Southwestern Ontario New Home and Condo Guide - Feb 14, 2015

Feb 14 - 28, 2015 Volume 18 Issue 03

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

REAL ESTATE AS AN INVESTMENT

ANCASTER: LOCATION & AMENITIES GALORE

WHAT THE BANK OF CANADA’S RATE DROP MEANS FOR YOU

At Empire we’ve built vibrant communities for nearly 30,000 Ontarians. Our beautiful new homes are designed to make luxury more affordable.

See where you belong at empirecommunities.com

WYNDFIELD Townhomes from

$219, 990

30’ Detached from $269, 990 36’ Detached from $302, 990 44’ Detached from $359, 990 BRANTFORD 309 BLACKBURN DRIVE

519 756 4554

LUSH AT VICTORY Townhomes from

$299, 990

30’ Detached from $359, 990 36’ Detached from $407, 990 STONEY CREEK

22 GREEN MOUNTAIN RD. WEST 905 930 7934

SUMMERLEA 30’ Detached from $299, 990 36’ Detached from $349, 990 BINBROOK

3 BINHAVEN BOULEVARD 905 692 6000

The Primrose Model Home In Wildflowers

Wildflowers Is Within Your Reach.

Stylish, Affordable Living In Kitchener.

Choose From A Variety Of Townhomes And Detached Designs.

Elev. ‘B’

Hom er W atson Blvd .

179 Seabrook Drive

ok Dr. Seabro

01

Rd .

SALES CENTRE

SALES CENTRE:

&8

Hu ro n

Detached Homes From $294,990

S. Rd. man Hall her Fisc

Townhomes From $234,990

HW Y 7

Y4

KITCHENER

36' Home, The Wintergreen, Elev. ‘A’, 2,339 Sq.Ft., $405,990

HW

Rear Lane Townhome, The Bluebell, Elev. ‘B’, 1,579 Sq.Ft., $279,990

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR COMMUNITIES REGISTER AT MATTAMYHOMES.COM Follow us: SALES CENTRE HOURS: Monday - Thursday 1pm-8pm; Friday 1pm-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-6pm MODEL HOME HOURS: Monday - Thursday 1pm-7:30pm; Friday 1pm-5:30pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-5:30pm All illustrations are artist’s concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. E.&O.E.

!

E C N A H C T S A L

CENTRE RD.

WATERDOWN

PARKSIDE DR.

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HAMILTON ST.

Only 20 left to choose from.

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Monday to Wednesday 2-7pm Thursday/Friday by Appointment CountryGreenHomes.com | 905-690-7600 Saturday & Sunday 11-4pm FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 7

contents p. 14

FEB 14 - 28, 2015 || VOLUME 18 ISSUE 3

ON THE COVER

MENKES DEVELOPMENTS

New release of 40-ft. detached homes at The Enclaves of Upper Canada in Georgetown

regular and special features IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Editor’s Note 60 Ad Index 61 Hot Dates

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP 44 City Focus

Ancaster: great natural location and abundant amenities

55 Homebuyers’ Resources COLUMNISTS 16 Expert Advice

Adding real estate to your investment portfolio

by Karen Kessel

46 Mortgage Advice

What the Bank of Canada’s rate drop means for homebuyers

by Alyssa Richard

54 Tarion Report

Protect your home from the elements this winter

by Howard Bogach

62 Fundamentally Speaking

What type of home should you buy?

by Wayne Karl

IN THE NEWS 36 The Residences of Royal Connaught

launches prestigious Penthouse Collection

Mortgage Calculator & Rate Table

community focus features

30

30 Milton

Mattamy Homes Mattamy Homes presents: Hawthorne South Village

40 Hamilton

Sonoma Homes creates a perfect life-Style on Hamilton’s West Mountain

52 Woodstock

Senator Homes Havelock Corners: one-of-a-kind, master-planned living

New Home WATCH

40

17 Waterloo 25 Hamilton 48 London

52

REGISTER NOW! FOR YOUR SNEAK PEEK!

SHOW HOME GRAND OPENING FEBRUARY 28 & MARCH 1, 2015 PREPARE TO BE BLOWN AWAY.

windy lane estates !

UT DO 40’ SINGLES, 50’ SINGLES & TOWNHOMES L O S

from the $220’s!

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HWY 70

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HWY 58

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BOOK YOUR VISIT NOW! 905.323.6232 8913 Forestview Blvd, Niagara Falls www.mountainview.com

20

Prices are subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. Offer valid for a limited time. Subject to availability. Not valid with any other promotion.

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 9

//EDITOR’S NOTE

Moving made easy

Due diligence a must with this part of the homebuying process

W

hether you’re relocating from one coast to the other or moving to your first place out of your parents’ home, moving can be hectic, exciting and certainly stressful. But, relax. You can eliminate all of the anxiety associated with moving by taking control of the situation with confidence.

If you decide to move yourself, book a moving truck well in advance from a reliable company that can help with some tips on moving as well as advice regarding the size of vehicle you will need.

If you decide to go with a pro, ask your friends and family to recommend a mover. Call at least three companies to ask about their services and then decide.

Professional movers can do everything for you if you wish, from packing and unpacking, to disconnecting appliances and electronics, but of course there’s extra cost involved.

Make sure you understand the terms of your agreement no matter what you decide, as well as any additional costs such as insurance and mileage fees, so you can budget accordingly.

Happy moving!

SUSAN LEGGE

Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge Like us on Facebook. Search: New Home Guide

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Wall2Wall Media

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

Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Susan.Legge@wall2wallmedia.com

Viosa Barileva CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Joanne Keenan Jeffrey Reed Michele Sponagle

Ask those taxing questions

Whether from your mortgage broker or financial advisor, the right answers could save you hundreds if not thousands

W

hen you’re buying a home, particularly your first home, you will need the advice of several professionals: builder, lawyer, mortgage broker or banker, financial advisor and so on. But none of them has the personal stake in the deal that you do. Indeed, it is your transaction, your future and, ultimately, your money.

This is why it’s essential to ask questions. Don’t understand something? Ask. Don’t get a satisfactory answer? Ask again.

Take this scenario brought to our attention by Alyssa Richard, CEO of ratehub.ca. First-time buyers who are looking to buy together with a buyer who is not a firsttimer, can still use the Home Buyers’ Plan to withdraw $25,000 from their RRSP, tax-free, for a down payment. But they cannot claim the First-Time Home Buyers’ Tax Credit of $750.

Whatever your own circumstances, take the time to ask those challenging, if difficult, taxing questions. The answers could save you hundreds if not thousands.

WAYNE KARL

EDITOR Wall2Wall Media

Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/WayneKarl Like us on Facebook. Search: New Home Guide

Wayne.Karl@wall2wallmedia.com

10 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

Published By

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

newhomeandcondoguide.com

ADVERTISING: 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

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 2015: 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.

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Find more at BRANTHAVEN.COM Prices, sizes and specifications are subject to change without notice. Renderings are artist’s concept. E.&O.E.

//COVER STORY

New release of 40-ft. detached homes at

THE ENCLAVES

of Upper Canada in Georgetown

M

enkes Developments is thrilled to announce the new release of 40-ft. detached homes at the highly successful Enclaves of Upper Canada community in Georgetown. This exciting new release of homes consists of bungaloft and two-storey designs, with some lots backing onto a ravine of mature trees with breathtaking views of the Credit River Conservation lands.

A private, inviting community in the Norval hamlet of East Georgetown, virtually everything you need is only minutes away.

From all the amenities of a major town to the beautifully landscaped suburban streets and wooded walking trails of the Niagara escarpment, the Enclaves has it all.

Minutes away from miles of well-groomed hiking trails, this pristine landscape provides a multitude of picturesque settings ideal for family picnics, hikes, or bike rides. When you’re surrounded on all sides by natural beauty, you’ll quickly forget how close you are to the centre of Georgetown, with all of its many fine community facilities. With a new GO Station and easy highway access,

LOCATION Georgetown HOUSING TYPE 40-ft. detached homes SALES CENTRE 363 Guelph St. Georgetown. Presentation Centre open Monday to Thursday 1 to 8 p.m., closed Fridays and open Saturdays and holidays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays noon to 6 p.m.

CONTACT 289.891.9103 menkes.com 14 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

MENKES DEVELOPMENTS | The Enclaves of Upper Canada

Inspired by Georgian architecture through the symmetry of windows and French architectural bell curve roof flares, these characteristics create the unique individualism of each elevation. commuting is a breeze. For those who crave the excitement of the big city, Brampton is a mere five minutes east. Just a short car ride away is the GTA’s most popular outlet shopping mall, Toronto Premium Outlets, where luxury brands abound at discount prices!

Downtown Georgetown’s historic Main Street offers a charming selection of boutique shops and fine restaurants, while the newly expanded Market Place Mall has all of your favourite mainstream big-box stores. A thriving arts community, Georgetown has an array of cultural events and local theatre to choose from. There is also a selection of leisure and recreation options, including skating, skiing, golfing, horseback riding, and fitness in the area.

The Enclaves of Upper Canada offers a wide selection of home designs. Each of these elegantly crafted gems blend into the natural landscape, delivering a charming, timeless look and feel. With a modern grasp of design, fused with classic architectural styles, these homes have been designed from the inside out to suit the needs of today’s lifestyle. Inspired

by Georgian architecture through the symmetry of windows and French architectural bell curve roof flares, these characteristics create the unique individualism of each elevation. Authentic architectural influences on style combined with the use of materials such as stucco, stone and brick with a careful selection of colour palettes, creates character and identity for this community.

The same exquisite, traditional charm can be found in the stunning interiors of each and every home. The 40-ft. Enclaves Collection of homes at The Enclaves come with an upscale array of standard features, including; nine-ft. ceilings on the main floor, tray ceilings in the master bedroom, gourmet kitchens with extended height uppers and granite counters, natural gas fireplace with white painted mantle and marble surround, and oak staircases from the first to second floor with upgraded pickets. In addition, each home at The Enclaves is an Energy Star qualified home, including inspection and certification by a government sponsored third party evaluator.

For a limited time, Menkes is offering a spectacular opening bonus to its purchasers; hardwood on the main floor (excluding tiled areas) and upper hallways and $10,000 in upgrades. For details please visit the sales office.

The 40-ft. Enclaves Collection ranges from 2,496 to 3,525 sq. ft. and are priced from $749,990. Visit the sales office located at 363 Guelph St. Georgetown right in front of the Best Western Hotel and just east of Canadian Tire. The Presentation Centre is open from to Monday through Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m., closed Fridays and open Saturdays and holidays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 6 p.m. For more information, call 289.891.9103 or visit menkes.com FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 15

//EXPERT ADVICE

It’s time to add real estate to your investment portfolio » by KAREN KESSEL

KAREN KESSEL

is the Broker of Record for Planet Realty Inc., Brokerage, servicing the Guelph and surrounding areas of South Western Ontario. If you have any questions for Karen you can reach her by email at karen@planetrealty or visit planetrealty.ca

Have you ever considered real estate as part of your investment portfolio? Whether you buy as your personal residence or lease over for the long term, real estate has proven to be a solid investment. Let’s look at why.

In November 2014, the average house sold in Canada for $413,000, up 5.7 per cent from a year ago. Compare that to 2008 during the heat of the worldwide economic crisis. The average sale price of homes sold between August 2008 and March 2009, Canada-wide, fell 5.4 per cent to $289,916 from $306,347, according to the Teranet-National Bank House Price Index. By November 2009, the market had already recovered. Part of the reason for the quick rebound was massive government intervention. However, in the following year or two, prices headed back up with average sale prices doubling since 2002 and they are still on the rise.

Should home prices decline by 25 per cent, real estate investors who have been in the market would still be considerably ahead of the game.

Canada appears to be among the nations experiencing the longest running real estate boom, according to Scotia Capital Economics. Canada was one of only three developed nations tracked by Scotia to continue to post gains. Interest rates have remained at unprecedented lows since 2008, providing more incentive for Canadians to jump into the housing market. Foreign investors, predominantly wealthy Chinese citizens, appear to buy Canadian property because we’re a safe haven in a turbulent global economy. A five-year fi xed-rate mortgage is roughly 3.19 per cent today, down from 5.7 per cent in late 2008.

If this doesn’t give you confidence in real estate, you can listen to Warren Buffett, famous investor and one of the richest people in the world, who lives in the same Omaha house he bought in 1958 for $31,500. He has said that if he could buy large numbers of single-family homes he would “load up on them, and I would take mortgages out at very, very low rates.”

16 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

Real estate can be a great investment for those who want to generate regular income from commercial or residential tenants. In times of high infl ation, real estate investing can create the biggest gains while traditional investments may falter. Often, property returns are very stable, growing by incremental amounts. Real estate investors/ speculators try to identify when changes in value will occur to make the correct buy, hold or sell decision.

Short of having another fi nancial blip like 2008, Canada’s economy continues to chug along as one of the most stable in the world. Now might be the time to follow Buffet’s advice and invest before the Bank of Canada increases interest rates to temper inflation.

HALTON HILLS WELLINGTON WATERLOO

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 COUNTRYGREEN HOMES Kitchener | Westwood Mews

Register now for an exclusive collection of bungalow towns and urban towns starting from the $270’s.

countrygreenhomes.com

NEW RELEASES MONARCH CORPORATION Kitchener | Topper Woods

Limited release of 43-ft. pie-shaped lots.

monarchgroup.net

MENKES Georgetown | The Enclaves of Upper Canada

THE TRICAR GROUP Guelph | River Mill Condominiums

New release, the 40-ft. Enclaves Collection, near downtown Georgetown and conservation lands.

tricar.com

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES Kitchener | The Oaks

Condominiums from 805 to 2,415 sq. ft. from the mid $200’s.

menkes.com

A new urban village of townhomes and highrise condos on a historic site in downtown Guelph.

New 56-suite condominium. Offering a great selection of floorplans that suit a variety of budgets and lifestyles in an established community.

themetalworks.ca

reidsheritagehomes.com

GEMINI HOMES Guelph | Clair Road

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES Fergus | Westminster Highlands

FUSION HOMES Guelph | The Metalworks

Register for more information on this highly desired location in south Guelph.

geminihomes.ca

ALMAA AYR CAMBRIDGE ELORA FERGUS GEORGETOWN GUELPH KITCHENER ROCKWOOD WATERLOO

Master-planned community of a variety of single-detached homes, bungalows, two-storey and executive townhomes and midrise condos.

reidsheritagehomes.com

NEW OPENINGS CLAYSAM HOMES Elmira | Elmira Country Club Estates

Master-planned community of towns, semis and singles from $256,900.

claysamhomes.com

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES Guelph | Alive

Now open – three- and four-bedroom freehold and condominium townhomes starting from the $300,000s.

reidsheritagehomes.com

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES Kitchener | Williamsburg Walk

Now open – midrise urban condominiums starting from the low $200’s.

reidsheritagehomes.com

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 17

18

New Hamburg

Elmira

Plattsville

Stratford

Baden

Owen Sound

Breslau

Collingwood

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

Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

Acton

Scarborough

Ajax

Kleinburg

SITES

PRICES

Elmira

CLAYSAM HOMES

Elmira Country Club Estates •

Fergus

REIDS HERITAGE HOMES

Westminster Highlands

Georgetown

MENKES

The Enclaves of Upper Canada

Kitchener

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Nestings

•

Kitchener

MATTAMY HOMES

Wildflowers

•

Kitchener

MONARCH

Topper Woods

•

Kitchener

WILLIAMSBURG HOMES

Williamsburg Walk

Kitchener

WILLIAMSBURG HOMES

Eby Estates

Kleinburg

MONARCH

Plattsville

•

•

•

•

•

•

PAGE

from $264,900

21

from the $260's

22

from mid $700's

29

from the $400's

13

from $234,990

6

from mid $400's

32&33

from low $200's

BC

•

from the $400's

23

Kleinburg Crown Estates

•

from mid $900's

33

CLAYSAM HOMES

Plattsville Estates

•

from $314,900

21

Scarborough

MONARCH

Parkwood

from low $500's

33

Scarborough

MONARCH

Bennett

from low $800's

33

Waterloo

COOK HOMES

The Village in Beechwood West

from low $500's

20

•

•

•

•

•

•

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

BUILDERS

Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

De t.

Se m Bu i ng a To low w Co nho nd m Ad o e ul tL ife sty le

LOCATION

19

O SO VE LD R 9 O 0% U T

0 0 0 $15,

Winner of the 2014 WRHBA Multi-Unit

R E CE

IVE

Villast k r a P 1 ! ae 3 r C h c c r M a Buy a ve Until M a and S ES* D A R UPG E E R IN F

Purchase the McCrae Park villa, recent winner of Most Outstanding Low Rise Multi-Unit Design over 2000 sq. ft, in the established community of Beechwood West and receive $15,000 in free upgrades until March 31st!

Only a limited number of McCrae Park 2-storey town villas, including our Model Home, remain in the Final Phase of this established West Waterloo community, act now!

Beautiful town villas backing onto private and treed parklands Maintenance free condominium lifestyle Outstanding features, including granite countertops, 9’ ceilings, stone, brick and stucco exteriors with generous stone patios

Only a limited number of 2-storey town villas remain!

Priced from the Low $500,000’s

VISIT OUR SALES OFFICE & MODEL HOME AT 435 WINCHESTER DRIVE, WATERLOO

COLUMBIA ST. WEST

WINCHESTER DR.

ERB ST. WEST

MODELS

FISCHER HALLMAN RD.

IRA NEEDLES BLVD.

ERBSVILLE RD.

KEATS WAY

Award Winning Builder

Call our Sales Representative today: Donna Hodgin Especially New Homes Inc., Broker Saturday and Sunday 1-4pm | Tuesday 3-6pm thevillageinbeechwoodwest@cookhomes.ca 519.725.8880 or 519.886.9797

cookhomes.ca

*Offer valid until March 31, 2015. Buyer must order $15,000 or greater in home upgrades to receive full credit of $15,000 in free upgrades.

Offers and plans subject to change without notice. See sales representative for more information. E. & O. E.

Limited

Time Off er

FREE

Kitchen Gra Counter nite tops!

Memories

Where

are made

Claysam offers a GREAT selection of family focussed communities where you can build your NEW HOME and years of fond MEMORIES in.

Plattsville

Elmira

Woodstock

Woodstock

50-60’ Lots Single Family Homes

Towns, Semis and Singles Now Open!

30-42’ Lots Single Family Homes

Adult Lifestyle Community

Priced From

Priced From

Priced From

Priced From the Mid

$314,900

$264,900

$229,900

Visit our website for MODEL HOME hours.

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

$200,000’s

**Applies to standard counter top surface area only. Optional islands will be extra. This promotion is in conjunction with our value package promotion as well as our telecommunications program. Limited Time Offer. Offer must be firm. E. & O. E.

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 21

Model Home Photo Compliments of Great Gulf.

www.greatgulf.com

This stunning open-concept space is just one highlight of the award-winning Clifton model at Great Gulf’s Rolling Meadows neighbourhood in Thorold.

FEBRUARY2015 Great Gulf has been featured as “Model Home Of The Month” as seen in the new home & condo guide model home calendar

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 MATTAMY HOMES Milton | Hawthorne Village

Coming early in 2015 – new townhomes and detached homes in this established masterplanned community.

mattamyhomes.com

NEW HORIZON HOMES Stoney Creek | Waterfront Trails

Register now for Phase 2 of these condos and towns in Stoney Creek.

waterfronttrails.ca

SILVERGATE HOMES Niagara Falls | Victoria Woods

VALERY HOMES Milton | Viva2

ANCASTER BEAMSVILLE BINBROOK BRANT BRANTFORD BURLINGTON CATHARINES GRIMSBY HAMILTON

MILTON NIAGARA OAKVILLE PARIS PORT DOVER ST. CATHARINES STONEY CREEK VINELAND

NEW RELEASES

Register now for one- and two-bedroom condo suites, while future phases will include condo townhome designs

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES Stoney Creek | Lush at Victory

valeryhomes.com

lush.empirecommunities.com

SILVERGATE HOMES Niagara on the Lake | St. Andrews Glen

HOMES BY DESANTIS Beamsville | Lincoln Square Fiera

New release of 30- and 36-ft. homesites.

Register now for this elegant collection of spacious condo townhomes in this historic town.

New release of two-storey townhomes within walking distance to trails and natural areas.

standrewsglen.com

homesbydesantis.com

SPALLACCI HOMES Hamilton | 101 Locke Condos

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES Brantford | Wyndfield

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

Final release of 44-ft. homesites.

wyndfield.empirecommunities.com

spallaccihomes.com

Register now for these luxury townhomes in Niagara Falls.

silvergatehomes.ca

CARRIAGE GATE HOMES Burlington | The Berkeley

Coming soon to downtown Burlington – hotel inspired condo living.

theberkeleycondo.com

PHELPS HOMES Smithville | The Atwater Collection

NEW OPENINGS ADI DEVELOPMENTS Burlington | LINK2 Condos + Lofts

Grand Opening now on for suites and lofts overlooking Bronte Creek Provincial Park.

adidevelopments.com

EASTFOREST HOMES Paris | Grandville

Register now for this adult lifestyle community featuring a collection of attached bungalows backing onto Twenty Mile Creek.

Award-winning designs on 50-ft. lots from $399,990 – decorated model now open.

phelpshomes.com

eastforesthomes.com

BRANTHAVEN HOMES Burlington | Jazz

SPALLACCI HOMES Hamilton | The Towns of Eden Park

Register now for these condos from the $200’s.

jazzcondos.ca

ROSEHAVEN HOMES Chippawa | The Ravines at Lyon’s Creek

Grand opening – a collection of executive townhomes.

spallaccihomes.com

rosehavenhomes.com

SPALLCCI GROUP & VALERY HOMES Hamilton | The Residences of Royal Connaught

LOSANI HOMES Ancaster | Ancaster Glen & The Woodlands Ancaster

royalconnaught.com

Bungalow and bungalow with loft condominium townhomes.

Register now for a priority viewing of singles and towns in Ancaster’s most exclusive community.

losanihomes.com

ROSEHAVEN HOMES Waterdown | Waterdown Meadows

Now open – the transformation of this landmark property has begun. Here’s your chance to buy a piece of history.

SPALLACCI HOMES Hamilton | Eden Park

Grand Opening of Chateau-inspired semis collection.

spallaccihomes.com

Returning to Waterdown – popular 35-ft. singles.

waterdownmeadows.com

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 25

26

Paris

Port Dover

Simcoe

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

SITES

PRICES

Aldershot

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Jazz

Ancaster

WINZEN

Garden Park Towns

Beamsville

HOMES BY DESANTIS

Fiera Collection

•

Binbrook

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

The Fairgrounds Finale

•

Binbrook

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Summerlea

•

•

from $299,990

2&3

Brantford

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Wyndfield

•

•

from $219,990

2&3

Burlington

ADI DEVELOPMENTS

LINK2

Caledon

MONARCH

SouthFields

•

•

Chippawa/Niagara

ROSEHAVEN

Lyon's Creek

•

•

Chippawa/Niagara

HOMES BY DESANTIS

Lyon's Creek

•

Hamilton

SONOMA HOMES

Style Town Collection

Niagara Falls

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Windy Lane Estates

Niagara Falls

SILVERGATE HOMES

Victoria Woods

• • •

•

12

from mid $300's

38

from high $200's

11

from high $300's

13

34

•

from mid $400's

33

•

from $319,990

35

from $289,900

11

from mid $300's

42

from the $220's

9

from the $300's

39

from mid $200's

5

• •

• •

•

from high $200's

from the $240's

•

•

PAGE

Niagara on the Lake BW HOMES

Niagara on the Green

Oakville

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Oakvillage

•

from low $400's 13&37

Oakville

EMSHIH DEVELOPMENTS

Oakvillage

•

from low $400's

37

Oakville

MINTO

Oakvillage

•

from low $400's

37

Milton

MATTAMY HOMES

Hawthorne Village

•

•

from the $300's

63

St. Catharines

BW HOMES

Victoria Village

•

from low $300's

4

Stoney Creek

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Victory

•

Stoney Creek

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

On the Ridge

•

28&35

Stoney Creek

HOMES BY DESANTIS

On the Ridge

•

11&28

Thorold

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Gibson Heights

Waterdown

COUNTRY GREEN HOMES

The Uptowns of Waterdown

Waterdown

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Waterdown Meadows

•

• •

•

•

from $299,990

from $291,990

• •

2&3

35 7

from $474,990

35

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

BUILDERS

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

De t Se . m Bu i n To galo w w Co nho n m Ad do e ul tL ife sty le

LOCATION

27

SPACIOUS SEMIS “ We purchased at On the Ridge because we love their designs and the quality. We were able to get a bigger house for less. ”

43’

Darryl Di Leo & Hua Ni - Burlington, ON

Degas - 1,540sq.ft. - Homes by DeSantis

Stoney Creek’s Family First Community Live large in a spacious semi at On The Ridge. With room to grow, it’s the lifestyle you want for your family... a touch above!

es by DeSantis Degas - 1,540sq.ft. - Hom

Semis

starting from the mid

· Sensational designs · Stunning interiors · Spectacular backyards · Suit every family’s needs · Select from 10 designs · Surrounded by fun · Semis from 1,300 to over 1,900sq.ft

300’s 40’& 35’ Singles

$

from the mid

STONEY CREEK

400’s

$

TWO AWARD-WINNING BUILDERS IN SOUTH WEST ONTARIO Presentation Centre is located at: First Rd. W. & Mud St. E. Hours: Mon to Thurs: 1pm to 7pm Sat, Sun & Holidays: 11am to 6pm Closed Friday Rear yard dimension is approximate and subject to change depending on choice of lot and house.

Prices and specifications correct at press time. Prices quoted are in $ thousands. Maps not to scale. E. & O.E.

Site is located at: First Rd. W. & Highland Rd. W.

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 29

//COMMUNITY FOCUS

Hawthorne South Village could be Ontario’s most inspired community MATTAMY PRESENTS HAWTHORNE SOUTH VILLAGE

M

uch of the town’s appeal is its charming heritage. Cherished century homes and buildings still stand tall throughout the region. Walk about and discover an impressive collection of storefronts and home styles tucked just off the main street.

Every fall, the community celebrates the Milton Steam Era – populated by hundreds of steam-powered tractors, engines and farm implements converging to salute a bygone era. And still, Milton has an eye firmly fixed on the future.

Known as the fastest-growing community in Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe, Milton continues to attract residents to this lovely and livable place.

Mattamy Homes continues to offer well-designed and superbly crafted homes in burgeoning Hawthorne South Village. This most recent evolution of the wildly successful Hawthorne Village community offers an elevated realm of home and community design. As well as the popular detached home designs, you’ll find an amazing variety of townhome styles to choose from in our Village Homes, two-storey towns and rear lane town designs. You’ll find all our townhome designs offer a large amount of space and contemporary style.

In Mattamy’s Hawthorne Village neighbourhoods, you’ll find memorable park spaces, playgrounds, trails to walk or bicycle, plus community retail areas nearby so that chores can be performed on foot rather than by car. Lauded

30 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

LOCATION: Milton HOUSING TYPE: Townhomes and detached homes SALES CENTRE: 10180 Derry Rd., open Monday to Thursday 1 to 8 p.m.; Friday 1 to 6 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and holidays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

CONTACT: 905.875.2692 mattamyhomes.com

MATTAMY HOMES | Hawthorne South Village

Hawthorne Village has earned many industry distinctions for its neighbourhood design and diversity of home styles. schools are also close by. Plus, there’s always a full calendar of community events and activities that contribute to the community feel.

Hawthorne Village has earned many industry distinctions through the years for its neighbourhood design and diversity of home styles. Customer satisfaction has always been very important to Mattamy Homes, and the awards it receives due to comments from homeowners are most highly regarded.

It’s worth noting that Mattamy was named GTA Builder of the Year for an unprecedented fifth time by the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD). Mattamy has always been known as more than a home builder, as its design approach always considers communities as a whole. For more than a decade, the company has participated in the creation and evolution of day-to-day life in Milton. Mattamy has contributed significantly to the arts and recreational programs in the community, including the Mattamy Theatre in the Milton Centre for the Arts, a cultural jewel in the heart of the downtown area.

The story of Milton wouldn’t be complete without acknowledgement of the nearby escarpment. A fully protected UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, the

escarpment is breathtaking to view and naturally inspiring for recreational adventurers.

With such a great variety of homes available in such a desirable location, Hawthorne South Village should surely be on the top of your list of communities to consider. Its popularity alone suggests you should explore it sooner than later.

The Hawthorne Village Sales Centre is located at 10180 Derry Rd., Milton, 905.875.2692.

Presentation Centre hours are Monday to Thursday 1 to 8 p.m.; Friday 1 to 6 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and holidays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

For more information on all Mattamy communities, visit mattamyhomes.com

MOVE UP to Topper Woods!

Everything you dream of in a new home is here at Monarch’s sought-after Topper Woods. Move up to an enclave of impressive two-storey and bungalow designs up to 3,722 sq.ft. on traditional 43’ & 50’ lots. Customize your home to make it truly yours! Live near historic Doon Village with schools, parkland and easy access to Hwy 401.

Elegant 43’ and 50’ Singles from the mid $400,000’s with your choice of three incentive packages.

discover more

MonarchGroup.net 32 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

CHOOSE MONARCH FIRST. KLEINBURG | Kleinburg Crown Estates | Designer Decorated Models 42’ & 50’ Singles from the mid $900,000’s Sales Centre located at 165 Timber Creek Boulevard 416-495-3513 CALEDON | SouthFields | Models To View Townhomes from the mid $400,000’s Semis from the high $400,000’s Singles from the mid $600,000’s Sales Centre located at 12515 Old Kennedy Road, Caledon (Old Kennedy Rd. and Mayfield Rd.) 905-843-0707 SCARBOROUGH | Parkwood | Don’t Miss Out! Visit Monarch Today Freehold Townhomes from the low $500,000’s Sales Centre located at 1325 Danforth Rd., Scarborough 416-495-3574 SCARBOROUGH | Bennett | Exclusive Enclave of Detached Singles Executive Singles from the low $800,000’s Sales Centre located at 1325 Danforth Rd., Scarborough 416-495-3574 KITCHENER | Topper Woods | Models To View 43’ & 50’ Singles from the mid $400,000’s Sales Centre located at 7 Wetland Way, Kitchener 519-894-8222 HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 1pm – 8pm, Friday: 12pm – 5pm, Weekends & Holidays: 11am – 6pm

ALSO BUILDING HIGH RISE COMMUNITIES IN: Etobicoke | Markham | Downtown Toronto

first.

Please see a sales associate for full details. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. February 2015. 14983.

SIMPLY THE BEST in Burlington

GRAND OPENING! LIMITED TIME!

10,000 BONUS

$

*

PLUS 10% DEPOSIT WITHIN THE FIRST YEAR

Chic New Urban Designs.

Suites & Lofts Overlooking Bronte Creek Provincial Park.

From The

240’s

$

PRESENTATION CENTRE: 5210 Dundas Street West, Burlington HOURS: Monday to Thursday: 3 - 8 pm • Fridays by appt • Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays: 12 - 5 pm

www.adidevelopments.com 905-592-2028

PRESENTATION CENTRE

QEW / Hwy. 403

Bronte Road

Dundas Street West Sutton Drive

N

Appleby Line

HW Y 40 7

LAKESHORE RD. LAKE ONTARIO

* See Sales Representative for complete details. Illustrations are artist’s concept. Prices and specificaton subject to change without notice. E. & O. E. Exclusive Listing: Baker Real Estate Incorporated, Brokerage. Brokers Protected.

34 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

Seek haven from the ordinary

The Welland - Lyon’s Creek, Chippawa

HA•VEN: A PLACE OF SAFETY OR REFUGE

Seek haven from the common, the average, the oh-so-typical, the middle-of-the-road, the run-of-the-mill, the good-enough.

At Rosehaven, we will never be satisfied with anything less than the exceptional.

Because we know you won’t.

Visit RosehavenHomes.com For directions, maps hours and community information call our hotline (1-888/416) 410-0175

CHIPPAWA/NIAGARA

LYON’S CREEK 36’ Singles and 36’ Wide Freehold Towns from $319,990 Condominium Towns Coming Feb 28th

THOROLD

GIBSON HEIGHTS 45’ Singles, 30’ Attached Singles & Freehold Towns from $291,990 Move in Ready Inventory Homes Available

STONEY CREEK

ON THE RIDGE Semi Detached Homes from $354,990 40’ & 35’ Singles from $464,990

WATERDOWN

WATERDOWN MEADOWS 35’ Singles from $474,990 Prices and specifications correct at press time. Photo is of actual Roseahven Home. E. & O.E. 35

//IN THE NEWS

THE RESIDENCES OF ROYAL CONNAUGHT LAUNCHES

prestige Penthouse Collection The recently unveiled Penthouse Collection at the Residences of Royal Connaught is bringing a new level of prestige to Hamilton’s iconic landmark. Generating buzz amongst the city’s elite, the exclusive collection of skyline suites will marry the utmost in luxury with urban convenience, all at the sought-after Connaught address.

The anticipated launch was celebrated in style with hundreds of registrants filling the restored grand lobby for the first unveiling of the coveted collection.

“With such an impressive legacy and priceless restored historic features, the Residences of the Royal Connaught is truly one-of-a-kind. It can never be replicated, so it’s only fitting that the Penthouse Collection will be truly exquisite,” says Ted Valeri, president of Valery Homes.

Nestled away on the top tiers of the residences, buyers will enjoy unrivalled privacy in the heart of the downtown core with only six units on the penthouse level and eleven units on the sub-penthouse level.

“The Penthouse Collection offers buyers the best of both worlds: sophisticated suites with ample space for entertaining that are quiet and serene while still at an address that allows residents to be immersed in all that downtown has to offer,” says Rudi Spallacci, president of the Spallacci Group.

Units are both dramatic and bright with ceilings reaching up 16 ft. and oversized windows revealing gorgeous views of the lush escarpment and the bustling streets below. Spacious open-concept living areas are appointed with premium finishes, with exceptional attention given to detail.

Impeccably appointed kitchens feature state-of-the-art stainless steel appliances, extended designer cabinetry and the finest granite countertops.

Generous master bedrooms are bright and serene, with an oversized walk-in closet and an ensuite that features a lavish soaker tub and a rain shower that invites relaxation.

Ascending to the second storey of the penthouse suite, an additional bedroom is perfect for overnight guests.

Housed behind the historic facades of the century building, the art deco lobby, currently housing the presentation centre, will transition to become a reception for residents complete with 24/7 concierge, a stylish espresso bar, and the lobby’s signature baby grand piano. Once a social hub for celebrities and royalty, dramatic original columns and oversized chandeliers tell of the historic address’s prestige.

Launched February 2015, The Penthouse Collection of The Residences of Royal Connaught will offer new condominium suites housed in the historic west wing of the building.

36 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

With a selection of elegant designs ranging from 555 to 1,473 sq. ft., purchasers can customize their penthouse and sub-penthouse suites with looks ranging from classic to a more contemporary aesthetic. Penthouse suites start from the mid $400’s.

Construction has now begun, with Phase 1 occupancy expected for mid-2016.

For more information, visit the presentation centre and model suite located at 112 King St. E in Hamilton.

To register, visit royalconnaught.com

OYAY! It’s that “O” moment. The moment you realize that everything you could ask for was right here all along. Welcome to Oakvillage. With shops, parks, scenic woodlots, a luminous pond and over 1.5 km of walking and biking trails that connect to Oakville’s extensive trail system, Oakvillage is a visionary community inspired by both nature and urban amenities. Come home to contemporary townhomes with elegant architecture and gorgeous finishes.

Register now to experience that “O” moment with us.

HWY 407

DUNDAS ST.E.

QEW

HWY 403

N

TRAFALGAR RD.

Coming early 2015 Oakville’s visionary master-planned community from the low $400s* Register now for your Preview Opening Invite at Oakvillage.ca

A JOINT DEVELOPMENT BY

*Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. E.&O.E.

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 37

TOW N S AT T I F FA NY

A N C A S T E R

ON NATURE’S DOORSTEP IN ANCASTER

ARK

REGISTER

NOW 1-855-9-WINZEN (946936)

winzen.ca

403

403

6

LINC STONECHURCH RD

RA YM

ON

DR

STONEHENGE DR.

E.

IRWIN AV

D.

UPPER PARADISE

$300’s

GARDEN PARK TOWN’S offer rich local amenities and spacious affordable designs with modern and classic finishes.

SOUTHCOTE RD.

From the mid

RYMAL RD. WEST

W O N R E T S PRE-REGNI THE VIP WAITING LIST TO BE PLACED

O

MS

RD

.

ND

HE

D.

BLV

GARNER RD.

ST.

OT

H ERS

HWY 98

DA

QUEEN ELIZABETH WAY

ER

D OO

EXPERIENCE LUXURY TOWNHOME LIVING IN NIAGARA FALLS STARTING FROM THE $300’S

NW IRO

BEECHWOOD RD.

AV

KALAR RD.

BE

LUNDY’S LANE

PRE-REGISTER NOW! silvergatehomes.com | 905.680.6000 info@silvergatehomes.ca Prices & specifications subject to change without notice.

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 39

//COMMUNITY FOCUS

SONOMA CREATES A PERFECT LIFE-STYLE

on Hamilton’s West Mountain LOCATION: West Hamilton Mountain HOUSING TYPE: Luxury townhomes from the $350’s SALES CENTRE: 1155 West 5th at Rymal Road, open Monday to Thursday 2 to 5 p.m., noon to 5 p.m. weekends, and Fridays by appointment CONTACT: info@sonomahomes.ca sonomahomes.ca

40 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

L

uxury + Lifestyle + Location = Style – Sonoma Homes’ newest lifestyle community on Hamilton’s West Mountain. Whether you’re seeking recreation and outdoor adventure or the amenities of city living, Style is set in the heart of it all in a location that is seldom this convenient, this diverse and this perfect.

This chic collection of trend-setting townhomes is located across from a 65-acre park-in-the-planning, William Connell Community Sports and Recreation Park which will include soccer and football fields, track, tennis courts, splash pad and walking paths. Only minutes from The LINC, Style offers quick and easy highway access to Hamilton-Burlington-Toronto, Stoney Creek and Brantford-KW-London. How perfect is that?

For those nights and weekends at home, just minutes away on Upper James, you’ll find essential amenities such as restaurants/cafes, movie theatres, fitness centres, shopping and so much more. Schools, public transportation and medical services for pets and people are right there. The Meadlowlands is also moments away.

SONOMA HOMES | Style

As an extra bonus, each home includes a free year of alarm, cable, telephone and internet service. Servicing begins this spring with closings available in early 2016.

Since its launch last fall, Style has reached sales of 50 per cent in Phase 1. These threebedroom luxury towns of 1,475 and 1,895 sq. ft. are equally appealing to families, empty-nesters and professionals seeking style and substance wrapped in low-maintenance living.

Sonoma Homes is a Chiaravalle family operation. Father Carmen, son Michael and sisters Angela and Rita all share a passion to create dream homes using a hands-on approach from design through to construction and then after care service. In just a few short years, Sonoma has become a major name in Hamilton home building, having been awarded 2009 Community of the Year for its Pine Ridge Estates community in Ancaster, and 2013 Project of the Year for Country Ridge Estates in Hamilton. Sonoma has also earned awards for merchandising and kitchen and bathroom design, all from the Hamilton Halton Home Builders’ Association. The skills and workmanship invested in these communities has been parlayed into greater things at Style.

The Sonoma commitment ensures each home is constructed with top quality materials, expert craftsmanship and superior design as the company strives to exceed provincial and national building

codes. It has included upgrades to ensure the features that lead to a home of esthetic appeal, functionality and extreme comfort and convenience are part of the home, not an addition, and are included in the purchase price. It’s the Sonoma promise of unsurpassed quality.

Style will showcase $80,000 worth of finishes as standard features. Each home begins with an exterior of brick, stone and stucco (no siding) with a decorative glass entryway, stuccofinished porch ceilings, casement windows on upper and lower floors, and oversized basement windows to welcome more light.

Inside you’ll find nine-foot ceilings on the main floor, oak staircase, gas fireplace with custom mantle, ceramics, and a kitchen of maple or oak with an island or peninsula, granite throughout, plus six appliances and a second floor laundry.

Other features include an asphalt driveway, sodded front and rear yards, dry walled garage, and, of course, an architecturally controlled streetscape that creates a sense of style that enhances the overall value of each home and the entire community. As an extra bonus, each home includes a free year of alarm, cable, telephone and internet service. Servicing begins this spring with closings available in early 2016.

Live in Style, on west Hamilton mountain. Sonoma Homes makes it possible.

For more information, email info@sonomahomes.ca or visit sonomahomes.ca FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 41

Live in

OVER

50%

SOLD

sonomahomes.ca

WEST 5TH

STONE ONE CHURCH RD. RD W.

RYMAL RD. W. RYM

UPPER JAMES ST ST.

TORONTO

Site hours: Mon-Thurs 2-5pm Fridays by appointment Sat & Sun 12-5pm

42 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

LINCOLN M. ALEXANDER LINC ANDER PKWY

GARTH ST ST.

IN UPGRADES INCLUDED

LINC

to 403

403

$80,000 $300’s

N

BRANTFORD

STARTING FROM THE MID

W ES

OVER

T

HAMI LTO N

Be connected to everything!

AIN NT U O M

Whoever said you can’t have it all, doesn’t live here.

There’s nothing like a little extra space to spread your wings. With larger lots, double car garages, and great rooms for family gatherings you simply get more than you bargained for with a Phelps home. Not only do you get more space to live, but the craftsmanship and modern designs have been specially chosen and carefully built.

And what really makes a Phelps home special is where we put it. In Smithville. Away from the hustle and bustle of a big city, surrounded by nature’s best - but close enough to the things that matter; schools, farmers’ markets, and local wineries.

Visit our model home and start living the life you imagined.

Life. Imagined.

Bungalows + 2 storeys

Bungalows + 2 storeys

from the mid 360s 905-945-6975

from the low 370s 905-945-6978

NOW OPEN

NEW DESIGNS

EXECUTIVE FAMILY HOMES ON 50’ LOTS

Detached Bungalows

Attached Bungalows

NEW DESIGNS

NOW OPEN

from the 370s 905-957-1777

from the 280s 905-957-1777

NIAGARA’S PREMIER ADULT LIFEST YLE COMMUNITIES

PhelpsHomes.com

Prices, features and specifications are subject to change without notice and are accurate at time of publication. Subject to availability. Please see sales representative for details. E. & O.E.

//CITY FOCUS

ANCASTER

Great natural location and abundant amenities

J

udging by population growth alone, Ancaster is the place to be. But there’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 Toronto’s 1,376 and Hamilton’s 1,000 residents.

Located on the Niagara escarpment, the former town offers a 200-year 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 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 Road, 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

44 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

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

ANCASTER AT A GLANCE POPULATION

33,000

MAJOR EMPLOYERS

Manufacturing, health care, education, retail AVERAGE HOME PRICES

Dec. 2014: $387,000 Dec. 2013: $370,000

SOURCE: Canadian Real Estate Association,

other sources; *Hamilton-Burlington & District

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

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. 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 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.

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 45

//MORTGAGE ADVICE

What the Bank of Canada’s rate drop means for HOMEBUYERS AND HOMEOWNERS » by ALYSSA RICHARD

ALYSSA RICHARD

is the Founder and CEO of RateHub.ca – a financial product comparison site that aims to empower Canadians to make smart financial decisions.

On Jan. 21, Governor Stephen Poloz announced that the Bank of Canada (BoC) was dropping its overnight rate by 0.25 per cent, from one per cent to 0.75 per cent. It was the first time the rate had been changed in nearly 4.5 years.

First, if you read the news or happen to follow even a few personal finance experts on Twitter, you probably got the sense that it came as a surprise – and it did. Until a few months ago, everyone expected Canada’s economy to finally pick up in 2015, and for interest rates to go up along with it.

Unfortunately, as you’ve probably noticed by the cheap gas prices you see around your city now, falling oil prices have already hurt our economy. Profits are down, people are losing jobs… and the BoC’s decision to cut its rate was meant to do one thing: encourage banks to drop their Prime rates, so Canadians who were feeling the negative impacts of what’s been happening in the oil industry could keep up with their existing debt commitments.

Conversely, at first, the banks chose to ignore the BoC’s rate cut and refused to lower their Prime rates. Stating concerns that dropping interest rates further would actually cause Canadians to take on more debt they couldn’t afford to

Unfortunately, as you’ve probably noticed by the cheap gas prices you see around your city now, falling oil prices have already hurt our economy.

46 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

repay, versus help those who were feeling the itch, the banks didn’t want to budge. Finally, one week after the overnight rate was dropped, the big banks all lowered their Prime rates – but only by 0.15 per cent, not the full 0.25 per cent. There’s no telling how long this will last, or if the banks will drop their Prime rates further, but here’s what it means for you.

If you’re a homeowner with a variable mortgage rate, your bank’s decision to drop its Prime rate will result in a smaller monthly mortgage payment. A 0.15-per-cent decrease won’t save you much – maybe $40 per month on a $400,000 mortgage – but it’s still something. And if you are carrying extra debt or want to make a lump sum payment on your mortgage later this year, use this savings to help you do so.

If you’re thinking about buying a home this year, don’t let these lower interest rates make you think you can afford an extra-large mortgage. There’s a lot of uncertainty surrounding this rate cut, and we don’t know how long it will last. It’s really important to buy a home that is below your maximum price limit and to stress test your mortgage; that means tacking on two per cent to the current interest rate and seeing if you could still afford the payment, if interest rates went up.

The banks are right to be concerned about Canadians taking on more debt; that’s what happens in low interest rate environments. Take this rate cut for what it’s really worth: a chance to pay down your current debt sooner.

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48 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

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50 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

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FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 51

//COMMUNITY FOCUS

HAVELOCK CORNERS

One-of-a-kind, master-planned living in Woodstock

W

ith more than 40 years of building excellence, Senator Homes has a flair for innovative design, countless industry awards plus a solid reputation as a family builder. Havelock Corners in Woodstock is the latest neighbourhood from Senator Homes.

It’s a one-of-a-kind, master-planned community, adjacent to the lush Pittock Conservation Area, and overlooking the winding Thames River.

Havelock Corners is rich in character and distinctive charm. It’s where homes designed in classic Olde Ontario-style architecture fits perfectly within a town that is steeped in history. Act fast, and you can purchase one of Senator Homes’ inventory homes with quick closings which start at $259,000. In total, there are 22 single-family detached home models with garage starting at the very affordable price of $223,900, and four freehold (no condominium fee) bungalow townhomes with garage remaining, starting at only $209,900.

52 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

The gorgeous detached homes at Havelock Corners with 30- to 50-ft. lots include beautiful main floor hardwood floors throughout, gas fireplace and oak staircase, plus a choice of all-brick or vertical siding exterior in the Olde Ontario style. Just released: 50-ft. riverside lots.

Own on the Upper Thames River, minutes from downtown Woodstock.

In total, Havelock Corners from Senator Homes will be home to 3,000 families. Soon to be released: all-new 34-ft. two-storey link-style homes (linked at garage).

Senator Homes offers a sales centre and five furnished models for your viewing pleasure at Havelock Corners. In addition, the Senator Homes Decor Centre is your one-stop shop for everything you need to finish your new home to perfection. It’s the place where your new house gets transformed into the home you’ve always dreamed of. Pick and choose the elements that will customize your home and give it a unique identity that reflects the special personality of you and your family.

There’s no denying the beauty of a home from Senator Homes at Havelock Corners. The attractiveness of the modern open-concept designs and aesthetically-pleasing exteriors are equalled in their appeal by the surrounding amenities. Havelock Corners is surrounded by Mother Nature’s best offerings. Pittock Conservation Area – right outside your door – is a 2,000-acre playground offering hiking, camping, boating, swimming, picnicking, mountain biking, birding and much more.

SENATOR HOMES | Havelock Corners

The attractiveness of the modern open-concept designs and aestheticallypleasing exteriors are equalled in their appeal by the surrounding amenities.

In addition, Havelock Corners is a golf course community, with 13 golf courses in Oxford County, including Oxford Golf and Country Club/ Craigowan, Woodstock Meadows and Sally Creek Golf Club all just minutes from your front door.

As well, the beauty of living in Woodstock is enjoying the best of both worlds: small-town friendliness with nearby rural enjoyment, coupled with every modern amenity. There are endless shopping and dining opportunities in this growing city, which boasts the easiest access to Hwys. 401 and 403 among any Southwestern Ontario community – travel to Toronto or Niagara with ease.

In addition, Senator Homes is a huge supporter of the Woodstock Art Gallery and Theatre Woodstock.

LOCATION: Woodstock HOUSING TYPE: Townhomes 1,059 to 1,735 sq. ft., detached homes 1,186 to 3,076 sq. ft.

SALES CENTRE: 251 Pittock Park Rd., open Monday to Wednesday 2 to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday noon to 6 p.m., all other times by appointment CONTACT: 519.539.5010 havelockcorners@senatorhomes.com

What are you waiting for? Havelock Corners is waiting to be discovered.

Visit the sales centre at 251 Pittock Park Rd. (at Oxford Road 17) and find your new home.

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 53

//TARION REPORT

Protect your home from the elements this winter » by HOWARD BOGACH

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.

During the winter months, your home is exposed to harsh conditions, which can cause damage from the outside in.

Even though all new homes in Ontario come with a warranty that lasts seven years, this warranty does not include regular wear and tear on your home. It is essential to conduct home maintenance year-round to protect your home from damage, and to help ensure that you keep your warranty rights.

Let’s begin with the exterior of your home. Homeowners should keep a close watch in valleys and dormer roof areas for ice damming, as this can lead to water leaks inside the home.

Fluctuating temperatures can cause ice damming and icicles. This occurs when the roof surface is warm enough to melt the snow, but the air temperature is cold enough to re-freeze the melted water – leading to ice forming on roofs.

Professional removal of ice and snow can help reduce the likelihood of water leaks. Severe weather aside, regular wear and tear on your home can also cause damage if a regular winter maintenance routine is not followed.

Some additional important outdoor tasks include: checking and ensuring air

intakes, exhausts and meters are clear of snow, cleaning gutters and washing out all debris, turning off and draining exterior hose bibs, and inspecting the foundation around your home for cracks that require repair.

Once we go inside, there are a few more maintenance tasks that will help keep your home healthy this season. Today’s energy-efficient homes are built tightly to seal out the cold weather. However, this can lead to excess moisture if water does enter the home. Weather-related water entering and remaining in your home can cause considerable damage and lead to unhealthy indoor air quality. The humidity level in your home is a key indicator of a healthy indoor environment. You can check the humidity level in your home using a hygrometer.

The healthy range is 30 to 50 per cent humidity.

If your home’s humidity levels are lower than 30 per cent, install a portable humidifier. Low humidity may affect your interior finishes and cause wood products to shrink.

Excess moisture, on the other hand, can be improved with proper ventilation. Bathroom fans, kitchen range hoods and packaged ventilators such as heat recovery ventilators are specifically installed in your home to help you control moisture and contaminants.

As well, regular use of your home ventilation system will remove excess airborne moisture caused by bathing, showering, doing laundry and cooking. Ventilation is only one of the many components that keep your home in good condition.

Indoor maintenance during the winter months should also include: cleaning or replacing your furnace filter, cleaning the heat recovery ventilator and washing or replacing the filter, checking all caulking and weather stripping around windows and doors, checking smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replacing batteries if required.

Owning a new home comes with a responsibility to manage and maintain that home, and that responsibility falls on the owner.

By conducting regular and proper maintenance on your home, you will help to ensure that your statutory warranty rights are protected, and your home stays in good condition.

For a comprehensive checklist of seasonal maintenance tips, visit tarion.com

54 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

Calculate your mortgage payments INTEREST RATE

AMORTIZATION PERIOD

CHART FIGURE

EXAMPLE: 5%

25 YEARS

5.82

MORTGAGE AMOUNT ÷ 1,000

MONTHLY PAYMENT

(MORTGAGE AMOUNT $125,000)

125

$

Canadian mortgage payment factors Instructions:

01 02 03 04

Determine the appropriate 5-Year Fixed Mortgage Rate, which is easiest to qualify for.

Run your finger down the left column of the table below to find the rate (round to the nearest 1/4%).

Choose your desired amortization period across the top of the table (25 years has lowest payment and is easiest to qualify for first-time buyers).

At the intersection of the column and row is your mortgage payment per month per $100,000 borrowed.

» 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.

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 55

Mortgage payment calculation chart %

INTEREST RATES

15 YEARS

2.50%

AMORTIZATION PERIODS 20 YEARS

25 YEARS

30 YEARS

$666

$529

$448

$394

2.75%

$678

$541

$461

$407

3.00%

$690

$554

$473

$421

3.25%

$702

$566

$486

$434

3.50%

$714

$579

$499

$448

3.75%

$726

$591

$513

$461

4.00%

$738

$604

$526

$476

4.25%

$750

$617

$540

$490

4.50%

$763

$630

$553

$504

4.75%

$775

$644

$567

$519

5.00%

$788

$657

$582

$534

5.25%

$801

$671

$596

$549

5.50%

$814

$684

$610

$564

5.75%

$827

$698

$625

$579

6.00%

$840

$712

$640

$595

6.25%

$853

$726

$655

$611

6.50%

$866

$741

$670

$626

6.75%

$880

$755

$685

$642

7.00%

$893

$769

$700

$659

Table provided by Calum Ross, Owner, President and Principal Broker at Calum Ross Mortgage. He can be reached at 416.410.9905, calum@calumross.com and calumross.com 56 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

Compare mortgage rates for your best deal CHARTERED BANKS

Variable

ATB Financial

2.35

Alterna Svgs/Alterna Bk

2.45

Bank of Montreal

2.85

Bank of Nova Scotia

2.85

Canadian Western Bank CFF Bank CIBC

2.85

ICICI Bank Canada Manulife Bank

2.9 2.55

National Bank

n/a

President’s Choice Finan Royal Bank

2.5 2.85

TD Canada Trust

2.85

Tangerine

2.85

6 Months

1 Year

2 years

3 years

4 years

5 years

4 6.30op 4 6.30op 4 6.30op 4.55 6.45op 4 6.45op

2.94 6.30op 2.98 6.30op 3.14 6.30op 3.29 6.50op 3.14 6.30op 2.99 2.89 6.35op 3.15 3 3.50op 3.14 6.70op

2.79 6.50op 2.98

2.79

2.84

2.94

2.98

2.94

2.98

3.04

3.8

4.39

3.09

3.09

3.39

3.89

4.49

3.04

3.65

4.2

4.99

2.79 2.49

2.69 3.55

2.89 3.04

2.79 4.79

3.65 3.04

3.64 2.94

3.69 2.99

3.69 2.99

3.04

3.75

3.04

3.14

2.29 3.14

3.49 3.8

2.99 4.54

4.44 4.74

2.94

3.44

3.94

3.09

3.24

3.49

3.69

3.79

3.25 2.59

3.95 3.44

4.74 3.94

4.99 4.79

3.6

3.7

4.6

4.95

2.69 3.14

2.79 3.75

2.79 4.39

2.84 3.29

3.09

3.39

3.89

4.49

3.1

3.33

3.65

3.13

3.25

3.29

2.99

2.99

2.59 3.04

2.69 3.19

2.79 2.99

2.89 2.99

2.69 3.14

2.89 3.75

3.04 4.39

3.09 4.79

2.2

3.35

2.95

3.05

3.95 3.09

4.35 3.55

4.84 3.29

5.14 2.99

3.05

3.15

3.25

3.4

2.75

2.85

2.9

2.95

6.70op 4.45 4.4 6.70op

6.30op

3.14 6.30op 2.99 6.30op 3.19

TRUST COMPANIES Community Trust Concentra Financial

n/a n/a

Effort Trust

n/a

Home Trust Company Investors Group Trust

2.35 n/a

MTCC

2.85

6.5 5 6.70op 4.45 6.30op 3.95 4.2 6.50op 4.55 6.45op

3.14 2.89 6.30op 3.45 6.30op 2.69 3.14 6.30op 3.29 6.50op

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Airline Financial C.U.

4

Comtech Credit Union

2.95

First National Fin. LP FirstOntario C.U.

2.85

IC Savings London Life

n/a

Luminus Financial

2.45

MCAP Meridian Credit Union

2.35 2.65

Parama Credit Union

2.6

Steinbach Credit Union

2.4

6.2 6.40op 3.95 6.34op 4.2 6.50op

4

3.01 6.25op 2.99 6.30op 2.99 2.99 6.34op 2.99 3.14 6.30op 2.85 6.25op 3.6 3.09 6.30op 2.85 3.00op 2.65

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 February 9, 2015. Prepared By Fiscal Agents Financial Information Services 905.844.7700

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 57

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MENKES DEVELOPMENTS: Enclaves of Upper Canada

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BAYVIEW WELLINGTON: Victoria Village

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MINTO: Oakvillage

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BRANTHAVEN HOMES: Oakvillage

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PHELPS HOMES: Multi-Site

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CLAYSAM HOMES: Corporate

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ROSEHAVEN HOMES: On the Ridge

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53

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GREATER HAMILTON HOME & GARDEN SHOW

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SONOMA HOMES: Style Town Collection

42

HOMES BY DESANTIS: Multi-site

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TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS: Baldwin Place

50

HOMES BY DESANTIS: On the Ridge

28

WILLIAMSBURG HOMES: Eby Estates

23

COUNTRYGREEN HOMES: The Uptowns of Waterdown

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES: Multi-site

MATTAMY HOMES: Hawthorne Village

MATTAMY HOMES: Wildflowers

60 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

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IBC

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32 & 33

WILLIAMSBURG HOMES: Williamsburg Walk

WINZEN: Garden Park Towns

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Feb 14 to 28 Calendar of events beginning from Feb. 14 to 28, 2015

CANADIAN WARPLANE HERITAGE MUSEUM HAMILTON

Ever wish you could sail a pirate ship, drive in a grand prix, navigate through a safari and hang out with wizards all in one day? Let your child’s imagination run wild at Hamilton’s Kids Fest.

Suitable for children ages 12 and under. warplane.com FEB 16

Braden's Hot Chocolate Festival

DUNDAS VALLEY CONSERVATION AREA TRAIL DUNDAS This community event focuses on family fun, active living and the value of nature. Featuring live entertainment, activities, outdoor winter fun and mapped trails to explore, all to demonstrate the importance of our conservation areas. hotchocolatefestival.ca

NEW ANCASTER FAIRGROUNDS ANCASTER

The Ancaster Home Show is presented in beautiful, clean new buildings, with climate controlled, heated floors, bright lights, easy ground level access. Organized by Jenkins Show Production – a local, family-run business celebrating 34 years of organizing community homeshows. jenkinsshow.com FEB 24

Simcoe Bridal Showcase

VITTORIA COMMUNITY CENTRE SIMCOE

The Simcoe Bridal Showcase offers free admission, door prizes, special displays and gift bags for brides-to-be who preregister. welcomewagon.ca

FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 61

//FUNDAMENTALLY SPEAKING

What type of home should you buy? » by WAYNE KARL

Wayne Karl is an awardwinning 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

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

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

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

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

Let’s be honest, your fi rst home may not be your dream home, and your needs and desires are bound to change throughout the various stages of home ownership. You might not be able to afford the home of your dreams right off the bat, but once you’re in the market, it’s easier to move up.

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

HOW MUCH CAN YOU AFFORD?

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

62 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | FEBRUARY 14 - 28, 2015

HOW MUCH WILL IT REALLY COST?

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

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO LIVE?

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

WHAT TYPE OF HOME DO YOU WANT?

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

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

The Indigo Model Home In Wildflowers, Kitchener

Small Town Charm, Modern Lifestyles.

Early Closing Homes Now Available.

Tucked under the Niagara Escarpment, Milton offers the best of Southern Ontario. Beautiful and alluring to those seeking recreation. Plus proximity to great shopping, dining, and entertainment. Every home in Mattamy’s Hawthorne South Village demonstrates the highest standards of design and finish with amenities created for those who appreciate the comforts a great home can offer.

36' Home, The Woodstock, Elev. ‘French Chateau’, 2,758 Sq.Ft.

MILTON

James Snow Pkwy.

Detached Homes From The $400’s

Thompson Rd.

Freehold Townhomes From The $300’s

SALES CENTRE:

HWY 401 Regional Road 25

30' Home, The Renfrew, Elev. ‘Georgian’, 1,874 Sq.Ft.

10180 Derry Road Main St.

Derry Rd.

SALES CENTRE

COMING SOON, A NEW RELEASE OF DETACHED HOMES REGISTER MATTAMYHOMES.COM Follow us: SALES CENTRE HOURS: Monday - Thursday 1pm-8pm; Friday 1pm-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-6pm All illustrations are artist’s concept. All dimensions are approximate. Prices, specifications, terms and conditions subject to change without notice. E.&O.E.

Construction has begun!

1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Condos in Kitchener

Hurry in to reserve your suite today

the DUMFRIES | 827 sq. ft.

Starting from the low $200s

Ceramic Flooring in Bathroom & In-Suite Laundry

Williamsburg Walk, in the heart of Williamsburg Town Centre in Kitchener, is a master-planned pedestrian promenade of shops, dining and modern amenities designed to simplify your busy lifestyle.

In-Suite Laundry

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