Southwestern Ontario New Home and Condo Guide - Feb 27, 2016

FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 VOLUME 19, ISSUE 4, FREE

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO EDITION

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

HAMILTON: NOTE THAT STRONG THIS CALLOUT ECONOMY IS AND ALWAYS HOUSING YPNH MARKET GREY IN COLOUR

NEWAND BEGINNINGS THAT THEIN BAR A IS ALWAYS NEWLY-BUILT WHITE ONHOME BOTTOM OF PAGE

TIPS HITFOR SHIFT TAPPING F7 AND DISTRIBUTE INTO SPACING YOUR AT RRSP 0.2074 INCHES

WYNDFIELD NOW OPEN At Wyndfield, life is about the simple moments that make every day special. A new release of spectacular townhomes and detached homes is now available to help you and your family enjoy those moments.

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OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: Mon-Thurs: 1-7pm Fri: 1-6pm Sat & Sun: 11am-5pm 309 Blackburn Dr. 519.756.4554

EmpireWyndfield.com IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

@Empire_Living facebook.com/EmpireCommunities Prices, sizes and specifications subject to change without notice. Please see Sales Representative for details.

All Illustrations are artist's concept only. Map not to scale. Exclusive listing brokerage: TFN Realty Inc. Broker Protected. E. & O. E.

This can be your backyard

Register now to start your boutique buying opportunity at Woodlands Don’t miss your final chance to get the inside story on Woodlands. Losani wants your buying experience to be as rare and individual as the homes at Woodlands, so over the next few weeks, Losani will be revealing everything you need to know to make an informed decision prior to your private appointment, including the site plan, floor plans, price ranges and so much more.

Register now to start your Woodlands story.

Upscale residences on 40’, 46’ & 50’ forest court lots from the mid $500’s – $800’s

For more information on this boutique reveal program, visit:

WoodlandsAncaster.com

6 YPNEXTHOME.CA

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FROM THE MID

200s

$

Discover Why Our New Urban Townhomes are KW’s Best Value.

With today’s low interest rates, stepping up on the real estate ladder has never been more timely.

Award-winning developer CountryGreen Homes presents Westwood Mews — contemporary Urban Townhomes featuring open concept plans up to 1,365 square feet. Located in the desirable Westmount area just off Glasgow Street, close to restaurants, shopping, golf, and gyms. Enjoy an upscale lifestyle at an affordable price.

• Great Upscale Neighbourhood - In Kitchener on the border of Waterloo - Enjoy Kitchener’s lower property taxes • Modern Open Concept Layouts • Attached Garage on Select Units • Close to the Campus • Single Level Models Available • Exterior Maintenance Free Living!

- No grass cutting or snowplowing!

Great Value, Great Lifestyle!

TO

Come Visit Us at 367 Westwood Dr.

1 40

Mon – Wed 2-7 p.m. Sat/Sun – 11-4 p.m.

Thursday, Friday & Holidays By Appointment E: sales@countrygreenhomes.com

www.countrygreenhomes.com • Call: 905-630-5803

TO

40 1

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contents FEB 27 - MARCH 12, 2016 | VOLUME 19 ISSUE 4

PRESIDENT, YELLOW PAGES NEXTHOME

Jacqueline Hill ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Susan Maxwell EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL

Moe Lalani EDITOR

Wayne Karl ART DIRECTOR

Daiana Garay CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Sara Duck (on leave) Elisa Krovblit Lydia McNutt (on leave) SALES CO-ORDINATOR

Sarah Khan

12

MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Bala Gnanapandithan CO-ORDINATOR

Sandra Hanak-Vujnovic GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Miguel Cea CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

ON THE COVER

12

Joanne Keenan Jeffrey Reed

Branthaven Homes Freedom is now open on Stoney Creek Mountain

property profiles

32

30 Mountainview Homes

Your dream home awaits at Fernwood Estates in Niagara

46 Mattamy Homes

advice

26 Mortgage Advice

The five biggest mortgage mistakes to avoid

44 Design Secrets

New beginnings in a newly-built home

buyers’ resource section

15

21

Growing economy and strong housing market

Hot Properties Hamilton

New releases and grand openings

city focus

42 Hamilton

Hot Properties Kitchener-Waterloo & London

New releases and grand openings

50 Fundamentally Speaking

Fixed mortgage at 1.69 per cent hits market

Housing Market

Housing starts in Ontario keep humming along

inspiration

Call Waterdown home at beautiful Cranberry Hill

51

Mortgage Rates

in every issue

trending

10

14

52 Advertiser Index

Tax Tips

Be careful tapping into your RRSP before retirement

8 YPNEXTHOME.CA

53

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

Editor’s Note What’s Online

ypnexthome.ca

ADVERTISING Call Susan Maxwell at 416.988.1172

FAX: 416.784.9554 Toll Free: 1.877.269.8257, follow prompts, ext. 4260; e-mail: susan.maxwell@ypnexthome.ca Office hours are Mon-Thurs. 9-5; Fri. 9-12 CIRCULATION Free distribution. Published biweekly from Sept.-Nov. & from Feb.-June and monthly in June, July & Dec. TERMS Advertisers, Editorials and New Home & Condo Guide are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All prices are correct as of press time and are subject to change without notice. E. & O. E. EDITORIAL Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the address above, to the attention of the Editor.

COPYRIGHT 2016 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. Yellow Pages Next Home is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada.

Please recycle this magazine! Yellow Pages NextHome 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.

N R SH OW EG OW ! F IST E HO OR R M YO E TO UR UR

ING N N U ST LES SING HIGH FROM

THE

$300

’s !

NATURALLY BETTER LIVING IN NIAGARA

ED TIME

FOR A LIMIT

$5,000N

IN DESIG DOLLARS!

Designer Show Home

GRAND OPENING FEBRUARY 27 & 28!

FAMILY SINGLES ON 40’, 45’ & 50’ LOTS

905.323.6232

www.mountainview.com

Visit The Designer Show Home!

5668 Osprey Ave, Niagara Falls Monday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday 12-5 p.m.

Wednesday 12-7 p.m.

Tuesday & Friday by appointment.

Prices are subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. Offer valid for a limited time. Subject to availability. $5,000 promotion only available at Fernwood. Not valid with any other promotion.

9

Editors' Notes

SUSAN LEGGE Editor-in-Chief / Director of Content Yellow Pages NextHome Email: Susan.Legge@ypnexthome.ca Twitter: @SusanLegge

WESTDALE

SEE MORE ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/westdale

Exploring new neighbourhoods A wanna-be adventurer at heart, I relish exploring new neighbourhoods on a bicycle. It’s been my main mode of transportation since I was little. I’ve been lucky over four solid decades to discover the good, the bad and the unexpected side of a neighbourhood thanks to my two-wheeled friend.

With bike sharing services such as Bixi and VeloGo, it’s easier than ever to discover a neighbourhood in metropolitan areas across the country.

Faster than walking, easier than transit – when you really want to understand what a neighbourhood is

all about, nothing beats a simple ride around the area.

For those who want to explore some of Canada’s top neighbourhoods even more intimately than by bike, surf your way to YPNextHome.ca to check out our team’s top featured neighbourhoods.

With more than 2,700 different neighbourhoods to discover, along with thousands of condominium, rental properties and homes for sale, your adventure begins right here. Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you!

Real estate proves its worth over time

WAYNE KARL Senior Editor

Yellow Pages NextHome Email: Wayne.Karl@ypnexthome.ca Twitter: @WayneKarl

+ get social 10 YPNEXTHOME.CA

Since 2016 is a leap year, we thought it would be interesting to examine Canadian home price growth by looking at four-year intervals.

In a story on YPNextHome.ca, we’ve done just that – we’ve gone all the way back to 1984 – and the home price growth is staggering.

If you’ve ever heard the axiom, “Don’t wait to buy real estate, buy real estate and wait,” this story will define its meaning.

You won’t believe it. We looked at market by market average home price growth. While the usual suspects –

Toronto and Vancouver – are among the leaders, other areas, including those in Southwestern Ontario, also demonstrate their value over time.

The growth over such a long period of time is impressive, if not expected. But when you look at it in four-year windows, you see variable growth rates and regional vacillations.

This speaks to the importance of economic and job growth as key drivers of real estate.

And more than anything, the exercise underlines the value of real estate over the long term.

Interact with us on social media: ypnexthome

Property Profile | BRANTHAVEN HOMES

cover story

Freedom is now open on Stoney Creek Mountain!

Live the lifestyle with Branthaven Homes IN THE MARKET FOR A STYLISH,

feature-rich and affordable townhome lifestyle? Look no further!

Perched on the Stoney Creek Mountain next to 285 acres of pristine conservation area, Branthaven’s latest townhome community is now open.

Freedom is a collection of innovative two- and three-storey “freedominium” townhomes that are 12 YPNEXTHOME.CA

perfectly situated at the crossroads of Rymal Road and Dakota Boulevard.

Steve Stipsits, president of Branthaven Homes says, “We’ve re-thought and re-imagined every facet of townhome living to provide you the freedom of attainable homeownership and an enhanced quality of life. We have designed Freedom around a rewarding and

easy-to-maintain lifestyle, inside and out.”

Stipsits adds, “The interior layouts designed to improve the way you live, regardless of whether you’re a single professional, a growing family or a “smart sizing” retiree.

The exteriors are high-end but boast smart, maintenance-free materials so you can get out, enjoy life and

Location

Stoney Creek Mountain Builder

Branthaven Homes Development

Freedom Home Type

Two- and three-storey townhomes from the $300’s Contact

branthaven.com/freedom not have to worry about typical homeownership costs.”

Freedom offers 12 floorplan designs, two of which are being launched exclusively at the Grand Opening event on Feb. 27. Buyers can choose from two- and threebedroom options in both two-storey and urban three-storey townhomes, some with backyard walk-outs and double-car garages, providing a real freedom of choice for almost any lifestyle.

Freedom will deliver Branthaven’s renowned authentic architecture and distinctive features. Buyers can expect high quality materials, such as stately stone skirting, textured maintenancefree cedar profile shakes and strikingly large windows.

The master-planned community of slightly less than 200 townhomes has a privately-maintained road and lush landscaping features. Everything is looked after in the common element and community spaces. It ensures curb appeal and long-term value while still allowing you to customize your own dwelling.

Branthaven is renowned for the exceptional flow and functionality of their floorplans. Interiors at Freedom have been configured for easy furnishing and effortless style. Living spaces have airy nine-ft. ceilings to encourage bright and inviting spaces.

Homeowners will have the ability to entertain without compromise on a more intimate scale or for larger celebrations.

Freedom buyers will also benefit from Branthaven’s signature Fresh Thinking features – standard

upgrades at no extra cost. Fresh Thinking kitchens have many wellconsidered features to improve the hub of the home. Look for deep drawers with pots and pan dividers, spacious pantries, smart tech plugs, cutlery roller drawers, pull-out garbage bins, tablet mounts, and ontrend tile backsplashes – all included at no extra cost. Some designs even include a chef’s island!

Fresh Thinking bathrooms are spainspired with modern square tubs, designer tiles, shower caddies and hotel-inspired vanities with integrated shelves to relax and unwind in effortless style.

Freedom’s location on Stoney Creek Mountain is prime. A desirable location surrounded by high-calibre amenities like new schools, convenient shopping and

entertainment and state-of-the-art recreation facilities appeals to all.

Freedom is surrounded by natural amenities like the nearby Eramosa Karst Conservation Area, Felkers Falls and Devil’s Punch Bowl. It’s also prized for its quick commuter access via the Linc, Red Hill Expressway and the QEW to Toronto or Niagara.

“Stoney Creek is among the fastest growing parts of the GTA West with a pent-up demand for townhome product,” says Stipsits. “And, with such affordable pricing when compared to the GTA, homeownership is more than attainable. It’s the new found freedom you’ve been looking for.”

Townhomes start from the $300’s.

Register now at branthaven.com/ freedom for your exclusive offers and community updates.

FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 13

Trending

Tapping your RRSP before retirement?

Do it prudently: CIBC BEWARE OF THE DOS and don’ts around Registered Retirement Savings Plans (RRSPs) if you’re planning to make a contribution or an early withdrawal, says Jamie Golombek, managing director, tax and estate planning, CIBC Wealth Advisory Services.

“It’s tempting to tap your RRSPs for an emergency, but RRSPs should generally be viewed as long-term savings tools,” says Golombek. “Borrowing money from your RRSP can make sense if you use the funds prudently to fund longer term goals that deliver their own return, such as buying a home, which hopefully increases your net worth, or investing in your education, which may help boost your earnings potential.”

A Tax-Free Savings Account (TFSA), which allows you to recontribute any amounts withdrawn in a future year, may be a better option if you need more flexibility with your finances, he says.

MORE TRENDING ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news

Resist using your RRSP as an emergency fund

Using an RRSP to help buy your first home Under the Home Buyers’ Plan (HBP), you can withdraw up to $25,000 from your RRSP to purchase a new home. Your spouse or partner may also be able to withdraw $25,000, for a combined total of $50,000. To take advantage of the HBP, you need to be a “first-time home buyer,” which is generally defined as someone who hasn’t owned a home in the past five years.

“This is a smart option for first-time home-buyers who are just pulling together their funds,” says Golombek.

“It can help you meet your downpayment requirements and save you a lot of money on a mortgage loan insurance you might otherwise need.”

Amounts withdrawn under the HBP, however, must be repaid over a maximum of 15 years or the amount not repaid in a year is added to your income and becomes taxable.

14 YPNEXTHOME.CA

Using an RRSP to go back to school Through the Lifelong Learning Plan (LLP), you can borrow $10,000 a year, up to a total of $20,000, from your RRSP to finance your education. To take advantage of this plan, you must be enrolled or must have received an offer to enroll on a full-time basis in a qualifying Canadian or foreign educational institution. The funds can then be used for any purpose with no proof of expenses required, and must be repaid over a 10-year period.

The LLP cannot be used to fund your child’s education.

With both the HBP and LLP, there are no penalties for paying back the funds earlier than required. “If you repay early, you can benefit from the tax-free compounding of investment returns inside your RRSP as soon as possible,” says Golombek.

While an RRSP can help fund longterm financial goals, it should generally not be viewed as a go-to emergency fund, he says.

RRSP withdrawals are taxable at your marginal tax rate and are subject to immediate withholding taxes when withdrawn.

“If you dip into your RRSP for extra cash, you will not only be taxed, but you will lose the ability to recontribute those funds to your RRSP without generating additional room,” says Golombek.

If you think you may have to draw on your long term savings before retirement, a TFSA may be the better option because it offers more flexibility.

A financial advisor or tax expert can help you determine the best option for your retirement savings.

This year’s deadline to make a RRSP contribution is Feb. 29.

“Regardless of whether you opt for an RRSP or a TFSA, the important thing is to save so you can meet your life goals today and in retirement,” says Golombek.

Hot Properties

Find your next home! This page features a few of the latest properties to keep your eye on in Southwestern Ontario. Find more properties at ypnexthome.ca

LATEST LISTINGS

LONDON

Hamilton Road & Commissioners Road East. stonecresthomes.ca

BAYFIELD • BLYTH • CLINTON GRAND BEND • INGERSOLL • LONDON MITCHELL • SEAFORTH • SHAKESPEARE ST.THOMAS • STRATFORD • TAVISTOCK TILLSONBURG • WINGHAM • WOODSTOCK

new openings

pre-registration 140 CALEDONIA By: The Tricar Group City: Stratford Housing type: Four-storey boutique style condominiums from the high $200’s. tricar.com

VICTORIA ON THE RIVER By: Stonecrest Homes City: London Housing type: Single-family homes at at

HALTON HILLS WELLINGTON WATERLOO ALMA • AYR • CAMBRIDGE • ELORA FERGUS • GEORGETOWN • GUELPH KITCHENER • ROCKWOOD • WATERLOO

pre-registration

REMBRANDT ESTATES By: Rembrandt Homes City: Woodstock Location: Riddell Street at St. Vincent Housing type: Custom homes, bungalows and bungalows with lofts, from $499,900. rembrandt-homes.ca

CASTLE ROCK PLACE By: Rembrandt Homes City: London Location: 3444 Singleton Ave., off Southdale Housing type: Two-storey and mulit-level condominium townhomes from $231,990. rembrandt-homes.ca

Housing type: Townhomes and 30- and 36-ft. detached homes. mattamyhomes.com

ISHERWOOD AVENUE CONDOS By: Activa Group City: Cambridge Location: 25 Isherwood Avenue Housing type: Condo community activagroup.ca

new openings

WESTWOOD MEWS By: CountryGreen Homes City: Kitchener Housing type: Urban townhomes up to 1,365 sq. ft. from the mid $200’s countrygreenhomes.com

WILDFLOWERS By: Mattamy Homes City: Kitchener

ROSEMOUNT SEMIS By: CountryGreen Homes City: Kitchener Housing type: Affordable semi-detached homes in the heart of Kitchener countrygreenhomes.com

FOX FIELD By: Fusion Homes City: London Location: Fanshawe Park Road West and Foxwood Avenue Housing type: Single-family homes from $482,900 fusionhomes.com

new releases BALDWIN PLACE By: Tillsonburg Developments City: Tillsonburg Housing type: Single-detached freehold bungalows from $244,500. baldwinplace.ca

CLAIRITY By: Reid’s Heritage Homes City: Guelph Housing type: One- and two-bedroom condominiums from the mid $200’s reidsheritagehomes.com

AVALON URBAN TOWNS By: Savic Homes City: Kitchener Location: Highland Road West and Ira Needles Blvd.

Housing type: Design-forward urban towns avalontowns.ca

CLAIR ROAD By: Gemini Homes City: Guelph Location: Singles and towns now selling in highly desired location in South Guelph. geminihomes.ca

Builders If you would like to include your preview registration, new release or site opening in this feature, just email the details to wayne.karl@ypnexthome.ca

16

Elmira

ypnexthome.ca Plattsville

Stratford

Baden

Breslau

Acton

STRATFORD, WOODSTOCK, INGERSOLL, TILLSONBURG, ST. THOMAS, STRATHROY, MILTON, GEORGETOWN, ROCKWOOD, GUELPH, FERGUS, ELORA, ALMA, CAMBRIDGE, KITCHENER, WATERLOO, AYR

London / Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

SEARCH ONLINE Toronto

BUILDERS

SITES

PRICES

Beamsville

LOSANI HOMES

Vista Ridge

•

from $400's

6

Binbrook

LOSANI HOMES

Fairgrounds Finale

•

from mid $500's

6

Fergus

REIDS HERITAGE HOMES

Westminster Highlands

Guelph

COLETERA DEVELOPMENT Liberty Square

Kitchener

COUNTRY GREEN HOMES Westwood Mews

Kitchener

LOSANI HOMES

Doon Creek

Kitchener

LOSANI HOMES

Victoria Common

Paris

LOSANI HOMES

Simply Grand

•

Tillsonburg

TILLSONBURG DEV.

Baldwin Place

•

•

•

BC

•

•

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from $189,900

18

•

from mid $200's

7

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from low $300's

6

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from high $200's

6

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from high $200's

6

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from $244,500

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STRATFORD, WOODSTOCK, INGERSOLL, TILLSONBURG, ST. THOMAS, STRATHROY, MILTON, GEORGETOWN, ROCKWOOD, GUELPH, FERGUS, ELORA, ALMA, CAMBRIDGE, KITCHENER, WATERLOO, AYR

LOCATION

London / Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

D et .

Se m Bu i ng a To low w C nh on om Ad do e ul tL ife st yle

ADVERTISER'S MAPPING INDEX

17

LAST CHANCE FINAL SUITE RELEASE THIS APRIL

NEW 4 BEDROOM, 4 BATH DESIGN AVAILABLE

INCREDIBLE GUELPH LOCATION CLOSE TO UNIVERSITY LOW CONDO FEES 9’ CEILINGS PARKING & STORAGE LOCKERS INCLUDED

REGISTER TODAY!

FOR VIP INFORMATION OR CALL FOR PRIVATE APPOINTMENT coletara.com 519-830-7171 D E V E L O P M E N T

SALES CENTRE

SALES CENTRE AT: 1077 GORDON ST., GUELPH

All prices subject to change without notice. All images are artist’s concept. Map not to scale. E & O.E.

Follow us on

An Adult Lifestyle Community

It’s

TheLife See it all at

baldwinplace.ca

Baldwin Place

Great Homes, Great Lifestyle, Great Neighbours 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.

Call us now at 1-800-265-5709 baldwinplace.ca

FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 19

looking for a new home?

It’s only a tap away.

Find the perfect new home or condo in the neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle.

START SEARCHING NOW!

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Hot Properties

Find your next home! This page features a few of the latest properties to keep your eye on in Southwestern Ontario. Find more properties at ypnexthome.ca

LATEST LISTINGS

pre-registration FREEDOM By: Branthaven Homes City: Stoney Creek Housing type: Grand Opening Feb. 27– luxury two- and three-storey townhomes branthaven.com

FALLINGWATERS By: Losani Homes City: Hamilton Mountain Housing type: Modern towns at the edge of the Escarpment from the mid $300’s losanifallingwaters.com

LEGACY ANCASTER By: Carriage Gate Homes Location: Ancaster Housing type: Limited collection of luxury custom homes on 50-, 55-, 60 and 66-ft. lots carriagegatehomes.com

TIFFANY HILL By: Rosehaven Homes, Homes by DeSantis & CDI Homes Location: Ancaster Housing type: Phase two – detached homes and freehold townhomes tiffanyhill.ca

AFFINITY CONDOMINIUMS By: Rosehaven Homes Location: Aldershot, Burlington Housing type: Two contemporary six-storey buildings with suites from 585 to 1,200 sq. ft., one-bedroom up to two-bedroom with den designs. Prices from the upper $200’s affinitycondo.com

STATIONWEST By: Adi Developments Location: Burlington Housing type: Coming soon – three-storey urban townhomes at Aldershot Go Station adidevelopments.com

PASSAGES ON THE CANAL By: Bayview-Wellington Homes Location: Welland Housing type: Coming soon – luxury freehold executive townhomes mypassages.ca

HAMILTON HALTON NIAGARA ANCASTER • BEAMSVILLE • BINBROOK • BRANT • BRANTFORD • BURLINGTON CATHARINES • GRIMSBY • HAMILTON • MILTON • NIAGARA • OAKVILLE • PARIS PORT DOVER • ST. CATHARINES • STONEY CREEK • VINELAND AVALON

PRAIRIE MODERN

By: Empire Communities Location: Caledonia Housing type: Townhomes from $239,990 and detached homes from the mid $269,990 empireavalon.com

By: Losani Homes Location: Hamilton Housing type: Townhomes from the low $300’s prairiemodern.ca

AUGUSTA

THE WOODLANDS ANCASTER

By: Losani Homes City: Ancaster Housing type: Modern semis from the mid $400’s losanihomes.com

By: Losani Homes City: Ancaster Housing type: Singles on forest court lots from the $500’s woodlandsancaster.com

HAWTHORNE SOUTH VILLAGE By: Mattamy Homes City: Milton Housing type: Townhomes and detached homes in master-planned community mattamyhomes.com

PURE By: Branthaven Homes City: Milton Housing type: Spacious two-storey freehold townhomes branthaven.com

CRANBERRY HILL By: Mattamy Homes City: Waterdown Housing type: Now open – new 30- and 36-ft. detached designs mattamyhomes.com

LAKE HOUSE By: Branthaven Homes Location: Grimsby Housing type: Waterfront townhomes and condos lakehouselife.ca

WOODLANDS

THE BERKELEY CONDOMINIUMS By: Carriage Gate Homes City: Burlington Location: Caroline Street and Elizabeth Street Housing type: 154-unit condo carriagegatehomes.com

new openings

By: Mountainview Homes City: Niagara Falls Housing type: Single-detached and townhomes from $229,900 mountainview.com

AQUABLU By: Homes by DeSantis City: Grimsby Housing type: Condominium community of modern suites along the lake aquablucondo.com

CREEKSHORE COMMON By: Mattamy Homes City: Oakville Housing type: Boutique condominiums and townhomes mattamyhomes.com

Builders If you would like to include your preview registration, new release or site opening in this feature, just email the details to wayne.karl@ypnexthome.ca

FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 21

22

ypnexthome.ca

Paris

Port Dover

Simcoe

Binbrook

Grimsby

Georgetown

Caledon

Smithville

Welland

Fonthill

Thorold

Ridgeway

Stevensville

Chippawa

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

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

SEARCH ONLINE Fort Erie

SITES

Ancaster

CARRIAGE GATE HOMES

Legacy in Ancaster

Ancaster

LOSANI HOMES

Augusta

Ancaster

LOSANI HOMES

Astoria

Ancaster

LOSANI HOMES

The Woodlands Ancaster

Ancaster

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Tiffany Hill

Burlington

ADI DEVELOPMENT

Nautique

Burlington

ADI DEVELOPMENT

Station West

Brantford

EMPIRE

Wyndfield

Burlington

ROSEHAVEN

Affinity Condominiums

MENKES ADVERTISERS

Georgetown

PRICES

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from $900,000

33

from mid $400's

6

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from low $300's

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from $500's

6

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from high $200's

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from high $300's

39

•

2&3 •

The Enclaves of Upper Canada

• •

Greensville

THOMAS COCHRENE

The Greystones

Grimsby

HOMES BY DESANTIS

AquaBlu

Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Central Park

Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Fallingwaters

Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Greenhill Glen

Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Prairie Modern

Jordan

PHELPS HOMES

The Kingsway at Jordan Village

Niagara

BW HOMES

Passages on the Canal

Niagara

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Fernwood

Oakville

MATTAMY HOMES

The Preserve

Oakville

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Rendall Residences

Oakville

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Woodland Trails

•

Smithville

PHELPS HOMES

Auburn Trail

•

Smithville

PHELPS HOMES

Atwater

Smithville

PHELPS HOMES

St. Catharines

•

from mid $700's

25

from $1,400,000

37

from $269,900

11

•

from high $200's

6

•

from mid $300's

6

from mid $400's

6

from low $300's

6

• •

35

• • •

27 •

5

•

from high $300's •

9

•

from $821,990

•

from $2,000,000

35

from mid $600's

35

•

from $390's

27

•

•

from $320's

27

Brookside

•

•

from $390's

27

BW HOMES

Victoria Village

•

•

from high $300's

Stoney Creek

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Freedom

•

Stoney Creek

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

On the Ridge

•

•

from low $300's

54&55

4 28&29 35

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

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Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

LOCATION

D et Se . m Bu i n To gal w ow C nh o o Ad ndo me ul tL ife st yle

ADVERTISER'S MAPPING INDEX

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Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Illustration is artist’s concept. Exclusive Listing: Baker Real Estate Incorporated, Brokerage. Brokers Protected. E. & O.E.

FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 25

Advice | MORTGAGE ADVICE

The 5 biggest mortgage mistakes to avoid

By Alyssa Richard

MORE ADVICE ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news/advice

NOW THAT YOU’VE decided to buy a home, there are numerous steps in the process you’ll have to follow.

When it comes to getting a mortgage, it could cost you in the long run if you make a mistake or two.

To help you save money and avoid potential problems down the road, here are some mistakes you should avoid:

1. Not knowing your credit score/rating Lenders love borrowers with a good credit rating. They’re often the ones who pay their bills on time, don’t use a large percentage of their available credit, and have different types of credit, such as a credit card, car loan, and line of credit. If you have good credit, you should be able to qualify for the best mortgage rates. But if you have bad credit, expect to get a mortgage with a higher interest rate. Not sure of what your rating is?

You can get your credit score from Equifax or TransUnion.

2. Not being pre-approved for a mortgage If you’ve been looking at properties for a while, you might suddenly find the perfect home. But it’s possible you won’t be able to afford the place. That’s why it’s best to get preapproved for a mortgage so you’ll know how much you can afford.

Many lenders will guarantee your pre-approved rate for a period of 26 YPNEXTHOME.CA

between 60 and 120 days. That’ll give you time to find a property in your price range.

3. Not shopping around a mortgage If you think you’ll get rewarded with the lowest rate from your financial institution because you’ve been a loyal customer for a number of years, think again. Your institution may not have the best rate while a rival across the street might have a lower rate.

You should do some comparison shopping on a site like RateHub.ca before getting a mortgage. You can also hire a mortgage broker who can do all the legwork at no cost to you.

4. Not making more payments No one really likes to carry a large mortgage. Typically, mortgage payments are made on a monthly basis but there are ways to pay it off faster by using accelerated biweekly payments. For example, if you have a $400,000 mortgage with a 25-year amortization and make monthly payments, your mortgage

won’t be paid off until 2041. We used RateHub’s mortgage payment calculator and found if you make accelerated payments, you’d pay off your mortgage nearly three years earlier and save about $15,000 in interest. Also, most lenders allow you to make lump-sum payments, which will let you pay your mortgage down faster and save you thousands of dollars in interest.

5. Not preparing for extra costs Buying a home can end up costing a lot more than you’d expect. First, there are closing costs, which include legal fees, title insurance and the land transfer tax. You might also need to reimburse the seller for the property taxes and utility bills they’ve already paid. These costs will add up to from anywhere between 1.5 and four per cent of the property’s purchase price.

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.

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

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

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

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

Life. Imagined.

Bungalows + 2 storeys from the 390s 905-945-6978

EXECUTIVE FAMILY HOMES ON 50’ LOTS

Detached Bungalows from the 390s 905-957-1777

Attached Bungalows from the 320s 905-957-1777

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PhelpsHomes.com

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

28窶ズPNEXTHOME.CA

29

Property Profile | MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Your dream home awaits at Fernwood Estates, Niagara Visit the Designer Showhome Grand Opening this weekend at Phase 3!

PHASE ONE AND TWO SOLD out quickly at the

beautiful Fernwood community in the heart of Niagara Falls, and this weekend, families will have another opportunity to be a part of this “naturally better living” neighbourhood! Located just minutes from excellent schools, convenient amenities, vibrant nightlife and the majestic Falls, Fernwood is perfect for buyers looking for

30 YPNEXTHOME.CA

stunning singles, on spacious lots in the location of their dreams.

The Grand Opening will take place Saturday, Feb. 27 and Sunday, Feb. 28 from noon to 5 p.m. Visitors will have an opportunity to explore Fernwood Estates and see exactly what has drawn so many to this master-planned community, plus tour the fabulous new model

MORE PHOTOS ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/mountainview-fernwood

Location

Niagara Falls Builder

Mountainview Homes Development

Fernwood Home Type

40-, 45- and 50-ft. lots and a variety of two-storey and bungalow plans Sales Centre

5668 Osprey Ave., open Monday noon to 5 p.m., Wednesday noon to 7 p.m., Thursday 1 to 5 p.m., Saturday and Sunday noon to 5 p.m.; Tuesday and Friday by appointment Contact

mountainview.com 905.323.6232.

home and take advantage of an exclusive, limited time offer. All grand opening weekend buyers will receive $5,000 Design Dollars, which can be used any way imaginable at Mountainview Homes’ awardwinning 3,000-sq.-ft. Design House.

The Iris model is a part of the ingenious Goddess Collection, boasting features brought to life by a focus group of women who considered everything the modern family looks for in a home. The Iris offers 2,748 sq. ft. of inspired living space, with an open concept layout ideal for entertaining and family fun, three bedrooms with a spacious loft area, 2.5 bathrooms and second floor laundry. The kitchen is every homeowner’s dream, with plenty of workspace, an island with breakfast bar, patio access and eat-in area adjacent to a light-filled family room.

The showhome also features Mountainview’s signature “stop and drop” mudroom. This family organization centre offers a designated home for muddy boots, coats, backpacks, sporting equipment and more, keeping the clutter out

of sight. On the second level, a serene master retreat features his and hers walk-in closets and a luxurious ensuite, complete with double sinks and an opulent freestanding soaker tub.

There are 40-, 45- and 50-ft. lots currently being offered at Fernwood Estates and a variety of innovative two-storey and bungalow plans. With dozens of designs, the community is ideal for first-time buyers, young professionals, empty-nesters and growing families.

As Niagara Region’s largest new home builder, Mountainview Homes offers buyers more than 35 years of experience developing distinctive communities and exceptionally built homes. Mountainview Homes has strong roots in the Niagara Region and takes great pride in providing homeowners with the best customer experience, quality construction and design.

For directions to Fernwood Estates’ newest showhome or to learn more, visit mountainview.com or call 905.323.6232.

FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 31

Trending

MORE TRENDING ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news

Housing starts in Ontario humming along WHILE PARTS OF CANADA deal with challenging local economies and real estate markets, housing starts – an important indicator of economic health – continues to hum along in Ontario.

Housing starts in the Ontario region were trending at 75,325 units in January, up from 73,786 units in December, according to data from Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.

(CMHC).

“The Ontario residential construction trend continued to move higher,” says Ted Tsiakopoulos, CMHC’s Ontario regional economist.

“All housing types posted increases in the latest month.”

The Ontario starts trend has been running above levels supported by household formation rates through the second half of 2015. This points to a moderation in activity from recent levels.

32 YPNEXTHOME.CA

“Low inventory in the resale market and increased new home sales over the past couple of years led to stronger starts of both low- and highrise units.”

“Modest job growth, lower levels of in-migration in recent years and a declining backlog of condominium sales awaiting construction should result in lower levels of starts as we move through 2016,” says Tsiakopoulos.

In Toronto, Canada’s largest market, housing starts also trended higher in January – 45,114 units, compared to 44,834 in December 2015.

“Last year’s momentum continued throughout January,” says Dana Senagama, CMHC principal market analyst for the GTA. “Low inventory in the resale market and increased new home sales over the past couple of

years led to stronger starts of both low- and highrise units.”

The standalone monthly seasonally adjusted annual rate of housing starts was 25,329 units in January, up from 24,732 units in December.

The increase was the result of greater apartment starts, CMHC says.

Construction of 725 new condo apartment units within the city of Toronto meant it recorded the highest number of starts within the GTA. Brampton recorded the next highest, comprising mostly singledetached and townhouse units. This was followed by Milton, where condo apartment construction was robust.

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Trending

Rosehaven wins RESNET Cross Border Builder Challenge Builder wins the Canadian President’s Award for Energy Efficiency

MORE TRENDING ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news

IN THE RECENT 2016 Cross Border Builder Challenge held by RESNET (Residential Energy Services Network) in conjunction with Canadian counterpart CRESNET, Rosehaven Homes was presented the Canadian President’s Award for the most homes rated HERS 53 or lower.

In deciding the award, Rosehaven was deemed to have built 187 homes in Ontario with HERS rating of 53 or under. A number of state of the art energy efficient features are offered by the respected builder.

34 YPNEXTHOME.CA

“With this esteemed award, Rosehaven Homes is a winner – and Rosehaven homebuyers are too.

That’s because energy efficiency in new home building benefits every one of us, and our home planet too,” says Heather Weeks, marketing manager at Rosehaven Homes.

The HERS Index is a measurement of a home’s energy efficiency and the lower score indicates superior energy efficiency achieved for the residence or commercial building.

The RESNET and CRESNET Cross Border Challenge is a friendly competition between American and Canadian builders for seven awards available to be won for energy efficient home building.

COMMUNITIES OAKVILLE WOODLAND TRAILS Spacious and Innovative!

2 & 3 Storey Freehold Towns Starting from the mid $600’s DON’T WAIT - ONLY A FEW REMAIN

COMING 2016 ALDERSHOT IN BURLINGTON AFFINITY CONDOMINIUMS Two Contemporary six-storey Buildings Surrounded by an Established Tree-lined Neighbourhood!

COMING THIS SPRING Register at AffinityCondo.com STONEY CREEK ON THE RIDGE Magnificent Setting on the Niagara Escarpment!

New Release of Freehold Towns COMING FALL 2016 Register at LiveonTheRidge.ca ANCASTER TIFFANY HILL Country-Chic Lifestyle!

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OAKVILLE RANDALL RESIDENCES Only 10 Suites Remain!

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City Focus | HAMILTON

HAMILTON Growing economy, strong housing market, bright future HAMILTON MAY BE ONLY less than an

hour’s drive west along the Queen Elizabeth Way, but it long lived in the shadows of its neighbour Toronto.

Until recently.

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 42 YPNEXTHOME.CA

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.

For these and other reasons, the Hamilton housing market has been a darling in the eyes of homebuyers and investors for years – and a bargain compared to nearby Toronto – where single-detached homes cost hundreds of thousands of dollars more.

The limited supply of singledetached homes in the GTA is causing record price growth there, encouraging some buyers to look west to Hamilton.

Hamilton’s employment has been

trending higher since March 2015, as strengthening employment and income, combined with slower price growth, should reduce any level of housing overvaluation.

Housing starts are to stabilize near 2,400 units in 2016 and 2017, following a decline in 2015. Fewer single-detached housing starts in 2017 will be offset by more multi-unit starts. High mortgage carrying costs will result in slightly lower demand for single-detached housing in 2017, as this type of dwelling is less affordable compared to multi-unit housing.

“Relative to the GTA, Hamilton is still considered a more affordable housing market and will continue to attract potential homebuyers from the less affordable municipalities,” says Abdul Kargbo, senior market analyst for Hamilton and Brantford, for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.

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 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.

Beyond 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, professionalscientific 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, Sonoma

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. Empire Communities, Homes by DeSantis, Losani Homes, Branthaven Homes, Mattamy Homes, Rosehaven Homes and other builders all have communities under way in these towns.

Neighbourhood Profile WESTDALE Westdale counts both a wildlife sanctuary of the Royal Botanical Gardens and the world-renowned education and research facility of McMaster University and Medical Centre within its boundaries.

Lifestyle Considered one of the most walkable places in North America, credit is ultimately due to Westdale’s intentional design almost a century ago as Canada’s first master-planned community.

Westdale remains the place many want to live, with tree-lined streets in distinctive, traffic-calming oval patterns.

Vibe At the commercial heart is Westdale Village, complete with an Art Deco movie theatre that has been a date-night magnet since the era of silent films.

Students, profs, moms and tots, couples and teens are all regulars at Westdale Village coffee shops.

Meet the neighbours If you’re looking for trendy and artsy, Westdale might not be for you. This is a community where young families moved in decades ago and today they are empty-nesters enjoying visits from grandchildren. Families still make up the majority of new residents, with schools, parks and sports fields to support the lifestyle.

In the area Buying a house in Westdale isn’t the best bargain in the city, but there are some available. You might consider a former student-occupied home, which can be more affordable, but be prepared to renovate to return it to a singlefamily residence. Trendy boutiques can be pricey, but mainstream shops and restaurants are competitive and affordable.

Planes, trains & automobiles For those who need to get to and from Westdale, The Hamilton Street Railway offers the Bee-Line east to west. GO train and bus service leaves from the downtown GO Station, with access to Burlington, Oakville, Mississauga and Toronto. Hwy. 403 offers immediate access to Hamilton Mountain, up the Niagara Escarpment and on to Ancaster and Brantford or east to Burlington.

The good, the bad & the rest Independent business is alive and well in Westdale Village. This vibrant, historic shopping district features more than 80 shops, services, cafes and restaurants on King Street West from Cline Street North to Sterling Street. Festivals take place through the year to draw even more into the local hotspots.

FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 43

Inspiration | DESIGN SECRETS

New beginnings in a newly built home –

ESPECIALLY IN THE MASTER CLOSET!

By Jane Lockhart, Principal Designer, Jane Lockhart Interior Design

MOVING INTO a new space gives the homeowner the perfect opportunity to start over with a blank slate in terms of the master closet. Most master closets are so cramped, unorganized that the walls and ceiling are barely visible with little opportunity for storage. Moving into an entirely new space provides the chance to make organization a priority.

The first step is to purge before moving into your new place The obvious is to get rid of stuff!

Sort through things by taking 44 YPNEXTHOME.CA

everything out first and then determining when the last time you or your significant other wore specific clothing. If it has been a year, out it goes. There are plenty of places where items can go that can help those less fortunate.

Consider Salvation Army, Local Food Banks (they often take clothes) or other charities such the Diabetes Foundation. Local Women’s Shelters are desperate for clothing for their residents as well.

Create a uniform environment Once items have been sorted,

it’s time to put your items in the closet. Wooden hangers can be purchased from places such as Canadian Tire, Walmart or even Home Depot. These hold clothes better and are less likely to collapse under the weight of heavier pieces.

If there is an abundance of old wire hangers left over, take them to the local dry cleaners, as they will use them again. When hanging clothes, it is easier to hang by type and by colour. This may sound a little too up tight, but it is a lifesaver when in a hurry and living with little clothing storage.

COURTESY OF SORBARA GROUP OF COMPANIES, LINK TO SORBARA.COM

Photography by John Heineman Photography, johnheinemanphotography.com

ONLINE

Multifunctional spaces: Rooms that serve a dual purpose While some spaces in a home are typically allocated their own room — like a walk-in closet or an office — there are ways to design a space so that it serves a dual purpose.

Here are our top picks for how you can kill two birds with one… room.

Closet/guest bedroom

Shelving Adding shelves at the highest area of the closet, above the hanging bar, can be a good way to find extra space. Often there is a large gap from the hanging rod to the ceiling.

This space can likely hold more than one row of items. Work with your builder or hire a handyman to install extra shelving in your closet. The extra space will allow for another area to tuck away items used rarely. This will also keep the bottom of the closet clear, allowing space for more frequently used items to be accessed.

Door change If you have sliding doors to your closet and you have the room to change them to swing doors, this can make access to the closet much easier. Again, work with the builder prior to completion or hire someone to install them for you. With regular swing doors you can see into all parts of your closet at one time, which can make getting stuff out much less taxing. In addition, the inside of a regular swing door is a

great place to hang a full-length mirror or hooks for belts.

Storage Clear plastic bins are a great way to organize items within the closet.

Using a series of them, stacked on top of each will allow for practical storage for a variety of different items.

For instance, separate bins for belts, purses, seasonal shoes, large jewelry pieces and sporting clothes. All of these are items used occasionally, but not all the time. It’s a good way to save space and to find things when needed. Again, these can be purchased at places such as Ikea, Walmart or Canadian Tire Closet space is always a challenge no matter how large or new your space is. If you have the budget and time, it may be worth working with your builder or an organization company to create a system to meet your needs. It may seem like a lot of money at first, but the peace of mind organization can bring is well worth the investment.

See more at janelockhart.com

Jane Lockhart is founder and principal designer of Jane Lockhart Interior Design. She was creative director and host of W Network’s topranked show, Colour Confidential, and has a Canadian-built furniture collection, Jane by Jane Lockhart, by Statum Designs.

Visit online at janelockhart.com

Ever dreamed of using an entire bedroom as a closet, but figured you’d need the space as a guest bedroom as well? Here’s how you can satisfy both needs: make your spare room into the walk-in closet you’ve always dreamed of having, but add a futon or even a murphy bed. Voila! You have yourself a walk-in closet that works as a guest bedroom part-time.

Office/spare room

Ladders are one of the latest decor crazes — and they can serve multiple purposes. If you need some extra space for overnight guests, try adding a mattress overtop a room with a quaint ladder, and you have yourself a functional — and hip — loft bed.

See Sonia Bell’s full list of dual purpose room ideas online. Read the full story…

ypnexthome.ca/dual-purpose FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 45

Property Profile | MATTAMY HOMES

Naturally beautiful Cranberry Hill invites you to call

Waterdown home SOME TIME AGO, MATTAMY

discovered the appeal of Cranberry Hill. The company has responded to the enthusiasm of homeowners and recently returned to provide an evolution of its family-friendly offerings. Strategically connected to all the region’s highways – Hwys.

403, 6, 407 and 401 – Waterdown is an ideal focal point for all the Golden Horseshoe has to offer. Near enough 46 YPNEXTHOME.CA

to the city of Toronto, Waterdown still offers the unspoiled charms natural living. And it’s also mere minutes from Burlington or Oakville.

Mattamy is well known for creating wonderfully master-planned communities, and Cranberry Hill is no exception. Inspired by, and respecting the local landscape, features like greenspaces, parks, playgrounds, plus walking and

bicycling trails complement the neighbourhood. A small-town charm is evident and manifested through friendly features like generous front porches that harken back to an era when neighbours and passers-by would wave and catch up on local happenings. Mattamy’s specialized architectural approach puts people ahead of cars, as you’ll notice when you traverse the people-friendly

Location

Waterdown Builder

Mattamy Homes Development

Cranberry Hill Home Type

Two-storey and rear lane townhomes, 30- and 36-ft. detached homes Sales Centre

485 Dundas St. E., open Monday to Thursday 1 to 8 p.m., Friday 1 to 6 p.m., Saturday, Sunday and holidays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Contact

mattamyhomes.com 289.431.1026

MORE PHOTOS ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/mattamy-cranberryhill

boulevards. You’ll probably also become aware of the gentle curves in the streets, designed specifically to reduce the speed of traffic. As well, the comprehensive network of paths gives residents real options to driving.

The streetscapes in Mattamy communities are also universally recognized as fresh and visually stimulating. That’s a design consideration that encourages a homeowner to personalize the

home, both in decor and even, with the unique ability to choose from Architect’s Choice Options, to alter plans so that personal preferences in living style can be accommodated.

Though you may choose to live just outside the city, these choices available here ensure you needn’t sacrifice any of the creature comforts a modern home can provide.

In Cranberry Hill, you will discover an inspiring mix of townhomes in a

selection of two-storey towns and rear lane towns. The ingenious rear lane towns are gathering considerable attention in that they offer home studios, double-car garages, and even private terraces. Many of the twostorey towns back onto greenspace and are extra deep lots. Also available are a handsome variety of Mattamy’s highly popular 30- and 36-ft. detached homes.

A visit to the sales centre will reveal many features for which Mattamy has become well respected. In particular, you may take note of the oversized windows Mattamy’s designers choose to use. Not only do they allow a generous quantity of natural light into your home, they also allow you to gaze out upon the benefits of living naturally right here in the heart of southern Ontario.

Mattamy was named BILD’s GTA Builder of the Year, and most recently, Waterloo-Wellington Builder of The Year by the Waterloo Region Home Builders’ Association.

The Cranberry Hill Sales Centre is located at 485 Dundas St. E., Waterdown. Call 289.431.1026.

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

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

FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 47

MARCH 2016

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

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

At the heart of each and every Bucci home is a warm and welcoming environment created through well designed floorplans and features that make everyday living enjoyable. Beautiful customized designs, meticulous craftsmanship, right down to the smallest detail, are all the hallmarks of a Bucci home.

Bucci Homes has been featured as “Model HOME Of The Month� as seen in the New Home & Condo Guide model home calendar

CHINESE HOME & CONDO GUIDE 6 - MAR 12, 2016 二月六日至三月十二日 / FEB VOLUME 5, ISSUE 1, 免費贈閱 CHINESEHOMEGUIDE.COM

Chinese home and condo buyers and investors now have a new comprehensive, full gloss real estate magazine to inform and guide them through the buying process in the Greater Toronto Area.

O AREA EDITION 大多倫多版 / GREATER TORONT

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本期內容

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Launched in 2012, the Chinese New Home and Condo shopper and investor will have a valuable new resource to help inform and guide them through the newest communities in the Greater Toronto Area.

Pick Up Your Copy Today or call us for a free copy at 416.626.4889!

猴年運程

2016-01-26 3:26 PM 6-2.indd 1

001-GTA Chinse Front Cover_02061

ypnexthome.ca

Advice | FUNDAMENTALLY SPEAKING

One-year fixed mortgage at 1.69 per cent hits market

By Wayne Karl

MORE ADVICE ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news/advice

MERIDIAN, ONTARIO’S LARGEST credit union, is offering Ontarians the lowest posted fixed mortgage rate on the market today at 1.69 per cent for a one-year term.

“Meridian is going against the trend set by banks and lenders of raising their fixed mortgage rates,” says Bill Whyte, chief member services officer for Meridian.

“As a member-owned financial institution, we are able to take advantage of the current bond and lending environment and pass those savings onto our members.”

Meridian mortgage specialists work closely with members to help ensure they are well informed about the financial facets of home ownership, including home affordability guidelines and smart borrowing practices.

“In addition to this attractive oneyear fixed mortgage offering, Meridian offers a full suite of mortgage options including fixed, variable, mortgages for business owners and construction mortgage solutions,” adds Whyte. “As we are quickly approaching the busy spring home buying season, this is the perfect time for people to evaluate their home buying options by getting a pre-approval now.”

Meridian also provides what it says is one of the best repayment options on the market today. Meridian’s 20/20 repayment program allows members to pay down up to 20 per cent of the original principal balance 50 YPNEXTHOME.CA

1.69%

per year without penalty and can be done at any time of the year without notice. Members can also increase their monthly payment up to 20 per cent of your original payment plan each year.

And as usual with such enticing offers, there is some fine print: “Rate is subject to change without notice and offers may be withdrawn or extended without notice. Refer to

our website for current residential mortgage posted rates. Mortgage must fund by April 30, 2016.”

Wayne Karl is an award-winning writer and editor with experience in real estate and business. In Fundamentally Speaking, Wayne explores the basics you need to examine when buying property. He can be reached at wayne.karl@ypnexthome.ca or follow him on Twitter at Twitter.com/ WayneKarl.

Homebuyers’ Help

Compare mortgage rates for your best deal CHARTERED BANKS ATB Financial Alterna Svgs/Alterna Bk Bank of Montreal Bank of Nova Scotia

variable 2.6 4.00op 2.7 6.30op 2.7 6.75op 2.7 6.45op

Canadian Western Bank 6.45op CFF Bank CIBC ICICI Bank Canada Manulife Bank National Bank President’s Choice Finan Royal Bank TD Canada Trust Tangerine

2.7 6.95op 2.75 2.4 n/a 6.70op 2.7 2.6 6.75op 2.6

6 months

1 year

2 years

3 years

4 years

5 years

4 4.00op 4 6.30op 4 6.75op 4.55 6.50op 4 6.30op

2.94 4.00op 2.85

2.64

2.69

2.74

2.99

2.79

2.59

2.84

2.88

2.89

2.99

3.39

3.89

2.89

3.29

3.09

3.39

3.89

4.49

3.14

3.04

3.65

4.2

4.74

2.69 2.84

2.24 2.79

2.39 2.59

2.59 2.79

2.74 4.79

3.15 3 3.20op 3.14

3.65 2.94

3.64 2.84

3.69 2.79

3.69 2.89

3.04

3.39

2.79

2.99

2.79 2.39

3.34 2.64

3.99 2.79

4.44 2.99

2.99 6.30op 3.19

2.29

3.39

2.74

2.94

3.24

3.49

3.69

3.79

3.14 2.89

3.25 2.59

3.95 3.39

4.39 3.89

4.64 4.64

3.35

3.5

3.7

4.3

4.35

2.69 3.14

2.24 3.09

2.39 3.39

2.59 3.89

2.74 2.84

3.29 6.50op

3.09

3.39

3.89

4.49

2.84

2.89

2.95

2.99

2.89

2.29 2.89

2.24 2.79

2.49 2.89

2.64 2.95

2.79 2.89

3.14

3.09

3.39

3.89

4.74

3.25 6.25op 1.69 6.30op 2.8 2.95op 2.45

3.2

3.65

4

4.5

3.09

3.55

4.19

2.59

2.85

2.95

3.05

3.15

2.55

2.55

2.65

2.65

6.35op 4.45 4.4 6.70op

3.14 6.75op

2.7

TRUST COMPANIES Community Trust Concentra Financial Effort Trust Home Trust Company Investors Group Trust MTCC

n/a n/a 6.70op n/a 6.30op 2.35 n/a 6.50op 2.7

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

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Comtech Credit Union First National Fin. LP IC Savings London Life Luminus Financial

2.45 6.40op 2.7 6.50op n/a 6.50op 3.25

Meridian Credit Union

2.4

Parama Credit Union

2.65

Steinbach Credit Union

2.25

6.2 6.30op 3.1 4.25 6.50op 4.2 6.30op

4

ONLINE CALCULATOR ypnexthome.ca/mortgage-calculator 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 1, 2016. Prepared By http://www.FiscalAgents.com/mortgage/rates

FEB 27 - MAR 12, 2016 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 51

Ad Index

ADVERTISERS

Adi Development Group - Nautique

24

Losani Homes - The Woodlands Ancaster

Adi Development Group - Station West

39

Mattamy Homes - The Preserve

Bayview Wellington - Victoria Village

4

Menkes Developments - Enclaves of Upper Canada

Bayview Wellington - Passages on the Canal

5

Mountainview Homes - Fernwood

Branthaven Homes - Freedom

28 & 29

6

54 & 55

25

9

Phelps Homes - Multi-Site

27

Carriage Gate Homes - Legacy in Ancaster

33

Reid’s Heritage Homes - Westminster Highlands

BC

Coletara Developments - Liberty Square

18

Rosehaven Homes - Multi-Site

35

Countrygreen Homes - Westwood Mews

7

Thomas Cochren Homes - The Greystones

37

2&3

Tillsonburg Developments - Baldwin Place

19

Empire Communities - Wyndfield

Homes by DeSantis - AquaBlu

52 YPNEXTHOME.CA

11

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DISCOVERY THE

LUXURY OF CHOICE IN THE PRESERVE IN OAKVILLE

THE

PRESERVE OAKVILLE

EXPERIENCE UNPARALLELED LUXURY IN MATTAMY’S MOST PRESTIGIOUS CONDO TOWNHOMES Our Most Spacious Condo Townhomes Offer You The Luxury Of A Worry Free Lifestyle With Our Low Maintenance Fees. |

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|

Main & Second Floor 9' Ceilings

|

Abundant space from 2,536 Sq.Ft. to 3,057 Sq.Ft.

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Some homes offer Courtyards, some located on naturalized Channel Lots, some on over-sized lots

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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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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR COMMUNITIES REGISTER AT MATTAMYHOMES.COM FOLLOW US: SALES CENTRE HOURS: Monday - Thursday 1pm-8pm; Friday 1pm-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-6pm DETACHED MODEL HOME HOURS: Monday - Thursday 1pm-7:30pm; Friday 1pm-5:30pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-5:30pm

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1779 Sq. Ft. 2 & 3 Bed, 2.5 Bath

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• Energy Star Qualified Home

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Register Today for More Information!

SALES CENTRE & MODEL HOME 89 Aberdeen Street, Fergus, ON 519.787.1847 / 226.820.6975

ReidsHeritageHomes.com Prices and specifications subject to change. See sales consultant for more details. E. & O.E. February 2016.

SALES CENTRE HOURS Mon, Thurs & Fri 1 - 6 pm Sat & Sun 12- 5 pm

@RHHQualityHomes