Southwestern Ontario New Home and Condo Guide - Apr 25, 2015

Apr 25 - May 9, 2015 Volume 18 Issue 08

INSIDE THIS ISSUE

SWO BUILDERS EXCEL AT TARION AWARDS

WHAT’S IN A NEWHOME WARRANTY?

MORTGAGE INSURANCEPREMIUMS ON THE RISE

NATURAL FAMILY LIVING AMONG the WILDFLOWERS

SWO 04-25-15master.indd 1 4/22/15 1:49 PM

empirecommunities.com*Limited Time Offer. See Sales Representative for Details. Prices, sizes and specifications are subject to change without notice. Exclusive listing brokerage: TFN Realty Inc. Brokers Protected. E.&O.E.

JUST GOT EASIER

Mississauga

Toronto

Lake Ontario

LakeOntario

Cambridge

Colborne

Veterans

Mem

orial Pkw

Gretzky

401 8

403

QEW407

56

Lincoln PWY

Binbrook Rd

NN

Clarence

Paris

QEW

Colborne

Cent

enni

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Y

Cent

enni

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Green Mtn. RdMud St

Rymal Rd

Red H

ill

Valley

PWY

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Blac

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ConklinShellard M

t. PleasantWarner

Wynd�eld

BrantfordBrantford HamiltonHamilton

StoneyCreekStoneyCreek

Victory

Lundy’s Ln

McLeod Rd

Falls

General BrockPkwy

Brown Rd

Kalar R

d

Montrose R

d

Exit27

NiagaraSquare

NiagaraFalls

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: Mon-Thurs: 1-7pmFri: 1-6pmSat & Sun: 11am-5pm In partnershIp wIth

DEPOSIT PROGRAm

31-60 days with $5000 total deposit

61-90 days with $2500 deposit and $5000 in 30 days

91-120 days with $2500 deposit and $7500 over 60 days


30 days or less wIth $2500 total deposIt*

to make life better, we're including 5 appliances with all inventory homes.*

BRANTFORD

STONEY CREEK

VICTORY

WYNDFIELD

309 Blackburn Dr., 519.756.4556

22 Green Mountain Rd. W., 905.930.7934

FREEHOLD TOWNS

FREEHOLD TOWNS

FROm

$247990

FROm

$297990

say hello to easy Buy and our lowest ever $2500 total deposit.* now go ahead and smile because owning an amazing new move in ready home from empire has never been easier.

facebook.com/EmpireCommunities

@Empire_Living

EMPI 8180 MikeHolmes-InventoryAd-15x10.5-F.indd 1 2015-04-21 5:00 PM002-003-Empire 04-25-15.indd 2 4/22/15 1:17 PM

empirecommunities.com*Limited Time Offer. See Sales Representative for Details. Prices, sizes and specifications are subject to change without notice. Exclusive listing brokerage: TFN Realty Inc. Brokers Protected. E.&O.E.

JUST GOT EASIER

Mississauga

Toronto

Lake Ontario

LakeOntario

Cambridge

Colborne

Veterans

Mem

orial Pkw

Gretzky

401 8

403

QEW407

56

Lincoln PWY

Binbrook Rd

NN

Clarence

Paris

QEW

Colborne

Cent

enni

al PW

Y

Cent

enni

al PW

Y

Green Mtn. RdMud St

Rymal Rd

Red H

ill

Valley

PWY

Imagine

Blac

kbur

n

ConklinShellard M

t. PleasantWarner

Wynd�eld

BrantfordBrantford HamiltonHamilton

StoneyCreekStoneyCreek

Victory

Lundy’s Ln

McLeod Rd

Falls

General BrockPkwy

Brown Rd

Kalar R

d

Montrose R

d

Exit27

NiagaraSquare

NiagaraFalls

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: Mon-Thurs: 1-7pmFri: 1-6pmSat & Sun: 11am-5pm In partnershIp wIth

DEPOSIT PROGRAm

31-60 days with $5000 total deposit

61-90 days with $2500 deposit and $5000 in 30 days



30 days or less wIth $2500 total deposIt*

to make life better, we're including 5 appliances with all inventory homes.*

BRANTFORD

STONEY CREEK

VICTORY

WYNDFIELD

309 Blackburn Dr., 519.756.4556

22 Green Mountain Rd. W., 905.930.7934

FREEHOLD TOWNS

FREEHOLD TOWNS

FROm

$247990

FROm

$297990

say hello to easy Buy and our lowest ever $2500 total deposit.* now go ahead and smile because owning an amazing new move in ready home from empire has never been easier.

facebook.com/EmpireCommunities

@Empire_Living

EMPI 8180 MikeHolmes-InventoryAd-15x10.5-F.indd 1 2015-04-21 5:00 PM002-003-Empire 04-25-15.indd 3 4/22/15 1:17 PM

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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON OUR COMMUNITIES REGISTER AT MATTAMYHOMES.COM

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

SALES CENTRE HOURS: Monday - Thursday 1pm-8pm; Friday 1pm-6pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-6pmMODEL HOME HOURS: Monday - Thursday 1pm-7:30pm; Friday 1pm-5:30pm; Saturday, Sunday and Holidays 11am-5:30pm

Follow us:

The Violet Model Home In Wildflowers, Kitchener

30' HOME, THE CHICORY ‘B’ 1,597 SQ.FT. $335,990 2-STOREY TOWNHOME, THE CALLA LILY ‘B’ 1,391 SQ.FT. $278,990

ELEV. ‘B’

SALES CENTRE179 Seabrook Drive

4 Detached Model Homes

Detached Homes From $307,990

KITCHENER

Townhomes From $234,990

HOMER WATSON BLVD.

HURON RD.

SEABROOK DR.

SALES CENTRE/MODEL HOMES

FISCHER

HALLM

AN R

D. S.

401

7&8

N

Wildflowers Offers An Attractive Array Of Towns & Detached DesignsThe Wildflowers Community Is Beautifully In Season

MATGTA - Wildflowers - SW New Home & Condo - Magazine Due: 21/04/15

File Name: MATGTA-WF_Preserve_SWNHnC Publication: SW New Home & Condo

Trim: 7.5" x 10.5" Safety/V.O.: .25” DPI: 300

Bleed: .125” Colours: CMYK Built: 20/04/2015 – JND

MATGTA-WF_Preserve_SWNHnC.indd 1 2015-04-21 11:53 AM

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S TA R T I N G F R O M

$270s

bungalow townsurban towns

• Unique open concept floorplans up to 1,365 sq. ft.• Attached garage on select units• Carefree living• Close to all amenities in a desirable Kitchener area

CountryGreenHomes.com · 905-630-5803

starting from

$394,900

· Rosemount by CountryGreen Homes.

· An exclusive collection of 16 semi-detached homes.

· Up to 1,953 sq. ft.

· Call now for priority registration.

KITCHENER LIMITED RELEASE

LAST CHANCE TO PRE-REGISTER

WWW.COUNTRYGREENHOMES.COM

APR 25 - MAY 9, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 7

007-CountryGreen-Corp 04-25-15.indd 7 15-04-23 10:22 AM

APR 25 - MAY 9, 2015 || VOLUME 18 ISSUE 8

contentsON THE COVER

p. 14MATTAMY HOMES

Great varieties of spacious, beautiful living in Wild owers

regular and special features IN EVERY ISSUE

10 Editor’s Note68 Ad Index69 Hot Dates

COLUMNISTS

34 Money Matters The dreaded B-word by Gail Vaz-Oxlade

56 Mortgage Advice Bank of Canada holds overnight lending rate by Alyssa Richard

70 Fundamentally Speaking What’s in a new-home warranty? by Wayne Karl

IN THE NEWS

24 Tarion Warranty Corp.SWO builders shine at 2015 Awards of Excellence

32 MortgagesMortgage insurance premiums about to rise

38 HHHBAHamilton builders name Steve Spicer to hall of fame

58 Branthaven Homesbreaks ground at Jazz Condos in Burlington

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP

59 City Focus Woodstock: taking root for a healthy futureby Wayne Karl

63 Homebuyers’ Resources Mortgage Calculator & Rate Table

44 Multi-Site Rosehaven HomesSeek haven from the ordinary with Rosehaven

48 Georgetown MenkesNew release at the Enclaves of Upper Canada

52 Kitchener Mountainview HomesRiver Ridge designer showhome now open

community focus features

17 London17 Waterloo39 Hamilton

New Home WATCH

48

44

52

LIVE LIFE ON THE RidgeSTUNNING 2-STOREY and SMART BUNGALOW DESIGNS! 36’, 40’, 45’, 50’ SINGLES!

Off er & Specifi cation subject to change without notice. E.&.O.E. Off er valid for a limited time. Not valid with any other promotion.

www.mountainview.com

55

Conestoga pkwy

Grand River

17

8401

REGISTER NOW! TOLL FREE 1-844-688-3100

SHOW HOME:154 Coopershawk St., Kitchener

Tuesday & Wednesday 4-7 p.m.Saturday & Sunday 1-5 p.m.

NEW DESIGNER SHOW HOME

NOWOPEN!

Niagara’s

Largest

Home Bui lder

IS NOW IN

KITCHENER!

$10,000 OFF FIRST 10 DEALS!

DON’T WAIT!


009-Mountainview 04-25-15.indd 9 15-04-22 4:46 PM

10 NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO | APR 25 - MAY 9, 2015

PRESIDENT, YELLOW PAGES NEXTHOME

Jacqueline HillASSOCIATE PUBLISHER

Susan Maxwell EDITOR-IN-CHIEF / DIRECTOR OF CONTENT

Susan LeggeDIRECTOR OF SALES, NATIONAL

Moe LalaniART DIRECTOR

Daiana Garay

EDITOR

Wayne KarlCONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Sara Duck (on leave)Elisa KrovblitLydia McNutt

DISTRIBUTION & SALES CO-ORDINATOR

Jennifer BistronADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Antoinette Jackson

MANAGER OF PRODUCTION

Bala GnanapandithanCO-ORDINATOR

Hannah YarkonyGRAPHIC DESIGNER

Viosa Barileva

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Joanne KeenanJeffrey Reed

published by

#500-401 The West MallEtobicoke, ON M9C 5J5

T 416.626.4200 F 416.784.5867ypnexthome.ca

ADVERTISING: Call Susan Maxwell at 416.580.1654 FAX: 416.784.9554 Toll Free: 1.877.269.8257, follow prompts, ext. 4260;e-mail: [email protected] Office hours are Mon-Thurs. 9-5; Fri. 9-12CIRCULATION: Free distribution. Published bi-weekly from Sept.-Nov. & from Feb.-June and monthly in June, July & Dec.TERMS: Advertisers, Editorials and New Home & Condo Guide are not responsible for typographical errors, mistakes or misprints. All prices are correct as of press time and are subject to change without notice. E. & O. E.EDITORIAL: Submissions from interested parties will be considered. Please submit to the address above, to the attention of the Editor.COPYRIGHT 2015: All rights reserved by New Home & Condo Guide, Toronto, Ontario. Reproduction in any form is prohibited. Contents of this publication are covered by Copyright and offenders will be prosecuted under the law. The views and data expressed by columnists do not necessarily represent those of the publication. Yellow Pages Next Home is a trademark of Yellow Pages Group Co. in Canada.

Please recycle this magazine! Yellow Pages Next Home 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.

WAYNE KARL EDITOR Yellow Pages [email protected]

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

//EDITOR’S NOTE

Mother Nature clearly is a tough nut. At time of writing – third week of April, no less – temperatures were still in low single digits.

Indeed, an unusually harsh winter has already delayed the start of the spring real estate season in some markets, while low inventory is leading to signi¡ cant price increases in areas where supply isn’t keeping pace with demand. Meanwhile, an improving economy in Ontario is leading to growing consumer con¡ dence, creating a strong foundation for residential real estate growth.

Spring can’t come soon enough, in more ways than one.Also, recently, the Bank of Canada once again held its

overnight lending rate, helping to keep mortgage rates remain at historically low levels. Collectively, these conditions are producing a bit of a perfect storm of opportunity

for homebuyers in Ontario.¤ e new home market also stands to bene¡ t. Demand is high and supply in some

areas and housing types may be limited, but for buyers who are well ¡ nanced, well prepared and ready to act fast, new home purchases this spring will likely prove to be wise decisions.

Preparing for busy seasonAfter a harsh winter, healthy conditions have Ontario real estate primed for a feverish spring

Much like that bank commercial that says, “You’re richer than you think,” a new home may be more a§ ordable than you originally thought.

Perhaps you need only to change your de¡ nition of “home” to get into the market.

While a detached home is the traditional choice for many, highrise and lowrise suites, lofts and townhomes have become a prime choice among ¡ rst-time buyers and empty nesters in the market for new place to call home.

Not only does townhouse and condominium living a§ ord you the opportunity to live in a prime neighbourhood at a great starting price, when it’s time to move you can often opt to remain in the same neighbourhood, since many communities o§ er a mix of designs and sizes, which allows families to relocate easily without having to change jobs or schools.

Today’s communities generally have a range of sizes and prices that start at the “affordable” end of the price spectrum. Many builders and developers are gearing up for their grand openings and have new communities available for quick occupancy. It’s an exciting time to be shopping for a new place, so don’t miss this excellent buying opportunity.

Have a look through this issue and see what you think. ¤ e home of your dreams is waiting.

Think you can’t afford a new home?It’s likely more affordable than you fi rst thought

SUSAN LEGGE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Yellow Pages NextHome [email protected]

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

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LivetheLife

TM

LIVELARGE

Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Rendering is artist’s concept. E.&O.E.

Join us Saturday, May 2nd

GrandOpening

Presentation Centre Located at351 Dundas St. E. Oakville

OYES!

branthaven.com/oakvillage

Upper Oakville Townhome Livingfrom the mid $400’s

LIVE THE LIFE IN OAKVILLET M

• Innovative Towns• Surrounded by ponds, parks & forested woodlots• walking and biking trails• Steps to shops & services• Nearby major highways• Minutes to the GO Train

OWOW

CANADIAN TIREPARKING LOT

PARKING

OVERFLOWPARKING

QEW

HWY 407

UPPER MIDDLE RD.

TRAF

ALG

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D.

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3

DUNDAS ST. DUNDAS ST.

POST RIDGE DRIVE

ENTRANCETO PARKING

LOT

SALESOFFICE

BH__NHCSW_DoublePage_May.pdf 1 15-04-21 2:48 PM

discover the best built home at any price!

LUXURY SINGLESIN BINBROOK

FROM THE HIGH $300’S

BOUTIQUE CONDO LIVING1 BED FROM THE HIGH $200’S2 BED FROM THE LOW $400’S

WATERFRONT TOWNS & CONDOSCOMING SOON TO GRIMSBY

REGISTER NOW - LAKEHOUSELIFE.CA

LUXURY 2 STOREY TOWNSCOMING SOON TO MILTON

REGISTER NOW - PURETOWNS.CA

EXECUTIVE HOMESIN KITCHENER

FROM THE $400’S

QuickstartT M

Homeswith 30+ Day Closings

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

EXCITING NEW COMMUNITIES DESIGNED FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE!

DISCOVER FOR YOURSELF

life’s a beach!

REMARKABLE, FRESH & FASHIONABLECONDO LIVING IN UPPER OAKVILLE

REGISTER NOW

REGISTER NOWhellocondos.ca

Hello!CONDOS


012-013-Branthaven Homes 04-25-15.indd 12 15-04-22 4:47 PM

LivetheLife

TM

LIVELARGE

Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. Rendering is artist’s concept. E.&O.E.

Join us Saturday, May 2nd

GrandOpening

Presentation Centre Located at351 Dundas St. E. Oakville

OYES!

branthaven.com/oakvillage

Upper Oakville Townhome Livingfrom the mid $400’s

LIVE THE LIFE IN OAKVILLET M

• Innovative Towns• Surrounded by ponds, parks & forested woodlots• walking and biking trails• Steps to shops & services• Nearby major highways• Minutes to the GO Train

OWOW

CANADIAN TIREPARKING LOT

PARKING

OVERFLOWPARKING

QEW

HWY 407

UPPER MIDDLE RD.

TRAF

ALG

AR R

D.

TRAF

ALG

AR R

D.

HW

Y 40

3

DUNDAS ST. DUNDAS ST.

POST RIDGE DRIVE

ENTRANCETO PARKING

LOT

SALESOFFICE


discover the best built home at any price!

LUXURY SINGLESIN BINBROOK

FROM THE HIGH $300’S

BOUTIQUE CONDO LIVING1 BED FROM THE HIGH $200’S2 BED FROM THE LOW $400’S

WATERFRONT TOWNS & CONDOSCOMING SOON TO GRIMSBY

REGISTER NOW - LAKEHOUSELIFE.CA

LUXURY 2 STOREY TOWNSCOMING SOON TO MILTON

REGISTER NOW - PURETOWNS.CA

EXECUTIVE HOMESIN KITCHENER

FROM THE $400’S

QuickstartT M

Homeswith 30+ Day Closings

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

EXCITING NEW COMMUNITIES DESIGNED FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE!

DISCOVER FOR YOURSELF

life’s a beach!

REMARKABLE, FRESH & FASHIONABLECONDO LIVING IN UPPER OAKVILLE

REGISTER NOW

REGISTER NOWhellocondos.ca

Hello!CONDOS


012-013-Branthaven Homes 04-25-15.indd 13 15-04-22 4:47 PM

//COVER STORY

Great varieties of spacious, beautiful living IN WILDFLOWERS

A lush forest bordering the community reveals how Wildflowers got its name. Spring is an ideal time to discover

Mattamy’s master-planned community. Master-planned means the greenspaces, parks, playgrounds, plus walking and bicycling trails that complement the neighbourhood were all thoughtfully considered as a whole. From its inception in 2013, Wildflowers continues its successful growth. You can still discover a healthy selection of affordable townhomes and detached homes in a variety of configurations for any-sized family.

When you visit, take note of how spacious living will make you feel. Appreciate the open sightlines and optimized living areas inside, plus the friendly and generous design touches outside. Most homes here in Wildflowers feature an inviting front porch, an often overlooked element of modern homes. This simple aspect

gives a home a platform from which neighbours can greet one another and comfortably enjoy casual company. Wildflowers homes are also designed and constructed with large windows to allow more cheerful, natural light to stream into your life.

Many of the Mattamy design cues are inspired by the small, historical towns that populate the Ontario landscape. A variety of exteriors allows each street to look unique, so the entire neighbourhood feels fresh. Homes are as individual as the families they welcome. In fact, there are no identical homes situated next to one another. Since opening day, Wildflowers has been well received for the style and intelligence of its home and neighbourhood planning. Streets and features are created to allow best use and effortless ease of passage. The home interiors, too, are thoughtfully designed to offer optimal usability and greater possibilities for furniture placement.

Today, four professionally appointed model homes allow a taste of how sublime life here can be. We recommend you take a tour today to understand why Mattamy has earned an unprecedented fifth Builder of the Year Award from the Building Industry and Land Development Association (BILD).

See why so many of your future neighbours have already picked Wildflowers. Today come view Mattamy’s large variety of home designs. Townhomes are

priced from $234,990 and detached homes from $307,990.

The Indigo Model Home In Wildflowers

14

MATTAMY HOMES | Wildflowers

Master-planned means the greenspaces, parks, playgrounds, plus walking and bicycling trails that complement the neighbourhood were all thoughtfully considered as a whole

LOCATION: Kitchener

HOUSING TYPE: Townhomes from $234,990 and detached homes from $307,990

SALES CENTRE: 179 Seabrook Dr. Presentation Centre Hours are Monday to Thursday 1 to 8 p.m.; Friday 1 to 6 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and holidays 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

CONTACT: 519.744.9296 mattamyhomes.com

The sales centre and the four well-appointed model homes can be found at 179 Seabrook Dr., Kitchener, call 519.744.9296.

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

Model home hours are Monday to Thursday 1 to 7:30 p.m.; Friday 1 to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday, Sunday and holidays 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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

Beautiful Walking Paths In Wildflowers

The Primrose Model In Wildflowers

The Violet Model In Wildflowers

The Wintergreen Model In Wildflowers



016 Tarion-Corp 04-25-15.indd 16 15-04-23 10:22 AM


BUILDERS: To include or update your listing, email [email protected] Please say you saw it in New Home & Condo Guide!

New Home WATCHLONDON

BAYFIELDBLYTHCLINTON

GRAND BENDINGERSOLLLONDON

MITCHELL SEAFORTHSHAKESPEARE

ST.THOMASSTRATFORDTAVISTOCK

TILLSONBURGWINGHAMWOODSTOCK

PREVIEW REGISTRATIONTHE TRICAR GROUP London | Village North Luxury condominiums from the mid $200’s. tricar.com

FOREST PARK HOMES London | Amour Riverbend Coming soon – elegant town villas from $234,900. armourriverbend.ca

FOREST PARK HOMES London | Central Park Coming soon – urban townhomes from $224,900. centralparklondon.ca

NEW OPENINGSTRICAR GROUP Stratford | 36Front Steps from the Avon River, this luxurious new lowrise building features suites ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 sq. ft. in two-bedroom or two-bedroom plus den designs, as well as select penthouses. 36front.com

SIFTON PROPERTIES London | Westwood Village Grand opening of luxury one-floor Energy Star condos from the low $300’s. sifton.com

NEW RELEASESSENATOR HOMES Woodstock | Havelock Corners New release of 50-ft. riverview lots on the Upper Thames River, minutes from downtown Woodstock. senatorhomes.com

HALTON HILLS WELLINGTON WATERLOOALMAAAYR

CAMBRIDGEELORA

FERGUSGEORGETOWN

GUELPHKITCHENER

ROCKWOODWATERLOO

PREVIEW REGISTRATIONSAVIC HOMES Kitchener | Avalon Urban Towns Coming this spring – design-forward urban towns at Highland Road West and Ira Needles Blvd., just minutes from downtown Kitchener. avalontowns.ca

COUNTRYGREEN HOMES Kitchener | Westwood Mews Register now for an exclusive collection of bungalow towns and urban towns starting from the $270’s. countrygreenhomes.com

FUSION HOMES Guelph | The Metalworks A new urban village of townhomes and highrise condos on a historic site in downtown Guelph. themetalworks.ca

NEW OPENINGSCRYSTAL HOMES FERNBROOK HOMES Cambridge | Grand River Woods Grand Opening Sales Event on these 30-, 35- and 40-ft. detached homes next to the Grand River. crystalhomes.com fernbrookhomes.com

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES Guelph | Alive Now open – three- and four-bedroom freehold and condominium townhomes starting from the $300,000s. reidsheritagehomes.com

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES Kitchener | Williamsburg Walk Now open – midrise urban condominiums starting from the low $200’s. reidsheritagehomes.com

NEW RELEASESMACPHERSON MASTER BUILDERS Fergus | Strathlea Fergus Limited new release of 20-ft. freehold towns and 30-ft. singles. mystrathlea.com

MONARCH CORPORATION Kitchener | Topper Woods Limited release of 43-ft. pie-shaped lots. monarchgroup.net

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES Kitchener | The Oaks New 56-suite condominium. Offering a great selection of floorplans that suit a variety of budgets and lifestyles in an established community. reidsheritagehomes.com

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES Fergus | Westminster Highlands Master-planned community of a variety of single-detached homes, bungalows, two-storey and executive townhomes and midrise condos. reidsheritagehomes.com

are madeMemoriesMMMMWhere

Elmira

Towns, Semis and Singles

Now Open!

Priced From

$264,900

Plattsville

50-60’ Lots Single Family

HomesPriced From

$314,900

Woodstock

30-42’ Lots Single Family

HomesPriced From

$229,900

Woodstock

Adult Lifestyle

CommunityPriced From the Mid

$200,000’s

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

claysamhomes.comVisit our website for MODEL HOME hours.

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

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

FREE Kitchen GraniteCountertops!

Limited Time Offer

020-Claysam Homes 02-14-15.indd 20 15-04-23 10:22 AM

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MODELS

Beautiful town villas backing onto private and treed parklands

Maintenance free condominium lifestyle

Outstanding features, including granite countertops, 9’ ceilings, stone, brick and

stucco exteriors with generous stone patios

cookhomes.ca

Award Winning Builder

Only 2 town villas remain!Now Registered.

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

Winner of the 2014 WRHBA Multi-Unit

Established Waterloo Community

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

Call our Sales Representative today:

Donna Hodgin Especially New Homes Inc., Broker

Sunday 1-4pm or by appointment

[email protected]

519.725.8880 or 519.886.9797

MCCRAE PARK VILLA ~ Immediate Occupancy. Situated on a gorgeous and very private parkland lot. Features two bedrooms, den with custom built-in desk and cabinetry plus cozy and ambiant fireplace located just off of the Master Bedroom. $625,500

MCCRAE PARK MODEL ~ Immediate Occupancy. Stunning model features a theatre room with seating for 8 and wet bar, two bedrooms plus loft, stunning ensuite bath, stainless steel appliances, custom window and bed coverings and upholstery. $694,900

Move in now! This is your last chance to own in the final phase of our award winning West Waterloo community.

Own the McCrae Park Villa; Winner of the Most Outstanding Low Rise Multi-Unit Design over 2000 sq. ft.

21

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All-brick, detached, freehold homes starting at

with a fully-equipped recreation centre (monthly association fee of just $30) and only minutes away from medical facilities, shopping, dining and great golf.

$244,500(incl. hst)

3 ESSELTINE DRIVE, TILLSONBURGMODEL HOME HOURS:

OPEN MONDAY - THURSDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY 10AM TO 5PM.

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//IN THE NEWS

SOUTHWESTERN ONTARIO BUILDERS SHINE IN

2015 Tarion Awards of Excellence

New home and condo builders in Southwestern Ontario excelled at the recent Awards of Excellence conferred by Tarion Warranty Corp., scooping up two of the four honours.

The Awards of Excellence are the only awards in Ontario that recognize new home builders based solely on homeowners’ satisfaction with their customer service delivery.

THIS YEAR, AWARDS WERE PRESENTED TO:» The Tricar Group, London – Highrise Category» Fusion Homes, Guelph – Large Volume Category» Klemencic Homes, Trenton – Medium Volume Category» Rochon Construction, North Bay – Small Volume Category

“A home builder’s job isn’t complete just because the last tile has been laid,” says Howard Bogach, president and CEO of Tarion Warranty. “The Tarion Awards of Excellence recipients recognize the positive impact of exceptional customer service long after they’ve handed over the keys.

Says Adam Carapella of the Tricar Group: “We have three major areas of focus with the goal of delivering top quality customer service. These are communication, education and ensuring it is always a team effort. The Tricar Group is

constantly refining our best practices to ensure we are improving whenever we can. Being recognized by our customers as the top highrise builder in Ontario for the second year in a row with a Tarion Awards of Excellence tells us that our process is working.”

“Being entrusted with someone’s home is an immense honour and comes with a responsibility,” says Lee Piccoli, president of Fusion Homes. “At Fusion Homes, we ensure that this trust forms the basis for a lifelong relationship. As a team, we commit ourselves each day to self-improvement and to exceeding expectations in order to ensure that the Fusion Homes experience is one rooted in excellence and integrity and that our homeowners’ trust has been well-placed.”

The awards are based on the results of a comprehensive survey sent to more than 49,000 Ontario homeowners who

Fusion Homes, Guelph – Large Volume Category

Rochon Construction, North Bay – Small Volume Category

took possession of a new home between Oct. 1, 2013 and Sept. 30, 2014. Almost 7,900 survey responses were received, representing 16 per cent of consumers who bought a new home in Ontario during that time. The results were tabulated by Crunch Research in partnership with Harris Decima.

Survey questions covered every stage of the homeowner-builder relationship beginning with the signing of the agreement of purchase and sale, through construction, pre-delivery inspection, and after-sales service.

2015 TARION AWARD OF EXCELLENCE FINALISTS AND RECIPIENTS: HIGHRISE CATEGORY(More than 100 highrise possessions per year)CONCERT – TorontoDel Ridge Homes – MarkhamMattamy Homes – OakvilleThe Daniels Corporation – TorontoThe Tricar Group – LondonTridel – Toronto LARGE VOLUME CATEGORY(More than 100 possessions per year)Devonleigh Homes Inc. – OrangevilleFusion Homes – GuelphMonarch Corporation – TorontoTribute Communities – PickeringUrbandale – Ottawa

MEDIUM VOLUME CATEGORY(21-100 possessions per year)Hayhoe Homes – St. ThomasKlemencic Homes – TrentonMcDonald Homes – BrightonMelanie Construction Inc. – RussellSACA Homes – Casselman SMALL VOLUME CATEGORY(5-20 possessions per year)JDC Homes – Wasaga BeachLockwood Brothers Construction – OxfordRick Stewart Construction Ltd. – Fort ErieRochon Construction – North BayTerry Waito Homes Inc. – Petawawa

Klemencic Homes, Trenton – Medium Volume Category

The Tricar Group, London – Highrise Category


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//CITY FOCUS

WOODSTOCKTaking root for a healthy future» by WAYNE KARL

I f you haven’t been to Woodstock recently, you’re in for a bit of a surprise. This self-proclaimed Dairy Capital of Canada, located along Hwy. 401 between Kitchener-Waterloo and London, still holds to its roots in agriculture and

manufacturing, but like any forward-thinking municipality, it also knows the importance of modernizing for future economic growth.

Take a trip through downtown Woodstock and you’ll see gorgeous tree-lined streets, century-old Victorian homes, abundant parkland, friendly citizens – and even an immortalized Holstein.

But more on that later.The town’s history is not only preserved in its museum and county courthouse, it is the

only municipality in Ontario to still have all of its original public buildings. Combine that with modern amenities such as schools, medical facilities, recreational centres and plenty of greenspace, and you’ll understand why Woodstock is also a town with a bright future.

With a population of about 36,000, Woodstock is the largest municipality in Oxford County in Southwestern Ontario, about 122 kilometres southwest of Toronto, just north off Hwy. 401 along the historic Thames River.

The community was first settled in 1800 after Sir John Graves Simcoe, governor of what was then known as Upper Canada, determined the area would make a good

townsite. Early settlers were American immigrants from New York state and then from Britain in the 1820s. In 1902, Woodstock petitioned the provincial legislature to be incorporated as the City of Woodstock.

Downtown Woodstock houses the city’s banks, administration buildings, retailers and several restaurants – with the majority of buildings a century old. With free two-hour downtown parking, locals appreciate it’s a great place to shop, work, play and dine. In the 1990s, the city undertook an extensive makeover of the main street, adding gardens and cobbled sidewalks, which now host numerous retail promotions and entertainment in the summer.


INTERESTING FACTS

» Woodstock is home of the Springbank Snow Countess – a Holstein cow that set a world record lifetime butterfat production of 9,062 pounds. The Countess is forever commemorated by a life-sized statue located downtown at the corner of Dundas and Springbank.

» In 2008, the City of Woodstock enacted a comprehensive outdoor smoking bylaw that restricted or banned smoking in parks, recreational fields, transit environments, downtown patios and doorways. A study conducted by the University of Waterloo showed the policy was effective at reducing smoking in regulated environments, helping some smokers to cut back and supporting smoking cessation.

CULTUREWoodstock doesn’t come alive only in summer, however. Several popular attractions are held throughout the year, including the Canadian Farm Show in September and the Woodstock Wood Show in October – both a nod to the city’s roots in agriculture. Then there’s the Woodstock Fair held at the end of August at the fairgrounds, which comprises a midway, contests, concerts and other events. For entertainment of a different variety, Woodstock is also home to OLG Slots, a harness race track and the seven-screen movie theatre, Gallerie Cinemas.

For parklands, Southside Park offers everything from a playground to baseball diamonds and soccer fields, along with a network of walking trails. At the North End of the city is Roth Park, stretching along the Gordon Pittock Reservoir, which also boasts a playground and several kilometres of walking, running and biking trails.

Woodstock has two ice rinks, at the Community Complex at the south end of the city, and one at the fairgrounds in the central region. Woodstock Soccer Club has an indoor and outdoor soccer park at the north end. For the aquatically inclined, there are two indoor swimming pools – Southside Aquatic Centre and the YMCA – and the outdoor Lions Pool.

EDUCATIONSchools are an important part of any community, and Woodstock has five high schools, including one catholic and one French: Woodstock Collegiate Institute, Huron Park Secondary School, College Avenue Secondary School, St. Mary’s Secondary School (catholic) and Ecole Secondaire Ste-Marie (French catholic). Fanshawe College also operates a campus at the south end of the city, and plans to expand to almost double its current size.

ECONOMYGiven Woodstock’s proximity to the U.S. border in Detroit, it shouldn’t come as any surprise that its economy relies on the automotive industry.

In 2005, Toyota announced plans to build a new $1.1-billion plant on a 1,000-acre undeveloped site in the northeast end of the city – the first new auto assembly plant to

be built in Canada in two decades. Initially, it was to employ 2,000 people and begin full production of the Toyota RAV4 SUV in 2008, with a capacity of 150,000 vehicles per year. Today, Toyota’s plants in Woodstock and down the 401 east at Cambridge employ about 6,500 people.

Other auto companies are also important to the local economy. Hino Motors Canada Ltd., a Toyota Motor Co. subsidiary, operates a truck plant at the former General Seating plant in the Pattullo Ridge Business Park near Hwys. 401 and 59. General Motors operates its National Parts Distribution Warehouse, the largest of its kind in Canada, and there are a number of other parts suppliers active in the area.

DIVERSIFICATIONRealizing that a diversified economy is important to stability, growth and protection from the vacillations of any one industry, manufacturers recently announced participation in the local Interactive Manufacturing Innovation Network (iMiN), part of the Excellence in Manufacturing Consortium (EMC).

The Oxford Region iMiN that will

POPULATIONApproximately 36,000MAJOR EMPLOYERSAutomotive, parts suppliers,heavy equipmentAVERAGE HOME PRICES

March 2015: $241,317March 2014: $223,700DISTANCE FROM TORONTO122 kilometres

SOURCE: Canadian Real Estate Association; City of Woodstock. Photos: City of Woodstock

Take a trip through downtown Woodstock and you’ll see gorgeous tree-lined streets, century-old Victorian homes, abundant parkland, friendly citizens – and even an immortalized Holstein.

involve Woodstock is designed to be a fully meshed network of manufacturers, industry sectors, community partners, academic institutions and other stakeholders, which will grow to become a province-wide series of manufacturing networks that facilitates and promotes awareness, excellence and innovation.

TRANSPORTATIONAs with any growing community, Woodstock is also paying attention to

improving transportation in the area through a Transportation Master Plan (TMP), under the Municipal Class Environmental Assessment process. Th e objective of the TMP is to develop a comprehensive plan that will: » Review existing transportation and

traffi c operations and downtown parking facilities

» Review future transportation system improvements to accommodate urban growth in the city, and

» Develop an implementation strategy to satisfy short-term and longer-term transportation needs.

HOUSINGIt should come as no surprise that there’s growing demand for new home developments. Several builders are active with new projects in the area: Senator Homes with Havelock Corners; Van El Condominiums, with its Parrott’s Landing luxury condominium bungalow towns; Claysam Homes, with two single-family home communities – Th e Woods of Sally Creek and Th e Neighbourhoods of Devonshire, as well as an adult lifestyle community called Th e Villages of Sally Creek; and Geranium Homes with the Village at Sally Creek.


031-Grand River Woods 01-31-15.indd 31 15-04-22 4:47 PM


If you’re planning to buy a home this year with less than 10 per cent down, you can also plan for higher mortgage costs as of June 1, 2015. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp. (CMHC) and Genworth Canada have announced that they are raising their mortgage insurance premiums by 15 per cent. CMHC increased its target capital requirements in mid-2014.

The move isn’t expected to have a big impact on homebuyers’ pocketbooks or Canada’s housing markets, CMHC says. The higher premium would amount to an additional $5 per month for the typical borrower with a 95-per-cent loan-to-value ratio on a mortgage of $252,530. However, in Canada’s pricier markets, those monthly mortgage costs will inevitably be higher. In addition, the looming rise in mortgage costs could also signal a busier-than-normal spring real estate market, as homebuyers try to beat the clock on the May 31 deadline.

The increase in mortgage insurance premiums reflects concerns that Canadians are overextending their budgets by taking on more home than they can afford, leaving them in a tight spot when interest rates rise or at the slightest economic turn.

Experts advise that homebuyers plan ahead, save their money and put down as much as possible, to avoid taking out a high-ratio mortgage. Homebuyers unable to save up this often hefty amount can still buy a home with a down payment of less than 20 per cent, but federally regulated lenders require mortgage loan insurance, which covers them in case of payment default. The lender is responsible for the premiums and passes those costs on to the homebuyer in the form of a lump-sum payment, or more commonly, higher monthly payments.

CMHC is Canada’s largest insurer of residential mortgages.

Existing mortgages, high-ratio mortgages with more than a 10-per-cent down payment, and mortgages on multi-unit properties will not be affected by the premium increase.

//IN THE NEWS

Mortgage costs about to rise for some Canadians» by LYDIA MCNUTT

95% LOAN-TO-VALUE

Loan Amount $150,000 $250,000 $350,000 $450,000

Current Premium $4,725 $7,875 $11,025 $14,175

New Premium $5,400 $9,000 $12,600 $16,200

Additional Premium $675 $1,125 $1,575 $2,025

Monthly Increase $3.12 $5.20 $7.29 $9.36

Based on a five-year term at 2.79 per cent and a 25-year amortization

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34

Trying to get through life without a budget is like trying to drive a car with no steering wheel. You can lurch your way along, jamming on the breaks every time a threat looms, or you can put the pedal to the metal, but the whole time you’re careening down the road you’ll be worrying about what you’re going to hit. And if you’ve got any passengers, there will be some mess to clean up when you finally reach your destination.

Anyone I know who lives on a budget couldn’t get by without it. And it seems it’s only the people who refuse to make a plan who end up bellying aching about getting to the end of the money before they get to the end of the month.

//MONEY MATTERS

» by GAIL VAZ-OXLADE

GAIL VAZ-OXLADE is the host of Til Debt Do

Us Part, author of Debt Free Forever and blogs

daily at gailvazoxlade.com. Follow Gail on Twitter at

twitter.com/GailVazOxlade

The dreaded B-word

If you were building a house, you wouldn’t dream of using an architect who declared, “Relax. I’ve done this before. I promise I’ll put everything in the right place.” No. You’d insist on seeing some drawings. And here’s why you should, as the architect of your financial house, draw up a budget.

Whether paper-based or electronic, the discipline of managing your budget will help to keep you organized. Annual bills, like car insurance, won’t surprise you, sending shock waves

If the mere mention of the word ‘budget’ makes you groan, maybe you haven’t given this old idea a fair shake.


through your cash flow. And unexpected expenses, which have a category in a spending plan, won’t throw you for a loop.

A spending plan is made up of two parts: income and expenses. Income is the money that comes in: your salary, commission, dividends or interest income, alimony, child support, pension, or disability income. It doesn’t include money you think you might get. So, if your bonus is not guaranteed, don’t include it in your budget. Keep it in reserve to boost your RRSP or take you to the sunshine next winter.

Expenses are the items you have to pay for monthly. (Divide annual bills, such as insurance, by 12 to come up with a monthly amount.)

The best way to figure out your expenses is to look at what you’ve been spending. Collect your bank statements, credit card bills, and whatever other records you have of where your money went over the past year. Put each bill in an appropriate category — i.e., utilities, food, clothing, childcare, gifts — total the figures for each category and divide by 12. That’s

your monthly average. Add the categories together. That’s what you’ve been spending.

Now, for all you toads out there who can’t gather together two months’ worth of paperwork, never mind a year’s worth, here’s the other way to make a budget: You can use the nifty Gail’s Guide to Building a Budget along with the even niftier Gail’s Interactive Budget Worksheet (gailvazoxlade.com).

If you think you can keep flying by the seat of your pants forever, good luck with that.

If you’ve decided to take control of your financial future, congratulations. Create a budget that balances and you’ve taken the first step to making your money work for you.

If you’ve decided to take control of your financial future, congratulations. Create a budget that balances and you’ve taken the first step to making your money work for you.

35 APR 25 - MAY 9, 2015 | NEW HOME & CONDO GUIDE SWO 35

KITCHENER | Topper Woods | Models To View 43’ & 50’ Singles from the low $400,000’sSales Centre located at 7 Wetland Way, Kitchener519-894-8222

SCARBOROUGH | Bennett | Exclusive Enclave of Detached Singles in West HillExecutive Singles from the low $800,000’sSales Centre located at 1325 Danforth Road, Scarborough416-495-3574

HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 1pm – 8pm, Friday: 12pm – 5pm, Weekends & Holidays: 11am – 6pm

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

first.first.discover moreMonarchGroup.net

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

Elegant 43’ and 50’ Singles from the low $400,000’s

Please see a sales associate for full details. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. April 2015. 15803.

Maximus Series - Now available at Topper WoodsSelect the package that’s exactly your style and price.

CALEDON | SouthFields | Models To ViewTownhomes from the low $400,000’s Semis from the high $400,000’s Singles from the high $600,000’sSales Centre located at 12515 Old Kennedy Road, Caledon (Old Kennedy Rd. and Mayfield Rd.)905-843-0707

KLEINBURG | Kleinburg Crown Estates | Designer Decorated Models42’ & 50’ Singles from the mid $900,000’sSales Centre located at 165 Timber Creek Boulevard416-495-3513

CHOOSE MONARCH FIRST.

036-037-Monarch Homes 04-11-15.indd 36 15-04-22 4:47 PM

KITCHENER | Topper Woods | Models To View 43’ & 50’ Singles from the low $400,000’sSales Centre located at 7 Wetland Way, Kitchener519-894-8222

SCARBOROUGH | Bennett | Exclusive Enclave of Detached Singles in West HillExecutive Singles from the low $800,000’sSales Centre located at 1325 Danforth Road, Scarborough416-495-3574

HOURS: Monday – Thursday: 1pm – 8pm, Friday: 12pm – 5pm, Weekends & Holidays: 11am – 6pm

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

first.first.discover moreMonarchGroup.net

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

Elegant 43’ and 50’ Singles from the low $400,000’s

Please see a sales associate for full details. Prices and specifications subject to change without notice. E.&O.E. April 2015. 15803.

Maximus Series - Now available at Topper WoodsSelect the package that’s exactly your style and price.

CALEDON | SouthFields | Models To ViewTownhomes from the low $400,000’s Semis from the high $400,000’s Singles from the high $600,000’sSales Centre located at 12515 Old Kennedy Road, Caledon (Old Kennedy Rd. and Mayfield Rd.)905-843-0707

KLEINBURG | Kleinburg Crown Estates | Designer Decorated Models42’ & 50’ Singles from the mid $900,000’sSales Centre located at 165 Timber Creek Boulevard416-495-3513

CHOOSE MONARCH FIRST.

036-037-Monarch Homes 04-11-15.indd 37 15-04-22 4:47 PM

//IN THE NEWS

HAMILTON HOME BUILDERS NAME

Steve Spicer to hall of fame

Hamilton home builders have elected one of their longest serving members to the industry’s hall of fame.

Steve Spicer of Multi-Area Developments Inc. is the 2015 Inductee to the Hamilton Halton Home Builders’ Association (HHHBA) Hall of Fame.

Born in 1955 and a life-long Hamilton resident, Spicer was selected because of his long, established service in the local development industry and with the HHHBA.

Spicer graduated from Mohawk College s Civil Engineering Technology Program in 1979, and began his career in earnest as a � eld engineer at Du� erin Construction. He held several positions, including chief estimator, and was involved in many di� erent areas of civil construction, from commercial parking lots to highway and airport work. It was in this capacity that he took a more active role in the development industry as Du� erin s representative on Hamilton’s Development Council in 1988.

In 1992, he joined Meadowlands as Development Manager, and later chaired the Development Council for � ve years and participated on four Development Charge liaison committees.

In 2003, with development at the Meadowlands winding down, Spicer was hired by Multi-Area Developments to help Aldo DeSantis with the company’s Summit Park project. His position at Multi-Area grew over the years, and his participation in the HHHBA grew. He was elected to the board of directors in 2001, and served on the executive from 2003 to 2010. Spicer served as HHHBA president in 2009 – a challenging year, with a slumping economy and a signi� cant battle over Development Charges. Since 2008, he has organized the Wellwood Run charitable event, and still runs in it today.

Spicer served on the Ontario Home Builders’ Association board in 2008 and 2009, and the Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) board in 2009 and 2010 along with the CHBA Urban Council. Other volunteer positions included � e Hamilton Construction Association board of directors, and chair of Mohawk College Civil Engineering Program advisory committee.

He was honoured with the HHHBA Presidential Award in 1999 and 2004, distinguished Builder Member in 2003 and the Paul Wright Memorial Award in 2010.

Spicer has been married to wife Donna for 35 years. � ey have two children, Erin and Alan.

Hamilton home builders have elected one of their longest serving members to the industry’s hall of fame.


ANCASTERBEAMSVILLEBINBROOKBRANTBRANTFORDBURLINGTONCATHARINES GRIMSBY HAMILTON

MILTONNIAGARAOAKVILLEPARISPORT DOVERST. CATHARINESSTONEY CREEKVINELAND

HAMILTON HALTON NIAGARA

PREVIEW REGISTRATIONHOMES BY DESANTIS Grimsby | AquaBlu Opening in May – a condominium community of modern suites along the lake in Grimsby. Starting from the $180’s. aquablucondo.com

MATTAMY HOMES Milton | Hawthorne Village New townhomes and detached homes in this established master-planned community. mattamyhomes.com

NEW HORIZON Stoney Creek | Waterfront Trails Register now for Phase 2 of these condos in Stoney Creek. waterfronttrails.ca

SILVERGATE HOMES Niagara Falls | Victoria Woods Register now for these luxury townhomes in Niagara Falls. silvergatehomes.ca

PHELPS HOMES Smithville | The Atwater Collection Register now for this adult lifestyle community featuring a collection of attached bungalows backing onto Twenty Mile Creek. phelpshomes.com

NEW OPENINGSNEW HORIZON Burlington | Bridgewater Residences Presentation centre and model suite now open for luxury condominiums on the lake. bwresidences.com

MINTO, BRANTHAVEN HOMES & EMSHIH DEVELOPMENTS Oakville | Oakvillage Now open – Oakville’s visionary master-planned community from the low $400’s. oakvillage.ca

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES Stoney Creek | Lush at Victory New boutique townhomes from $294,990, coming May 2. lush.empirecommunities.com

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES Niagara Falls | Windy Lane Estates Showhome now open for 50-ft. singles and townhomes from the $220’s. mountainview.com

ADI DEVELOPMENTS Burlington | LINK2 Condos + Lofts Grand Opening now on for suites and lofts overlooking Bronte Creek Provincial Park. adidevelopments.com

NEW RELEASESROSEHAVEN HOMES Chippawa | The Ravines at Lyon’s Creek Now open – condominium bungalow townhomes in the Lyons Creek neighbourhood of Chippawa/Niagara. Prices from the $270’s. rosehavenhomes.com

ROSEHAVEN HOMES & HOMES BY DESANTIS Chippawa | The Ravines at Lyon’s Creek Limited quantities of detached homes available, priced from the low $300’s. rosehavenhomes.com homesbydesantis.com

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES Stoney Creek | Lush at Victory New release of 30- and 36-ft. homesites. lush.empirecommunities.com

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES Brantford | Wyndfield Final release of 44-ft. homesites. wyndfield.empirecommunities.com

HALTON HILLS WELLINGTON WATERLOO

BUILDERS: To include or update your listing, email [email protected]

Please say you saw it in New Home & Condo Guide!

New Home WATCH


042-Multi-Belagio 04-11-15.indd 42 15-04-23 10:22 AM

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//COMMUNITY FOCUS

Seek haven from the ordinary with ROSEHAVEN HOMES

LYON’S CREEK IN CHIPPAWAIf you’ve been thinking of moving to Niagara, you’d do well to take a look at The Ravines of Lyon’s Creek in Chippawa. Rosehaven has just released a stunning collection of condominium bungalow townhomes with two distinct designs to choose from – the ultimate in affordability, combining the space of a townhome with the maintenance-free condo lifestyle.

This means you can live in historic Chippawa’s finest location, just a short drive from the action of Niagara Falls, and be just five

minutes from the QEW for trips into the big city. Access to Buffalo is easy, too, for shopping and low cost air travel. Enjoy the lock-and-leave lifestyle that a condominium townhome offers, worry-free.

When you live at Lyon’s Creek, you’re in the heart of everything that makes the Niagara lifestyle so attractive; golfing, boating, hiking, biking, fishing near shopping, restaurants and all the sights that make the region such a desirable destination. Enjoy spectacular nature views with the serenity of a private park. Take a stroll through the pathways, have breakfast at Betty’s, experience great shopping, dining and adventures just waiting to be explored.

A limited selection of popular 36-ft. singles and 36-ft.-wide

The Ravines of Lyon’s Creek, Chippawa/Niagara


ROSEHAVEN HOMES | Multi-Site

A limited selection of popular 36-ft. singles and 36-ft.-wide freehold townhomes are available, too, featuring nine-ft. main floor ceilings, gourmet kitchens, luxurious ensuites and more.

freehold townhomes are available, too, featuring nine-ft. main fl oor ceilings, gourmet kitchens, luxurious ensuites and more. Spring is here, so now’s the time to take a lovely drive to historic Chippawa and see for yourself. Th e homes here are unquestionably some of the most elegant available anywhere in the area. But hurry, because selection is limited and homes are under construction.

ON THE RIDGE IN STONEY CREEKIn other news, Rosehaven is getting ready to build spacious semi-detached homes as well as 40- and 35-ft. singles on extra deep lots at its successful family community in Stoney Creek.

A remarkable new neighbourhood of inspired home designs in a breathtaking setting, On the Ridge is surrounded by fun for the whole family – hiking, biking, swimming and all the attractions of Niagara. It’s the lifestyle you want for your family... a touch above!

WATERDOWN MEADOWS AND GIBSON HEIGHTSAt Waterdown Meadows, only a limited number of 35-ft. detached homes remain, so this is the time to visit if you want to get into this highly sought after community. When they’re gone, they’re gone forever!

At Gibson Heights in Th orold, Rosehaven is almost sold out, with just a few homes left including 30-ft. attached singles and freehold towns. Th ose looking to enjoy this summer in a new home can start packing because homes are ready to move into now!

CONTEMPORARY CONDOMINIUM LIVING COMING TO ALDERSHOT IN BURLINGTON Exciting news for fall 2015! Rosehaven is coming to the Aldershot community of Burlington, with contemporary midrise condos as well as condominium townhomes in this revitalized neighbourhood close to Lake Ontario and highways. Register now at rosehavenhomes.com

Spring is shaping up to be exciting at all Rosehaven communities. For more information, visit rosehavenhomes.comLyon’s Creek, Chippawa, Condo Town – Coronation, 1,246 sq. ft.


CHIPPAWA/NIAGARALYON’S CREEKCondominium Townhomes NOW OPEN from $279,99036’ Singles and 36’ Freehold Towns from $319,990

THOROLDGIBSON HEIGHTS30’ Attached Singles& Freehold Towns from $291,990Move in Ready Inventory Homes Available

STONEY CREEKON THE RIDGESemi Detached Homes from $358,99040’ & 35’ Singles from $468,990

WATERDOWNWATERDOWN MEADOWS35’ Singles from $479,990Just 12 remain!

COMING MAYWOODLAND TRAILS, OAKVILLESingles, Semis and Freehold TownsRegister at LiveInOakville.ca

Seek haven from the common, the average, the oh-so-typical, the middle-of-the-road, the run-of-the-mill, the good-enough. At Rosehaven, we will never be satisfied with anything less than the exceptional. Because we know you won’t.

HA•VEN: A PLACE OF SAFETY OR REFUGE

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

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

The Welland - Lyon’s Creek, Chippawa

Visit RosehavenHomes.com

Seek haven from the ordinary

046-Rosehaven Corporate 04-25-15.indd 46 15-04-22 4:48 PM

Life is waiting for you.LUXURIOUS BUNGALOW TOWNHOMES IN NIAGARA FALLS | STARTING FROM THE MID-$300’S

Double car garages | Spacious kitchens with island | Energy Star builderMaster retreat with lavish 4-piece ensuite & walk-in closets | Main fl oor laundry

silvergatehomes.com | [email protected] Prices & specifi cations subject to change without notice.


047-Silvergate 04-25-15.indd 47 15-04-22 4:48 PM

//COMMUNITY FOCUS

New release atTHE ENCLAVES OF UPPER CANADA IN GEORGETOWN

M enkes Developments is thrilled to announce the new release of 20-ft. semi-link homes and 40-ft. detached homes at the highly successful Enclaves

of Upper Canada community in Georgetown. This exciting new release of homes consists of semi-link, bungaloft and two-storey designs, with some lots backing onto a ravine of mature trees with breathtaking views of the Credit River Conservation lands.

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

landscaped suburban streets and wooded walking trails of the Niagara escarpment, the Enclaves has it all.

Minutes away from miles of well-groomed hiking trails, this pristine landscape provides a multitude of picturesque settings ideal for family picnics, hikes or bike rides. When you’re surrounded on all sides by natural beauty, you’ll quickly forget how close you are to the centre of Georgetown,


MENKES | The Enclaves of Upper Canada

LOCATION Georgetown

HOUSING TYPE 20-ft. semi-link homes and 40-ft. detached homes

SALES CENTRE 363 Guelph St., open Monday through 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 289.891.9103menkes.com

with all of its many fine community facilities. With a new GO Station and easy highway access, commuting is a breeze. For those who crave the excitement of the big city, Brampton is a mere five minutes east. Just a short car ride away is the GTA’s most popular outlet shopping mall, Toronto Premium Outlets, where luxury brands abound at discount prices!

Downtown Georgetown’s historic Main Street offers a charming selection of boutique shops and fine restaurants, while the newly expanded Market Place Mall has all of your favourite mainstream big-box stores. A thriving arts community, Georgetown has an array of cultural events and local theatre to choose from.

The Enclaves of Upper Canada offers a wide selection of home designs. Each of these elegantly crafted gems blend into the natural landscape, delivering a charming, timeless look and feel. With a modern grasp of design, fused with classic architectural styles, these homes have been designed from the inside out to suit the needs of today’s lifestyle. Inspired by Georgian architecture through the symmetry of windows and French architectural bell curve roof flares, these characteristics create the unique individualism of each elevation. Authentic architectural influences on style combined with the use of materials such as stucco, stone and brick with a careful selection of colour palettes, creates character and identity for this community.

The same exquisite, traditional charm can be found in the stunning interiors of each and every home. The 40-ft. Enclaves Collection of homes at The Enclaves come with an upscale

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

Menkes is offering a spectacular opening bonus to its purchasers of the semi-link collection; three stainless steel kitchen appliances, white washer and dryer and $5,000 in upgrades. Purchasers of the 40-ft. Enclave Collection receive hardwood on the main floor (excluding tiled areas) and upper hallways and $10,000 in upgrades. For details, please visit the sales office.

Semi-link designs range from 1,590 to 1,878 sq. ft. and are priced from the high $400’s. The 40-ft. Enclaves Collection ranges from 2,496 to 3,525 sq. ft. and are priced from $749,990. Visit the sales office located at 363 Guelph St., Georgetown, in front of the Best Western Hotel and just east of Canadian Tire. The presentation centre is open from to Monday through Thursday from 1 to 8 p.m., closed Fridays and open Saturdays 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



050-Menkes 04-25-15.indd 50 15-04-22 4:48 PM

You want more! More home. More lot. More features. More time to spend with your family. With great local parks, schools, libraries, restaurants and more, right around the corner. All in a family-friendly neighbourhood that’s connected to wherever you have to go. Want more out of life? Just add Waterdown!

There’s so much more to life at Waterdown Meadows.

Hurry in for a limited number of35’, 40’ & 45’ Singles from the upper $400’s

WaterdownMeadows.comSALES OFFICE HOURS:

Monday to Thursday 1 to 8 pm. Closed Fridays. Saturday and Sunday, & Holidays – 11 to 6 pm

Prices, specifications and information correct at press time. Map not to scale. E. & O.E.

905.690.2224 | 289.895.8424

JUST ADDWATERDOWN

051-Rosehaven Aspen Ridge 04-11-15.indd 51 15-04-22 4:48 PM

//COMMUNITY FOCUS

RIVER RIDGE designer showhome now open

Come and discover Mountainview Homes’ first Kitchener community

E xcited to be building in Kitchener for the first time, Mountainview Homes will unveil its stunning showhome to the River Ridge community at the Grand Opening on Saturday, April 18 and Sunday

April 19. Mountainview is pleased to offer a special promotion to Kitchener buyers during the Grand Opening. The first 10 families to purchase a new Mountainview Homes at River Ridge Estates will receive a $10,000 discount!

With more than 35 years of experience and more than 4,000 homes built from Fort Erie to Grimsby and Baden Mountainview Homes has held the leadership role in new home construction in the Niagara Region for decades. Now, potential buyers in Kitchener can enjoy the Mountainview experience first-hand!

You’re invited to tour the beautiful Athena designer showhome, the first of Mountainview’s Goddess Collection. This is a model home like no other. When it came to designing the homes in this collection, the team at Mountainview brought together a focus group of women – professionals, stay-at-home moms and empty-nesters – and asked them exactly what they envision in their dream home. Based on their inspired ideas, this ingenious collection of homes was created.

The Athena showhome offers 2,860 sq. ft. of living space over two storeys. The main floor features a light-flooded dining room with coffered ceiling and easy access to the kitchen and a smart server, perfect for mixing drinks and


53

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES | River Ridge

LOCATION Kitchener

HOUSING TYPE 2,860-sq.-ft. two-storey showhome

SALES CENTRE Showhome located at 154 Coppershawk St.

CONTACT 519.591.4450 519.497.2227 mountainview.com

storing china and flatware. Spanning the entire rear of the home, the kitchen and great room provide the perfect space for family living and entertaining. Beautiful cream-coloured cabinetry, a sleek taupe backsplash and pretty pendant lights complement the classy and elegant kitchen, while a functional 36-in. island is the perfect spot for kids to pull up a chair and enjoy their breakfast. The family room includes a beautiful stacked stone fireplace and plenty of space for comfortable seating.

Adjacent to the kitchen, the “stop and drop” mudroom is one of the Goddess Collection’s signature features. With garage access, this space is designed to keep everyone organized. It features a cosy window seat, plenty of storage and a handy dogwash area – Mountainview truly thought of everyone in the family when creating this space!

Upstairs offers four spacious bedrooms. The master features double walk-in closets and a four-piece ensuite, there is a guest bedroom with ensuite, two additional bedrooms with jack and jill bathroom privileges and laundry room.

The River Ridge designer showhome is located at 154 Coppershawk St. Ideally located less than 10 kms from Hwy. 7, shopping, parks, the universities and entertainment facilities, River Ridge is also just minutes from the Grand River.

The Grand Opening took place earlier this month. The showhome is open Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m., as well as Tuesday and Wednesday from 4 to 7 p.m. and by appointment.

Call 519.591.4450 or 519.497.2227 or visit mountainview.com


THE GUIDE TO BUYING AND MANAGING YOUR FIRST HOME416.626.4889

1 YOUR FIRST HOME WINTER 2015

THE GUIDE TO BUYING AND MANAGING YOUR FIRST HOME

S P E C I A L E D I T I O N

HOME&CONDO

WINTER/SPRING 2015 FREE

+Expert tips to

DECORATE YOUR FIRST HOME

Trends in lowrise & highrise homesYour guide on where and what to buy

WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE GETTING YOUR FIRST MORTGAGE

YFH 02-07-15_master.indd 1 15-02-03 7:10 PM

054-Your First Home Promo.indd 54 15-04-23 10:47 AM

43’

SPACIOUS SEMIS

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

Stoney Creek’s Family First Community

TWO AWARD-WINNING BUILDERS IN SOUTH WEST ONTARIO

Rear yard dimension is approximate and subject to change depending on choice of lot and house. Prices and specifications correct at press time. Prices quoted are in $ thousands. Maps not to scale. E. & O.E.

Hours: Mon to Thurs: 1pm to 7pm Sat, Sun & Holidays: 11am to 6pm Closed Friday

Presentation Centre is located at: First Rd. W. & Mud St. E.

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

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

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

STONEY CREEK

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

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

“

Darryl Di Leo & Hua Ni - Burlington, ON

40’ & 35’ Singles $400’sfrom the midSemis $300’sstarting

from the mid

055-Rosehaven On the Ridge 02-14-15.indd 55 15-04-22 4:48 PM

//MORTGAGE ADVICE

» by ALYSSA RICHARD

ALYSSA RICHARD is the Founder and

CEO of RateHub.ca – a financial product comparison site that

aims to empower Canadians to make smart

financial decisions.

The Canadian economy is estimated to have stalled in the first quarter of 2015. The

ultimate size of this impact will need to be monitored closely.

Bank of Canada holds overnight lending rate

Interest rates aren’t going anywhere. The Bank of Canada announced on April 15 that it was going to leave its overnight lending rate at 0.75 per cent for another six weeks – and depending on the picture our future economy paints, it could be for a lot longer than that.

The overnight rate has only been sitting at 0.75 per cent for a little less than three months now, after Governor Stephen Poloz finally decided to cut it down from the one per cent it had held steady at for nearly 4.5 years. That decision was made in January, in an attempt to shield highly indebted Canadians from the negative impacts of the significant drop in oil prices (and job losses that have occurred as a result).

With oil prices staying low and the economy continuing to suffer, it was presumed that the central bank would further cut its rate in March and again today – but that didn’t happen.

In a speech he made just a few weeks ago, Poloz announced that, “the first quarter of 2015 will look atrocious, because the oil shock is a big deal for us.” And it did. “The Canadian economy is estimated to have stalled in the first quarter of 2015. The ultimate size of this impact will need to be monitored closely.”

As of today, total CPI inflation is at one per cent, which reflects the drop in consumer energy prices, and core inflation remains close to two per cent. Unfortunately, first quarter results will place additional pressure on inflation, but GDP growth is expected to rebound later this year. And the central bank continues to offer messages of hope that the economy should reach and remain at full capacity by the end of 2016.

If the economy doesn’t pick up, we could see another interest rate cut this year. But our guess is Poloz will monitor it for a longer period of time than just three or four months before making that decision. The next interest rate announcement is on May 27, so we’ll see what the future holds then.


Bungalow & two-storey homes on 50 ft. lots from the 360s

Prices, 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.

PhelpsHomes.comCelebrating 40 Years of custom inspired home building in niagara

Welcome to Auburn Trail, the newest Phelps Homes community in West Niagara. Here, we offer great

value at attractive pricing away from the noise and congestion of the city.

Book your appointment today. Ask about our pie-shaped lots in the cul-de-sac.

905.945.6975

Bigger Lots, Better Value... Smithville

PRE-CONSTRUCTION PRICING WON’T LAST LONG

SEIZE THE MOMENT, BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME NOW.

057-Phelps 04-11-15.indd 57 15-04-22 4:48 PM

//IN THE NEWS

Branthaven Homes BREAKS GROUND AT JAZZ CONDOS IN BURLINGTON

Burlington-based builder Branthaven Homes has announced that Jazz Condos, its newest boutique condo development in Burlington’s Aldershot neighbourhood, has broken ground to begin construction on its highly anticipated residential development. The Branthaven Homes team was joined by Jazz purchasers, project partners and Burlington Ward 1 Councillor Rick Craven to celebrate the momentous occasion.

“We are very excited to be introducing a new home opportunity in this established neighbourhood, in addition to a chance for new businesses to move into the area to support economic growth and development,” says Steve Stipsits, president of Branthaven Homes. “Jazz Condos will be a real showpiece for the area and its residents.” Jazz Condos is a four-storey boutique residence designed in partnership with award-winning architects Kirkor Architects + Planners and one of the sharpest interior design firms on the International scene, IIBYIV.

Located near Waterdown Road on Plains Road East, the cachet of a typical New York style boutique hotel meets signature Branthaven luxury extras at Jazz Condos. Simply put, “These are better life spaces,” says Stipsits. “They will be very bright, airy and have a loft-like feel.”

Breaking ground at Jazz Condos, left to right: Andrea Peckart, General Manager, Branthaven Homes; Elizabeth Grant-Stipsits, Vice-President, Marketing, Branthaven Homes; Steve Stipsits, President, Branthaven Homes; Rick Craven, Burlington Ward 1 Councillor; Art Van Maren, President, VanMar Constructors; Clifford Korman, Architect and Senior Partner, Kirkor Architects and Planners; and Doreen Coughlin, Jazz Condos Sales Representative.

Jazz Condos is just minutes from all the action Burlington has to offer with nightlife, cafes, arts, sports and various nearby waterfront activities. The location is a real draw for those looking to be in a unique building within an established area close to it all.

Jazz offers building amenities that are certain to strike the right chord with today’s consumers. Featuring a social library/lounge and a club-style bar, the gathering spaces at Jazz are the perfect venue for meeting up with friends. Residents can work up a sweat in the fitness/yoga studio. The feeling is intimate yet communal – an ensemble that’s right in tune with modern life. Each amenity space has been thoughtfully incorporated into Jazz based on the way people live and their actual lifestyle preferences – there’s no wasted space with features that go unused.

As a result, Jazz condo fees are among the lowest in the region and perfect for those heading south for the winter. The area is comprised of primarily lowrise residential – Jazz Condos is one of the first midrise condo buildings to be offered that suits both young homebuyers and downsizers alike. Stipsits and his team envisioned an intimate boutique condo that would be a landmark for the lifestyle promise the City of Burlington is known for.

Jazz Condos is 70 per cent sold, but there is still a wide variety of suites available with prices starting in the $200’s. The sales office has relocated to 374 Plains Road E. in Burlington. Sales centre hours are Monday through Thursday from 1 to 6 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, and to view floorplans and unit pricing, visit jazzcondos.ca


Whether you’re renting or buying, finding your next home has never

been so easy.

059-YPnextGrey 03-28-15.indd 59 15-04-23 10:47 AM

From $379,900

SAT. MAY 2 AT 10:00am

GRAND OPENING

061-Winzen Garden Park 04-25-15.indd 61 15-04-22 4:48 PM

THE EXPERTS WEIGH IN: Location, lifestyle, costs &

your new condo

Why pre-construction condo investments pay off

HIGHLIGHTING THE top builders & condo

communities across the GTA

EXPERT ADVICETop tips to guide you through the homebuying process

THE ALLURE OF LUXURY CONDO LIVING

HIGHLIGHTING THE topbuilders & new-home

communitiesacross SWO

SWO ANNUAL 2015.indd 1 3/10/15 5:32 PM

Highlighting the top builders and developers across the GTA

KNOCK ON WOODSix-storey wood housing a viable new option

EXPERT ADVICETop tips to guide you through the homebuying process

AVAILABLE ALL YEAR ROUND!GREATER TORONTO ANNUAL AND EASTERN ONTARIO ANNUAL

F O R Y O U R F R E E C O P Y C A L L 416.626-4889

Research and compare! Make an informati ve choice using Southwestern Ontario’s only comprehensive guide to Southwestern Ontario Home Builders. Expert advice, builder profi les, and the Southwestern Ontario Home Builders’ roster all in one great Annual.

Home Builders’ Annual GTA Editi on

Home Builders’ Annual GTA Condo Editi on

Get the scoop on builders in the Southwestern Ontario area.

2015 ISSUES AVAILABLE NOW!

»» now available!

062-Annual Builders SWNH 2015.indd 62 15-04-23 10:47 AM


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

» Calculate your mortgage payments using the mortgage payment calculation chart

HOMEBUYERS’ HELP//

Calculate your mortgage payments

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

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

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

04At the intersection of the column and row is your mortgage payment per month per $100,000 borrowed.

CHART FIGURE MORTGAGE AMOUNT ÷ 1,000INTEREST RATE MONTHLY PAYMENT

EXAMPLE: 5% 25 YEARS 5.82 (MORTGAGE AMOUNT $125,000) 125 $

AMORTIZATION PERIOD

Canadian mortgage payment factors Instructions:

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


2.50% $666 $529 $448 $394

2.75% $678 $541 $461 $407

3.00% $690 $554 $473 $421

3.25% $702 $566 $486 $434

3.50% $714 $579 $499 $448

3.75% $726 $591 $513 $461

4.00% $738 $604 $526 $476

4.25% $750 $617 $540 $490

4.50% $763 $630 $553 $504

4.75% $775 $644 $567 $519

5.00% $788 $657 $582 $534

5.25% $801 $671 $596 $549

5.50% $814 $684 $610 $564

5.75% $827 $698 $625 $579

6.00% $840 $712 $640 $595

6.25% $853 $726 $655 $611

6.50% $866 $741 $670 $626

6.75% $880 $755 $685 $642

7.00% $893 $769 $700 $659

Table provided by Calum Ross, Owner, President and Principal Broker at Calum Ross Mortgage. He can be reached at 416.410.9905, [email protected] and calumross.com

Mortgage payment calculation chartAMORTIZATION PERIODS

INTEREST RATES

15 YEARS

20 YEARS

25 YEARS

30 YEARS

%



Compare mortgage rates for your best deal

CHARTERED BANKS Variable 6 Months 1 Year 2 years 3 years 4 years 5 years

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 AVAILABLEApril 20, 2015. Prepared By Fiscal Agents Financial Information Services 905.844.7700

TRUST COMPANIES

ATB Financial 2.35 4 2.94 2.64 2.54 2.69 2.74 4.00op 4.00op 4.00op Alterna Svgs/Alterna Bk 2.45 4 2.98 2.98 2.98 2.94 2.78 6.30op 6.30op Bank of Montreal 2.85 4 2.89 2.84 3.39 3.89 2.79 6.30op 6.30op Bank of Nova Scotia 2.85 4.55 3.29 3.09 3.39 3.89 4.49 6.45op 6.50op Canadian Western Bank 4 3.14 3.04 3.65 4.2 4.74 6.45op 6.30op CFF Bank 2.99 2.79 2.25 2.89 2.69CIBC 2.85 2.89 2.29 3.55 2.69 4.79 6.70op 6.35op Manulife Bank 2.55 4.45 3 2.94 2.84 2.79 2.79 3.35op National Bank n/a 4.4 2.89 2.84 3.39 2.74 2.84 6.70op 6.70op President’s Choice Finan 2.5 2.29 3.49 2.73 4.44Royal Bank 2.85 3.14 3.04 3.65 4.39 4.64 6.30op 6.30op TD Canada Trust 2.85 2.89 2.24 3.39 3.89 2.74 6.30op Tangerine 2.85 3.19 3.24 3.49 3.69 3.79

Community Trust n/a 6.5 3.14 3.25 3.95 4.74 4.99Concentra Financial n/a 5 2.89 2.59 3.39 3.89 4.64 6.70op 6.30op Effort Trust n/a 4.45 3.35 3.5 3.7 4.3 4.35 6.30op 6.30op Home Trust Company 2.35 3.95 2.89 2.44 2.54 2.64 2.64Investors Group Trust n/a 4.2 3.14 3.09 3.75 4.39 3.29 6.50op 6.30op MTCC 2.85 4.55 3.29 3.09 3.39 3.89 4.49 6.45op 6.50op

OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

Airline Financial C.U. 4 3.01 3.1 3.33 3.65 3.13 6.25op Comtech Credit Union 2.45 6.2 2.89 2.89 2.95 2.99 2.79 6.40op 6.30op First National Fin. LP 3.1 2.29 2.19 2.34 2.54 2.69FirstOntario C.U. 2.85 2.99 3.04 3.19 2.99 2.69 6.34op 6.34op IC Savings 2.99 2.69 2.89 3.04 3.09London Life n/a 4.2 3.14 3.09 3.75 4.39 4.79 6.50op 6.30op Luminus Financial 2.45 2.85 2.25 3.35 2.7 3.05 6.25op MCAP 2.35 3.6 3.95 4.35 4.84 5.14Meridian Credit Union 2.65 4 3.09 3.09 3.55 3.29 2.69 6.30op Parama Credit Union 2.65 2.8 2.85 2.95 3.05 3.15 2.95op Steinbach Credit Union 2.4 2.6 2.7 2.75 2.85 2.85

LOOKINGFOR A

NEW HOME?It’s only a tap away.

NewHomeAndCondoGuide.caGET STARTED NOW ATDOWNLOAD THE APP

Find the perfectnew home or condo in the neighbourhood that fi ts your lifestyle.

Start searching now!

067-New Web site Promo Ad newhomeandcondoguide.ca.indd 67 15-04-23 10:47 AM


Advertiser index

ASPEN RIDGE HOMES: Waterdown Meadows 51

BAYVIEW WELLINGTON: Victoria Village 4

BAYVIEW WELLINGTON: Niagara-on-the-Green 5

BRANTHAVEN HOMES: Corporate 12 & 13

CLAYSAM HOMES: Corporate 20

COOK HOMES: The Village in Beechwood West 21

COUNTRYGREEN HOMES: Multi-site 7

CRYSTAL HOMES: Grand River Bend 31

DECADE HOMES: Midtown Lofts 26

EMPIRE COMMUNITIES: Multi-site 2 & 3

FERNBROOK HOMES: Grand River Bend 31

HOMES BY DESANTIS: AquaBlu 11

HOMES BY DESANTIS: On the Ridge 55

MATTAMY HOMES: The Preserve IBC

MATTAMY HOMES: Wildflowers 6

MENKES DEVELOPMENTS: Enclaves of Upper Canada 50

MONARCH: Corporate 36 & 37

MOUNTAINVIEW HOMES: River Ridge 9

MULTI-AREA DEVELOPMENTS: Bellagio Village/Summit Park 42

PHELPS HOMES: Auburn Trail 57

ROSEHAVEN HOMES: Corporate 46

ROSEHAVEN HOMES: On the Ridge 55

ROSEHAVEN HOMES: Waterdown Meadows 51

SAVIC HOMES: Avalon Urban Towns 23

SENATOR HOMES: Havelock Corners 27

SILVERGATE HOMES: Victoria Woods 47

SIFTON PROPERTIES: Corporate 33

SONOMA HOMES: Style Towne Collection 43

TARION WARRANTY CORP. 16

TILLSONBURG DEVELOPMENTS: Baldwin Place 22

REID’S HERITAGE HOMES: Multi-Site BC

WINZEN: Garden Park Towns 61


HOT DATES//

APR 25-26

Ontario Welsh FestivalNIAGARA FALLSA very special weekend celebrating Welsh heritage, music and culture, featuring a concert by the renowned Cor Rhuthun from North Wales on Saturday and two glorious hymn singing sessions Sunday.

ontariowelshfestival.ca

APR 25-26

Waterloo Region Food & Drink Show KITCHENER MEMORIAL AUDITORIUM KITCHENER Local and international cuisine, cooking demos, food and drink tasting, pairing seminars, celebrity guests, live entertainment and more at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium Complex for three days!

fooddrinkshow.com

MAY 1-3

Niagara Food & Wine ExpoSCOTIABANK CONVENTION CENTRE NIAGARA FALLS Niagara's biggest international tasting event! Meet winemakers and local chefs; sample gourmet food, wine, beer and cocktails. Dont miss the Chef Stage, Tasting Stage and entertainment all weekend.

niagarafoodandwine.ca

MAY 6-8

Fergus Lyons Club Home & Leisure Show MAINWAY RECREATION CENTRE BURLINGTON Nightly 6 to 10 p.m. at the Centre Wellington Community Sportsplex. Local home and garden specialists offering expert advice, solutions and inspiration. Free admission with food donation to CW Foodbank.

ferguslionsclub.org

Apr 25 to May 9

Calendar of events beginning from

April 25 to May 9, 2015

//FUNDAMENTALLY SPEAKING

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

[email protected] or follow him on Twitter

at Twitter.com/WayneKarl

» by WAYNE KARL

What’s in a new-home warranty?

MORE DRASTIC IS ANOTHER EXAMPLE INVOLVING 23 HOMES BY ONE BUILDER IN ONE DEVELOPMENT IN ONTARIO, ALSO, THANKFULLY, BACKED BY TARION:» After the homes were built, the

water table shifted, causing di� erential soil settlements

» � e problems arose three to � ve years after construction

» 23 homes were monitored and repaired over a period of � ve years

» 10 homes required major repairs – causing the homeowners to be relocated to hotels for an average of 38 days

� e cost to Tarion to rectify the matter? More than $5 million.

� e cost to homeowners? Zero. � e bene� t of having the peace of

mind of a Tarion backed warranty? Priceless.

� ink that would happen if your home was built by an unregistered or illegal developer?

More and more builders, Tarion says, are improving their customer service. And it’s not just the large companies.

“� e advantage of using a small builder might be that you often get to know the principal,” says Tarion President Howard Bogach. “But large builders are closing the gap.

“� e large builders that do well are the ones that behave like small builders.”

And with real estate and new home prices rising, homebuyers, understand-ably, expect more.

So, what’s in a new-home warranty? In short, your builder is not just building your home, it’s building a relationship.

What’s in your new-home warranty? Ideally, that’s a question you’ll never have to answer for real – at least not the hard way, be it � ling a complaint or, worse, proceed-ing to a claim settlement.

But, life is sometimes not fair, and despite the best intentions of home builders, things do go wrong. To put it nicely – stu� happens.

Indeed, according to Tarion Warranty Corp., nearly every new home built has some form of defect. Such is life when you’re building outside, dealing with the elements and working with natural materials.

In most cases, issues get resolved, and builders large and small are getting better at responding to customer concerns.

Still, there are unscrupulous – or worse, illegal – builders that try to circumvent everything from relatively minor registration fees to taxes, all under the guise of

“saving you money.”But when there’s a problem or issue that needs to be

resolved, good luck.� at’s why it’s important to ensure your new home builder

is registered with Tarion – to provide the peace of mind that Tarion is backing the warranty, as well as to learn what parts of your new home are covered, for how long, and what the steps and procedures are.

BECAUSE STUFF DOES, INDEED, HAPPEN. TYPICAL EXAMPLES INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING, A TOP 10 LIST OF FIRST-YEAR CLAIMS:» Paint: inadequate application or coverage» Doors: improperly installed or � nished» Floors: Damaged, cracked or installed with gaps» Drywall: Blemishes on walls, ceilings or corners» Stairs/steps: Inadequately built» Water/moisture: Moisture inside the home» Concrete: Cracking» Baseboards: Improperly installed» Trims: Improperly installed or � nished» Cabinets/vanities: Improperly installed or � nished

You can understand how prevalent such “defects” would be in new homes, and how action is required in many cases. Nine times out of 10, for homes backed by Tarion, they’re resolved without issue.


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Southwestern Ontario New Home and Condo Guide - Apr 25, 2015

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Transcript of Southwestern Ontario New Home and Condo Guide - Apr 25, 2015