Issuu

DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 VOLUME 19, ISSUE 22, FREE (7 WEEK ISSUE)

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO EDITION

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

THREE REASONS TO SHARE YOUR HOMEBUYING EXPERIENCE

PROVINCE DOUBLING LTT REBATE FOR FIRST-TIME BUYERS

WHY SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO ROCKS AS A HOUSING MARKET

YOUR FUTURE BEGINS HERE SPRING 2017 Empire is preparing for upcoming releases at three unique communities in three great locations, coming spring 2017. Our beautiful new homes are designed to make everyday life richer, with enviable designs where smart space planning and innovation meet. Select the community that fits your life. Your future begins here.

IMAGINE NIAGARA FALLS

Townhomes & Detached homes

AVALON CALEDONIA

Townhomes & Detached homes

WYNDFIELD BRANTFORD

Detached homes

contents DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | VOLUME 19 ISSUE 22

PRESIDENT, YELLOW PAGES NEXTHOME

Jacqueline Hill ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Anne-Marie Breen EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan Legge DIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL

Moe Lalani EDITOR

Wayne Karl ART DIRECTOR

Daiana Garay CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Sonia Bell Elisa Krovblit Lydia McNutt SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Nina Downs nina.downs@ypnexthome.ca

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Dionne Fraser dionne.fraser@ypnexthome.ca SALES CO-ORDINATOR

ON THE COVER

Sarah Khan

Reid’s Heritage Homes Clairity in Guelph a short walk to all your everyday needs

MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Helen Pearce CO-ORDINATOR

Hannah Yarkony GRAPHIC DESIGNER

property profiles

advice

Miguel Cea

Losani Homes

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mountainview Homes

42 Fundamentally Speaking

Central Park Hamilton offers barrier-free accessible living Don’t miss your chance at luxury condo living

28 Phelps Homes

An introduction to Merritton and Merritton Commons

Stress-testing mortgages at high rates creates a new risk

buyers’ resource section

Rembrandt Homes

Rembrandt Estates – where luxury meets convenience

31 Housing Market

Ontario doubles LTT rebate for first-time homebuyers

city focus

40 Southwestern Ontario Why Southwestern Ontario rocks as a housing market

inspiration

Design Secrets

Area carpets – let’s lay it all out there

6 YPNEXTHOME.CA

Hot Properties Hamilton

New releases and grand openings

trending

Tarion Report

Three reasons to share your new-home buying experience

Hot Properties Kitchener-Waterloo & London

New releases and grand openings

Mortgage Rates

in every issue

8 Editor’s Note 44 Advertiser Index 46 What’s Online

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 416.626.4200 for advertising

rates and information Office hours are Mon-Thurs. 9-5; Fri. 9-12 CIRCULATION Free distribution. Published bi-

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

madison now offering 2-storey towns

Welcome to the most sought-after, most innovative and the largest master-planned community Hamilton has ever seen. It’s all here: nature, transportation, shopping and a true sense of community. Park Avenue, the first neighbourhood, is sold out. Register Now for Madison, the next exciting neighbourhood of Central Park.

BACK-TO-BACKS from the low $300’s 3-STOREY TOWNS from the mid $300’s 2-STOREY TOWNS from the high $300’s

REGISTER NOW MyCentralPark.ca Pricing and specifications subject to change without notice . Rendering is artist concept. Map not to scale .E.&OE.

Editors' Notes

MILTON

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

SEE MORE ONLINE nexthome.yp.ca/milton

You’re in the driver’s seat Whether this is your first time buying a new home or your tenth, the process can be hectic, exciting and stressful. Before you do anything, relax and take control of the situation. Understanding the market is just part of the story. Knowing what you need and what you can afford is the more important part of the process. Making a wise purchasing decision that doesn’t keep you up at night when interest rates rise or the market changes up to you. Any expert will tell you that buying a home or condo is a long-term

commitment. In this magazine and online at YPNextHome.ca, we offer key advice from the experts, as well as the latest news designed to help you make a wise purchasing decision. Also at YPNextHome.ca, our Neighbourhood Profiles take you on a virtual tour through 2,700 neighbourhoods across Canada. You’ll get all the facts, photos and fun tidbits that you need to help you decide which neighbourhood is right for you. There’s lots to take in. Kick back, relax and enjoy. You’re in the driver’s seat!

You talked. Let’s see if they really listened

WAYNE KARL Senior Editor

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

+ get social 8 YPNEXTHOME.CA

If there’s one thing Canadians are passionate about, it’s their home. If they’re fortunate enough to have one. On National Housing Day on Nov. 22, Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development and Minister Responsible for Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC), released the much anticipated “What We Heard” from Canadians report. Joining him for the press conference – held via Facebook Live – was CMHC President and CEO Evan Siddall. The product of several months of “Let’s Talk Housing” consultations with housing experts, stakeholders

and everyday Canadians, the report is meant to help shape a National Housing Strategy, which the government is to reveal next year. As for next steps, “The hard work continues. Broad consultations indulge peoples’ expectations, as they should. However, policy makers must balance these against fiscal constraints. Our objective will be to develop a NHS that employs finite government funds to maximum effect, yielding the best outcomes,” the report says. “We will work with our partners on a housing strategy that is national in nature but that recognizes regional housing conditions.”

Interact with us on social media: ypnexthome

O S %

O D L

! T U

the good life, just better.

NOW OPEN! BREAKFAST IN YOUR GOURMET KITCHEN. SIPPING COFFEE ON YOUR BALCONY. BEACHSIDE DAYS. URBAN NIGHTS. DOWNTOWN DINING, BOUTIQUES AND SHOPS. A DAY AT THE MUSEUM. DINNER PARTIES FOLLOWED BY COCKTAILS IN THE PARTY ROOM. DESIGNER SPACES. THE VERY BEST IN QUALITY. THE REGION’S BEST LOCATION MINUTES TO THE COVETED LAKESIDE COMMUNITY OF PORT DALHOUSIE AND TRENDY DOWNTOWN ST. CATHARINES. YOUR HOME AT ELEMENTS... WHERE LUXURY IS STANDARD.

A MODERN CONDOMINIUM OFFERING LUXURY ONE AND TWO BEDROOM PLUS DEN PLANS, FROM THE MID

289.929.1377 elementscondo.com Prices are subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. Offer valid for a limited time. Subject to availability.

SALES CENTRE: 218 LAKEPORT ROAD, UNIT 6, ST. CATHARINES MONDAY–WEDNESDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY 12-6 P.M.

DOWNTOWN

$200’S

Trending

Province of Ontario doubling LTT rebate for first-time homebuyers By Lydia McNutt

THE PROVINCE OF ONTARIO is giving

first-time homebuyers a break by doubling the maximum refund of Land Transfer Tax (LTT) from $2,000 to $4,000 starting in the new year. Finance Minister Charles Sousa made the announcement in his 2016 Ontario Economic Outlook and Fiscal Review, presented in the provincial legislature, stating that home ownership has become the key to many people’s long-term financial security. Currently, eligible first-time homebuyers pay no LTT on the first $227,500 of their purchase. Effective Jan. 1, 2017, the untaxed portion of the price will increase by $140,500 to $368,000, making it easier for first-time buyers to get into Ontario’s hot housing market. First-time buyers who pay over $368,000 would get a maximum refund of $4,000. The Ontario Ministry of Finance estimates that, with this new 10 YPNEXTHOME.CA

MORE TRENDING ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news

rebate, more than half of first-time homebuyers would pay no provincial LTT. For example, a qualifying purchaser of a $350,000 home currently pays $1,725 in LTT (including the current maximum refund). With the enhanced refund, the LTT payable is zero. The Province points out that first-time buyers of more expensive homes would also benefit from the increased rebate. For example, a qualifying purchaser of a $600,000 home currently pays $6,475 in LTT (including the current maximum refund). As of January 1, this would decline to $4,475 – a savings of $2,000. “Finding an affordable home has become a struggle for thousands of young couples,” said Ray Ferris, president of the Ontario Real Estate Association, in a press release. “This tax break will reduce a first-time buyer’s closing costs and help them save more for their down payment.” The current tax rates have not changed since 1989. The tax rebate will only apply to first-time homebuyers who are Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Upon obtaining Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status, first-time buyers would be able to apply for the refund within an 18-month period. At the same time, the tax rate on homes priced over $2 million is being increased from two to 2.5 per cent.

IE W R 80 IN % G VI S O P L PR D EV U D

NOW OPEN

STARTING FROM THE LOW

$300s A stunning architectural presence on Grimsby’s exciting new waterfront. ENJOY FABULOUS AMENITIES Welcoming Loggia Entry • Outdoor Pool and Lounge • Exquisite 2 Storey Lobby and Mezzanine • Theater Room Billiards Room • Club Room overlooking the pool and courtyard with breathtaking vistas of the lake

1 Bedroom + Den and 2 Bedroom Designs Select Penthouse Residences with Panoramic Lake Views SmartSuite™ units starting from the low $300s

Direct access to the Grimsby Casablanca slated for completion 2021. LAKE ONTARIO

10 WINDWARD DR. QUE EN ELIZ ABE SO TH W UT H AY

CASABLANCA BLVD.

IC E RV SE R

RVI CE

RD.

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

PRESENTATION CENTRE 10 Windward Drive, Grimsby ON Mon-Thu: 1pm-7pm Fri: By Appointment Only Sat-Sun: 12pm-5pm Phone: (289) 235-8541 Email: aquazul@homesbydesantis.com

AquaZulCondo.ca

Rendering is artist’s concept. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Go Transit is a registered trademark of Metrolinx and is not affiliated with Homes by DeSantis or Aquazul. E.&O.E.

Station

Property Profile | REID’S HERITAGE HOMES

cover story

10,000 steps a day? No problem. Clairity condominium living in Guelph is a short walk to all your everyday needs RENOWNED BUILDER Reid’s Heritage Homes is excited to announce Phase 2 of Clairity, a midrise condominium community located on desirable Clair Road East in Guelph. The community is ideally situated, close to Hwy. 401 for commuters and just minutes from schools and the lively downtown Guelph. Dwellers of this condo community will be only a short walk away from banks, restaurants, health services, grocery stores and even a movie theatre, making access to everyday needs simple. 12 YPNEXTHOME.CA

The amenities in this area are evergrowing with popular offerings such as a Tim Hortons that just opened and Longo’s scheduled to open soon. The community will offer smartlydesigned one- and two-bedroom suites ranging in size from 674 to 940 sq. ft. All suites will be well-appointed with impressive standard upscale finishes including:

Inviting kitchen » Polished granite countertops » Energy Star appliance package including fridge, stove and dishwasher

» Over-the-range combination microwave/hood fan » Stainless steel undermount sink with single lever pull-out faucet » Slab cabinet doors for a clean and contemporary look

Upscale bathrooms » Granite vanity countertop with single-lever faucet and white undermount square sink » Soaker tub with eye-catching full height ceramic tile surround walls » Glass shower stalls

Essential laundry » Convenient in-suite laundry

Location

Guelph Builder

Reid’s Heritage Homes Development

Clairity Home Type

Midrise condominium with oneand two-bedroom suites from 674 to 940 sq. ft. Sales Centre

98 Farley Dr. (behind Zehrs), opening soon Contact

Debbie O’Krafka 1.519.240.3764 or 1.519.265.0826 dokrafka@heritagehomes.com reidsheritagehomes.com

good times with friends and family » Handy bike storage room – no need to track in dirt or take up space in your condo » Shared electric car charging stations

Other interior touches

Comfort systems

» Luxury vinyl plank ﬂooring throughout » Modern five-panel interior doors with contemporary hardware » Spacious storage and linen closets with space-maximizing wire hanging system » USB outlets for convenient recharging of electrical devices » LED lightbulbs in all light fixtures

» Vinyl Low E double pane windows for optimized home temperature and savings on energy bills » Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) to act as the lungs of the home and provide fresh air into the suite » Heating and air conditioning unit included in each suite to ensure comfort throughout all seasons

Common elements Convenient parking & storage » One surface parking spot » One storage locker to stow any extra belongings

» Secured entrance with intercom system for peace of mind » Party room complete with kitchenette and washroom for

Design consultants will be available to guide buyers though the selection process of additional features and finishes, and assist in making every unit perfectly fit its owner’s vision and needs. Phase 1 of Clairity saw brisk sales, with 87 per cent of the building reserved by the end of opening day – a true testament to the demand of the product and location. The grand opening for Phase 2 of this highly anticipated community is coming soon. Find out more by visiting reidsheritagehomes.com Be sure to register online for VIP access and preferred pricing – you will be first to know of details as they are released. To register, contact Debbie O’Krafka, new home sales consultant, at 1.519.240.3764, 1.519.265.0826 or dokrafka@heritagehomes.com Sales centre will open soon at 98 Farley Dr. (behind Zehrs), Guelph.

DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 13

Advice | TARION REPORT

Three good reasons to share your new-buying experience By Howard Bogach

MORE ADVICE ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news/advice

HAVE YOU RECENTLY MOVED into a

new home or condominium? Now is your chance to tell us about your buying experience and to rate your new home builder. Every fall, Tarion sends out a survey to new-home owners across the province, asking for opinions about their buying experience. The survey includes questions about the signing of the Agreement of Purchase and Sale, the Pre-Delivery Inspection, and the level of customer service the builder provided after the sale closed. We also ask about their relationship with Tarion and whether we met their expectations. This year, we will send out more than 52,000 surveys to consumers who moved into a new home or condo between Oct. 1, 2015 and Sept. 30, 2016. We offer the survey in various languages such as French, Mandarin, Farsi and Punjabi as part of our commitment to be accessible to Ontarians. Why do we survey new-home owners every year? There are three very good reasons. First, it gives us the opportunity to hear first-hand about the consumer’s experience with Tarion. The responses and comments help us understand what we do well and where can improve our processes or communication to deliver better customer service to new-home buyers. This has tangible results: consumer input over the years has helped us identify general trends and areas we can focus on to improve our service. For example, consumer feedback has led 14 YPNEXTHOME.CA

directly to new features being added to MyHome, our digital web service that helps homeowners manage their warranty online. Second, we want to hear about new home owners’ experience with their builders. Did the builder and the new home meet expectations? Did the newhome buying experience go smoothly? Were there any issues with the home after move in, and if so, did the builder listen to concerns and work to repair warranted issues? The information we gain from the survey answers is very useful to builders, as it gives them insights into how to make improvements to their own customer service. Where we receive enough responses, builders are given detailed individual reports comparing their results to the provincial average (without identifying the participants). We then follow-up with these builders to help analyze their scores and how to improve on them. Feedback from the survey is important for a third reason: it determines which builders are the finalists and recipients of the Homeowners’ Choice Awards, as

chosen by their customers. These awards, presented by Tarion, give Ontario’s new-home buyers a direct voice in having their new-home builder recognized for customer service excellence. When a builder becomes a finalist or a recipient of the award, that information is put on their record in the Ontario Builder Directory (on tarion.com) for everyone to see. In this way, the awards offer future new-home buyers important information when they are doing their research to find a builder. These are all good reasons why your opinions matter! So, if you have taken possession of a new home or condo in the past year, please look out for the Tarion survey. It only takes a few minutes to complete, and your responses will help improve customer service for newhome owners across Ontario. Howard Bogach is President and CEO of Tarion Warranty Corp. His column appears monthly in New Home Guide. For more information about how Tarion helps new-home buyers, visit tarion.com or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/TarionWarrantyCorp.

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 • BURLINGTONCATHARINES • GRIMSBY • HAMILTON • MILTON • NIAGARA • OAKVILLE • PARIS PORT DOVER • ST. CATHARINES • STONEY CREEK • VINELAND THE GATSBY

pre-registration MERRITTON COMMONS By: Phelps Homes City: St. Catharines Housing type: Attached bungalows and bungalow towns phelpshomes.com

SCENIC TRAILS By: Starward Homes City: Hamilton Housing type: Condominiums from the mid $200’s scenictrails.ca

VISTA RIDGE By: Losani Homes City: Beamsville Housing type: Singles from the $400’s myvistaridge.ca

ALCONA SHORES By: Bayview-Wellington Homes City: Innisfil Housing type: Luxury singles on 32-, 40- and 48-ft. lots myalcona.com

THE WEST By: Adi Developments Location: Burlington Housing type: Luxury boutique condos from the $190’s adidevelopments.com

PARADIGM By: Molinaro Group City: Burlington Housing type: Condo suites in midtown Burlington paradigmcondos.ca

CENTRAL PARK By: Losani Homes City: Hamilton Mountain Housing type: Townhomes from low $300’s mycentralpark.ca

SAPPHIRE

By: New Horizon City: Hamilton Housing type: Condos from the low $200’s gatsbycondos.ca

By: New Horizon City: Stoney Creek Housing type: Waterfront condominiums from $199,999 sapphirecondos.ca

WOODWAY TRAILS

FALLINGWATERS

By: Eastforest Homes City: Simcoe Housing type: Singles from $329,400 and semis from $224,900 eastforesthomes.com

By: Losani Homes City: Hamilton Mountain Housing type: Two- and threestorey towns from the $400’s losanifallingwaters.com

STEPPING STONES

TIFFANY HILL

By: Phelps Homes City: Smithville Housing type: Two-storey townhomes phelpshomes.com

SIMPLY GRAND By: Losani Homes City: Paris Housing type: Townhomes from from the $300’s simplygrandtowns.com

SUMMERLEA WOODS By: Empire Communities City: Binbrook Housing type: Townhomes from the mid $300’s and detached homes from the low $400’s summerleawoods.com

LIFE By: Branthaven Homes City: Winona Housing type: Townhomes from the $400’s branthaven.com

EXPLORE By: Branthaven Homes & Ballantry Homes City: Hamilton Housing type: Townhomes exploretowns.com

AQUAZUL By: Homes by DeSantis City: Grimsby Housing type: Waterfront condos from the high $200’s aquazulcondo.ca

By: Rosehaven Homes, Homes by DeSantis & CDI Homes City: Ancaster Housing type: Detached homes and freehold townhomes tiffanyhill.ca

PASSAGES ON THE CANAL By: Bayview-Wellington Homes City: Welland Housing type: Luxury freehold townhomes on the Canal mypassages.ca

AVALON By: Empire Communities City: Caledonia Housing type: Townhomes from $239,990 and detached homes from the mid $300’s empireavalon.com

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

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

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

THE BERKELEY CONDOMINIUMS By: Carriage Gate Homes City: Burlington Housing type: 154-unit condo carriagegatehomes.com

new openings AFFINITY CONDOMINIUMS By: Rosehaven Homes Location: Aldershot, Burlington Housing type: Condos from the low $300’s affinitycondo.com

HE PRESERVE By: Mattamy Homes City: Oakville Housing type: Executive condo townhomes from the mid $800’s mattamyhomes.com

STATIONWEST By: Adi Developments Location: Burlington Housing type: Three-storey townhomes at Aldershot Go Station adidevelopments.com

ELEMENTS By: Mountainview Homes City: St. Catharines Housing type: Luxury one- and two-bedroom luxury condos elementscondo.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

DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 15

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

BUILDERS

SITES

Ancaster

LOSANI HOMES

Astoria Grand

Ancaster

LOSANI HOMES

The Woodlands Ancaster

•

Beamsville

LOSANI HOMES

Vista Ridge

Brantford

EMPIRE

Caledonia

EMPIRE

Greensville

THOMAS COCHREN HOMES The Greystones

Grimsby

ADVERTISERS BRANTHAVEN HOMES

PRICES

•

PAGE

from $300's

•

from high $700's

•

from $400's

Wyndfield

•

Avalon

•

2&3

•

from $1,400,000

Lake House

•

from $400's

•

from low $300's

24&25

Grimsby

HOMES BY DESANTIS

Aquazul

Hamilton

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Explore

•

from $300's

Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Madison at Central Park

•

from low $300's

Hamilton

LOSANI HOMES

Fallingwaters

•

from high $400's

Hamilton

STARWARD HOMES

Scenic Trails

from mid $200's

Niagara

BW HOMES

Passages on the Canal

Niagara Falls

EMPIRE

Imagine

St Catharines

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Elements

St Catharines

PHELPS HOMES

Merriton Commons

•

Simcoe

EASTFOREST HOMES

Woodway Trails

•

Winona

BRANTHAVEN HOMES

Life

•

24&25

•

2&3

•

from mid $200's

•

From $329,900

•

from $400's

24&25

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

LOCATION

Halton / Hamilton / Wentworth / Niagara:

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

Property Profile | LOSANI HOMES

Losani Homes’ Central Park Hamilton Offers barrier-free accessible living THE CHALLENGE OF MAKING communities

accessible for all has been a renovation catchup game for local municipalities. Decades ago, accessibility was not part of the designing stage. Today, one builder is redesigning the entire process. No more retrofits – no more unflattering renovations. Losani Homes is now making accessible home design no longer an afterthought. Central Park, Losani’s new master-planned community in booming East Hamilton, will be a complete access community that will offer barrier-free living for those that require it. Options, available as an upgrade, will include elevators, (or rough-in for elevators), offered for both townhomes in addition to family homes. “At Central Park, we are committed to working one on one with each home purchaser with special mobility needs to ensure that the 18 YPNEXTHOME.CA

home meets all their accessibility requirements. In fact, we have completed 20 customized accessible homes for customers with special needs,” says Fred Losani, CEO of Losani Homes. Losani Homes’ commitment to accessible living does not stop at individual homes. Central Park is a nature lover’s paradise adjacent to the Eramosa Karst Conservation Area, featuring many kilometres of trails, including access to the renowned Bruce Trail. The Eco-trail Promenade will feature street-lighting reminiscent of New York’s Central Park, paved to accommodate wheelchairs, baby strollers and bike clubs, while providing direct access to the 10-

Location

Hamilton Builder

Losani Homes Development

Central Park Home Type

Detached homes, townhomes or midrise condos Contact

mycentralpark.ca

OPPOSITE PAGE

Park Avenue’s freehold townhomes (15-ft.-Esprit). BELOW

The Eco-Trail Promenade will be paved. BOTTOM

Central Park will connect to the East Mountain Trail Loop

km East Mountain Trail loop. The 1,110-ft.-long promenade spans the entire width of the Central Park Hamilton community and features approximately 1,300 ft. of pathways for pedestrian use and enjoyment. The five-acre Eco-Trail Promenade will bring people and neighbours together by interconnecting entire neighbourhoods through natural means, via walking and biking paths, and with direct access to the 10 km East Mountain Trail loop, residents can also enjoy the full natural bounty of the nearby 193-acre Eramosa Karst. Inspired by New York City’s iconic Central Park, this transformational community will feature four neighbourhoods. Located between Highland Road West and Rymal Road East in East Hamilton, Central Park is within walking distance to major retail, a Super Centre, SilverCity Cinema, shops, parks and established schools. The community is only minutes to downtown Hamilton and the Lincoln M. Alexander and Red Hill Valley Parkways, connecting to both Hwy. 403 and the QEW. Losani Homes recently opened Park Avenue featuring freehold townhomes reminiscent of New York’s Greenwich Village, and wellappointment detached homes on 33- to 55-ft. lots. Losani Homes looks forward to launching the second neighbourhood of Central Park, Madison, in early 2017. Madison will feature three-storey back-to-back towns and three-storey urban towns. Future neighbourhoods will include Soho, with midrise condos and clubhouse-style amenities, and Midtown, offering a combination of midrise condos and urban towns. Central Park will be offering a wide array of lifestyle choices, detached homes, townhomes or midrise condos. Whatever your requirements, this innovative and inspiring community will deliver the accessibility your lifestyle demands. Don’t miss your opportunity to be a Central Park VIP. Register Now for Madison at mycentralpark.ca

DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 19

SCENIC TRAILS C

OPENING NOVEMBER 2016

FROM THE MID

200'S URBAN LIVING, SUBURBAN SETTING

Main St. W.

Mohawk Rd. W.

n Ave.

Garth St.

ive

Dr LINC

Upper Par adise Rd.

. rn Ave Redfe

Rice Ave.

FOR VIP ACCESS AT WWW.SCENICTRAILS.CA

Aberbee

Scenic Drive.

Main St. W. 403

Located at 1 Redfern Avenue, on the highly sought-after Hamilton west mountain brow.

McMaster University

THE WATERLEAF, PRESERVE MODEL HOME

S O O N M AT TA M Y ’ S U P S C A L E D E S I G N RE TURNS TO THE PRESERVE

A New Collection Of Well-Appointed Detached Homes Coming in 2017 Mattamy will soon be returning to Oakville’s most prestigious address in The Preserve. Our new collection of thoughtfully designed Detached Homes integrate seamlessly with the established master-planned community and the nature that surrounds it. A Mattamy home is a mark of achievement; both for the people who build it, and the people who call it home. We’re proud to have helped shape the Oakville landscape. Register today to be a part of the most desired community in Oakville.

Property Profile | MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES

Don’t miss your chance at luxurious condo living at

Elements Condominiums Location

ENJOY NIAGARA REGION living at its

St. Catharines

best at Elements in St. Catharines The Niagara lifestyle is coveted by so many. The beautiful beaches, vast vineyards, exciting nightlife, delicious dining, fabulous shopping, quaint downtown streets and convenient access to the U.S., Toronto and Hamilton draw visitors each year who dream about calling the region home. Now, this dream can be your reality. Make this spectacular area your home with a luxurious suite at Elements urban condominiums in St. Catharines. But don’t wait too long – these sought-after condos are selling extremely fast and won’t last. Imagine... coffee on your balcony

Builder

Mountainview Homes Development

Elements Home Type

Modern three-storey urban condominium with suites from the mid $200’s Sales Centre

218 Lakeport Rd., Unit 6, open Monday to Wednesday and Saturday and Sunday noon to 6 p.m. Contact

elementscondo.com 289.362.4841. 22 YPNEXTHOME.CA

followed by breakfast in your gourmet kitchen or dinner parties followed by cocktails in the party room — all in designer spaces that showcase the very best in quality. It’s not a dream, it’s your home at Elements — a modern three-storey urban condominium, minutes to the lakeside community of Port Dalhousie and trendy downtown St. Catharines. Here, you’ll enjoy the lifestyle you’ve always wanted in a stunning home where luxury is standard. Niagara’s largest home builder, Mountainview Homes, has joined forces with Astra Capital to bring a new level of luxury condo living to the Niagara area with Elements urban

condominiums. Priced from the mid $200’s, homeowners are able to choose from thoughtfully designed floorplans that are sure to impress. Though The Terrain floorplan is already sold out, there are two other popular options. The Breeze offers 963 sq. ft. of living space with an open-concept Great Room, dining room and kitchen. This two-bedroom, plus den suite features two bathrooms, a spacious balcony and a master suite complete with his and hers closets and ensuite. The Tide is 641 sq. ft. of welldesigned living space and offers one bedroom plus den, an open space Great Room and kitchen perfect for gatherings, as well as a lovely balcony. All suites at Elements come with luxury standards not found at other condominiums – convenient in-suite laundry, a stunning outdoor space, luxury vinyl plank flooring, quality 32oz. Berber carpeting, stainless steel appliances, a quality luxurious kitchen, upgraded satin nickel hardware, bathrooms with glass shower doors and Moen Rainforest showerheads, and six months free Internet, phone and cable to name just a few features, and of course, Mountainview Homes’ trusted, quality and award-winning craftsmanship. It’s no wonder Elements is already 60 per cent sold. With a coveted location, beautiful designs and finishes, you won’t want to miss your opportunity to call Elements home. Stop by the sales centre at 218 Lakeport Rd., Unit 6, St. Catharines, to discover why these luxurious suites are selling fast. The sales centre is open Monday to Wednesday and Saturday and Sunday noon to 6 p.m. For more information, visit elementscondo.com or call 289.362.4841. DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 23

GUELPH

HWY 5

HWY 8

GREENSVILLE

HAMILTON

BROCK RD.

PETERS CORNERS

N HWY 6

DUNDAS

HWY 403

TORONTO

Property Profile | PHELPS HOMES

An introduction to

Merritton and Merritton Commons WITH PHELPS HOMES’ RECENT ANNOUNCEMENT

of the opening of the sales centre for the new Merritton Commons community in St. Catharines, at 26 Oakdale Ave., the company now introduces the Merritton – The Heart of St. Catharines. Merritton itself is both a distinct community within and a council ward of the City of St. Catharines, amalgamated into the city in 1961. Today, Merritton has approximately 15,500 registered voters. Merritton boundaries include Jacobson Ave., Hwy. 406 and Geneva St. in the west; the QEW and Eastchester Ave. in the north; Welland Canal and Glendale Avenue in the east and St. David’s Rd. in the south. Merritton was named after William Hamilton Merritt, a prominent local entrepreneur and founder of the Welland Canal Company. Until 1858, Merritton was named Welland City, but exchanged names that year with Merrittsville (today’s Welland City), when that town became the “seat” of Welland county. 28 YPNEXTHOME.CA

As a former industrial centre on the Welland Canal, Merritton retains a small yet impressive number of heritage sites. Among them are the Merritton Tunnel (under the third Welland Canal), remnants of the three previous Welland Canals and several early industrial ruins, and The Keg restaurant, which is housed in the former Independent Rubber Co. and Merritton Cotton Mills Annex. The area has undergone a major infrastructure facelift involving the realignment of Glendale Avenue and the replacement of the Merritt Street Bridge. Merritton has a great sense of community and is home to numerous organizations and activities that support the neighborhood. These include the Merritton Lions, who oversee the Community Days

Location

St. Catharines Builder

Phelps Homes Development

Merritton Commons Home Type

Two-storey semi-attached homes and bungalow townhomes Sales Centre

26 Oakdale Ave. Contact

phelpshomes.com 905.3978106

Parade (formerly known as the Labour Day parade) and Carnival, the Dunc Schooley Memorial Pool and several other sports and recreation facilities. It is also home to three of St. Catharines’ arenas and a community centre. Merritton points of interest include: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

The Pen Center Victoria Lawn Cemetery Ontario Lacrosse Hall of Fame Welland Canals Centre Lock 3 St. Catharines Museum Centennial Gardens Garden City Municipal Golf Course 8. Gatorade Garden City Complex 9. Merritton Lions Park 10. Centennial Arena & Merritton Lions Club 11. Second Welland Canal Heritage Area 12. General Motors Canada 13. Blue Ghost Tunnel To learn more about Merritton, visit merritton.com Merritton Commons Register now to get on the Semis VIP launch list and learn more about the six two-storey semi-attached and 37 bungalow towns to be built in this upcoming area, with easy access to restaurants, bus routes and shops. There are four floorplans to view for the townhomes, with square footages ranging from 1,198 to 1,385, all twobedroom, two-bath homes with one car garage. Several corner lots are still available. The six semi lots will be released within the next few weeks. To register or view floorplans, visit phelpshomes.com DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 29

discover New Homes

SIMCOE! in

A picturesque and quiet new home community filled with vibrant landscapes, parks, walking trails, shopping and schools right around the corner.

SIGNATURE SERIES FEATURES INCLUDE*

GRANITE COUNTERTOPS CERAMIC TILE HARDWOOD 9’ CEILINGS BRICK

PLUS

RECEIVE

10,000

UP TO

IN FREE

DESIGN STUDIO UPGRADES SINGLE DETACHED HOMES FROM

329,400

VISIT OUR DECORATED MODEL HOME TODAY! 150 WOODWAY TRAIL, SIMCOE 519-428-1408 eastforesthomes.com

Prices correct at press time. Broker protected. *Luxury features apply to Signature Series Homes only. *9 ft ceilings on main floor, *Brick on main floor, *Quality ceramic tile flooring as per plan, *Quality hardwood flooring on main floor as per plan, *Granite Kitchen counter tops (excludes kitchen island) Please see Sales Representative for details. E. & O.E., October 18th 2016

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

new openings

pre-registration

CASTLE ROCK PLACE

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

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

pre-registration

new releases HAVELOCK CORNERS

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

By: Senator Homes City: Woodstock Housing type: New release of 42- and 50-ft. singles from the low $400’s senatorhomes.com

BALDWIN PLACE FOX FIELD By: Fusion Homes City: London Location: Fanshawe Park Road West and Foxwood Avenue

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

WILDFLOWERS

VICTORIA COMMON

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

By: Losani Homes City: Kitchener Housing type: Final release of modern townhomes from the $300’s losanihomes.com

ISHERWOOD AVENUE CONDOS

ROSEMOUNT SEMIS

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

CLAIR MEADOWS By: Gatto Homes City: Guelph Housing type: Townhomes and singledetached homes gattohomesinc.com

Housing type: Single-family homes from $482,900 fusionhomes.com

Housing type: Single-family homes at Hamilton Road & Commissioners Road East. stonecresthomes.ca

new openings

WESTWOOD MEWS

THE ENCLAVES OF UPPER CANADA

By: CountryGreen Homes City: Kitchener Housing type: Urban townhomes up to 1,365 sq. ft. countrygreenhomes.com

By: Menkes City: Georgetown Housing type: New release of 40-ft. lots from the low $800’s menkes.ca

By: CountryGreen Homes City: Kitchener Housing type: Semi-detached homes in the heart of Kitchener from $349,900 countrygreenhomes.com

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

DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 31

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

SITES

PRICES

Guelph

REID'S HERITAGE HOMES

Clarity 2

Innisfil

BW HOMES

Alcona Shores

Kitchener

COOK HOMES LIMITED

Explorers Walk

•

from $1142

Kitchener

LOSANI HOMES

Victoria Common

•

from mid $300's

Kitchener

MATTAMY HOMES

Topper Woods

•

Tillsonburg

TILLSONBURG DEV.

Baldwin Place

•

PAGE

•

from $269,500

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

BUILDERS

London / Halton Hills / Wellington / Waterloo:

LOCATION

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

BALDWIN PLACE TILLSONBURG

HOME SWEET HOME But Hurry!

We’re proud to announce the FINAL PHASE of Baldwin Place, where everything comes together and everyone feels at home. Make your choice soon. It’s a decision you will never regret. All-brick, detached, freehold homes starting at $269,500 (incl.hst)

3 ESSELTINE DRIVE, TILLSONBURG MODEL HOME HOURS: OPEN MONDAY - THURSDAY & SATURDAY 10:AM TO 5:PM. SUNDAY 1:00PM - 5:00PM, CLOSED FRIDAYS & HOLIDAYS E.& O.E. Prices & Specifications are subject to change without notice. 34

Call us now at 1-800-265-5709

baldwinplace.ca

PER MONTH P.&.I

D G R AN IN G OPEN OW ON N

TOUR OUR 2 MODELS TODAY! PROMO

SALES OFFICE Call Pattie O’Reilly Sales Representative Especially New Homes Inc.

• Direct access to rear yard from oversized single car garage

2 Model Homes to View! EN ED

• Quick 401 access via new Fairway Road bridge

• Over 68 acres of protected conservation lining the Grand River sits in your backyard with many trails and pathways to explore

RA KT

• Only a few corner units remain with 16’ garage doors and connected to neighbours by garage only

Take Hwy 8 from 401 to Fairway Road exit, turn left and follow to round-a-bout. Take Zeller Drive exit and Grand Flats is first street on your right.

FREE UPGRADE PACKAGE OR 4 FREE APPLIANCES

• Designs range from 1465 - 1647 sq.ft.

Model Homes: 13 Grand Flats Trail

. DR

EK RE

For a limited time receive your choice of:

Hours: Sat. and Sun. 1 - 5pm

C LE BB PE

cookhomes.ca

LIVE FREE FROM FEES in a brand new freehold townhome by award winning builder, Cook Homes in the Lackner and Fairway area.

226-647-3520 explorerswalk@cookhomes.ca

SIT

R AY IRW FA

*BASED ON A $364,900 PURCHASE PRICE WITH 20% DOWN PAYMENT AND 3 YEAR INTEREST RATE OF 2.44%, 30 YEAR AMORTIZATION.

Property Profile | REMBRANDT HOMES

Welcome to Rembrandt Estates Where luxury meets convenience AWARD-WINNING BUILDER REMBRANDT HOMES has

designed an attractive community of detached singlefamily homes that gives you room to breathe. Nestled in a quiet and serene cul de sac on Riddell street in Woodstock, surrounded by well established neighbourhoods and mature trees, walking distance to downtown and parks, with numerous golf courses a short driving distance away – it is a perfect location. Rembrandt Estates is a beautiful place to exhale. Here, you can take time to truly enjoy your home, knowing your lawn mowing and snow removal are looked after. Rembrandt Estates’ exteriors are the perfect blend of modern trends and luxury where exterior stone, stucco and brickwork and add to the community’s distinctive appearance. 36 YPNEXTHOME.CA

The best trends are evident in the open-concept layouts, vaulted ceilings, large windows, upgraded kitchen cabinetry with quartz countertops, ensuites with freestanding soaker tubs and large glass showers, walk-in closets and mainfloor laundry rooms. The living and entertaining space continues with spacious decks and patios. Rembrandt Homes has worked hard to ensure the company builds a home you will love to live in, and they consult with you to tailor-finish to your taste. Starting at $499,900, your

new home will be move-in ready. The fully furnished model home The Weir, with loft, is a stunning open concept bungalow with a loft. Upon entering, you will find a welcoming foyer, nine-ft. ceilings, den and powder room. Then you’ll pass by the formal dining room that whispers elegance and class on your way through to the kitchen with dark maple cabinets, quartz countertops and standard features such as pot and pan drawers, soft close doors and drawers, crown molding, under cabinet lighting, a large centre island, and an eating area that leads to a spacious deck. This is a fabulous gathering place for family and friends. The warmth of the gas fireplace invites you into the Great Room with hardwood floors, vaulted ceilings and an open oak staircase that leads to the loft media room, second bedroom and a four-piece bath.

Each home is designed with quality built right in and your comfort is assured with an Energy Star certified home. Energy Star advantages include a 95.5-per-cent high efficiency gas furnace, programmable thermostat, central air conditioning, heat recovery ventilation system, vinyl thermal pane low-e argon filled glass windows, terrace doors and more. What really sets a Rembrandt Home apart from others is the company’s aftercare program. The new home purchase only begins this relationship between the homeowner and builder. The focus of the aftercare program is to offer service and foster trust. Their onsite team guides you through the building process and they stand behind their product with extensive warranties. To learn more, please visit the Rembrandt Estates model home at 273 Riddell St. in Woodstock. The model home is open Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday from 1 to 4 p.m.

Location

Woodstock Builder

Rembrandt Homes Development

Rembrandt Estates Home Type

Open concept bungalow with loft model home Sales Centre

273 Riddell St., open Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday 1 to 4 p.m.. Contact

Judy Stewart 519.536.1888 or judy.stewart@century21.ca Bill Taplay at 519.537.0037 or billtaplaysells@rogers.com rembrandtHomes.ca

For more information contact, Judy Stewart at 519.536.1888 or judy. stewart@century21.ca; Bill Taplay at 519.537.0037 or billtaplaysells@rogers. com; or visit rembrandtHomes.ca

DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 37

Inspiration | DESIGN SECRETS

LET’S LAY IT ALL OUT THERE

By Jane Lockhart

Start with a neutral

When you think about decorating your home, you probably think first about wall colour, furniture and accessories. What goes on the floor is probably the last thing you consider, but it’s an important surface and one that can tie all the decorative elements together.

Whether you prefer wood flooring, wallto-wall broadloom or tile throughout your rooms, it will provide a great neutral background for an area rug. Add one on top of almost any surface (with care) to provide another layer of colour, texture, comfort and style. It can tie a room together or separate out different zones in one space.

Right size Usually, I’m a fair and reasonable 38 YPNEXTHOME.CA

person who likes to work with people and their design ideas, but there is one thing that makes me put my foot down – area carpets that are too small. This is one design feature where bigger is always better. A puny area carpet makes a whole room look small, especially if it’s not connected to any furnishings. Don’t settle for a four-by-six-ft. rug when you need eight-by-10 ft. or bigger. All the furniture should be on top of the carpet, with room to spare.

Local building centres offer area carpets, but in limited sizes and styles. Consider visiting a local carpet retailer or specialty store where you can see and feel the choices, ask questions and select the right size.

Calm your space down If your room already has lots of pattern and you want to add a calming element underfoot, consider broadloom. It’s generally a long run of one pattern, texture and colour created on a broad loom in wide widths and used for wall-to-wall applications. But because of its versatility, such as choice of colours, textures and patterns, it can be custom-cut to fit your space and the edges bound to prevent fraying. The binding can also be custom selected to go with your personal decor.

Add an artistic touch When you want to make a statement with your area carpet, the choices are virtually endless. Today, you can go into many carpet stores and work with a textile specialist to have a oneof-a-kind piece made especially for your space. As design technology advances, so do your choices, especially with area carpets. Along with a vast array of beautiful floor coverings, companies like Weavers Art (weaversart.com) carry lines that are like fine art on your floor.

Quality matters With area carpets, you will always get what you pay for. Man-made synthetic carpets such as polyester, nylon and olefin (also called polypropylene) are less expensive but may only last up to five years. Although the colours will last, the fibres may not feel as soft to the touch, will show wear quickly and may not hold up well to foot traffic.

MORE INSPIRATION ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news/inspiration

Natural fibres such as hand-knotted wool and silk from the east set the standard for carpets throughout the centuries. The search for new, renewable fibres continues, as companies such as Elte (elte.com) recently introduced organic, natural fibres such as banana and bamboo silk into their carpet collections. Wool can seem like expensive choice, but it is practical because it’s a renewable, natural resource,

it’s environmentally friendly, absorbs sound, is water repellent and retains its appearance for years. Companies such as Speers Road Broadloom (speersroadbroadloom.com) have developed a hardwearing wool carpet that is offered at a terrific value. Whether it’s a long-term investment, an artistic statement or a warm and cosy solution underfoot, choose wisely.

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

DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 39

City Focus | SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO

Kitchener

Milton

St. Catharines_Niagara

Why

Southwestern Ontario rocks as a housing market By Wayne Karl

WHAT MAKES FOR A STRONG HOUSING MARKET? Think

solid local economy and growth in population and employment – all leading more people looking for a place to live. This is where Southwestern Ontario and its many and varied housing market rock. The Ontario economy is expected to outperform the national average for a third straight year in 2016, as it benefits from U.S. demand, a weaker dollar and other characteristics, according to the BMO Blue Book from BMO Capital Markets Economics and BMO Commercial Banking. “Real GDP (in Ontario) is on track to expand 2.6 per cent this year, and a still-solid 2.3 per cent in 2017,” says Robert Kavcic, senior economist, BMO Capital Markets. “Firm U.S. demand, a weaker currency, low oil prices and a strong housing market are all at work.” Exports and manufacturing have been supported by the macroeconomic backdrop. “Real exports have risen above previous record levels seen before the recession in 2007, and the real trade balance is steadily improving, adding to economic growth. However, longer-term issues remain as relatively high labour costs continue to pose challenges for the auto sector versus Mexico and the Southern U.S.,” says Kavcic. 40 YPNEXTHOME.CA

“Indeed, while manufacturing has rebounded strongly earlier in the recovery, growth has softened in the past two years as firms have filled up production capacity, but have been shy to deploy new capital investment and hiring.” Ontario’s labour market is thriving, with employment up one per cent year-over-year through August. “The jobless rate is now trending below the national rate for the first time since 2006,” he says. The provincial budget deficit is set to decline by $1.4 billion in fiscal year 2016-17, marking a third straight year of reduction and weighing in at a manageable 0.7 per cent of GDP. “The Province continues to target (fiscal year 2016-17) for a balanced budget,” Kavcic says.

Southwestern Ontario “Southwestern Ontario businesses continue to expand, with a number of encouraging prospects on the horizon,” says Julie Barker-Merz, senior vice-president, southwestern Ontario division. “While there’s still uncertainty given commodity prices, the strength of economic growth and the impact of the U.S. election, our commercial customers continue to show cautious optimism.” The high-tech industry continues to accelerate in the Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge-London area and venture capital is on the rise.

Guelph

increase travel options for residents and aid highway congestion. Average home prices 2015: $271,425 2014: $251,297 (8.0% change)

Population 2011: 392,184 2006: 390,317 (0.5% change)

Employment 2011: 144,085 2006: 111,215 (29.6% change)

Median Income 2011: $44,512 2006: $41,772 (6.6% change)

Guelph

In agriculture – a key component of the regional economy – David Blyth, regional vice-president, commercial banking, southwestern Ontario, sees a recess in capital spending and a trend toward diversifying and mitigating risk. Indeed, New Home & Condo Guide’s sister publication Canadian Property Investor recently revealed the Top 50 Places to Invest in real estate in Canada. Ontario rules the list, and SWO shines. Here’s are some highlights:

Milton Mass population growth and residential development have earned Milton a top spot. With population expected to double in the next 20 years, Milton has been dubbed “the fastest-growing city in Canada.” To be expected, it is also experiencing some growing pains, with its population outpacing infrastructure such as transit and schools. Average home prices 2015: $538,887 2014: $491,610 (9.6% change)

Population 2011: 84,362 2006: 53,889 (6.7% change)

Employment 2011: 39,080 2006: 21,175 (84.6% change)

Median Income 2011: $56,843 2006: $50,737 (12.0% change)

St. Catharines-Niagara A big draw for this market is reasonable cost – one of the lowest in the province. Location is another attractive feature, near the U.S. border. There’s also been investment in transit, with a new Niagara-Peninsula GO Train line beginning construction in 2017 and scheduled for completion in 2023. This line will help spur the economy,

Guelph benefits from a diverse economy – including agriculture, education, healthcare and manufacturing – that continues to attract a skilled labour force. This has helped earn Guelph among the lowest unemployment rates in the country. The population is expected to increase by 50,000 by 2031, and new development is underway that will help house the growing population. Average home prices 2015: $378,498 2014: $358,549 (5.6% change)

Population 2011: 121,688 2006: 114,943 (5.9% change)

Employment 2011: 52,200 2006: 38,685 (34.9% change)

Median Income 2011: $50,165 2006: $45,674 (9.8% change)

Kitchener-Waterloo-Cambridge Ontario’s economy is expected to outpace national growth over the next two years, according to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp., with net migration expected to rise to 108,000 and 114,000 by 2016 and 2017, respectively. The Conference Board of Canada says KWC will have one of the fastest-growing economies in Canada this year. With a booming student population and an economy hanging tough post-RIM dominance, this is one of the top destinations for newcomers. A new LRT and improved GO Transit affords better connections with Toronto and elsewhere. Average home prices 2015: $348,065 2014: 333,457 (4.3% change)

Population 2011: 477,160 2006: 451,235 (5.7% change)

Employment 2011: 203,350 2006: 141,450 (43.8% change)

Median Income 2011: $49,788 2006: $45,241 (10.1% change)

DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 41

Advice | FUNDAMENTALLY SPEAKING

Stress-testing mortgages at higher rate reduces one risk, creates another: Dunning By Wayne Karl

MORE ADVICE ONLINE ypnexthome.ca/news/advice

CHANGES FOR MORTGAGE insurance

in Canada announced in October are intended to reduce housing activity in Canada, with the aim of slowing the growth rates for house prices and mortgage indebtedness. Many mortgage applications in Canada will be stress-tested using a benchmark interest rate that is currently 4.64 per cent. By contrast, actual rates in the mortgage market are 2.5 per cent or lower. Opinions on the potential impacts vary, with many economic commentators expecting that the reduction of resale market activity will be in the range of eight per cent or slightly higher. Canadian housing market economist Will Dunning explores the housing market and economic issues, in a report called Slamming on the Brakes. The report agrees that an eight-per-cent initial impact seems realistic, but concludes that there will be subsequent effects. Ultimately, housing market activity will be reduced by at least double (and potentially triple) the eight-per-cent factor. There will also be negative effects in the broader economy. “There is a cliche that it isn’t speed that kills, it’s the sudden deceleration,” says Dunning. “A drop in housing activity that is larger than the government expects would have further consequences that it does not expect, including falling house prices in many parts of the country and related economic damage.” 42 YPNEXTHOME.CA

“A drop in housing activity that is larger than the government expects would have further consequences that it does not expect, including falling house prices in many parts of the country and related economic damage.” In addition to reduced home buying by first-time purchasers, subsequent effects include: » Fewer current home owners will buy different dwellings (because it will be more difficult to sell their current homes). » Jobs will be lost due to reduced transactions, which will further reduce housing demand. » If potential buyers expect that house price will fall, buying will be further deterred. » Housing starts will be reduced. An eight-per-cent drop in housing starts would cost 25,000 jobs. Doubling the impact would cost 50,000 jobs. » Lower housing starts will reduce how much housing will be available in future. Because there will be less movement out of rentals into home ownership, vacancy rates will be reduced and rents will rise more rapidly, aggravating challenges for tenants. “The government is aiming to

reduce the risk of a housing market implosion,” says Dunning. “The new policy is based on a future event that is possible, but has a low probability of occurring – that in five years, mortgage interest rates could be more than two points higher than they are today. In so doing, it is creating a risk that is also possible, and seems to have a higher probability of occurring – that its policy could have severe negative effects for the housing market and the broader economy. It would be useful to have more public discussion on the trade-off of risks.”

Wayne Karl is an award-winning writer and editor with experience in real estate and business. In Fundamentally Speaking, Wayne explores the basics – such as economic fundamentals – you need to examine when buying property. He can be reached at wayne.karl@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 Bank Bank of Montreal Bank of Nova Scotia

variable 2.5 4.10op 2.45 6.30op 2.6 2.9

Canadian Western Bank CIBC

6 months

1 year

2 years

3 years

4 years

5 years

4.1 4.10op 4 6.30op

3.04 4.10op 2.79

2.39

2.59

2.69

2.79

2.74

2.59

2.74

2.59

3.09 6.95op 3.29 6.50op 3.14 6.30op 2.84 6.35op 3.14 3.14 6.35op 2.94 3 3.20op 3.14

3.19

3.59

4.09

2.59

3.09

3.39

3.89

4.49

3.04

3.65

4.2

4.74

2.79

2.49

4.09

4.79

3.04 2.45

3.65 3.39

4.39 4.09

4.64 2.65

2.94 2.94

2.94 2.84

2.99 2.79

2.99 2.89

3.04

3.39

2.79

2.94

2.79 2.59

3.34 2.69

3.99 2.79

4.44 2.94

3.04 4.00op 3.19

2.84

3.44

2.44

2.69

3.24

3.49

3.69

3.79

3.14 3.35

3.25 3.5

3.95 3.7

4.39 4.3

4.64 4.35

2.69 3.14 6.30op 3.29 6.50op

2.14 3.09

2.34 3.39

2.59 3.89

2.59 2.45

3.09

3.39

3.89

4.49

2.79

2.74

2.59

2.74

2.59

2.84 6.30op 2.29 2.89

2.89

2.95

2.99

2.89

2.24 2.79

2.39 2.89

2.49 2.95

2.69 2.89

3.14

3.09

3.39

3.89

4.64

3.25 6.25op 2.84 6.30op 2.99 6.30op 2.8 2.95op 2.39

3.2

3.65

4.5

2.79

2.64

3.89

2.44

2.69

3.49

3.99

4.54

2.85

2.95

3.05

3.15

2.39

2.49

6.95op 4.55 6.45op 4 6.45op

2.7 6.95op

Equitable Bank HSBC Bank Canada

2.65

ICICI Bank Canada Manulife Bank

2.75 2.6

National Bank President’s Choice Finan Royal Bank TD Canada Trust Tangerine

n/a 6.70op 2.7 2.7 7.00op 2.6

4.45 6.20op 4.45 4.4 6.70op

2.99 7.00op

2.7

TRUST COMPANIES Community Trust Effort Trust Home Trust Investors Group Trust MTCC

n/a n/a 6.30op 2.35 n/a 2.9

6.5 4.45 6.30op 3.95 4.2 6.50op 4.55 6.45op

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS Alterna Savings Comtech Fire C.U. First National Fin. LP IC Savings London Life Luminus Financial Meridian Credit Union

2.45 6.30op 2.45

2.7 6.50op n/a 6.50op 3.25 2.4

PACE Savings & C.U.

4 6.30op 6.2 6.40op 3.1 4.25 6.50op 4.2 6.30op

4 5 6.70op

Parama Credit Union

2.65

Steinbach Credit Union

2.25

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 November 21, 2016. Prepared By http://www.FiscalAgents.com/mortgage/rates

DEC 3, 2016 - JAN 21, 2017 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 43

Ad Index

ADVERTISERS

Bayview Wellington - Alcona

Mattamy Homes - Topper Woods

Bayview Wellington - Passages on the Canal

Mattamy Homes - The Preserve

Branthaven Homes - Life

24 & 25

Mountainview Homes - Elements

46 & 47

Cook Homes - Explorers Walk

Phelps Homes - Merritton Commons

Eastforest Homes - Woodway Trails

Reidâ€™s Heritage Homes - Clairity 2

Starward Homes - Scenic Trails

Thomas Cochren Homes - The Greystones

Tillsonburg Developments - Baldwin Place

Empire Communities - Multi-Site

Homes by DeSantis - AquaZul

Losani Homes - Corporate

44â€ƒYPNEXTHOME.CA

2&3

Model Home Photo Compliments of Silvergate Homes | silvergatehomes.com

We build for your lifestyle.

Silvergate Homes has been featured as â€œModel HOME Of The Monthâ€? as seen in the New Home & Condo Guide model home calendar

DECEMBER 2016

What’s Online

Trending now The latest real estate news from across Canada

Shout out! YP NextHome design team wins big at Redgee Awards

READ THE STORY ONLINE nexthome.yp.ca/redgee_award

Hockey Wives star moves from rink to investment arena READ THE STORY ONLINE nexthome.yp.ca/hockey-wives-investor

5 steps for living large in a small space READ THE STORY ONLINE nexthome.yp.ca/living-large

The car-less condo: Practical? Yes. Profitable? Maybe.

Want more great articles like this delivered directly to your inbox? SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER

READ THE STORY ONLINE nexthome.yp.ca/carless-condo

Twitter @ypnexthome @ypnexthome_SWO

Facebook ypnexthome

Visit our website: 46 YPNEXTHOME.CA

ypnexthome.ca/newsletter

Instagram ypnexthome

Pinterest ypnexthome

S O O N M AT TA M Y H O M E S R E T U R N S T O KITCHENER WITH TOPPER WOODS.

Style And Affordability In Towns, 30' and 36' Detached Designs. Mattamy Homes will soon return to Kitchener in the established community of Topper Woods. This idyllic community brings stylish Townhomes and Detached designs. Peaceful and pastoral, your new community features sun-dappled parks and winding roads, with the thoughtful design and attention to detail you expect from Mattamy. As a familiar face around Kitchener, Mattamy is excited to welcome you to the neighborhood.