Southwestern Ontario New Home and Condo Guide - Nov 21, 2015

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 VOLUME 18, ISSUE 21, FREE

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO EDITION

Discover why Empire’s commitment to building beautiful communities across Southwestern Ontario sets them apart.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

2016 HOUSING MARKET OUTLOOK

CITY FOCUS ON ST. CATHARINES

HAMILTON, OTHER CITIES SCORE WITH NEW STADIUMS

ONTARIO HOME ONTARIO BUILDER OF THE HOME BUILDER YEAR YEAROF THE 2015 2015

ONTARIO HOME BUILDER Learn more at empirecommunities.com OF THE YEAR

O H O 2

ONTARIO HOME BUILDER OF THE YEAR 2015

ONTARIO HOME BUILDER OF THE YEAR 2015

ONTARIO HOME BUILDER OF THE YEAR 2015

ONTARIO HOME BUILDER OF

Violet Model Home in Wildflowers, Kitchener

STYLISH AFFORDABLE TOWNS & DETACHED DESIGNS ARE NOW IN SEASON AT WILDFLOWERS

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SALES CENTRE/ MODEL HOMES

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Detached Homes Townhomes From $199,990 From $329,990

7& 8

ER FISCH

KITCHENER

36' HOME, THE CALYPSO ‘D’ 1,818 SQ.FT. $404,990

4 DETACHED MODEL HOMES

HU RO N

VILLAGE SUITE, THE YELLOW BIRCH ‘CN’ 1,149 SQ.FT. $199,990

SALES CENTRE 179 Seabrook Drive

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

Affordable & Spacious Family Living in the heart of Kitchener.

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F RO M J U S T

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Rosemount offers a relaxed lifestyle that makes it easy to take advantage of recreational and cultural facilities, shopping, dining, and lush park lands.

Rosemount is commuter-friendly with easy access in and out of the downtown core.

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• Easy access in and out of the downtown core.

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1 40

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TO

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85

STAN LE

Visit our model home at 152 Rosemount Dr.

8

contents NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | VOLUME 18 ISSUE 21

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)

14 ON THE COVER

14

Empire Communities

50 Development

New sports facilities boost real estate values

Celebrating a year of milestones

buyers’ resource section property profiles

17

Hot Properties Kitchener-Waterloo & London

22 Williamsburg Homes

Williamsburg Walk condos in Kitchener nearing completion

32

Mountainview Homes

Black Friday Sale coming Friday, Nov. 27!

42 Menkes Developments Models now open at The Enclaves of Upper Canada

New releases and grand openings

25 Hot Properties Hamilton New releases and grand openings

53

Mortgage Rates

in every issue city focus

10

48 St. Catharines

52 Advertiser Index

Vibrant city with flourishing surroundings

Editor’s Note

+ online

trending

24 CMHC

2016 housing market outlook from CMHC

36

Losani Homes

Presenting... Pronto Homes on Demand

NEIGHBOURHOOD

HOME SEARCH WITH

DYNAMIC MAPS

8 YPNEXTHOME.CA

MORE +PHOTOS +VIDEOS +ADVICE +INSPIRATION +TRENDING

LOOK FOR THE CIRCLE

SALES CO-ORDINATOR

Sarah Khan MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Bala Gnanapandithan CO-ORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Viosa Barileva CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

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

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 2015 All rights reserved by New Home & Condo Guide, Toronto, Ontario. Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Contents of this publication are covered by Copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law. The views and data expressed by columnists do not necessarily represent those of the publication. 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.

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES’

! y l n o y a d e n o

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27! BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR!

Act Now!

ER 30!

B EM V O N SE EA R C IN E IC R P

OPEN BLACK FRIDAY! 12-5 p.m.

www.mountainview.com 905.323.6232

Offer & Specifications subject to change without notice. E.&.O.E. Not valid with th any other th promotion. ti RRestrictions t i ti apply. l Vi Visitit sales l offi ffice for f details. Applies to all deals written on Friday, November 27, 2015 only.

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 9

Editors' Notes

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

EXPLORE PORT DALHOUSIE

SEE MORE ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/port-dalhousie

Neighbourhood facts to help you buy If the number one rule in real estate is “location, location, location,” then making sure your next place is in the right “neighbourhood, neighbourhood, neighbourhood” is where we come in.

At YPNextHome.ca we have taken “neighbourhood” to the next level.

Finding a home is about more than just location, it’s about the micro details of the neighbourhood. To that end, we’ve collected data from across the country, right down to details of who lives there.

We invite you to explore the more than 2,700 neighbourhoods we have on our new website to find out not only who lives there, but what their favourite activities and hobbies are, and even how they commute to work.

Essentially, your neighbourhood is an extension of your home. Get the facts before you decide.

This issue features a neighbourhood that we’ve explored and defined ourselves. It’s a small sample of what’s available online. I invite you to check it out and let us know what you think!

Stemming the migration west

WAYNE KARL Senior Editor

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

+ get social 10 YPNEXTHOME.CA

It’s been a long time – a decade, at least – since Ontario was one of the top three provinces in Canada in terms of job growth.

Until now. Yes, good news, Ontario – our economy is outperforming much of Canada. As recently as a couple years ago, the phrase “Go west, go west” was personified in the flood of inter-provincial migration in that direction, particularly to Alberta, when the oil and gas industry was at its peak.

“We’re not bleeding as much now,” says Ted Tsiakopoulos, Ontario regional economist, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.

At its recent 2016 outlook conference, while cautioning about conditions in certain markets, CMHC also highlighted the positive trend emerging for the province.

“The migration and employment stories are both positive, for sure,” Tsiakopoulos says

Interact with us on social media: ypnexthome

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RESIDENCES STARTING FROM THE LOW $200s

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LAKE ONTARIO 10 WINDWARD DR.

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11

Property Profile | EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

cover story

Empire Communities celebrates a year of milestones 2015 marks a year of industry recognition and awards, successful developments in the GTA and beyond with no signs of slowing down THIS YEAR HAS BEEN ONE OF

significant milestones for Empire Communities. This year, Empire Communities built more than 1,000 new condominiums and lowrise homes stretching from Southwestern Ontario to the GTA, launched a corporate rebrand and was named the 2015 Ontario Home Builder of the Year by the Ontario Home Builders’ Association (OHBA). What makes this year’s achievements especially meaningful are the 1,000-plus homeowners who put their trust in Empire to build their dream home and who have helped the company get to where it is today.

14 YPNEXTHOME.CA

“We’re incredibly proud to have been named the Ontario Home Builder of the Year by the OHBA,” says Daniel Guizzetti, co-founder, CEO and president, Empire Communities.

“This speaks to our commitment of building inspiring homes and neighbourhoods of enduring value.

We have built our reputation on our core values of caring, optimism and trust, which are a reflection of our corporate responsibility initiatives and exceptional customer-service experience.”

As one of the top builders of master-planned communities in the province, Empire has built more than

10,000 single-family and highrise homes across Southwestern Ontario and the GTA over the past 20 years. The company has received nearly 100 domestic and international awards for design, marketing and sales excellence.

Two-thousand and fifteen was also significant for Empire, marking 20 years in the business this year with a corporate rebrand. The rebranding efforts concentrated not only on the evolution of the corporate logo and Masterbrand strategy but also the internal mission, vision and core values that guide the team day in and day out to offer a best in class

MORE PHOTOS ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/empire-celebrates

experience from the time of sale to the day new owners close on their dream home.

Much of Empire’s recent growth has been in Southwestern Ontario where the company initially put down roots. Wyndfield, Empire’s masterplanned community in Brantford, was proud to hit 2000 homes sold this year. Imagine, Empire’s masterplanned community in Niagara, launched its latest phase with all new home designs, a new presentation centre the “Imagine Centre” and four stunning new model homes, along the popular model home row. Avalon, Empire’s masterplanned community in Caledonia was launched and had a tremendous response. The next release of this 3,000 home community is coming in the spring of 2016.

Empire is the largest Energy Star home builder in Southwestern Ontario and one of the first to offer Energy Star certification as a standard for all its single-family homes. This

commitment to building energy efficient homes has resulted in the Green Builder of the Year Award from the Hamilton Halton Home Builders’ Association, Waterloo Region Home Builders’ Association, Niagara Home Builders’ Association and BILD (Building Industry and Land Development Association).

This year, the Mike Holmes team approached Empire to join their exclusive Holmes Approved Homes program and collaborated with them to reinforce Empire’s high-level of home building standards across all of its lowrise communities.

Lastly, 2015 also saw Empire spread its wings south of the border with

expansion into the United States, specifically Texas. In addition, Empire announced continued growth in Ontario with enough land to accommodate 20,000 new singlefamily and highrise homes.

What’s next for Empire? Growth will be a continued commitment in Southwestern Ontario with an emphasis towards Green living and affordable luxury living. Regardless of the community and home styles being built, Empire promises to create inspiring new places to live.

For more information on Empire Communities, visit empirecommunities.com

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 15

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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

BAYFIELD BLYTH CLINTON GRAND BEND INGERSOLL LONDON MITCHELL SEAFORTH

condominium townhomes from $231,990. rembrandt-homes.ca

VICTORIA ON THE RIVER

LONDON SHAKESPEARE ST.THOMAS STRATFORD TAVISTOCK TILLSONBURG WINGHAM WOODSTOCK

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

By: Stonecrest Homes City: London Housing type: Single-family homes at at Hamilton Road & Commissioners Road East. stonecresthomes.ca

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 openings REMBRANDT ESTATES

new releases

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

SUMMERSIDE By: Stoncrest Homes City: London Location: Darnley Boulevard and Cardigan Drive Housing type: Ssingle-family homes stonecresthomes.ca

CASTLE ROCK PLACE By: Rembrandt Homes City: London Location: 3444 Singleton Ave., off Southdale Housing type: Two-storey and mulit-level

HALTON HILLS WELLINGTON WATERLOO

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

ALMA AYR CAMBRIDGE ELORA FERGUS

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

GEORGETOWN GUELPH KITCHENER ROCKWOOD WATERLOO

ISHERWOOD AVENUE CONDOS

Housing type: Urban townhomes with three bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms williamsburgtowns.ca

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

previews and registration

new openings CLAIRITY

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

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

WILLIAMSBURG TOWNS By: Reid’s Heritage Homes City: Kitchener

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

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 17

18

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

D et .

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

LOCATION

BUILDERS

SITES

PRICES

Baden

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Baden Country Estates

•

Elmira

CLAYSAM HOMES

Elmira Country Club Estates

•

Ilderton

SIFTON

Timberwalk

•

Guelph

COUNTRY GREEN HOMES Royal Valley

•

Kitchener

COUNTRY GREEN HOMES Rosemount Semis

•

Kitchener

COUNTRY GREEN HOMES Westwood Mews

•

Kitchener

LOSANI HOMES

Doon Creek

Kitchener

LOSANI HOMES

Victoria Common

Kitchener

MATTAMY HOMES

Wildflowers

•

Kitchener

MATTAMY HOMES

Cranbery Hill

•

Kitchener

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

River Ridge

•

Kitchener

REIDS HERITAGE

Williamsburg Walk

North London

SIFTON

Ballymote Woods

•

Plattsville

CLAYSAM HOMES

Plattsville Estates

South London

SIFTON

Andover Trail

South London

SIFTON

Westwood Village

Tillsonburg

TILLSONBURG DEV.

Baldwin Place

•

West London

SIFTON

Warbler Woods

•

West London

SIFTON

Evergreen at Warbler Woods

West London

SIFTON

Riverbend Golf Community

Woodstock

CLAYSAM HOMES

Neighbourhoods at Devonshire

PAGE 9

from $289,900

21

20

•

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7

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from $349,900

7

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from mid $200's

7

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from $303,000

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from $274,900

38

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from $199,990

6

from $493,990

55

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from $223,300

56

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from mid $300's

20

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from $324,900

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from mid $300's

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from low $300's

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from $244,500

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20

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from mid $300's

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from $290,000

20

from mid $200's

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

•

London / Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

•

19

Homes built for life.

Sunday will always be special.

Bring little ones and parents together to celebrate family in a home built by Sifton. From open concept designs, to solid construction and high-end finishes, Sifton concentrates on craftsmanship, so you can concentrate on life.

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Towns & Semis PHASE 3 NOW AVAILABLE

A Proud Partner Claysam Homes is proud to offer home buyers The Holmes Approved Homes Program. Each of our newly built homes will go through a rigorous inspection process through a certified Mike Holmes inspector. Visit one of our model homes today to find out more details about our exciting new partnership and how it benefits you to live in a Holmes approved home.

STARTING FROM THE MID

$200,000’s Woodstock

1141 Caen Ave. Woodstock, ON

50’ Lots with bungalows & two-storeys STARTING FROM

$324,900 Plattsville

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$289,900 Elmira serviced in all our communities

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claysamhomes.com

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

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 21

Property Profile | WILLIAMSBURG HOMES

Williamsburg Walk condos in Kitchener nearing completion Location

Kitchener Builder

Williamsburg Homes Development

Williamsburg Walk Home Type

Midrise condo with oneand two-bedroom suites from 652 to 970 sq. ft., from $226,800 Sales Centre

325 Max Becker Dr., open Monday to Friday from 1 to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m.

Contact

519.742.4004 williamsburgwalk.ca 22 YPNEXTHOME.CA

WITH URBAN LIVING ON THE RISE,

Williamsburg Walk offers residents the freedom of a maintenancefree home combined with the convenience of a two-minute walk to numerous amenities located right outside the door.

Williamsburg Town Centre in Kitchener is an award-winning commercial development with a streetscape designed to create a quality pedestrian experience.

Williamsburg Homes’ meticulously planned urban-influenced Williamsburg Walk is situated in this established neighbourhood, letting residents enjoy a pedestrian friendly promenade of shops, restaurants, salons, cafes, fitness centres, grocers, bakeries and numerous services.

With simple access to Hwy. 85 and the 401, traveling to surrounding communities is also efficient and hassle-free.

Located near the FischerHallman Road and Max Becker Drive crossing, the building is currently 70 per cent sold, with all of the three-bedroom suites already snapped up. The remaining one- and two-bedroom suites range in size from 652 to 970 sq. ft. and start at $226,800. For a limited time, the builder is offering $2,500 off the purchase price.

Standard features include: » Granite countertops in the kitchen and bathrooms » Ceramic and hardwood floors

“This distinctive brick and stone, four-storey building features high end masonry finishes, balconies and brickwork and will be surrounded by professionally landscaped grounds.”

» Four appliance package in the kitchen including stainless steel fridge, stove, dishwasher and overthe-range microwave » Stackable white washer and dryer » Surface or underground parking This midrise building is the first of its kind in the area, setting the stage for more to come. This distinctive brick and stone, four-storey building features high end masonry finishes, balconies and brickwork and will be surrounded by professionally landscaped grounds. Common elements include a secure entry with an intercom system, full sprinkler building, one fully appointed elevator, a barrier-free access ramp, mailboxes in the building lobby, party room and a fitness room.

With its range in pricing and suite sizes, the community caters to a wide demographic seeking a convenient lifestyle. First-time homebuyers, young families and empty nesters looking for a more desirably sized space, will find this community easy to call home.

Occupancy starts February 2016.

Sample floorplan

The sales centre is located at 325 Max Becker Dr. in Kitchener. Open Monday to Friday from 1 to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. For more information, contact a new home sales consultant at 519.742.4004 or visit the website at williamsburgwalk.ca NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 23

Trending

2016 housing market outlook

By Wayne Karl ATTENTION HOMEOWNERS and prospective homebuyers: the housing market outlook is okay now, but there is a lot of uncertainty in the economy.

Make your decisions carefully.

This doesn’t necessarily mean consumers should “take cover,” but the overriding message at Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.’s kick-off Housing Market Outlook Conference series in Toronto on Nov. 3 was that the housing industry – realtors, builders, developers, and of course buyers and sellers – should certainly “take note.”

In language not usually used by CMHC at its outlook conferences, terms such as “overvaluation” were common, including the situation unfolding in Toronto, Canada’s largest housing market.

CMHC issued similar warnings in late October, when it released its latest Housing Market Assessment, which highlighted that as of October, 11 of the 15 Canadian centres it monitors show at least moderate evidence of overvaluation, up from eight in August.

Five of Canada’s largest markets are showing moderate to strong evidence of overvaluation.

“We don’t want to put out the 24 YPNEXTHOME.CA

warning of overvaluation when it’s too late, when the market is bound for a strong correction,” says Bob Dugan, chief economist, CMHC. “We want to get that message out early.

We want to get the information out to potential homebuyers, lenders, builders, to give them the tools to make better decisions.”

Looking at the national picture, where there is modest evidence of overvaluation, CMHC says: » Mortgage rates will begin to rise gradually in late 2016. » Canada’s economy is expected to continue to attract a high level of immigrants. The level of net migration will remain above its historical average and help support Canada’s housing market. » Income is expected to increase modestly as economic conditions in Canada improve. Income growth will remain supportive of housing demand over the forecast horizon.

“However, there is a lot of uncertainty in the economy,” says Dugan.

Downside risks to the national outlook include:

» Future path of oil prices remains the most significant domestic risk that could limit growth through decreasing exports » Broader slowdown in China’s economic growth will negatively affect the Canadian economy through weaker demand for exports » Household debt levels remaining elevated represent a vulnerability that could amplify an economic shock Under these conditions, CMHC forecasts that GDP growth could range between 1.4 and 2.3 per cent next year, and 1.7 and 2.8 per cent in 2017.

Home price growth is expected to slow; the average MLS price will grow to $443,300 in 2016 from $437,700 this year, and to $449,600 in 2017.

Economic developments that can serve to dissipate some of the overvaluation include rising disposable incomes, job and income growth and increasing migration.

“The other way it can dissipate is if house price growth slows, allowing fundamentals to catch up,” says Dugan. “These are some of the ways in which these overvaluations can be resolved.”

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

HAMILTON HALTON NIAGARA ANCASTER BEAMSVILLE BINBROOK BRANT BRANTFORD

BURLINGTON CATHARINES GRIMSBY HAMILTON

MILTON NIAGARA OAKVILLE PARIS

PORT DOVER ST. CATHARINES STONEY CREEK VINELAND

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

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

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

MATTAMY HOMES’ HAWTHORNE SOUTH VILLAGE, MILTON

SIMPLY GRAND

previews and registration STATIONWEST By: Adi Developments Location: Burlington Housing type: Coming soon – three-storey urban townhomes. adidevelopments.com

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

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

new openings CRANBERRY HILL

By: Losani Homes Location: Paris Housing type: Singles and towns from the mid $300’s. losanihomes.com

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

THE WOODLANDS

WOODLANDS

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

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

AUGUSTA By: Losani Homes City: Ancaster Housing type: Contemporary semis from the low $400’s. losanihomes.com

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

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

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 25

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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

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

LOCATION

BUILDERS

SITES

PRICES

Ancaster

CARRIAGE GATE HOMES

Legacy in Ancaster

Ancaster

LOSANI HOMES

Ancaster Astoria

Ancaster

LOSANI HOMES

Ancaster Augusta

Ancaster

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Tiffany Hill

•

Brantford

COUNTRY GREEN HOMES

The LINK

•

Binbrook

LOSANI HOMES

Fairgrounds Finale

•

Burlington

ADI DEVELOPMENTS

Nautique

Burlington

ADI DEVELOPMENT

Station West

Brantford

EMPIRE

Wyndfield

from low $200's

2&3

Burlington

NEW HORIZON

Bridge Water

•

from $500,000

40

Burlington

ROSEHAVEN

Affinity Condominiums

•

from $200,000

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from $800,000 • •

PAGE 41

from $304,900

38

from $417,900

38

•

35 7 from $338,900 •

• •

•

38

from $200,000

31

from $400,000

45

Chippawa/Niagara

ROSEHAVEN

Lyon's Creek

Collingwood

LOSANI HOMES

Summit Shores

Fonthill

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Residences at Lookout

•

•

Fort Erie

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Ellesmere Landing

•

•

Georgetown

MENKES

The Enclaves of Upper Canada

•

•

Grimsby

BRANTHAVEN

Lake House

•

from $200,000

12&13

Grimsby

HOMES BY DESANTIS

AquaBlu

•

from $200,000

11

Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Prairie Modern

from $327,900

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Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Paramount at Valley Park

•

from $669,900

38

Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Green Hill Glen

•

from $437,900

38

Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Sherman Oaks

•

from $537,900

38

Hamilton

MULTI-AREA DEV.

Bellagio Village at Summit Park

•

Milton

MATTAMY HOMES

Hawthorne South Village

•

Niagara

BW HOMES

Passages on the Canal

Niagara Falls

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Woodside

•

•

from $229,900

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Niagara Falls

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Windy Lane

•

•

from $240,900

9

Niagara Falls

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Fernwood Estates

•

from $362,900

9

Niagara Falls

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Thundering Waters

•

from low $300's

9

•

• •

•

from $339,990

47

•

from $417,900

38

•

from $369,900

9

from $327,900

9

from high $400's

•

•

from $289,990

44

35 28&29

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5

•

Niagara Falls

SILVERGATE HOMES

Victoria Woods

•

Oakville

BRANTHAVEN

Oakvillage

•

Oakville

EMPIRE

Rain/Senses

•

•

30 from $400,000

12&13

from $229,990

2&3

Oakville

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Woodland Trails

•

from mid $600's

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Paris

LOSANI HOMES

Simply Grand

•

•

from $344,000

38

Ridgeway

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Dominion Woods

•

•

from $361,900

9

•

Ridgeway

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Bevaver Creek Esates

•

•

Smithville

PHELPS HOMES

Auburn Trail

•

•

St. Catharines

BW HOMES

Victoria Village

•

•

St. Catherines

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES

Imagine

•

St. Catharines

SILVERGATE HOMES

Village on the Twelve

St. Catharines

SILVERGATE HOMES

Jacob's Landing

St Catharines

SILVERGATE HOMES

Beamer Landing

Stoney Creek

EMPIRE

Victory

Stoney Creek

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

On the Ridge

Thorold

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

West Community

•

Thorold

ROSEHAVEN HOMES

Gibson Heights

•

Thorold

SILVERGATE HOMES

German Village

•

Welland

MOUNTAINVIEW

Harvest Estates

•

•

from $310,900

9

from $370,000

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from low $300's from $329,990 •

•

•

4 2&3 30

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30 30

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from $301,990

2&3

from $300,000

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from $200,000

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from $249,900

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

•

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

•

27

A NEW RELEASE OF HIGHLY DESIRED FREEHOLD VILLAGE HOMES & 2-STOREY TOWNS 30', 34', 36' & 43' Detached Designs Also Available ‘ENGLISH MANOR’

TOWNHOME, THE NORMANDALE ‘ENGLISH MANOR’ 1,675 SQ.FT.

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401

SALES CENTRE

JAMES SNOW PKWY.

MILTON

N

MAIN ST.

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REGIONAL ROAD 25

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Wintergreen Model Home in Wildflowers, Kitchener

‘COLONIAL’

VILLAGE HOME, THE NETHERBY ‘COLONIAL’ 1,415 SQ.FT.

30' HOME, THE RENFREW ‘ENGLISH MANOR’ 1,874 SQ.FT.

36' HOME, THE WINDMERE ‘TUDOR’ 2,564 SQ.FT.

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

NOW OPEN

A new level of luxury is coming to Niagara with the opening of Victoria Woods. Luxurious bungalow towns backing onto lush greenspace, nestled amongst pristine golf courses, hiking trails, world-class dining and shopping. You’re only a short distance from the QEW and Niagara’s Wine Route with its endless rows of award-winning vineyards and wines.

5622 IRONWOOD STREET, NIAGARA FALLS, UNIT #19

SILVERGATEHOMES.COM 905. 680.6000 info@silvergatehomes.com

Specifications subject to change without notice. E. & O.E.

For unparalleled living, just add water.

ARRIVING SOON

On Downtown Burlington’s Lakefront

REGISTER NOW AdiDevelopments.com What could possibly trump indulgent condominium living overlooking Lake Ontario?

Access to a spectacular rooftop terrace swimming pool and whirlpool for starters.

Add in sumptuous suites, a host of other equally hedonistic amenities and a downtown Burlington lakefront location beyond compare, and you’ve discovered a rare address indeed.

Condominiums from the high $200,000s.

Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Illustrations are artist’s concept.

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

Property Profile | MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Mountainview Homes’ Black Friday Sale coming Friday, Nov. 27!

DON’T MISS THE BIGGEST SALE OF THE YEAR! ONE DAY ONLY! Location

Niagara Falls, Ridgeway, Fonthill, Welland, Thorold, Fort Erie, Kitchener Builder

Mountainview Homes Development

Fernwood Estates, Beaver Creek Estates, The Residences at Lookout, Harvest Estates, West Community, Ellesmere Landing, Thundering Waters, River Ridge Contact

mountainview.com 905.3236232

32 YPNEXTHOME.CA

BLACK FRIDAY DOESN’T MEAN

discounts on just clothing, appliances and electronics. At Mountainview Homes, Black Friday means huge savings on the home of your dreams!

Mountainview Homes is excited to announce its Black Friday Sale on Friday, Nov. 27 for only one day at all of Mountainview’s communities.

If you’re going to buy a home in the near future, this is the day to do it! With the purchase of a home at Fernwood Estates in Niagara Falls, Beaver Creek Estates in Ridgeway, The Residences at Lookout in Fonthill, Harvest Estates in Welland, West Community in Thorold, Ellesmere Landing in Fort Erie, Thundering

Waters in Niagara Falls and River Ridge in Kitchener, purchasers will be able to choose from three fantastic $10,000 deals!

The Cool Cooking Package includes a custom appliance package, design dollars and air conditioning; the Hot Flooring Package includes engineered wood flooring in the Great Room, gas fireplace, design dollars and upgraded trim! And, last but not least, the Dream Kitchen Package includes a $10,000 kitchen cabinet upgrade to build the kitchen of your dreams! For complete details and specifications on these amazing packages, call or visit the sales office!

Mountainview’s newest

communities are also offering great savings! Purchasers at Woodside and Windy Lane Estates in Niagara Falls will receive a $5,000 Design Dollar Package – choose your upgrades and create your dream home!

There is one more reason to purchase a Mountainview home during the Black Friday Sale. On Monday, Nov. 30, the builder will implement its annual price increase throughout all communities. So if you wait, you will miss out on the lowest prices of the year!

Your Black Friday home comes with great savings, and a home built with unparalleled quality. 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. Plus,

MORE PHOTOS ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/mountainview-sale

your Mountainview home is sure to be built to fit your family’s needs, with free customization on Mountainview’s standard collection of floor plans. The in-house architectural department works with homeowners to customize floorplans for individual needs – making it just right for your family! The best part is, architectural services and floorplan changes are free of charge!

Black Friday is the perfect time to take advantage of incredible savings as well as Mountainview’s quality craftsmanship, beautiful designs and sought-after communities. Don’t miss this limited time offer!

For directions and details about all of Mountainview’s communities, visit mountainview.com or call 905.3236232.

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 33

GET INSPIRED! ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE

DISCOVER THE WORLD OF CHOICE, IDEAS & POSSIBILITIES FOR YOUR NEW HOME!

COME VISIT

OUR AWARD WINNING DESIGN STUDIO!

• Visualize your home inside and out • Enjoy a beverage while exploring • See what’s new in home design trends ” • Talk to our “best of award winning staff • Or simply stop by to say “Hi” OPEN HOURS: Wednesday: 5:00pm to 8:00pm Saturday and Sunday: 11:00am to 5:00pm.

155 Washburn Drive, Kitchener

WINNER OHBA

AWARDS OF

DISTINCTION 2015

BEST DESIGN/DECOR CENTRE “Design Studio-Eastforest Homes”

eastforesthomes.com FOLLOW US! Prices correct at press time. Please see Sales Representative for details. Promotions and incentives can be changed or cancelled at any time without notice. E. & O.E., November 2015

34 YPNEXTHOME.CA

$289,990* 905-561-0136 | 33 Fletcher Rd, Hamilton

Trending

A new home you won’t have to wait for – Losani Homes presents Pronto Homes on Demand LOSANI HOMES HAS COMBINED THE BENEFITS OF NEW WITH THE

gratification of resale. On top of the brand new feeling and the new home warranty provided, purchasers can see, feel and touch while having a choice of locations of new home construction – putting it all within reach – Pronto!

Pronto Homes on Demand has been operating all year in southern Ontario. It was publicly showcased to hundreds of real estate and building industry professionals in Waterloo, where there are as many as 100 underway, ready and waiting – Pronto! It’s been so successful in Losani’s home area of Hamilton that it is difficult to keep up with inventory.

CEO Fred Losani explained that buyers want a home that’s as clean as new with the latest in design, features, energy efficiency, the latest technology plus an interior designer to pull it all together – but with a shorter resale home timeline.

Losani calls it “a smarter way of buying; and a better way of building.” Pronto starts the building process right away before a purchaser begins the buying process. Models are 30 to 100 per cent built. Buyers choose the home, personalize the finishes and choose the community. They return weeks later with the key to their new home in hand.

“It turns the whole location, location, location paradigm on its head,” says Losani. “Product first, then based on closing date and different prices in different communities… then they choose the 36 YPNEXTHOME.CA

MORE TRENDING ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news

“The Pronto Program applies to about a third of Losani’s quality single-family, townhomes and semis in Ancaster, Binbrook, Collingwood, Hamilton, Kitchener and Stoney Creek, with a dozen more communities slated to open in the coming year.” neighbourhood that’s right for them.”

Plus, in every Pronto Home on Demand, several options are always built in to the home at no extra cost so buyers get things that they would have paid extra for in a standard plan.

“Pronto Homes on Demand is focused on what the buyer wants, not what the builder wants, or what the seller has to offer,” says Losani.

Buyers have a choice of dozens and dozens of different designs in a dozen different communities with closings as soon as 30 days or 60 days 90 days, or even longer if needed. In fact, Losani says this could be Ontario’s largest “ready built” construction program. And perhaps in all of Canada.

The Pronto Program applies to about a third of Losani’s quality single-family, townhomes and semis in Ancaster, Binbrook, Collingwood, Hamilton, Kitchener and Stoney Creek, with a dozen more communities slated to open in the coming year.

More than half of all Losani sales this year have been sold via its 200page Pronto catalogue that lists more than 100 homes with early movein opportunities. It is updated and published every few months to keep up with demand and the project’s success.

For more information on Losani’s Pronto Homes on Demand, visit losanihomes.com

Couple buys new Losani Pronto home in March with May move-in

Doug Sloan and Karyn Taylor were excited earlier this year when they purchased a home together in Hamilton. They could hardly wait to move into their new digs – and lucky for them, they barely had to. They signed the papers in late March, and in early May, took possession of their new home in the Hamilton community of Sherman Oaks – which they bought through Losani Homes’ Pronto Homes on Demand program.

“It was great being able to tour the actual home we bought without guessing what it would look like,” Sloan says. “From the moment we walked into our home, which was nearly finished, we knew it was perfect for us.”

The couple purchased a detached three-bedroom-plus media layout that measures in at just less than 3,000 sq. ft. “We arrived at the sales centre five minutes before it was to close, and the sales rep kindly showed us the home anyway,” Sloan adds. “Within two days, we went back to buy. We love the open-concept design with high ceilings and hardwood floors, and Losani had installed several upgrades. The quality of all of the finishes is top-notch, and we are impressed with Losani’s meticulous attention to detail.”

According to Taylor, “We love the colours the company chose. The walls and baseboards are painted a warm off-white tone, and in the kitchen, the upper cabinets are the same, with dark oak lowers. A lot of natural light enters the home through plenty of windows, and the effect is beautiful.”

Both Taylor and Sloan work in sales in Oakville. “I moved from Burlington, and Karyn from Oakville,” Sloan says. “We looked around at several cities and builders, and we liked both Losani and Sherman Oaks. It’s a quieter, more tranquil neighbourhood. This is a fantastic community with generous space between homes providing privacy.”

Sherman Oaks is close to schools, parks and shopping. Available homes at start at $522,900.

Losani’s Sherman Oaks presentation centre is located at 1533 Upper Sherman on the Hamilton Mountain.

Hours are Wednesday from 2 to 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Call 905.574.0828.

37

Unwrap the Magic Now is the time to Celebrate the Season with Losani Homes Visit any Losani Sales Centre and purchase a new home between now and December 31st to open your present early and receive one of the following: Stainless Steel Appliances, or Central Air Conditioning, or Granite Kitchen Countertops, or $2,500 DĂŠcor Dollars.

Limited Time Offer. Terms and conditions apply. Builder reserves the right to modify, extend or withdraw promotion without notice. See Sales Representative for further details. No substitutions or equivalent cash value. Cannot Combine Offers. Pricing and specifications subject to change. Does not apply to Pronto Homes to finish. New build and Pronto to drywall only. E&OE.

LosaniHomes.com/Pronto Pricing and specifications subject to change without notice. E&OE

Give them room to spread their Wings

CRAFTSMAN FAMILY HOMES ON 50’ LOTS BUNGALOWS + 2-STOREYS FROM THE 370’S ADULT LIFESTYLE TOWNS FROM THE 290’S

4 COMMUNITIES IN SMITHVILLE TO CHOOSE FROM

PhelpsHomes.com Celebrating 40 Years of custom inspired home building in niagara 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.

The sun is setting on our award winning presentation centre.

Last chance to visit our model suite.

NOW OVER

70% SOLD!

Take advantage of pre-construction prices on remaining suites before we relocate the presentation centre to make room for construction.

AN EXCLUSIVE WATERFRONT LOCATION LIKE THIS COMES ALONG ONCE IN A GENERATION. Presenting Burlington’s only luxurious condominium development joined with a world-class four-star concierge hotel, with 24-hour room service to your suite, and exquisite unobstructed views of the lake.

Thanks to interiors designed by awardwinning Brian Gluckstein, Bridgewater Residences are true refinement on the water’s edge.

LUXURY CONDOMINIUMS FROM THE $500’S TO OVER 3.5 MILLION.

FOR A PERSONAL APPOINTMENT: 905-681-3300 • BWResidences.com 2042 Lakeshore Road, Burlington

Interiors by

EXPERIENCE THE FINE A RT O F L I V I N G W E L L

H O M E S A S B I G A N D B E AU T I F U L A S T H E C O U N T RY T H AT S U R RO U N D S T H E M .

COLLECTIO N OF LUXURIOUS 50’, 55’, 60’& 66’ LOT DESIGNS Carriage Gate’s finest collection of spacious single family homes, perhaps their most prestigious yet. An intimate enclave of homes in Ancaster’s best and most desirable location, just off Lime Kiln Road, these estate-inspired residences are distinguished in both their architecture and interior design, with each appointed with a long retinue of luxury features.

Luxuriously appointed from the

800’S

$

A N C AS TER

CARRIAGEGATEHOMES.COM Sales Office Hours:Mon. - Thurs.; 3pm - 7pm, Friday by appointment, Sat. & Sun.; 12pm - 5pm.

Paul Ciardullo; Broker, Effort Trust. 905-975-9191 • paulc@efforttrust.ca Prices and specifications are subject to change without notice. E. & O.E. Renderings are artist’s concept.

41

Property Profile | MENKES DEVELOPMENTS

Model homes now open The Enclaves of Upper Canada in Georgetown

by Menkes Developments MENKES DEVELOPMENTS IS THRILLED to showcase the two

new model homes at the highly successful Enclaves of Upper Canada community in Georgetown.

A private, inviting community in the Norval hamlet of East Georgetown, virtually everything you need is only minutes away. From all the amenities of a major town to the beautifully landscaped suburban streets and wooded walking trails

42窶ズPNEXTHOME.CA

of the Niagara escarpment, the Enclaves have it all. The homes consist of semi-linked, bungaloft and two-storey designs, with some lots backing onto a ravine of mature trees with breathtaking views of the Credit River Conservation lands.

The designer decorated model homes feature an upscale array of standard and upgraded features, including nine-ft. ceilings on the main floor, tray ceilings in the master

bedroom, gourmet kitchens with extended height uppers and granite counters, natural gas fireplace with white painted mantle and marble surround, and oak staircases from the first to second floor with upgraded pickets.

A tour of the Middleton model reflects both an elegant and inspiring atmosphere to live in. The use of cooler tones such as taupe and grey are balanced with rich, dark

“The use of cooler tones such as taupe and grey are balanced with rich, dark hardwood and kitchen cabinets to add warmth to the space. The family room in particular is the show-stopper of the home.”

Location

Georgetown

hardwood and kitchen cabinets to add warmth to the space. The family room in particular is the showstopper of the home. Adjacent to the kitchen, it exudes an air of elegance with its slight black accents over a calm palette of light, dark and medium greys. The house definitely has a Parisian flair to it that is noticeable in both the art work and certain chic furniture pieces.

In an ongoing commitment to green homebuilding, Menkes is building the Enclaves of Upper Canada community to Energy Star standards and, in many cases, exceeding these standards. Green features include R50 attic insulation, R31 sprayed in foam for garage ceilings, sealed ductwork joints, high efficiency HRV, drain water heat recovery systems, and excel structural insulated sheathing to name a few.

Purchasers of the 40-ft. Enclave Collection receive engineered

hardwood on the main floor (excluding tiled areas) and upper hallways and $10,000 in upgrades.

For details, please visit the sales office. The 40-ft. Enclaves Collection ranges from 2,496 to 3,525 sq. ft. and are priced from $749,990. A limited number of semi-linked homes are also available from the low $500’s.

Visit the sales office/model home located at 3 Upper Canada Court, Georgetown, in the Enclaves of Upper Canada community at the northeast corner of Guelph Street and McFarlane Drive. The presentation centre is open from to Monday through Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m., closed Fridays, and open Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays and holidays from noon to 6 p.m.

For more information, please call 289.891.9103 or visit menkes.com

Builder

Menkes Developments Development

Enclaves of Upper Canada Home Type

Semi-linked, bungaloft and two-storey home designs Sales Centre

3 Upper Canada Court, in the Enclaves of Upper Canada community at the northeast corner of Guelph Street and McFarlane Drive, open Monday to Thursday 1 to 8 p.m., closed Fridays, and open Saturdays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Sundays and holidays noon to 6 p.m.

Contact

289.891.9103 menkes.com

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 43

44窶ズPNEXTHOME.CA

You’ve arrived.

COMING SOON 3-Storey Townhomes Burlington at Aldershot GO Station from the low

400’s

$

If a modern vibe is what propels you, then this is your station.

Introducing smartly designed 2 and 3 bedroom townhomes in an uber-connected master planned community adjacent to Burlington’s Aldershot GO Station.

Join us on

REGISTER NOW! Adidevelopments.com Exclusive Listing: Baker Real Estate Incorporated, Brokerage. Brokers Protected.

Prices and specifications to change without notice. E. & O.E.

45

start your search here.

Whether you’re renting or buying, finding your next home has never been so easy.

Seek haven from the ordinary HA•VEN: A PLACE OF SAFETY OR REFUGE

The Welland - Lyon’s Creek, Chippawa

CHIPPAWA/NIAGARA

LYON’S CREEK 30’ Single, 1,994 sq.ft., $339,990 1 HOME LEFT, MOVE IN EARLY 2016!

THOROLD

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

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

GIBSON HEIGHTS LIMITED HOMES REMAINING! 30’ Attached Singles and Freehold Towns from the upper $200’s Move in Ready Inventory Homes Available

Because we know you won’t.

OAKVILLE

Visit RosehavenHomes.com

STONEY CREEK

ON THE RIDGE Semi Detached Homes from the upper $300’s WOODLAND TRAILS Freehold Towns from the mid $600’s

COMING EARLY 2016

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

AFFINITY CONDOMINIUMS Two Contemporary six storey buildings from the upper $200’s ALDERSHOT IN BURLINGTON Register today at Affinitycondo.com

Prices and specifications correct at press time. Photo is of actual Roseahven Home. E. & O.E.

ANCASTER TIFFANY HILL Detached Singles & Towns Register for Phase 2 at TiffanyHill.ca

47

City Focus | ST. CATHARINES

ST. CATHARINES Vibrant city, flourishing surroundings

THE FLORAL AND FRAGRANT

gateway to Niagara is St. Catharines, the Garden City. While it may seem to take its nickname from thousands of acres of blossoming gardens, parkland, orchards, vineyards and farmland which surround it, it could easily be a result of the substantial greenhouse industry which thrives within the protective shelter of the Niagara Escarpment.

Named after the wife of its first mayor, William Hamilton Merritt, St. Catharines lies between the shores of Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment, 10 minutes from Niagara Falls, 45 minutes from Hamilton and about 110 kms from Toronto’s Pearson Airport.

With a population of 131,400, St. Catharines is home to almost a third of the residents of the Niagara region. The city has maintained a diverse blend of industry and commerce which successfully co-exists with a rich agricultural 48 YPNEXTHOME.CA

heritage. The soil and climate conditions and the protective environment of the escarpment make this area ideal for growing vegetables and tender fruit which complement the related food processing industry. This is also Canada’s most celebrated and prolific wine-producing region. The region accounts for more than 40 per cent of Canada’s $300-million flower and ornamental plant industry.

Almost 3,000 full-time workers are employed by area growers who supply national and international markets. Residents and visitors alike enjoy fresh fruits and vegetables right from the source at farms, farmers’ markets and roadside stands.

On the outskirts of the city is the Wine Route, a scenic trail that winds through Niagara to each of the local wineries. With the considerable growth in the wine

“On the outskirts of the city is the Wine Route, a scenic trail that winds through Niagara to each of the local wineries. ” industry, St. Catharines benefits from the creation of agricultural jobs that lead to manufacturing positions at wineries and processing plants, plus skilled specialists, marketing, sales and retail positions, and, of course, construction jobs to build the facilities multiplied by almost 100 wineries in the Niagara area. St. Catharines loves to celebrate both its culture and its agriculture through festivals throughout the year. The piece de resistance is the Niagara Wine Festival that celebrates the grape harvest with dozens of wine and cheese parties, dances, winery tours and one of the largest parades in North America.

Lifestyle is a priority in St. Catharines. Downtown is the new Meridian Centre where residents can watch the Niagara IceDogs of the Ontario Hockey League. In the north end, a new city library neighbours the Kiwanis Aquatic Centre, and there’s the new performing arts centre.

Other cultural pursuits of theatre, music and dance can be uncovered at Rodman Hall Arts Centre and botanical garden, Brock Centre for the Arts, Niagara Artist Company or Montebello Park where the pavilion is alive with entertainment from spring until fall. The extensive waterways, trail systems and parklands of St. Catharines create a natural network of recreational opportunities that include fishing, sailing, boating, hiking, cycling and golfing.

St. Catharines has also prospered as a shopping mecca and features the region’s largest mall, the Niagara Outlet Mall, plus The Pen, Fairview Mall that has morphed into a power centre, and Harvard Square. All have grown to address the needs of growing communities and new housing developments.

With the scenic and social attributes of the city, it comes as no surprise that home building is big business, especially when Niagara has become a retirement destination due to attractive resale and new home pricing that appeals to Toronto buyers.

Among those contributing to the economic impact are some of the region’s largest home builders – Mountainview Homes, Empire Communities, Bayview-Wellington Homes and Silvergate Homes – with a variety of product offerings and price points.

In addition to the main transportation corridors of the QEW and Hwy. 406, four major border crossings are within minutes. St. Catharines has the distinction of being home to the Welland Canal.

Part of its 27-mile route travels through the city as it leads massive freighters from throughout the world on a 325-ft. climb from Lake Ontario to Lake Erie to by-pass Niagara Falls.

St. Catharines packs a great deal of opportunity and lifestyle into its compact size of 39 square miles, an intensive community that flourishes as vibrantly as the gardens within.

Neighbourhood Profile Port Dalhousie This beautiful St. Catharines neighbourhood has a rich waterfront history. Officially styled Grantham-Port Dalhousie by the city, this community is historically where sailors and their families settled – how it has a distinct laid-back maritime vibe, with surfboard shops that impart a bit of a California feel.

Vibe With the feel of a classic seaside town, Port Dalhousie is a diverse community with many unique features. Its parks, harbor and famous carousel have been drawing in locals and travelers alike for more than 100 years.

This former village, which amalgamated with the City of St. Catharines in 1960, still retains an independent feel.

Meet the neighbours Young professionals and blue collar workers (particularly connected to the Canal and Great Lakes shipping), multi-generational families and retired singles and couples make up the bulk of the population. There’s an air of friendliness and loyalty to local businesses, which have helped the area maintain its character.

In the area Several public and separate elementary and secondary schools serve the kids of Port Dalhousie and Grantham. The area’s best-known and largest park is Lakeside Park, home to the famous carousel, which has never raised its five-cent price to ride in a century of operation.

Planes, trains & automobiles Wonderful cycling, strolling and hiking opportunities abound – all good ways to get around the neighbourhood – and St. Catharines Transit Commission operates three bus lines connecting Grantham and Port Dalhousie to the rest of the city. But a car is still a necessity for most residents.

The Good, the bad & the rest Port Dalhousie is very popular with tourists, so you’ll find it harder to walk to the very end of the pier to watch the spectacular sunset in the summertime. Its lack of big chain stores in general might be disappointing to some city types who move to the ‘burbs expecting a Costco on every corner.

–Anne Marshall 49

Trending

We shoot, we score!

New arenas and stadiums boost real estate values

By Wayne Karl

GREAT NEWS, SPORTS FANS. The

common belief that new arenas and sports stadiums are slam-dunk wins for their billionaire owners and millionaire players, but big fat goose eggs for the local economy…

Well, that could be dead wrong. A new report not only suggests the opposite, but says such projects actually boost surrounding real estate values.

The one key proviso is that tax increases to help foot the bill can’t be part of the plan.

The Impact of Stadium Construction on Real Estate Values, from the Real Estate Investment Network (REIN), explores the affects – positive and negative – new arenas, such as Rogers Place in the new Ice District in Edmonton, have on real estate values.

50 YPNEXTHOME.CA

Highlights of the report include: » An arena’s positive impact on housing values can be felt most within a five-km radius and has the largest effect when appealing architecture, community plazas, park landscapes, retail, commercial and entertainment spaces, and the stadium’s construction itself are incorporated into its design. » A negative effect on property values is felt when the costs of a proposed stadium necessitates the increase of property taxes. » Homes in neighbourhoods close to new stadiums, on average, have premiums ranging between three and 15 per cent, depending on the different types of housing, parking options and the distance from the facility. » Housing values increase on average 1.75 per cent for each 10 per cent decrease in distance from a stadium, with the positive price increase being highest for homes closest to the stadiums and decreasing gradually outwards within the five-km radius.

When a stadium is located outside the downtown core, and is not connected to any other economic development activities or urban redevelopment program, residential properties around the facility will still see a positive increase in value.

However, this increase will not be as dramatic as those that are built in, or with nearby accessibility, to the Central Business District.

While proximity to the stadium usually results in the largest price increases, the regular presence of fans may lead to a constant source of noise, incivilities, traffic congestion and a scarcity of parking. These are all factors with the potential to create a price depreciating effect.

The conclusions are somewhat surprising, given previous perceptions that such projects yield little real economic boost, and that a city’s health depends mostly on its economic fundamentals and infrastructure.

“The presence and subsequent impact on the value of infrastructure is quite unrelated to the economic fundamentals, which reign as having

the most impact on real estate values in the short, medium and long term,” says Melanie Reuter, REIN’s director of research.

The findings regarding arenas can be likened to the impact of transportation improvements such as LRT stations, she adds. “Think of the infrastructure findings (transportation and arenas) as a micro effect, compared to broader and deeper fundamentals. So, once you choose a place to invest based on strong fundamentals, give yourself an additional lift by investing around an arena or an LRT station.”

In Canada, while hockey may be the number one sport, a project’s positive impact on real estate values is unrelated to the type of sport – or even whether a team is a winner.

“Surprisingly, type of sport and whether a team is winning or losing has little impact on the results,” Reuter says.

More important factors are proximity to downtown (positive), ample parking (poorly planned or nonexistent parking can have a negative impact on values) and integration with the surrounding community.

Incorporating mixed and constant uses – think bars, offices, shops, outdoor spaces – was also key, as was access to good transit.

“Equally important is nearness to the arena,” says Reuter. “Properties within walking distance (one

kilometre) saw the biggest price jumps, and the impact diminished the farther out one went, until there was no impact past four kilometres.”

Hamilton’s Tim Hortons Field So, how did the city of Hamilton do when it opened Tim Hortons Field in September 2014, replacing the historic – though aging – Ivor Wynne Stadium? Home to the CFL Hamilton Tiger-Cats, the stadium was also the soccer venue for the 2015 Pan American Games.

According to REIN: » The stadium is not located in the downtown core, and not the most convenient for public transit and parking. » The City knows that building a new sporting venue is not enough, and continues to move forward on projects in the stadium precinct. It recently demolished nearby Scott Park Arena to create the Bernie Morelli Recreation Centre, which will include pools, multi-purpose rooms, a gym and seniors’ centre.

The former Dominion Glass site on Lloyd Street will be turned into outdoor recreation space, including a new community soccer stadium. » Though not yet budget-approved, the City plans a mix of commercial, retail and residential buildings around the precinct. The vision includes more public spaces, such as a small water park and skating

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rink, pedestrian corridors and improved transit links » The City plans to offer businesses financial incentives to locate within the precinct, such as grants and tax breaks “The stadium could be a catalyst for change in Hamilton, transforming the area into a major retail and entertainment district,” REIN says.

“But only time will tell.

“The stadium on its own will not be a catalyst just because it’s new.

Professional sports facilities see the greatest increase in real estate values when they are properly integrated into an entertainment district and the overall surrounding community. It’s important to remember that a facility located outside the downtown core of a city that is not connected to any other economic development activities will still increase residential property values around the facility, but this increase will not be as dramatic.”

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 51

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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 Nov. 16, 2015. Prepared By Fiscal Agents Financial Information Services 905.844.7700

NOV 21 - DEC 5, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 53

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