Southwestern Ontario New Home and Condo Guide - Mar 1, 2014

March 1 - 15, 2014 Volume 17 Issue 4

Perch yourself here AT INSIDE THIS ISSUE

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT NEIGHBOURHOOD

NESTINGS

HAMILTON: NEW ECONOMY, BRIGHT FUTURE

IN KITCHENER WATERLOO

INSPECT YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE YOU MOVE IN

Must see.

OF

EMPIRE IS ENERGY STAR PLUS!

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Prices, sizes and specifications are subject to change without notice. *Limited time offer, for closings 12 months or later, please see Sales for full details. E. & O.E. Map not to scale. Exclusive listing brokerage: TFN Realty Inc. Broker Protected.

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Our Wyndfield Dream Tour it today and experience that moment

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am Home Gallery is spectacular. ent when you know this is where you belong. TRUE Freehold Park Townhomes from

209,990

219,990

$

$

36’ Detached from

30' Detached from

279,990

239,990

$

$

44' Detached from

46' Detached from

309,990

359,990

$

$

McLeod Rd. & Kalar Rd., NIAGARA 905.354.1710

READY TO LIVE HOMES

HAMILTON

Detached from

289,990

$

30' Detached from

$

36' Detached from

291,990

331,990

$

44' Detached from

381,990

$

3 Binhaven Blvd., BINBROOK 905.692.6000

ONLY A FEW TOWNS REMAIN DON’T MISS OUT!

STONEY CREEK

TRUE Freehold 2-Storey Towns from

TRUE Freehold Towns from

289,990

296,990

$

$

34' Detached from

$

42' Detached from

406,990

503,990

$

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Join the conversation @Empire_Living facebook.com/EmpireCommunities

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What’s New In Wildflowers?

mattamyhomes.com

4 New Detached Model Homes Opening Soon! Our Sales Centre is now in its brand new location, just around the corner from where we were and within the community. We are wide open with a great selection of Detached Homes from a very affordable $298,990. You’ll also find a special package of upgrades on our 30' and 36' detached Homes, with granite kitchen countertops and main floor hardwood flooring. Visit our new Sales Centre Location and pick your special home among the Wildflowers in Kitchener.

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

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30' Home, The Chicory, Elev. ‘B’, 1,597 Sq.Ft., $322,990

179 Seabrook Drive, Kitchener Follow us: 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.

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NOW’SYOURCHANCE!

from the mid

200s

$

CountryGreenHomes.com | 905-690-7600

CENTRE RD.

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

WATERDOWN

PARKSIDE DR.

6 DUNDAS ST.

403

HAMILTON ST.

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

407 QEW

Monday to Wednesday 2-7pm Thursday/Friday by Appointment Saturday & Sunday 11-4pm MARCH 1 - 15, 2014 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 7

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contents p. 14

MAR 1 - 15, 2014 || VOLUME 17 ISSUE 4

ON THE COVER

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Nestings in Kitchener-Waterloo soars with early delivery singles

22

regular and special features

community focus features

IN EVERY ISSUE 10 Editor’s Note 71 Hot Dates 76 Ad Index COLUMNISTS 26 Tarion Report

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP 53 City focus

Inspect your new home carefully – before you move in by Howard Bogach

36 Building Blocks

How to choose the right neighbourhood by Jeff Paikin

50 Mortgage Advice

U.S. tapering and its effect on Canadian mortgage rates by Alyssa Richard

66 Fundamentally Speaking

Location, information and timing are key to finding a new home by Wayne Karl

IN THE NEWS 16 Spectrum Sky

Hamilton: new economy brightens the future of this former Steeltown

67 Homebuyers’ Resources

Mortgage Calculator & Rate Table

34

22 Tillsonburg

Tillsonburg Developments Baldwin Place – Tillsonburg Developments’ adult lifestyle community

34 St. Catharines

Bayview-Wellington Homes Discover country in the city at BW Homes’ Victoria Village in St. Catharines

44

44 Waterdown

CountryGreen Homes West Bloom and Uptowns of Waterdown: the best of both worlds from CountryGreen Homes

62 Fergus

Reid’s Heritage Homes Reid’s introduces townhome living to Westminster Highlands in Fergus

62

Spectrum Realty launches highrise division – Spectrum Sky

New Home WATCH

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18 London 27 Hamilton 57 Waterloo

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one more reason to buy new...

YOUR MOVE IS ON US!

We’ll do the moving and take care of your closing costs. Think of it as our housewarming gift to you!

www.mountainview.com

905.323.6232

Offer & Specification subject to change without notice. E.&.O.E. Not valid with any other promotion. Restrictions apply, visit sales office for details. Moving Costs up to $2,000. Closing costs up to $3,000Tarion, Hydro and/or legal fees.

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//EDITOR’S NOTE

How best to select a builder? A little extra research pays off with peace of mind

Y

ou’ve agreed that a new home is the way to go and you’re making headway, but you still have another big decision to make – choosing your home builder. It pays to check the reputation of the builder/developer before you sign on the dotted line. You can start by finding out how long the company has been in business by asking the sales representative or visiting the company’s website. Find out if previous purchasers are happy with their homes. Drive around an existing community built by the company and talk to anyone you run into anyone during your tour. Naturally, you should spend some time visiting several different sales offices and model homes. Get a feel for each company and the staff employed there. Ask a lot of questions and expect to be treated with consideration and respect. No question is too “dumb.” Think twice about any development where the salespeople push you to make a decision you’re not ready for, or where they are not happy to provide you with the information you request. There are certainly many other builders and salespeople out there who pride themselves on putting the customer first. When you do find the right home and the right company, making that big decision will be a whole lot easier and enjoyable.

VICE-PRESIDENT, WALL2WALL MEDIA

Jacqueline Hill

DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL

Josh Heppner

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Susan Maxwell EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge ART DIRECTOR

Daiana Garay EDITOR

Wayne Karl CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Sara Duck Elisa Krovblit Lydia McNutt

DISTRIBUTION & SALES CO-ORDINATOR

Jennifer Bistron

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Antoinette Jackson MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Bala Gnanapandithan CO-ORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony

SUSAN LEGGE

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Susan.Legge@wall2wallmedia.com Follow me on Twitter at Twitter.com/SusanLegge Like us on Facebook. Search: New Home Guide

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Wall2Wall Media

Be prepared This adage is never more true than when buying your first home

T

he moment you decide to buy a new home is an important one – from getting your finances in order, to learning about mortgages, to researching builders and to getting out there to look at potential communities. Indeed, the excitement grows at every step. If it’s your first home, the process can be an especially emotional experience. There will be houses you fall in love with, communities you really want to live in and neighbours you can envision befriending. As exciting as all of this is, it’s also important to not let your emotions get carried away – to buy more with your heart than your head. This is why you should take your time, do your research and conduct due diligence on every development, builder and home you consider. This issue of New Home & Condo Guide, like all editions we put together, contains a variety of content to guide you through this process. Our goal is to help identify subjects, neighbourhoods, communities, housing types and builders for you to consider – in short, to help you prepare. With this knowledge, and your own enthusiasm, you’re well on your way!

WAYNE KARL

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

Viosa Barileva Joanne Keenan Jeffrey Reed

Published By

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

newhomeandcondoguide.com

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

ADVERTISING:

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

CIRCULATION:

TERMS: Advertisers, Editorials and New Home & Condo Guide are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All prices are correct as of press time and are subject to change without notice. E. & O. E. EDITORIAL: Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the address above, to the attention of the Editor.

All rights reserved by New Home & Condo Guide, Toronto, Ontario. Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Contents of this publication are covered by Copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law. The views and data expressed by columnists do not necessarily represent those of the publication. Wall2Wall Media is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada.

COPYRIGHT 2014:

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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URBAN TOWNS. NATURAL SETTING. Coming Soon from the low $200’s Let The Charm Of Beamsville Seduce You. For those who delight in the intoxicating blend of modern design and old world charm, Homes by DeSantis presents the Fiera Collection, the newest collection of urban townhomes at Lincoln Square. Surrounded by lush vineyards, ambling walking trails and convenient retail along picturesque streets, these meticulously crafted homes are just minutes from the QEW and the GTA.

Who says you can’t have it all? ASK ABOUT OUR NO DOWN PAYMENT NO PROBLEM PROGRAM!*

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* 100% financing option available on approved credit. Please see sales agent for details. Prices subject to change without notice. Illustration is artist’s concept. E. & O.E.

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//cover story

Nestings community soars with early delivery singles

Branthaven

will get you moving this spring!

W

ith spring just around the corner, families looking for the perfect new “nest” in Kitchener/Waterloo need to look no further than the prestigious perch of Nestings in River Ridge. If you are in the market for attainable luxury on a spacious 36-, 40-, 45- or 50-ft. lots, with plenty of plan options and flexible, family-friendly layouts (three-, fourand even five-bedroom plans) then Nestings is your place to roost! Just imagine, you could be “Living the Life in a Branthaven” in as little as 30 to 90 days! “Visitors to the Nestings neighbourhood are very impressed,” says Steve Stipsits, president of Branthaven Homes. “The caliber of the

architecture and level of exterior details are comparable to any custom built home in the region. We have designed Nestings with three elevation options – Classic, Craftsman and French Country, so the neighbourhood has true character and curb appeal. Phase 1 is almost complete and Phase 2 is well under construction.” You’ll discover Branthaven’s interior design flare at the three Nestings model homes. Tour the one-of-a-kind Willow, a unique corner lot, bathed in sunshine and open concept living, perfectly suited to casual living and comfort. The gorgeous Grand River model is a must-see dream home featuring elegant and stately principal rooms as well as stunning open concept kitchen, Great Room, laundry and mudroom that busy families would love to nest in. If you wish to “walk before you buy,” there are six quick closing homes that are available to choose from. The Fieldstone is a stunning corner elevation, wrapped in a rustic brick façade with a prominent front porch and roofline with gabled silhouette. “It makes a great first impression,” says Stipsits,

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BRANTHAVEN HOMES | Nestings Location Kitchener-Waterloo Housing Type Three-, four- and fivebedroom homes on 36-, 40-, 45- or 50-ft. lots from the $400’s Sales Centre 20 Redtail St., open Monday to Wednesday 2 to 7 p.m., Thursday and Friday closed, open Saturday and Sunday noon to 5 p.m. Contact 1.888.775.7172 branthaven.com

“and, at 3,650 sq. ft, this plan offers in an exceptionally well designed layout. It’s an attainable single-family home on a prime lot.” The Fieldstone is not only an award-winning design; it is fully decorated and available in 30 to 60 days! The Peregrine II, a 36-ft. model offers exceptional space and value – it’s available in 60 days. The Coopers’ Hawk has a great layout with three or four bedrooms, perfect for growing families. Move in in 90 days and start enjoying the natural beauty of the local parks and Grand River Conservation Area. Discover why the Wild Iris and Meadowsweet 45-ft. models were sell-out successes at Doon Creek; Branthaven’s latest completed community in Kitchener. These two homes are ready to occupy in as little as 30 to 60 days. Are you ready to nest? Why consider a resale when you can have a quick closing Branthaven Home and have the comfort of making a sound investment today and reaping the rewards in a future resale! If you are looking to “nest” with a longer delivery date… there are choice lots still available with the added benefit of being able to still “feather your nest” with your own personal style and up to $20,000 Branthaven Design Dollars bonus, ask a sales representative for details. Get ready to soar in a new Branthaven home this spring! See these homes and more on branthaven.com marCH 1 - 15, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 15

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//In the news

Spectrum Realty launches new highrise division: Spectrum Sky Inc. Spectrum Realty Services Inc. has announced the launch of its very own highrise division involving the same team that helped shape the lowrise industry for the past 22 years. The

Photos: Vito Amati

partners at Spectrum Realty are pleased to announce the appointment of Mira Tomljenovic as vice-president of highrise and partner at the new Spectrum Sky Inc. This official announcement was made on Feb. 19 at Touro Steakhouse & Wine Bar in Richmond Hill among a selected group of esteemed industry professionals and highrise developers. Tomljenovic was the co-founder and past president of ln2ition lnc., a new home and condo sales and marketing company. She has more than 25 years of experience in the real estate, planning and project management fields, and has won multiple industry awards, including the coveted Riley Brethour Award for Achievement in Residential Sales and Marketing. Along with her contributions to the industry, Tomljenovic also co-founded the Race for Humanity, an annual fundraising event for Habitat for Humanity which has gained international recognition for community spirit in the building industry.

She is actively involved in BILD and frequently spoke on panels, and is instrumental in organizing the annual housing tours throughout North America since 2004. “We are redefining our reality, and while it makes perfect sense to use our past successes as a foundation, we are creating something totally new,” says Tomljenovic. She will work in unison with Silvio Deluca and Joseph Bozzo, creating the GTA’s most dynamic and innovative highrise marketing team. About Spectrum Realty

Since its inception in 1992, the partners at Spectrum Realty have endeavored not only to create a niche in the marketplace, but a foothold. Today, some 22 years later, Spectrum Realty is one of the largest independent brokerages in Canada, and the leader in lowrise sales within the Greater Toronto Area. The four partners set out to deliver unparalleled service to its builder clients. Their goal was to be instrumental in every facet of the process, from acquiring land parcels, to the creation of draft plans, architectural and marketing advice to providing professional and qualified sales staff to their clients. Spectrum Realty has close to 200 agents with many exclusive builder clients with sites that stretch from Newcastle in the east, Fort Erie in the west, to Muskoka in the north. The Spectrum team has been responsible for the sale of more than 30,000 new homes since its inception, directly involved in creating some of our region’s most iconic neighborhoods.

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mattamyhomes.com

Variety Springs To Life With Our New Release In Hawthorne Village.

Today we’re offering new Townhomes and Detached Homes in Mattamy’s most awarded community of Hawthorne Village. We’re open with a new release of our most popular and affordable Village Homes, brand new 2-Storey Townhome and desirable Rear Lane Townhome designs as well as 30’ and 36’ Detached Homes. If you’ve been waiting to find a new home where 10,000 families have already found life completely enjoyable, then we suggest you visit our Sales Centre. We look forward to seeing you real soon.

Elev. ‘A’

Trafalgar To QEW

Winston Churchill

Sales Office

Trudeau Dr.

Townhomes From $309,990 • Detached Homes From $444,990

James Snow Parkway

36’ Home, The Hawkesbury, Elev. ‘B’, 1,950 Sq.Ft., $524,990

4th Line

Village Home, The Brighton ‘A’, 1,044 Sq.Ft., $309,990

Derry Rd. E

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

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

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LONDON

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

preview registration eastforest homes London | Andover Trails

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

eastforesthomes.com

new openings sifton properties London | Westwood Village

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

auburndev.com

Sifton properties Ingersoll | HarrisView

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

sifton.com

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

Cachet reid heritage homes London | Copperfield

claysam homes Woodstock | Sally Creek

cachetreid.com

sifton.com

Premium twin town designs now including finished basements.

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

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

claysamhomes.com

claysam homes Woodstock | Neighbourhoods of Devonshire

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

claysamhomes.com

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London:

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

401

403

402 401

402

401

De t. Se m i Bu ng To alow wn h Ad ome ul /Co t L nd ife o sty le

Please see advertisers ads for location of sites

LOCATION BUILDERS

SITES

PRICES

London

EASTFORES`T HOMES

Andover Trails

London

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Cachet Reid's Heritage Homes

• •

Tillsonburg

TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS Baldwin Place

• • •

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CLAYSAM HOMES

Neighbourhoods of Devonshire

•

25

Woodstock

SENATOR HOMES

Havelock Corners

• •

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•

PAGE

•

20

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BC

•

from $232,000

from $209,990

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There's no time like

NOW!

2013

Builder of the Year

stacked towns | quads octominiums starting from

$169,990

starting from

detached bungalows 2-storey detached

semis townhomes

$199,990

starting from

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START LIVING A BETTER TOMORROW NOW! visit us at

eastforesthomes.com

Prices correct at press time. Pictures are for illustration purposes only. Promotions available on new construction only, is not applicable with any other promotion unless stated and may be cancelled or discontinued at any time. See Sales Representative for details. Broker protected. E. & O. E. Effective March 2014

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//community focus

Baldwin Place in Tillsonburg Tillsonburg Developments’ adult lifestyle community Location Tillsonburg Housing Type Adult lifestyle, single-detached custom freehold bungalows sales centre 3 Esseltine Dr., open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday through Thursday, Fridays and holidays by appointment contact 519.842.4251 1.800.265.5709 baldwinplace.ca

T

he town of Tillsonburg is a Southwestern Ontario gem, offering both the idyllic lifestyle of a cosy community, and every modern amenity necessary to contemporary living. Baldwin Place, Tillsonburg Developments’ premier adult lifestyle community, is a perfect fit for this community. Quality-built freehold homes with all-brick exteriors on spacious lots please even the most discerning of homebuyers. Tillsonburg Developments is proud of its two new model homes, and will soon announce a third model to showcase its unique offerings. In total, there are nine different home designs to choose from, available on generous sized lots of 40-, 45- and 50-ft. Or, have Tillsonburg Developments custom design a home plan for you – you can even bring in your own home plan!

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TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS | Baldwin Place

With this strong commitment to the community, plus such a wide variety of options in home customization, everyone feels at home at Baldwin Place. All of the new model homes at Baldwin Place now have fully-furnished interiors – landscape completion is slated for this spring. Each of the model homes is available for purchase – and with a quick closing, you even have the option of buying a model fully furnished! Gorgeous new homes at Baldwin Place start at a very affordable $232,000 including HST. There is a monthly $30 residential association fee that goes directly towards operation of the recreation centre, a vital part of the community. It’s an ideal space for neighbours to meet, and includes facilities such as a kitchen, library, saltwater pool and salt water spa and numerous meeting rooms. There are also a variety of activities for Baldwin Place residents – chosen and run by the residents themselves, through the volunteer board of directors. Baldwin Place also offers selected homes finished to drywall stage, allowing Tillsonburg Developments to offer quicker possession dates, while still allowing customers the option of choosing interior colours and finishes. Clients always have a choice of elements including flooring, wall colours and cabinetry, amongst others. An interior decorator is also available free of charge for Baldwin Place residents. Each of the new homes at Baldwin Place, such as the 1,490-sq.-ft. Ashby model with double garage, includes a laundry room, two washrooms, air conditioning and highefficiency forced-air gas furnace. In fact, four models at Baldwin Place, including the 1,373-sq.-ft. Sherwood model, have single garages, while five boast a double-car garage. In addition to the recreation centre, there are a myriad of recreation and leisure activities within the town of Tillsonburg and

surrounding area. For example, there are approximately 30 golf courses within a 30-minute drive of Baldwin place. No matter what the season, there’s always an activity to enjoy in Tillsonburg. The town boasts a bustling core with a variety of restaurants, retail outlets and the Tillsonburg Town Centre, making it the perfect spot for a day of shopping or a night out on the town. There are two medical centres and a hospital, too. Tillsonburg Developments takes great pride in the fact that its team of professionals consists of local businesspeople, all of whom live and work in the community. The pride that these professionals take in their workmanship and community is obvious with the quality of life offered at Baldwin Place. With this strong commitment to the community, plus such a wide variety of options in home customization, everyone feels at home at Baldwin Place. Visit the new sales centre today, and see for yourself how Baldwin Place embraces a modern lifestyle within a community-driven town. For more information, call 519.842.4251, 1.800.265.5709 or visit baldwinplace.ca

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BALDWIN PLACE, TILLSONBURG

WOW You can’t beat the quality, value and lifestyle at Baldwin Place. Onsite, there’s a fully-equipped recreation centre… reach great golf and scenic drives in just minutes. And because we’re right in town, shopping, dining and medical facilities are just a few blocks away. Come for a visit and see why so many retirees of all ages have made the Baldwin Place community their new home.

Our all-brick, detached, freehold homes start at $232,000 (incl hst) with a monthly association fee of just $30! Call us now at 1-800-265-5709 or visit: www.baldwinplace.ca 3 ESSELTINE DRIVE, TILLSONBURG MODEL HOME HOURS: OPEN MONDAY - THURSDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY 10AM TO 5PM. FRIDAYS & HOLIDAYS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. E.& O.E. Prices & Specifications are subject to change without notice. 24 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | MARCH 1 - 15, 2014

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dream

Believe

achieve

in home ownership in Woodstock

per month P&I*

from

MODEL HOME

NOW OPEN p Road

Townshi

2

Oxford

ire Ave

Devonsh

Road

OWNERSHIP $80,000 less than KW

4

e

wne Av Lansdo

s Dunda

Affordable Home

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

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. A Bell Fibe Community

visit us online for model hours claysamhomes.com *Limited time offer. $784.46 per month based at 2.5%, 5 year closed mortgage amortized over 25 years with 25% down payment on purchase price of $224,900. 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.

025-Claysam-Devonshire 09-28-13.indd 1

believe you can have it all

2/26/14 2:14 PM

//tarion report

Inspect your new home carefully –

before you move in » by howard bogach

One distinction between buying a new home in Ontario, versus an older resale, is the mandatory warranty that most single-family homes and condominiums come with – supplied by your builder and guaranteed by Tarion. The warranty

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.

ensures that homeowners receive a new home that is constructed in a workmanlike manner, is free from defects in material, is fit for habitation and is constructed in accordance with the Ontario Building Code. The first chance home buyers get to inspect their new home is during the Pre-Delivery Inspection, also known as the PDI, which takes place before you move in. Your builder is required by Tarion to conduct a PDI with you on or before the day you take possession. This is your opportunity to view your home in its entirety, learn about how to maintain it and take stock of anything that may be damaged, incomplete, missing, or not working properly.

The New Home Buyer section on tarion.com has a number of resources to help you prepare for your PDI such as the PDI checklist and a guide to Getting Ready for the PDI.

You may be excited to show it off to your friends and family, but this is not the time. The PDI is an important part of taking possession of your new home and deserves your full attention. If you are not able to attend yourself, you can ask someone you trust to be there on your behalf. During the PDI, you should carefully examine your home both inside and out. Look for things such as chips in bathtubs and sinks, scratches on countertops, damage to floors, walls, cabinetry or other finishings, and doors and windows that are not secure or do not open and close easily. Outside, check things such as the quality of brickwork and siding, whether window screens have been installed, and the appearance of the driveway and landscaping. Your builder’s representative will note everything down on a PDI form. Review the form carefully to make sure it’s complete. This will become the official record of the condition of your home before you moved in. In case of a disagreement between you and your builder over whether any damage occurred before or after you took possession, we will refer to the notes on your PDI form. If for any reason, the condition of the home makes it impossible to accurately assess its condition – for example, if there is still too much construction dust or debris covering the surfaces, you should ask the builder’s representative to reschedule the inspection until the home is cleaned. Sometimes, due to weather or other factors, you may not be able to inspect a certain item. If you are unable to assess something during the PDI, simply make note of it on the form. Use the PDI as an opportunity to ask questions and learn about how your home functions. Your builder will show you how to operate your home’s systems, such as heating, electrical, air conditioning and plumbing, and provide you with operating manuals. The New Home Buyer section on tarion.com has a number of resources to help you prepare for your PDI such as the PDI checklist and a guide to Getting Ready for the PDI. You’ll also find the Homeowner Information Package, or HIP, which your builder will provide on or before your inspection date. I always recommend buyers read the HIP before their inspection. Being informed and well prepared is the best way to start your homeownership experience! If you have questions about your warranty, visit tarion.com or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/tarionwarrantycorp

26 New home & condo guide SWO | marCH 1 - 15, 2014

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halton hills wellingto

hamilton halton niagara

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

preview registration rosehaven homes & homes by desantis Stoney Creek | On the Ridge

Coming in April – towns, semis and singles from the mid $200’s at Mud St. and Upper Centennial Pkwy in Stoney Creek.

liveontheridge.ca

kingwood homes Brantford | Riverwalk

Coming spring 2014 – master-planned community of luxury 40-ft. singles beside the Grand River.

kingwoodhomes.ca

homes by desantis Beamsville | Fiera

Coming soon to Beamsville – a stunning new collection of Urban Townhomes, priced from the low $200’s.

homesbydesantis.com

DAWN VICTORIA homes South Burlington | Village West

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

dawnvictoriahomes.com

Dicenzo homes Stoney Creek | Blue Shores

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

blueshores.info

forest park homes Fonthill | The Village Landing

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

thevillagelanding.com

TOBYN park homes Stoney Creek | Stoneywood Park

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

stoneywoodpark.com

Ancaster Beamsville Binbrook Brant Brantford Burlington Catharines Grimsby Hamilton

rosehaven homes Mount Albert | Victoria Highlands

Coming soon – 50-ft. detached singles.

rosehaveninmountalbert.com

new horizon homes Bronte | Harvest

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

newhorizonhomes.ca

spallacci homes Hamilton | Eden Park

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

spallaccihomes.com

spallacci homes Hamilton | 101 Locke Condos

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

spallaccihomes.com

Molinaro Group Burlington | Paradigm

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

paradigmcondos.ca

new openings kingwood homes Paris | Village on the Grand

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

bucci homes Grimsby | Bliss

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

buccihomes.com

Augustine Group Stoney Creek | Treviso

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

trevisostoneycreek.ca

new releases Rosehaven homes Chippawa | Lyon’s Creek

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

rosehavenhomes.com

spallacci homes Hamilton | Eden Park

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

spallaccihomes.com

Emery condominiums Burlington | Appleby Club

Limited release of Country Club Condominiums at Appleby and Dundas.

applebyclub.com

Now open – luxury riverfront towns backing onto the Grand River in historic downtown Paris, from the $230’s.

villageonthegrand.ca

cosmopolitan homes St. Catharines | Vintner Estates

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

vintnerestates.ca

spallacci homes Hamilton | Eden Park

Grand Opening of Chateau-inspired semis collection.

spallaccihomes.com

mountainview homes Fonthill | The Residences at Lookout

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

mountainview.com

marCH 1 - 15, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 27

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28

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Paris

Port Dover

Binbrook

Grimsby

Georgetown

Caledon

Smithville

Welland

Fonthill

Thorold

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

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

Ridgeway

Stevensville

Chippawa

Fort Erie

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

SITES

PRICES PAGE

Beamsville

HOMES BY DESANTIS

Fiera Collection

Binbrook

LOSANI HOMES

Fairgrounds

• •

77

Beamsville

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Hillside Estates

•

9

Brantford

EASTFOREST HOMES

D'Aubigny Forest Estates • •

20

Brantford

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Wyndfield

Burlington

ADI DEVELOPMENT GROUP LINK Condos & Towns • from mid $200's 38

Burlington

EMERY CONDOMINIUMS

Appleby Club • from $304,900

Burlington

TOBYN PARK

Park City

Caledon

MONARCH

The Village of SouthFields • • from high $300's 40&41

Fonthill

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

The Residences at Lookout • •

9

Fort Erie

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Beaver Creek Estates

•

9

Grimsby

BUCCI HOMES

Bliss • from mid $260's 43

Grimsby

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Wave • from $177,990

Grimsby

PHELPS HOMES

The Bedford Collection

•

Hamilton

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Summerlea

• • from $289,990 2&3

Hamilton

SPALLACCI HOMES

Eden Park

Milton

MATTAMY HOMES

Hawthorne Village

Niagara

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Imagine •

from $209,990

2&3

Niagara, Fonthill

FOREST PARK HOMES

The Village Landing

• •

from $249,900

30

Niagara

GREAT GULF

Edgewood

•

from $310,990

79

Niagara

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Fernwood

• •

9

Niagara

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Thundering Waters

• •

9

Niagara

PHELPS HOMES

Streamside on the Twenty

•

Niagara Falls

HOMES BY DESANTIS

Lyon's Creek

• • • •

from mid $200's 47&48

Niagara Falls

ROSEHAVEN

Lyon's Creek

• • •

from mid $200's 47&48

• • •

from mid $200's

•

from the low $200's

11

• • from $224,990 2&3

•

•

from $188,900

from low $400's from the $300's

• • from $309,990

•

from mid $300's

49

13 39 52 17

39

Niagara on the Lake BW HOMES

Niagara on the Green

Oakville

MENKES

Millstone • from $339,990

32

Oakville

NEW HORIZON

Mint Condominiums • from $239,990

37

Paris

EASTFOREST HOMES

Grandville

• •

20

Simcoe

EASTFOREST HOMES

Woodway Trails

• • •

20

Smithville

PHELPS HOMES

Brookside on the Twenty • • from $258,900

5

39

Smithville

PHELPS HOMES

Harvest Heights

• • from the mid $200's

39

St. Catharines

BW HOMES

Victoria Village

• from low $300's

4

St. Catharines

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Generations

•

9

Stoney Creek

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Victory

• • from $289,990 2&3

Stoney Creek

HOMES BY DESANTIS

On The Ridge

• • from mid $200's 31&47

Stoney Creek

ROSEHAVEN

On The Ridge

• • from mid $200's 31&47

Thorold

GREAT GULF

Rolling Meadows

• from $299,990

Thorold

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

West Community

• • •

79

Thorold

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Gibson Heights

• • from the $250's 47

Waterdown

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Bohemian Towns • from low $300's 13

Waterdown

COUNTRY GREEN HOMES

The Uptowns of Waterdown

• from mid $200's

7

Welland

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Harvest Estates

• •

9

9

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

•

51

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

Port Dover

LOCATION BUILDERS

29

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MODEL

HOME

NOW

OPEN

FONTHILL. A COMMUNITY WITH MORE. PANTONE

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

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

VILLAGE SINGLES PRICED FROM

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

$249,900

$349,900

PMS Black 7C

PMS 7536C

CMYK

BLACK AND WHITE

1526 HAIST STREET, FONTHILL HOURS: TUES-THURS: 2-7 WEEKENDS: 12-5 289.897.8751 THEVILLAGELANDING.COM

REVERSED

30 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | MARCH 1 - 15, 2014 FINAL LOGO: ACCEPTABLE FORMATS FOR USAGE Corporate Identity Forest Park Homes ForestPark_Corp_Logo.ai

030-Forest Park-Village Landing 01-18-14.indd 30

Acceptable logo variations N/A August 2011

x x x x x x

OPTIONS AVAILABLE

PANTONE CMYK BLACK AND WHITE INVERTED COLOUR BACKGROUND OTHER OPTIONS

COLOUR SPECS DUTCH801 BT ROMAN H E LV E T I CA R EGU L A R

2/26/14 2:14 PM

Coming April 2014

Towns, Semis, Singles,

200’s

$

from the mid

Walk, Bike or Play

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

Register today at LiveOnTheRidge.ca

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

031-Rosehaven HBD-On the Ridge 01-18-14.indd 31

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//community focus

Discover country in the city at Victoria Village

Location St. Catharines Housing Type Bungalow, bungalows with loft and two-storey plans from $299,900 sales centre Welland Canals Parkway & Rockwood Ave. contact 905.688.7800 1.888.996.9949 victoriavillage@cogeco.net bwhomes.ca

I

f you’re looking for country in the city, look no further than Victoria Village, Niagara’s waterfront community like no other. Located right on the Welland Canal Trail in St. Catharines, the city’s “other” waterfront, it’s an active person’s paradise for blading, walking, running or hiking and, of course, biking – nearby trails are part of the Greater Niagara Cycle Route. It’s off the beaten track, yet there are two golf courses within five minutes, organized recreational and programs for kids and adults alike at nearby rec centres and parks, and White Oaks Fitness & Squash Club. Residents are anxiously anticipating the May 15 opening of Canada’s largest open-air mall, the Niagara Outlet Collection Mall. With it being five minutes away, residents are literally around the corner and yet will be spared the hustle and bustle of traffic congestion. It will open its doors to more than 100 retail shops and services including Bass Pro Shops, fashion giant Forever 21, Banana Republic, Bench Outlet, Brooks Brothers Outlet, Calvin Klein, Gap Outlet, Izod, Michael Kors Outlet, Naturalizer, Osh Kosh, Tommy Hilfiger and Van Heusen, to name just a few. There will also be a farmer’s market. St. Catharines, Niagara Falls and Welland also offer great shopping opportunities within minutes.

34 New home & condo guide SWO | marCH 1 - 15, 2014

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BAYVIEW-WELLINGTON HOMES | Victoria Village

BW Homes excels at customization on new construction or modifications to existing homes, so buyers can always achieve a home for their needs.

Presented by Bayview-Wellington Homes, Victoria Village presents fine living within luxury homes along the Welland Canal, one of the most famous waterways in the world. This Maritimeinfluenced community is where residents will enjoy a spectacular parade of ships from international waters. Not far from its flagship, golf course community of Niagara-On-TheGreen, Victoria Village pays homage to soldiers awarded the Victoria Cross through its street names. As always, your welcome to Victoria Village is warm and friendly. Staff are pleased to offer a tour of existing homes, with many offering immediate closing dates. One they will encourage you to visit is the Preston 3, a two-storey, four-bedroom home of 2,215 sq. ft. with a two-car garage. Its country kitchen is ideal for this country setting, set within an open-concept main floor that includes a living/dining area and a family room alongside the kitchen, and a main floor laundry. Upstairs, you enter the solace of the master suite through double doors and discover a huge walk-in closet and an ensuite with Roman soaker tub and separate shower. Two of the three additional bedrooms also have walk-in closets. All homes include central air, gas fireplace and fully sodded lots with paved driveways. BW Homes excels at customization on new construction or modifications to existing homes, so buyers can always achieve a home for their needs. Homebuyers can choose from bungalow, bungalow/loft and two-storey plans so everyone from empty nesters to the growing family will find a fitting design to suit their needs. Bungalow plans offer living areas of 1,160 to 1,250 sq. ft. to as much as 1,750 sq. ft. with the loft option. Two-storey plans are spacious with sizes ranging from 1,521 to 2,530 sq. ft. All these activities and lifestyle opportunities make Victoria Village a wonderful location with a wonderful starting price – $299,900 for a home of 1,521 sq. ft. Although Victoria Village is just a two-minute drive from the QEW, the canalside location provides an undeniable sense of country living and yet is never far from every lifestyle need and desire. For more information, call 905.688.7800, 1.888.996.9949, email victoriavillage@cogeco.net or visit bwhomes.ca marCH 1 - 15, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 35

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//building blocks

How to choose

the right neighbourhood » by Jeff Paikin When purchasing a new home, keep in mind that you’re not just investing in a property, you’re investing in a neighborhood. Even if you spot the house of your dreams, if the neighborhood isn’t a good fit, you may never come to love your home. Your choice of neighborhood

Jeff Paikin

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

will directly impact your family’s lives in very tangible, realworld ways for many years to come. Whether it’s a tree-lined street of historic homes or a new golf course community in the suburbs, good neighborhoods often share common traits such as proximity to employment, shopping, transportation and good schools. Still, there is no single definition of a good neighbourhood. Young families may value schools and parks, whereas others favour cafes, theatres and restaurants. That distinction will ultimately be determined by your priorities and preferences. With a little diligence, you should be able to determine what neighbourhood will best suit your lifestyle. TAKE A TOUR If you’re contemplating a move to an unfamiliar neighbourhood, take time to do some exploring. Walk and drive around to get a feel for the community. Spend a “day in the life” of the neighbourhood and take some notes. Try to get a sense of the area’s vibe and traffic volume at different times of the day. Check out local services and businesses and see if the nearby amenities accommodate your needs and desires. Proximity to medical facilities, places of worship and shopping all contribute to the livability of your new home. What is the demographic make-up of your desired community? Diversity makes the world delightfully interesting, but it’s a good thing to be close to people who share your lifestyle and interests. If you’re a young family with small children, you may find it preferable to live in an area that houses families like your own. What condition are residents keeping their properties in? No matter how diligent you are in the upkeep of your property, a run-down neighbourhood can drive down your property value. Look for pride of ownership, with well-maintained properties. Ultimately, there is really no better way to get information than talking to the people who live there. Ask them what they like best about the area, and if there are any problems you might not be aware of. Is there a neighborhood association? Is there a strong sense of community? Are homes holding their value? COMMUTING How long will it take to get to work? Will you be going with or against traffic? Is the route easy to navigate? Realistically time those daily commutes, and do it at the actual time you’ll be making the drive. It is essential that you take into account the various commutes of all of your family members to ensure that no one will be unfairly burdened with unreasonable travel conditions.

SCHOOLS Parents often pick a school

district before they consider other criteria. If this ranks high on your list or priorities, find out how the district ranks, how much money is spent on each child, class sizes, available facilities and test scores. Visit the school if you can, to get a better feel for what it’s really like. This is also an excellent way to include your children in the process, so they can feel empowered at a time when they might be feeling anxious. Even if children aren’t in your plans, owning a home in an area with great schools will help your resale value down the road. THE FUTURE Investigate where your desired neighbourhood’s future is heading. Is it in a convenient location where people want to move? How are home sales in the area? Are builders pressing to keep up with the demand? These are telling indicators of future value and positive signs that you are choosing a desirable community. You should also pay attention to the zoning and transportation planning for any undeveloped areas nearby. Visit municipal offices to investigate how the surrounding land is zoned. Check for approvals of large commercial projects or road construction. Some changes can be in the works long before they become visible. An unfavorable rezoning or less than desirable construction project may be on a drawing board, ready to pop up shortly after the ink is dry on your new mortgage. Find out what’s ahead for your area; the news might even be good, with a project that could send valuations soaring. Not many people get everything on their wish list. Most people buy homes that represent compromises they have decided they can live with. Finding that balance is a personal thing. But if you do your homework, you’ll have a better chance of making an informed decision, and that will certainly tip the scales in your favour.

36 New home & condo guide SWO | marCH 1 - 15, 2014

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BH_mint_NHC_FEB25_F.pdf

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1

14-02-25

2:35 PM

2/26/14 2:14 PM

A90xx_Link_NHC_GO2_A90xx_Link_NHC_Nov 2/25/14 2:48 PM Page 1

GRAND OPENING

Design-forward Condos & Towns in Burlington $ from mid

200’s

Limited Time Offer!

Only 15% Deposit Plus $2500 in Free Upgrades* PLUS!

One Parking Space & Euro-style Integrated Appliance Package Included! Buy enduring quality! Best concrete built value in Burlington!

PRESENTATION CENTRE

QEW / Hwy. 403

Bronte Road

Dundas Street West Sutton Drive

N

Appleby Line

HWY 407

PRESENTATION CENTRE 5210 Dundas Street West, Burlington Monday - Thursday: 12 noon - 6 pm Friday: Closed Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 12 noon - 5 pm www.adidevelopments.com 905-592-2028

LAKESHORE RD. LAKE ONTARIO

038-Adi Development 03-01-14.indd 1

Exclusive Listing: Baker Real Estate Incorporated, Brokerage. Brokers Protected.

* See Sales Representative for details. Illustrations are artists concept. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E. & O.E.

2/26/14 2:14 PM

The best things come to those who won’t wait. Our homeowners often tell us they can’t wait to enjoy their new Phelps home. That’s why we created our Ready-For-You collection of homes that can be move-in ready in as little as 30 days! Like all Phelps homes, these incredible homes are backed by our assurance of quality and customer service we’ve built our reputation on. Visit today then start packing!

Ready-For-You Homes in Niagara starting from

258,900

$

STREAMSIDE The Manchester - 2-Storey model home 3,097 SQ. FT. 4 Bed/3 Bath $629,900

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Ready-For-You from

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The Birchwood - Townhome 1,307 SQ. FT. 2 Bed/1.5 Bath

The Backwood - Semi-Detached 1,168 SQ. FT. 3 Bed/1 Bath

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Livingston - Bungalow w/loft 2,193 SQ. FT. 4 Bed/3 Bath

SO LD

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$

Davenport - Bungalow w/loft 2,585 SQ. FT. 4 Bed/3 Bath

584,900

$

from

258,900

$

from

282,900

$

from

271,900

$

from

512,900

$

from

Discover the Phelps community right for you in locations across Niagara, Smithville, Stoney Creek, Grimsby and Jordan.

905.945.6978 | PhelpsHomes.com Prices, features and specifications are subject to change without notice and are accurate at time of publication. Some illustrations are artists’ concept. Subject to availability. Please see sales representative for details. E. & O.E.

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Monarch first. Before the ‘60’s changed the world. Before the Baby Boom began. Before the Roaring ‘20’s took us dancing to the Charleston or out to the movies, Monarch was here. First. For 96 years, families have trusted Monarch for the most important investment of their lives. So choose the one builder who has always been there for Canadian families. And visit Monarch. First.

40

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MONARCH COMMUNITIES KLEINBURG | KLEINBURG CROWN ESTATES | GRAND OPENING OF DESIGNER MODELS SINGLES FROM THE UPPER $700,000’s* Sales Centre located at 165 Timber Creek Boulevard 416-495-3513 CALEDON | SOUTHFIELDS | NEW RELEASE SINGLES FROM THE LOW $600,000’s TOWNS FROM THE UPPER $300,000’s Sales Centre located at 12515 Kennedy Road (Kennedy Rd. and Mayfield Rd.) 905-843-0707 AJAX | TRANQUILITY | DESIGNER DECORATED MODELS AND FINAL RELEASE SINGLES FROM THE UPPER $500,000’s Sales Centre located at 3 Bignell Crescent (Salem Rd. North & Rossland Rd. East) 416-495-3542 SCARBOROUGH | EVERGREEN | A FEW CHOICE HOMES REMAIN TOWNS FROM THE UPPER $400,000’s Sales Centre located at 70 Town Centre Court (Town Centre Crt. and Borough Dr.) 416-495-3574 SCARBOROUGH | DANFORTH ROAD & EGLINTON | COMING SOON KITCHENER | TOPPER WOODS | COMING SOON

ALSO BUILDING HIGH RISE COMMUNITIES IN:

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discover more

MonarchGroup.net

first.

*Special pricing noted above includes all applied eligible bonuses and is not to be combined with any other promotions featured. Please see a sales associate for full details. E.&O.E. 9637 MARCH 1 - 15, 2014 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 41

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Model Home Compliments of Bucci Homes. www.buccihomes.com

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MARCH2014 Bucci Homes has been featured as “MODEL HOME OF THE MONTH� as seen in the new home & condo guide model home calendar

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//community focus

West Bloom and Uptowns of Waterdown

The best of both worlds from CountryGreen Homes

C

ountryGreen Homes offers the best of both worlds, whether you’re looking to buy in a young, urban community or in an older, established neighbourhood. Savvy buyers have already discovered Waterdown to be an unbeatable location offering small town village charm along with big city conveniences. Located close to major highways and the Niagara escarpment, Waterdown is home to an abundance of greenspace and is just minutes away from the most sought-after amenities. Here, you’ll find plenty of parks, shopping, primary and secondary schools and recreational centres.

It is also home to one of the most sought after townhome communities, the Uptowns of Waterdown by CountryGreen Homes. Offering urban-style two- and three-storey back-to-back townhomes in either condo or freestyle units, these towns are designed for today’s growing families at unbeatable prices. Spacious open concept floorplans offer a wide range of impressive standard features

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COUNTRYGREEN HOMES | Uptowns of Waterdown, West Bloom

and optional designs from 1,168 to 1,881 sq. ft. with prices starting at $259,900. You’ll also fi nd three-storey traditional and executive freehold townhomes ranging in size from 1,990 to 2,492 sq. ft. and priced from $359,900. Why not see for yourself why more and more buyers are flocking to the Uptowns of Waterdown. Purchase now and receive $5,000 in free upgrades! Visit the sales pavilion at 619 Centre Rd. in Waterdown or call now 905.690.7600 for further information. Hours are from Monday to Wednesday, 2 to 7 p.m.; Thursday and Friday by appointment and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If a single-detached is more your style, just a short drive away you’ll fi nd another exciting CountryGreen Homes’ community – West Bloom located on Hamilton Mountain. Nestled in an already established neighbourhood off Upper James, West Bloom lies within a treasure trove of single-detached homes. A commuters’ dream, this quaint and quiet enclave is only minutes away from the Red Valley

Expressway, Hwy. 403 and the Alexander Parkway. With easy proximity to the fi nest amenities only an established neighborhood can offer, West Bloom is within walking distance to major shopping, restaurants, schools and a short drive to downtown Hamilton. Open concept plans range from the three-bedroom, two full bath Freesia model with 1,682 sq. ft., to the spacious 2,398-sq.-ft. Delphinium model which includes a separate dining room and a handy computer niche. Both homes boast stylish breakfast bars in the kitchen and ample closet space in bedrooms. And for the buyer who appreciates that custom touch, there are a number of optional designs available. Priced from the mid-$300’s, with only eight singles left, this may be your last opportunity to purchase! Visit the West Bloom model located on Connell Crescent. The sales office is open Monday to Wednesday from 2 to 7 p.m., Thursday and Friday by appointment and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 905.389.5979.

LocAtion Waterdown HousinG tyPE Uptowns of Waterdown, two- and three-storey back-to-back townhomes; West Bloom, singledetached homes sALEs cEntRE Uptowns of Waterdown, 619 Centre Rd., open Monday to Wednesday, 2 to 7 p.m., Thursday and Friday by appointment and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; West Bloom, Connell Crescent, open Monday to Wednesday from 2 to 7 p.m., Thursday and Friday by appointment and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. contAct Uptowns of Waterdown, 905.690.7600 West Bloom, 905.389.5979

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GREATER HAMILTON

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I am happy, I am comfortable,

Current Communities

CHIPPAWA/NIAGARA Freehold 35’ WIDE Bungalow Loft Townes from the low $320’s. New 50’ Lots Coming Soon. 6 MODELS NOW OPEN

THOROLD 45’, 40’, 36’ Singles, Semis & Towns from the $250’s. Quick closings on Select Towns & Attached Singles. 8 MODELS OPEN

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Prices and specifications correct at press time. Prices quoted are in $ thousands. E. & O.E.

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The grass is greener in Chippawa

The Welland - Rosehaven Homes

Whether it’s the wineries, the night life, hiking, biking and water’s edge, or the wonderful shopping and fine dining, your luxury new home at Lyon’s Creek in historic Chippawa is near everything you love about the Niagara lifestyle.

45’ Detached, Semis & Townes starting from the mid $200’s. • • • •

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Live closer to the action. Lyon’s Creek

HOURS OF OPERATION: Mon - Wed: 2pm - 7pm; Sat, Sun & Hol. 12pm - 5pm Elevation and landscape is artists concept and may not be depicted as shown. Prices, square footage and specifications correct at press time. Prices quoted are in $ thousands. E. & O.E.

048-Rosehaven Lyons Creek 03-01-14.indd 1

McLeod Rd.

s Lyonk Rd. Cree Mann St.

To Falls

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CHIPPAWA - NIAGARA FALLS NIAGARA RIVER

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1

14-02-25

4:21 PM

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//mortgage advice

U.S. tapering and its effect on Canadian mortgage rates » by alyssa richard What are “quantitative easing” and “tapering”? Over the last couple of months, you’ve likely read the words “quantitative easing” and “tapering” in any news story about the U.S. economy. What you may not have read about yet is the impact this has had on Canadian mortgage rates. Here’s a look at what’s been happening and what it could mean for mortgage rates in the future. In the midst of the financial crisis, the U.S. Federal Reserve lowered its short-term overnight interest rate all the way to zero. This effectively left them with little power to further stimulate the economy. So, the central bank essentially printed more money to buy bonds and other financial assets from banks, in a program known as quantitative easing. The banks, now flush with cash, were then able to loan more money to Americans, helping the economy grow. The bond-buying spree drove up bond prices and lowered yields (which have an inverse relation with prices). Lower yields then lowered borrowing costs, which stimulated the economy further. The central bank repeated this a few times, until it eventually took its balance sheet to slightly more than $4 trillion – from roughly $800 billion pre-financial crisis. In the first half of 2013, the U.S. Federal Reserve started talking about “tapering off ” the quantitative easing program. The taper was officially announced in December, with a plan to purchase only $75 billion of debt securities in January and to reduce the purchases in future months.

Alyssa Richard

is the Founder and CEO of ratehub.ca, a mortgage rate comparison site that aims to empower Canadians to make smart financial decisions.

The effect on Canadian mortgage rates So, what does this all have to do with Canadian mortgage rates? Under quantitative easing, the 10-year Treasury yield jumped from 1.65 per cent before any talk about tapering to 2.80 per cent in late August 2013. In January, it was sitting at 2.86 per cent. U.S. markets often act as something of a “price setter” for the Canadian market, and Canadian bond yields tend to follow U.S. bond yields. Generally speaking, higher U.S. bond yields will result in higher Canadian bond yields. Furthermore, Canadian fixed mortgage rates follow Canadian bond yields with a strong correlation. Since last May, both the five-year Canadian bond yield and average five-year fixed mortgage rate have risen substantially (shown in chart). Overwhelmingly, economists expect U.S. bond yields to keep rising in 2014, as a result of an allegedly stronger U.S. economy and further (expected) tapering by the U.S. Federal Reserve; this would in turn push Canadian mortgage rates up even further.

4

3

2 1 May ‘13

Jun ‘13

Jul ‘13

Aug ‘13

Best 5-Year Fixed

Sept ‘13

Oct ‘13

Nov ‘13

5-Year Government Bond Yields (BoC)

Dec ‘13

Jan‘14

Mortgage rates by: ratehub.ca

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city focus//

Hamilton

New economy, bright future

» by Wayne Karl

Hamilton at a glance Population

692,000, metro area Major post-secondary institutions

McMaster University, Brock University, Mohawk College Number of public and catholic schools

180

Major employers

Health services, manufacturing, government, education sectors Average home prices

Sept. 2013: $386,098 Sept. 2012: $359,822

Distance from Toronto

70 kilometres, 45 minutes

H

amilton may be only less than an hour’s drive west along the Queen Elizabeth Way, but it has long lived in the shadows of its big city neighbour Toronto. Long known as Steeltown, The Hammer and other less-thancomplementary monikers, Hamilton has undergone a fundamental transformation that has the city poised for long-term prosperity. For homebuyers considering purchasing in the area, there are good reasons to consider Hamilton. The city has been cited as among Canada’s most welcoming areas, particularly for first-time buyers. The Real Estate Investment Network, for example, has named Hamilton as the top real estate investment town in all of Ontario through to 2018. Continuing diversification of the city’s economy, coupled with increased accessibility provided by the transportation improvements, provides a strong economic base, the group says. In a few short years, Hamilton’s economy will be unrecognizable compared to past decades. In recent years, Hamilton has seen significant expansion in sectors such as health care and post-secondary education, offsetting a historical reliance on steel manufacturing. Indeed, Hamilton’s economy today is much more diversified than the Hammer of old. marCH 1 - 15, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 53

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Economic growth in Hamilton is strong. The Conference Board of Canada, in its Metropolitan Outlook – Winter 2014, cited the Hamilton-Burlington economy as one of the fastest growing in Ontario for 2014 – forecast to grow 2.5 per cent. In its outlook for Autumn 2013, the Board forecast growth of 1.3 per cent in 2013, as the city faces some challenges in manufacturing and in the services sector. Hamilton’s gross domestic product (GDP) is being boosted by renewed demand for steel and growth in several other manufacturing industries. Housing demand in Hamilton is to remain stable through 2014, as improving economic conditions and higher net migration will support demand in the area, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC). Gradual improvement in job and income growth during the latter part of this year, combined with modest price increases, should support Hamilton resale activity, CMHC says. The Hamilton census metropolitan area (CMA) is seeing something of a shift towards higher-density housing, while lowrise starts are seeing more concentration in surrounding communities. In the Hamilton CMA, the average new home price will be driven by compositional factors, CMHC says. Average home prices are also on the rise, to $386,098 in Sept. 2013 from $359,822 in Sept. 2012, according to the Canadian Real Estate Association. Non-residential projects underway in the region include major expansions in the health care sector, and millions of dollars spent on infrastructure improvements. A new rapid transit system is also being

It is home to the Royal Botanical Gardens, a major tourist attraction and significant local and regional horticultural, education, conservation and scientific resource.

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studied, which is expected to further benefit already improving inter-city travel. The city is working with Metrolinx, the provincial body responsible for expanding transit in the GTA and Hamilton area, and is awaiting a final recommendation for the project. Other recent significant industrial news includes Canada Bread’s new $100-million, 375,000-sq.-ft. bakery in the city’s industrial park in Glanbrook, replacing three smaller operations in Toronto. The project is to create 300 permanent jobs, as well as 120 construction and 31 seasonal positions. Columbian Chemical also recently announced a major expansion of carbon black production at its plant in Hamilton. Beyond these industrial expansions, Hamilton is also seeing a marked increase in other types of businesses moving into the downtown area. Much of the employment growth, in fact, is taking place in creative services, education, professional-scientific and health care. CMHC says job prospects are expected to continue to improve, and Hamilton will likely fare better than other Ontario markets due to its increasingly diverse base of industries, which keep the labour market more balanced. Thanks to billions of dollars in infrastructure improvements around and within the city, as well as expanded GO Train services, the “new” Hamilton is becoming more accessible as well as desirable. Buyers can acquire more affordable property here and commute to Toronto, or other neighbouring communities such as Burlington, Oakville or Mississauga. An emerging condominium market provides buyers with an even more affordable entry into Hamilton. Developers see this potential and a number of new projects are underway from all of Losani Homes, Empire Communities, Multi-Area Developments, New Horizon Homes, Spallacci Homes and Country Green Homes, with many aimed at first-time buyers and priced accordingly.

Hamilton also has plenty going for it in terms of culture and entertainment. It is home to the Royal Botanical Gardens, a major tourist attraction and significant local and regional horticultural, education, conservation and scientific resource. The city is also home to the Art Gallery of Hamilton, Ontario’s third largest public gallery. For sports enthusiasts, there’s the Hamilton Tiger Cats of the Canadian Football League, and the Hamilton Bulldogs of the American Hockey League and play out of Copps Coliseum. Copps, located downtown, which also serves as a venue for concerts and other events. If living in the city is not exactly your favour, development is also leading to growth in adjacent areas such as Ancaster, Dundas, Flamborough, Glanbrook and Stoney Creek. Homes by DeSantis, Losani Homes, Branthaven Homes, Mattamy Homes, Rosehaven Homes and other builders all have communities under way in these towns.

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2013 EDITION FREE

HOME&CONDO THE GUIDE TO BUYING AND MANAGING YOUR FIRST HOME

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56 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | MARCH 1 - 15, 2014

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

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macpherson builders Seaforth | Bridges of Seaforth

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

bridgesofseaforth.ca

new openings mattamy homes Kitchener | Wildflowers

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

mattamyhomes.com

gemini homes Guelph | Morning Crest

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

geminihomes.ca

Almaa Ayr Cambridge Elora Fergus Georgetown Guelph Kitchener Rockwood Waterloo

new releases menkes Georgetown | The Enclaves of Upper Canada

New release of semi-links in this family community backing on to a ravine mature trees.

menkes.com

reid’s heritage homes Kitchener | The Oaks

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

reidsheritagehomes.com

reid’s heritage homes Guelph | Westminster Woods

New building release at Kingsbury Square, as a result of the first Kingsbury building selling out quickly. New standard features and finishes. Located in desirable South Guelph.

reidsheritagehomes.com

reid’s heritage homes Fergus | Westminster Highlands

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

reidsheritagehomes.com

fusion homes Guelph | Blueberry Hill

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

fusionhomes.com

fusion homes Guelph | Privada

Final release now underway for this collection of bungalow townhomes.

fusionhomes.com

gemini homes Guelph | Creekside

Special release – last lot in Creekside, Cobalt semidetached with pie-shaped lot now available.

geminihomes.ca

gemini homes Guelph | The Highlands

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

geminihomes.ca

marCH 1 - 15, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 57

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New Hamburg

Plattsville

Stratford

Breslau

Collingwood

Baden

Owen Sound

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

Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

Acton

Scarborough

Ajax

Kleinburg

PRICES

Ajax

MONARCH

Tranquility

•

Baden

EASTFOREST HOMES

Baden Country Estates

•

20

Cambridge

EASTFOREST HOMES

Carriage Lanes •

26

Cambridge

EASTFOREST HOMES

Highland Ridge

•

20

Cambridge

MATTAMY HOMES

Wildflowers

•

Cambridge

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Aspen Heights •

Collingwood

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Georgian Meadows

Collingwood

from high $500's 40&41

from $298,990

6

BC

•

BC

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Silver Glen Preserve • •

BC

Fergus

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Westminster Highlands

Georgetown

MENKES

The Enclaves of Upper Canada • • from low $400's 35

Guelph

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Village by the Arboretum

Guelph

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Westminster Woods

Kincardine

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

The Highlands at Hunter Ridge • •

Kincardine

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Inverlyn Lake Estates

• •

Kitchener

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Joy •

Kitchener

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Nestings

• •

Kitchener

EASTFOREST HOMES

Doon South

•

Kitchener

EASTFOREST HOMES

Eby Estates • from $345,400 20

Kitchener

EASTFOREST HOMES

Grasslands of Stauffer Woods • •

20

Kitchener

EASTFOREST HOMES

Huron Landing • •

20

Kitchener

EASTFOREST HOMES

Huron Point •

20

Kitchener

EASTFOREST HOMES

Huron Village

• •

Kitchener

MONARCH

Topper Woods

•

Kitchener

WILLIAMSBURG HOMES/ REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Eby Estates

• from $345,400

Kitchener

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

The Oaks

Kleinburg

MONARCH

Kleinburg Crown Estates

•

Meaford

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Gates of Kent

•

BC

New Hamburg EASTFOREST HOMES

Riverside at New Hamburg

•

20

Owen Sound

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

The Residences of Cobble Beach

• •

BC

Port Elgin

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Summerside

• •

•

•

BC

Puslinch

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Heritage Lake Estates

•

BC

Scarborough

MONARCH

Evergreen

•

Thornbury

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Lora Bay

•

•

•

BC

Waterloo

EASTFOREST HOMES

Woodway Trails

•

•

•

20

•

• • • from $270's

27&BC

• BC •

BC

BC

BC

from $270,200

13

from $400's

12

•

•

•

•

20

20 40&41 23&BC BC

from high $700's 40&41

from high $400's 40&41

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

•

PAGE

Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

SITES

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

LOCATION BUILDERS

59

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061-Williamsburg Ebby Estates 03-01-14.indd 1

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//COMMUNITY FOCUS

Reid’s introduces townhome living to Westminster Highlands in

FERGUS LOCATION Fergus HOUSING TYPE Townhomes CONTACT 519.378.4578 reidsheritagehomes.com

N

ot far from the banks of the Grand River, Reid’s Heritage Homes is making it possible for more residents to enjoy small town living but in low maintenance townhomes that appeal to many types of homebuyers within Reid’s newly established community of Westminster Highlands. Th is limited collection of Wellington Executive Townhomes and Ellersly two-storey towns complement the lowrise condos, and detached singles and bungalows that mirror the essence, design and style of Reid’s Westminster Woods, its master-planned community in Guelph. Taking shape just off Hwy. 6 at the entrance to Fergus, Westminster Highlands is just steps to amenities, and is still only a short walk to the historic downtown and its river views. Residents will enjoy the historic charm,

modern amenities and many kilometres of natural beauty blended with a meandering hiking trail – all right at their doorstep. All the features, amenities and lifestyle attributes are close at hand, and ready to adorn this masterplanned community being carefully crafted and designed here in Fergus. Fergus is a quiet town, settled in the midst of day tripping country and less than 15 minutes to Guelph, and only 30 minutes to Hwy. 401. Recreational influences abound, with a wonderful array of dining spots, a recreation centre with three ice hockey rinks and amenities for families of all ages. Right at the river’s edge, you’ll find the Fergus Market set into one of the most architecturally significant buildings in Fergus. Follow The Grand River as it winds through the town over to Elora and its wonderful gorge. Then mark your calendars for early August for the

62 New home & coNdo guide Swo | marCH 1 - 15, 2014

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REID’S HERITAGE HOMES | Westminster Highlands

Fergus is a quiet town, settled in the midst of day tripping country and less than 15 minutes to Guelph, and only 30 minutes to Hwy. 401

Fergus Scottish Festival and Highland Games, a weekend filled with Celtic music, highland dancing, pipes and drums, fun and frivolity and more. These towns are perfect for busy execs, families, snowbirds, singles‌ anyone with a desire to put lifestyle first and home maintenance last. Construction will begin in the near future with completion and occupancy scheduled for later this year. Prices begin at $274,900, with a large selection of standard finishes as well as upgrades to choose from. The Wellington Executive Towns offer a choice of three plans for discerning living. As interior units of 1,450 and 1,467 sq. ft., both the Beechwood and the Cedarcroft are spacious with barrier-free floorplan. There is an easy flow from foyer through the kitchen and into the combination living/dining room, complete with a garden door to the yard. Each features a master suite with ensuite, two additional bedrooms and a bath. Basements can also be partially finished for additional living area. The Rocklyn end unit of 1,541 sq. ft. showcases a loft, main floor master bedroom with ensuite and a second bathroom. An extended loft is also available, adding about 200 sq. ft. that can accommodate a bedroom and bathroom, ideal as a guest suite. Columns define the side entrance with some formality as it opens into a two-storey foyer with a den/ dining room to the front of the home and the kitchen and living room to the back, which opens onto a charming covered porch. There is also a main floor laundry and the option of finished living areas in the basement. More intimate in size but just as gracious, the Ellersly towns are well-planned with living

rooms that extend across the back of these units taking advantage of their full width. Master suites include a walk-in closet and sitting area or can be upgraded with an ensuite in its place. A second floor laundry is standard or can be placed in the basement in favour of a main bath and master bath. Sizes range from 1,223 to 1,249 sq. ft. with three bedrooms and 1.5 baths as standard. Construction is underway, so occupancy can be as early as late spring/early summer, just in time for the Highland Games! Come home to Fergus and Westminster Highlands where life is grand. For more information, call 519.378.4578.

marCH 1 - 15, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 63

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ALSO AVAILABLE • Single Detached Homes • Bungalow and Executive Townhomes • Two-Storey Townhomes The ENERGY STAR® mark is administered and promoted in Canada by Natural Resources Canada. Used with permission. Renderings are artist’s concept of the completed buildings and are subject to change. *Prices subject to change. E. & O. E. **Applies to mid-rise condominiums only. Some restrictions apply. See a sales consultant for more information.

reidsheritagehomes.com 64 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | MARCH 1 - 15, 2014

USAGE

S

OPTIONS AVAILABLE

x064-Reids PANTONE Westminster 03-01-14.indd

COLOUR SPECS 64

2/26/14 2:15 PM

In a Sifton home.

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

In a Sifton home, you will experience the difference of our expertise with customer service excellence throughout your entire purchasing process. THE SIFTON DECOR CENTRE is the only one of it’s kind in London, Ontario, and provides a level of service and convenience that you can only enjoy with the purchase of a Sifton home. Winners of London’s Builder of the Year Award in 2012, our experienced and knowledgeable staff will make choosing the finishes and fixtures throughout your home a simple and stress-free process. We provide a one-stop-shop of design expertise to help bring your vision to life.

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//FUNDAMENTALLY SPEAKING

How to find a home? PAY ATTENTION TO LOCATION INFORMATION AND TIMING » by WAYNE KARL Despite what you often hear, buying a home isn’t only about location, location, location. True, this is the time-tested fi rst rule of real estate, but there are other determining factors you must consider as part of your selection process. Indeed, there’s a new rule of thumb for buying real estate.

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

LOCATION First, what does that old adage really mean? Of course, we’d all love a high-end home 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 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 home has when you go to sell, the more desirable it will be to a greater number of people. Th is equates to demand – multiple offers and a higher price. INFORMATION Whether you’re a fi rst-time homeowner, “buying up” to accommodate a growing family or “right-sizing” as an empty nester, education is critical. And these days, with digital media and mobile technology, all the information you need is at your fi ngertips. From the content here in this magazine, to the resources available to you at Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC), to the local market expertise of new-home sales staff and realtors, the more knowledge you have, the better equipped you are to make informed decisions about buying, maintaining and eventually selling your home. TIMING Though your home is your primary residence, it is also an investment. Where you buy is usually determined largely by where you want to live, work and play. But when you buy and sell is also important. Like any fi nancial instrument,

real estate can fluctuate in value and your timing can determine how good of an investment it is. Given today’s challenging economic climate, there’s no shortage of media reports on the ups, downs, crashes and surges of the housing market. But if you’ve done your research, you won’t be spooked – or excited – by big-picture reports on short-term market performance. You know that real estate is not national or even regional – it’s very specific. You don’t buy the Canadian market and you don’t buy a provincial or even regional market. You buy a specific home, on a specific street in a specific neighbourhood. So, it’s not just about “location, location, location.” The new adage is “location, information and timing.” Do well with all three, and over the long haul your home is going to be one of the best lifestyle and investment decisions you ever made.

66 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | MARCH 1 - 15, 2014

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homebuyers’ help//

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

» Calculate your mortgage payments using the mortgage payment calculation chart

marCH 1 - 15, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 67

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ONTARIO’S MOST-READ NEW HOMES GROUP [ 3-WEEK ISSUE ]

Feb 22 - Mar 8, 2014 Volume 22 Issue 4

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HOW TO BUY FOREIGN PROPERTY

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INSPECT YOUR NEW HOME BEFORE YOU MOVE IN

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hot dates//

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London Farm Show

western fair district london The London Farm Show at the Western Fair District is now in its 76th year and features more than 275,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space and more than 380 exhibitors. As the largest indoor spring farm show in eastern Canada, it continues to provide companies an opportunity to display big brand equipment, provide insightful speaker programs and showcase the latest products and services in agriculture. westernfairdistrict.com

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Shop for incredible specials and get inspired at the Greater Hamilton Home & Garden Show at Players Paradise Sports Complex. Enjoy features such as the KidZone, Feature Garden and so much more! thehomeshow.ca mar 8-16

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marCH 1 - 15, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 71

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Calculate your mortgage payments interest rate

amortization period

chart figure

example: 5%

25 years

5.82

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

125

monthly payment

$

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

01 02 03

Calculate the combined monthly before-tax income of you and your spouse. Divide by three. This figure is the monthly payment you can afford to make on your home. Take the total price of the home and subtract the amount of money you expect to make as a down payment. This is the money you will have to borrow.

04

Refer to the chart on the opposite page. Look down the left column and locate the interest rate you expect to pay. Line this up with the amortization period of your choice. (Most firsttime buyers take the 25-year amortization.)

05

06 07

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

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

72 New home & condo guide SWO | marCH 1 - 15, 2014

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Mortgage payment calculation chart %

Interest Rates

10 years

Amortization Periods

15 years

20 years

25 years 4.73

4.21

4.99

4.48

3.00%

9.65

6.90

5.54

3.50%

9.88

7.14

5.79

3.25% 3.75%

9.76

9.99

4.00%

10.11

4.50%

10.34

4.25% 4.75%

5.00% 5.25%

5.50% 5.75%

6.00%

6.50%

6.25% 6.75%

7.00%

7.25%

7.50%

7.75%

10.23 10.46 10.58

6.04

5.26

7.63

6.30

5.53

7.50 7.75

7.88

11.31 11.43

8.53

8.66

8.80

11.56

8.93

11.81

9.21

11.68

9.07

10.75%

11.00%

11.25%

11.50%

11.75%

12.00%

12.45

12.58 12.84 13.10

13.24 13.37 13.50

13.64

13.77

13.91

14.04

14.18

12.25%

14.32

12.75%

14.59

12.50%

7.84

9.76

9.90

10.05

14.46

10.33 10.63 10.77 10.92

11.06

11.22

11.36

5.96

6.10

6.40 6.70

6.85 7.00 7.16

4.90

5.04 5.19

5.34 5.49

5.64 5.79 5.95

6.11

6.26 6.42

6.59

6.75

8.28

7.63

7.25

8.59

7.95

8.74

7.47

7.79

8.12

8.86

8.28

9.20

8.62

9.52

8.95

9.05

9.36 9.68

7.59

7.76

7.93

8.78

8.45

9.12

9.29

10.16

9.63

9.46

10.65

10.15

11.97

10.98

12.28

11.31

10.49

7.42

8.10

9.84

10.00

7.08

8.45

11.66

12.13

4.76

6.91

9.80

11.82

4.61

7.32

10.32

11.52

4.34

7.99

8.44

7.69

9.62

9.48

10.48

10.50%

7.55

12.19

12.97

10.25%

7.41

8.14

9.75%

7.12

9.34

6.85

11.94

10.19

10.00%

5.67

5.82

6.55

11.19

8.40

12.71

6.57

7.26

11.07

9.25%

9.50%

6.44

5.40

6.25

8.14

6.17

6.98

12.32

9.00%

7.38

8.27

8.50% 8.75%

5.13

10.94

10.82

5.91

6.74

12.06

4.86

8.01

8.00% 8.25%

7.26

5.66

10.70

7.02

30 Years

9.97

8.28 8.63

8.80 8.98 9.16

9.34

9.52

9.70

9.88

10.81

10.32

10.06

11.15

10.67

10.43

10.49

10.85

10.25 10.61

This table shows the monthly payment of principal and interest for each $1,000 of mortgage. Example: The monthly principal and interest payment for a $125,000 mortgage with a 25-year amortization period at 5% is as follows: ($125,000 รท 1,000) X 5.82 = $727.50 marCH 1 - 15, 2014 | New home & condo guide SWO 73

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Compare mortgage rates for your best deal CHARTERED BANKS

Variable

6 Months

1 Year

2 years

3 years

4 years

5 years

ATB Financial 2.7 2.94 2.89 2.99 3.39 6.30op 6.30op 6.50op Alterna Svgs/Alterna Bk 3 4 3.09 3.14 3.19 3.35 6.30op 6.30op Bank of Montreal 3 4 3.14 3.04 3.85 4.64 6.30op 6.30op Bank of Nova Scotia 2.6 4.55 3.75 2.79 3.99 4.39 6.45op 6.50op Canadian Western Bank 4 3.14 3.14 3.85 4.64 6.45op 6.30op CFF Bank 3.69 3.75 3.79 3.79 CIBC 3 3.09 2.79 2.99 3.39 6.70op 6.35op HSBC Bank Canada 2.65 4.45 2.7 3.95 2.93 4.99 6.20op 6.35op ICICI Bank Canada 3.05 3.15 3.65 3.64 3.69 ING Direct 3 3.19 3.24 3.49 3.69 Manulife Bank 2.7 4.45 3 3.05 3.1 3.4 4.00op National Bank n/a 4.4 3.14 3.14 3.75 4.64 6.70op 6.70op President’s Choice Finan 3 3.24 3.59 3.69 Royal Bank 3 3.14 3.04 3.75 3.39 6.30op 6.30op TD Canada Trust 3 3.09 2.89 3.75 4.64 6.30op Airline Financial C.U. 4 3.01 3.1 3.33 3.65 6.25op Luminus Financial 2.55 3.2 2.8 2.95 3.35 6.3

3.69 3.45 3.69 3.49 5.24 3.39 3.69 3.49 3.89 3.99 3.59 3.59 4.09 3.69 3.69 3.99 3.6

TRUST COMPANIES Community Trust n/a Effort Trust n/a Home Trust Company 2.5 Investors Group Trust n/a MTCC 2.6

6.5 4.45 6.30op 3.95 4.2 6.50op 4.55 6.45op

3.14 3.25 3.95 4.74 3.25 3.6 3.7 4.6 6.30op 2.89 2.89 3.09 3.39 3.14 3.14 3.9 4.64 6.30op 3.75 2.79 3.99 4.39 6.50op

5.34 4.95

Comtech Credit Union 2.95 6.2 6.40op First National Fin. LP 3.95 FirstOntario C.U. 2.7 6.34op London Life n/a 4.2 6.50op MCAP 2.6 Meridian Credit Union 2.6 4 Parama Credit Union 2.85 Steinbach Credit Union 2.5

2.99 3.25 3.29 3.24 6.30op 2.99 2.69 2.99 3.39 3.09 3.14 3.29 3.34 6.34op 3.14 3.14 3.95 4.74 6.30op 3.6 3.95 4.35 4.89 7.00op 3.09 3.14 3.65 4.39 6.30op 3.05 3.1 3.25 3.4 2.7 3 3.1 3.25

3.59

3.29 5.24 3.49

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

3.39 3.49 5.34 5.14 2.99 3.6 3.45

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 24, 2014. Prepared By Fiscal Agents Financial Information Services 905.844.7700

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OR A CONDO?

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Advertiser index adi development group: LINK Condominiums

38

mattamy homes: Hawthorne Village

17

Bayview Wellington: Victoria Village

4

menkes developments: Millstone on the Park

32

Bayview Wellington: Niagara-on-the-Green

5

menkes developments: Enclaves of Upper Canada

33

branthaven Homes: Multi-site

12 & 13

Monarch: Corporate

40 & 41

bucci Homes: Bliss

43

Mountainview Homes: Corporate

claysam Homes: Neighbourhoods of Devonshire

25

new horizon Homes: Mint Condominiums

37

Phelps homeS: Multi-site

39 64

Countrygreen Homes: The Uptowns of Waterdown

7

eastforest Homes: Corporate

20

reid’s heritage: Westminster Highlands

Emery homes: Appleby Club

51

reid’s heritage: Corporate

9

BC

rosehaven homes: Corporate

47

rosehaven homes: Lyon’s Creek

48

IBC

Rosehaven Homes: On the Ridge

31

Greater hamilton home show

46

senator Homes: Havelock Corners

21

Homes by DeSantis: Fiera Collection

11

sifton properties: Corporate

65

Homes by DeSantis: Lyon’s Creek

48

spallacci Homes: Eden Park

52

Homes by DeSantis: On the Ridge

31

tillsonburg developments: Baldwin Place

24

kitchener-waterloo home & garden show 60

tobyn park: ParkCity

49

losani homes: Fairgrounds

williamsburg homes: Eby Estates

61

Empire Communities: Multi-site forest park homes: The Village Landing Great gulf: Rolling Meadows

mattamy homes: Wildflowers

2&3 30

77 6

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//community focus

GREAT GULF HOMES | Multi-site

Step beyond the quality myth and into the reality of

A Great Gulf home

A

t Great Gulf Homes, perfection is much more than having the right number of bedrooms and bathrooms, a good-sized yard, great location… In reality, perfection begins at the foundation, extending up through the framing with quality placed first and foremost. While quality is a word as overused as last year’s “tree canopy” and references to “fresh” and “natural,” it is a concept that is easily quantified by Great Gulf Homes. “Quality isn’t a myth when you understand its true meaning,” explains Great Gulf ’s Karen Gold. Great Gulf contracts Brockport, an indoor construction site where all framing is done mechanically and in controlled conditions to minimize moisture content in lumber. Using the indoor facility, Great Gulf can assure homebuyers their homes will be built square from day one. It uses a robotic process that enables framing to take place in two days rather than two weeks; a process that greatly reduces the incidences of warping and mold in the wood. “In fact, other builders request our framing, which is a huge compliment,” says Gold. Every Great Gulf home begins in this manner, whether it’s being built in the GTA or one of the company’s newest communities in Niagara. With sound construction practices in place and world-class designers contributing their know-how, Great Gulf then focuses on extensive economic and geographical research to determine locations for its communities such as Edgewood in Niagara Falls and Rolling Meadows in Thorold. As Niagara embarks on an ambitious plan to cultivate business and manufacturing, Great

078 CF Great Gulf_MT-WK.indd 78

Gulf has communities in place to greet the influx of employees that greater economic growth will bring. This type of commitment to quality at every level comes with a price, but a price the savvy consumer will accept, explains Gold. In fact, Rolling Meadows is attracting buyers from the GTA, including repeat and move-up buyers, who are saving as much as $300,000 on their homes and investing the savings in additional upgrades, creating a level of luxury partnered with a quality seldom seen in Niagara communities. “Not only are we defining quality, but we are driving up the value in these areas. We’re presenting a quality living experience and our buyers recognize that. They know they’re getting a Mercedes at a huge savings by buying here.” Investing in quality of life, Great Gulf has built Active House in Thorold. These key components of a quality home promote well-being through cleaner air, more natural light and perfect climate control to improve the overall quality of life. “That’s the best definition of a quality home that I’ve ever seen,” says Gold. Soon, these systems will be available to all new-home buyers through Great Gulf ’s new décor centre that opens in Toronto this summer. Both Edgewood and Rolling Meadows are “10 minutes from everywhere.” It’s 10 minutes to Niagara Falls, St. Catharines, Niagara-onthe-Lake, the U.S. border, live theatre, the Wine Route, golf, shopping, recreation… and Hwy. 406 and the QEW offer quick access for commuters. And they do – commute from their stunning Great Gulf homes to Oakville, Mississauga and Toronto proving they can and do Live Greatly in Niagara. For more information, visit greatgulf.com

2/26/14 3:56:20 PM

“WE’RE LIVING THE DREAM IN NIAGARA” Leo and Ada have it all. They can get to the city easily for work and come home to paradise. “We love our new Great Gulf home. The quality and design are excellent and it cost us significantly less than we would pay anywhere else,” says Leo. “And, we’re just 10 minutes from everything — great shopping, Niagara-on-the-Lake, the US border, and more.” “We have access to all the shopping and leisure activities that we’ve ever dreamed of.”

Leo and Ada, Great Gulf Homeowners

Must have. Leo and Ada saved thousands by moving to NIAGARA

Home Gallery is spectacular. With homes up to $300,000 the something for everyone. Visit Great Gulf’s two when youpriced know this less is than where you belong. GTA, Southern Ontario’s best kept secret is waiting to be discovered. From world-class golf to lush natural wonders, Niagara’s outdoor lifestyle has

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Toronto

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• Gourmet-inspired kitchens with islands, Mississauga Mississauga Cambridge Cambridge Lake Lake pantries, breakfast areas and walk-outs 401 401 Ontario Ontario 8 8 Brantford Brantford

Linc

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: Mon-Thurs: 1-7pm Fri: 1-6pm Sat, Sun & Holidays: 11am-5pm

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Parkway and Hwy. 58 44' Detached from 36’ Detached from Thorold $ $296,990 331,990 (905) 680-0841

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Join the conversation @Empire_Living facebook.com/EmpireCommunities

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

a new Great Gulf home in Niagara • Just 90 minutes from Toronto

• Endless hiking, biking, and boating opportunities

• More than 50 golf courses and 75 wineries

• Dining alfresco in the beauty of the Niagara Escarpment

• Close to shopping, casinos, entertainment and more

• Minutes to the US border and Buffalo Airport

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

310990

$

Thorold Stone Rd. Thorold Townline

Garner Rd. McLeod Rd.

• Located directly across from Niagara Falls Golf Club • Three award winning designer-furnished model homes

N

Lundy’s Ln.

• A fully established neighbourhood backing onto mature woodland

• Master bedroom retreats with ensuites and his-and-hers walk-in closets SALES OFFICE 9118 Forestview Blvd. off Garner Road Niagara Falls (905) 356-9408

s

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

Build with the best. Reid’s Heritage Homes is recognized as an industry leader – named 2013 Ontario Home Builder of the Year, and honoured with many environmental, quality, customer service, and employee satisfaction awards. All of this simply underlines the reality that when you choose a home in one of Reid’s Heritage Homes’ fine communities throughout Ontario, you are investing in the best: the best quality, the best reputation, the best team – the best for you and your family.

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