

3.1 3.14 3.7 3.4 6.30op

3.19

Parama Credit Union

2.9

3.1

3.15

3.15

3.25

3.5

Steinbach Credit Union

2.5

2.5

2.6

2.8

2.9

3.1

3.05 6.50op

3.15

2.79

3.89

3.29

Teachers Credit Union 4

4.45 6.30op

2.79

5.24

FirstOntario C.U. 2.79

6.34op 4 6.50op

2.69

3.24

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 Feb. 11, 2013. Prepared By Fiscal Agents Financial Information Services 905.844.7700

74 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

069_072-073-074TO UPDATE Homebuyers Resource-DN.indd 74

2/14/13 1:33:54 PM

hotdates

feb. 22 - 24

London Boat, Fishing & Leisure Show WESTERN FAIR DISTRICT LONDON

Feb. 16 to March 2 Calendar of events beginning from Feb. 16 to March 2, 2013

Be one of the thousands to experience the latest and greatest to be seen in the worlds of boating, fishing and leisure by attending the London Boat, Fishing and Leisure Show! See boats from small to large, every type of tackle and pole as well as just about any product associated with you outdoor leisure time boatcottagefishingshow.com

feb. 24 - March 2

Oakville Art Society Annual Art Auction OAKVILLE LIBRARY 120 NAVY ST., OAKVILLE

Silent & Live Art Auctions. Take home an original work of Art. Juried event supports the work of the Oakville Art Society. Paintings, fibre, ceramics, photography, jewelry and woodworking. oakvilleartsociety.com

MARCH 1 - 2

Cuvee Gala FALLSVIEW CASINO RESORT NIAGARA FALLS

Sample Ontario wine, experience live cooking stations, visit Icewine and Sparkling Wine bars and dance the night away at the Après Cuvée party.

905.684.8688

march 2 - 31

Annual Maple Syrup Festival BRONTE CREEK PROVINCIAL PARK 1219 BURLOAK DR., OAKVILLE

Each weekend in March and during March Break, experience a traditional Maple Festival-Victorian style, with guided tours, wagon rides, pancakes, farm animals, heritage homestead, gift shoppe, museum, fresh maple sugar and taffy on snow. brontecreek.org

feb 16 - mar 2, 2013 | New home & condo guide SWO 75

075 Hot Dates_JY-WK.indd 75

2/14/13 11:00:37 AM

advertiserindex adi development: Mod’rn Condominium

51

mattamy homes: Wildflowers

ancaster fall home show

50

melloul-blamey construction: Serene Condos 67

6

Bayview Wellington: Niagara-on-the-Green

4

menkes developments: Millstone on the Park

Bayview Wellington: Victoria Village

5

menkes developments: Enclaves of Upper Canada 41

40

branthaven Homes: Bravo! by the Lake

12

Monarch: Strawberry Fields

branthaven Homes: Multi-site

13

Mountainview Homes: Corporate

brookfield Homes: Grand Valley Trails

36

new Horizon: City Square

32

cambridge Homes: Brownstones

38

reid’s heritage: Eby Estates

61

Claysam Homes: Neighbourhoods of Devonshire

21

reid’s heritage: Lora Bay

country green Homes: West Bloom

7

54 & 55 9

BC

rosehaven homes: Multi-site

37

dunsire developments: Mill Creek Village

65

sifton properties: Harris View

25

eastforest Homes: Vista Hills

39

silvestri invest.: Cityview Terraces & Harvest Glen

45

spallacci homes: Eden Park

33

Empire Communities: Multi-site

2&3

geranium Homes: Woods at Sally Creek

16 & 17

terra view homes: Edgewater Estates

60

Great gulf: Thorold

78 & 79

Tillsonburg developments: Baldwin Place

23

Haastown holdings: The Grand

63

tobyn park homes: ParkCity

53

Homes by DeSantis: Lincoln Square

11

welcome wagon wedding show

52

losani homes: Multi-site

49

winzen: Stoneridge and The Kensington

44

76 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

076 Advertisers index_JY-WK.indd 76

2/14/13 12:15:24 PM

fundamentallyspeaking

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

Watch the changing retail landscape to see if your neighbourhood may be on the upswing

by WAYNE KARL

MARCH 2013 IS JUST AROUND THE CORNER, AND

with that comes the first of Target Corp.’s approximately 125 store openings in Canada. The U.S. retail giant announced in 2011 it is moving north with its $1.8-billion acquisition of up to 200 Zellers store leases.

Most of the initial openings are to come from renovating previous Zellers locations, requiring an investment of $1 billion and creating thousands of new jobs. But, importantly, Target does not rule out “greenfield” expansion – building completely new stores from the ground up to its own specifications.

For homeowners and prospective homebuyers, this is all a very good reason to pay attention, as Large retailers and experts say it will change Canada’s commercial ventures retail landscape forever. Such don’t just pop up in the major retail developments are also a significant influence on land middle of nowhere or in development and housing. declining neighbourhoods.

When the likes of Target, Walmart, RONA and other major players set up shop, particularly in

a new location, it’s a good sign an area could be on the upswing.

Like proximity to mass transit, schools and other amenities, being close to shopping is a major attraction for builders and, of course, prospective homebuyers. These features are among the key determining factors to enjoying your home while you live there, as well as for potential resale value in the future.

Large retailers and commercial ventures don’t just pop up in the middle of nowhere or in declining neighbourhoods. They make careful, long-range and well planned-out decisions in lockstep with municipalities and developers, based on hard data, research and demographic information.

This is why major retail expansion is good news: it’s an indicator the economy continues to strengthen; and, for those looking to buy a home, it’s a sign to look out for new or expanding neighbourhoods and solid buying opportunities.

Such retail developments, combined with the associated employment gains and economic and infrastructure improvements, point to new and expanding homebuying options.

So, while you’re out there looking for your new home, look around for the big box stores. If they see a bright future for your prospective neighborhood, chances are it will make a sound buying decision for you.

FEB 16 - MAR 2, 2013 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 77

077 Big Box Retailers-DN-WK.indd 77

2/13/13 1:46:43 PM

SAVE $25,000 GREAT GULF HOMES IN THOROLD NIAGARA

ROLLING MEADOWS

The Brock SQ.FT: 1,845

CURRENT PRICE:

$

DETACHED HOMES 42 FT. LOTS

332990

SALE PRICE: 990 $

307

The Niagara SQ.FT: 2,015

CURRENT PRICE:

$

337

990

SALE PRICE:

312

$

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The Escarpment CURRENT PRICE: SQ.FT: 2,165

$

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$

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$

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78 New home & condo guide SWO | feb 16 - mar 2, 2013

078-079-Great Gulf-Thorold 01-19-13.indd 78

2/13/13 12:34:21 PM

MODEL HOMES NOW OPEN

Up to

$20,000

42' AND 50' LOTS 1,845 – 3,095 SQ. FT. FROM $307,990

in upgrades*

Opt. Covered Deck with skylights Opt. Covered Deck with skylights

1.

Opt. Covered Deck with Skylights Opt. Covered Deck with Skylights

Patio Door

2.

Patio Door

Desk

Desk

3.

Up Up

Breakfast 11'9" x 10'0" Breakfast 11'9" x 10'0"

Breakfast bar

Dw

Kitchen 13'11" x 8'8" Kitchen 13'11" x 8'8"S

F P

W Laundry Laundry

Opt. Uppers

D D

Up

Opt. Uppers

W

Up Railing Railing Ledge Dn

Dn

Bedroom 4 9'0" x 10'4" Bedroom 4 9'0" x 10'4"

Ledge

Door only if grading Permits additional Stepsif may be required Door only grading Permits additional Steps may be required

Tiled ledge Opt. Linen closets Opt. Linen closets

Standard 4'x4' Skylight above Standard 4'x4' Skylight above 8'x8' ceiling 8'x8' opening ceiling opening

S

P

Dining/Living 10'0" x 17'0" Dining/Living 10'0" x 17'0"

Tiled ledge

W.I.C.

Master Bedroom 15'6"(21'0") x 12'2" Master Bedroom 15'6"(21'0") x 12'2"

6.

Family Room 18'1" x 12'0" Family Room 18'1" x 12'0"

Dw

4.

Oval tub Oval tub

W.I.C.

Opt. Skylights

Breakfast bar

F

Opt. 2-Sided Gas Fireplace Opt. 2-Sided Gas Fireplace

Opt. Skylights

Ensuite Ensuite

Dn Dn

Railing Railing

7.

SH

Railing Railing

SH

Sloped Up Sloped Up

8.

Bath 2 Bath 2

Lin W.I.C.

Door only If grading Permits Door only If grading Permits

Lin

W.I.C. W.I.C.

W.I.C.

CL

Garage 18'3" x 22'2" Garage 18'3" x 22'2"

5.

W.I.C.

CL

Bedroom 2 14'7" x 10'6"(11'4") Bedroom 2 14'7" x 10'6"(11'4")

W.I.C.

PWD

Foyer

Bedroom 3 12'0" x 11'0" Bedroom 3 12'0" x 11'0"

PWD

Foyer

CL

Raised Ceiling

CL

Raised Ceiling

Covered Porch Covered Porch

Ground Floor Elevation ‘A’ Ground Floor Elevation ‘A’

Second Floor Elevation ‘A’ Second Floor Elevation ‘A’ W.I.C.

LIN W.I.C.

Foyer CL

42' FEATURES

Foyer

2. Oversized windows Unfinished Basement Furn

Up Up

Furn Standard 3 pc rough-in HWT Standard 3 pc rough-in

Bedroom 2 14'7" x 10'6" Bedroom 2 14'7" x 10'6"

6. Spacious family rooms

4. Gourmet kitchens

7. Large ensuites

5. Two car garage

8. Standard skylights

Ground Floor Elevation ‘B’ Ground Floor Elevation ‘B’

Raised Ceiling

Raised Ceiling

Second Floor Elevation ‘B’ Second Floor Elevation ‘B’

Furn

Up Alt. Sump

HWT

Up

Alt. Sump

Furn HWT Standard 3 pc rough-in HWT Standard 3 pc rough-in

Unexcavated

Unexcavated Unexcavated

Sump

Unexcavated

Optional Cold Storage Low Headroom Optional Cold Storage Low Headroom

Sump Sump

Sump

Basement Elevation ‘A’ Basement Elevation ‘A’

Bedroom 3 12'0" x 11'0"

Unfinished Basement

Unfinished Basement Unfinished Basement Alt. Sump

W.I.C. W.I.C.

W.I.C.

LIN

3. Breakfast areas

CL CoveredCL Porch

1. Beautiful light filled homes

Alt. Sump

PWD PWD

CL

CL

Covered Porch

Bedroom 3 12'0" x 11'0"

W.I.C.

CL

Basement Elevation ‘B’ Basement Elevation ‘B’

GREATGULF.COM /THOROLD

Optional Cold Storage Low Headroom Optional Cold Storage Low Headroom

*$15,000 in upgrades on 42’ lots and $20,000 on 50’ lots. Linked below grade. See sales representative for details. Prices, sizes and specifications subject to change without notice.

E. & O.E. Illustration is artist’s impression. All square footages are approximate. Actual usable space varies from stated floor area.

078-079-Great Gulf-Thorold 01-19-13.indd 79

2/14/13 2:45:16 PM

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080-Reids Heritage-Lora Bay 01-19-13.indd 1

2/14/13 2:44:48 PM