Central Alberta Homes Winter 2012

4 cen t r a l a lb er ta h o m es w i n t er 2012

w i n t er 2012 cen t r a l a lb er ta h o m es 5

winter 2012 | issue 02

market overview

11 Numbers game Housing starts, average house

prices up from last year

feature

12 Condomania Popularity of low maintenance lifestyle

growing in Central Alberta

21 Screaming neighbours And other things you should be aware of

when buying a new home

show home profiles

15 Loving Laebon living Aurora model combines fine finishings

and environmentally friendly features

18 Power to the people Landmark ’s Madrid 28 show home

a model of energy efficiency

community

23 Habitat for Humanity Providing a heaping helping

of hospitality for those in need

25 Stand by your pan A few helpful fire prevention tips

industry news

26 New directors announced CHBA – Central Alberta members

committed to excellence

cover photo: landmark homes madrid 28 Photo by norma robertson@CHBACA1@chbaca1

12

26

departments

6 Message from the Executive Officer

9 Getting to Know…

30 Member List

15 25

contents


message from the executive officer

CANADIAN HOME BUILDERS’ ASSOCIATION – CENTRAL ALBERTA represents professionals in the housing industry. CHBA – Central Alberta has been in existence for over 55 years and is a network of professionals that manages industry issues to provide value to our members.

10, 7895 - 49th Avenue Red Deer, Alberta T4P 2B4Tel: 403.346.5321 Toll-free: 1.888.346.-5329Fax: 403.342.1301 Toll-free: 1.877.342.1301E-mail: [email protected]

Denie Olmstead | Executive Officer [email protected]

Joan Butler | Executive [email protected]

PUBLISHED By Source Media Group Corp. 207, 5809 Macleod Trail S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2H 0J9Tel: 403.532.3101, Fax: 403.532.3109 Toll free: 1.888.932.3101Email: [email protected]

AssOciAte PuBlisher | Jim Zang Art DirectOr | Jean Faye Rodriguez

GrAPhic DesiGners | Lama Azhari, Dave Macaulay, Megan Sereda

PrODuctiOn cO-OrDinAtOr | Colleen Leier

cOntriButOrs | Jason Brink, Aaliya Essa, Leslie Greentree, Laurie Hodges Humble,Tanis Reid, Norma Roberston

AccOuntinG | Donna Roberts

DirectOr Of sAles | Norma [email protected]

ADvertisinG sAles | Andrea [email protected]

Copyright 2012 by Source Media Group Corp. Material

cannot be reprinted in whole or in part without the express

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Corp. agrees to advertise on behalf of the advertiser

without responsibility for claims or misinformation made

by the advertiser and acts only as an advertising medium.

Source Media Group Corp reserves the right to refuse any

advertising at its sole discretion.

Central Alberta Homes is published quarterly and is

distributed to every member of the Canadian Home

Builers’ Association – Central Alberta, as well as on free

stands throughout the region.

RetuRn undeliveRable Canadian addResses to source Media Group Corp., 207 - 5809 Macleod trail s.W., Calgary, ab t2H 0J9. Publication Agreement # 41072011

Sincerely,

Denie OlmsteadExecutive Officer

CHBA – Central Alberta

Season’s greetings! AND WELCOME TO the second edition of Central Alberta Homes, the magazine

dedicated to helping you find your new home. Inside every edition you’ll find a

variety of articles designed to help you in your search: from ‘inside’ industry news,

to expert advice, to profiles of new communities and show homes.

Last time out, our major feature story was a comprehensive overview of the

Central Alberta housing market, basically a summary of who is building what

and where. This time, our feature focus zeros

in on a more specific market segment as

we examine the future of condominium in

Central Alberta. Just what is a condo? Who

builds them, and where? Another feature

article, entitled Screaming Neighbours, goes

into even more detail, identifying some of the

factors buyers should take into consideration

when considering buying a new condo (or

single-family home, for that matter).

As for industry news, we’ve got our regular

Getting To Know… profile of a key player in

the local market, updated housing starts

data from Canada Mortgage and Housing

Corporation (CMHC), an introduction to the

new CHBA – Central Alberta board of directors and, of course, a complete listing of

our member businesses.

On the community front, we have pieces on Habitat For Humanity and Winter

Fire Safety.”

Two of the area’s premier home builders are also featured in this edition —

Laebon Homes and Landmark Homes — with a three-page walk-through profile

of a couple of great show homes. It’s one thing to see these on the internet, but it’s

something else completely to actually walk through the homes, see the details

and touch the textures. We do the best we can in these magazine articles, but

there’s simply no substitute for the real thing and we invite you to visit the show

homes themselves if you have the chance. Also, lastly, a correction notice from

last edition. Bruin’s Plumbing and Heating Ltd. should have been listed as a finalist

for the Safety Leadership Awards in our safety article and we somehow forgot to

mention them. Our apologies, Marty, and keep up the good work.

In the meantime, have a Merry Christmas, a safe and happy New year,

and we’ll see you in 2013!



Dan OuwehandPast President, CHBA – Central Alberta

Multi-tasking just comes natural to

some people, and Dan Ouwehand

is one of them.

As the manager of Safety and Contract

Sales at Carpet Colour Centre, Dan’s day-

to-day job is to oversee safety operations

and paperwork, and to develop contractor

programs that “match our services to their

specific needs”.

He’s also Past President of CHBA – Central

Alberta (CHBA – CA), is a sitting member

of the CHBA – CA and CHBA – Alberta

Board of Directors, is the CHBA – CA

representative on the City of Red Deer

Housing Options Working Group, and a

member of the CHBA – CA Executive and

Membership Services Committee.

getting to know…

And, since all work and no play would

make Dan a dull boy, he’s no less devoted

to spending time with his young family. His

wife, Caryn, works for the City’s recreation

department and they have a four-year-old

son, Silas, who is obsessed with trains.

Somehow, amongst all this activity, Dan

still finds time to pursue his own personal

passion — triathlon. Triathlon, which

involves a combination of distance running,

swimming and cycling, is definitely not for

the faint of heart. It requires tremendous

dedication and commitment, qualities Dan

exemplifies in all walks of life. He completed

his first Olympic-length triathlon this past

summer.

Dan and his family love living in Red Deer

for many reasons. “Central Alberta

is a growing, thriving region,” he says.

“It’s a great place to get established and

raise a young family. The people here are

hard working, and care deeply about

where they live.”

His advice to would-be homeowners: Get

references before you hire a builder. Or, he

says, check with the CHBA. That is, after

all, one of the reasons they exist: to be a

resource to new buyers.


costs, lower required incomes, smaller

ownership premia and competitive

resale prices.” Vacancies will drop below

three per cent and a stronger rental

demand will push average two-bedroom

apartment rental rates to above $840.

As of October, 2012, the year-to-date

average house price in the city of Red Deer

is $307,711. That’s up 6.73 per cent from

last year. Outside the city, for the same

time period, the Central Alberta regional

average house price is $279,979 at almost

exactly the same increase as the city at

6.76 per cent.

Around the provinceCMHC released its fourth quarter Housing

Market Outlook on November 5. According

Numbers gameHousing starts, average house prices up from last yearBy jASON Br iNK

According to the Canada Mortgage

and Housing Corporation’s latest

figures, total housing starts in

Central Alberta are up 30 per cent from

January of 2011 to September 2012 with

a 16 per cent increase in single-detached

homes and a 61 per cent increase in multi-

family homes. While the entire region is

experiencing healthy numbers, perhaps

most notable is Sylvan Lake’s unparalleled

growth in multi-family housing starts with

an incredible 789 per cent increase from

nine multi-family starts in 2011 to eighty

as of September 2012.

Régine Durand, Market Analyst for

CMHC, says total housing starts for the

city of Red Deer will rise 15 per cent in

2012 and six per cent in 2013, sustained by

increased lot selection, lower inventories,

less resale competition and a continued

positive job outlook. Durand describes Red

Deer’s full time job growth, lower carrying

costs, and a smaller cost differential

between renting and owning, as “a healthy

housing bundle” for those looking to

buy. “MLS® sales will expand 14 per cent

this year and 2.4 per cent next year,” she

says, “ignited by below-average carrying

to their best estimates, total housing starts

across Alberta are expected to decrease

by four per cent next year to 31,200 units

after a 26 per cent gain in 2012. However,

Alberta will continue to enjoy relatively

strong demand for housing in the months to

come. After rising by 15 per cent this year,

CMHC expects single-detached housing

starts across Alberta to remain relatively

stable in 2013 at close to 17,600 units. Multi-

family starts are expected to end 2012 at

14,900 units, representing an increase of

42 per cent from 2011. Next year, multi-

unit activity will moderate to 13,600 units

representing a decrease of almost nine per

cent. The moderation next year is expected

as developers adjust production to avoid

excess inventory.

Total housing starts in Central Alberta are up 30 per cent from January of 2011 to September 2012 with a 16 per cent increase in single-detached homes and a 61 per cent increase in multi-family homes.

market overview


land. The main difference between condos

and regular single family homes is that

there is no individual ownership of a plot

of land. All of the land in a condominium

project is owned in common by all of the

homeowners.

Unlike an HOA (Homeowners

Association), a condominium is a

registered corporation. Essentially, you

own a “share” of the corporation equal

to the value of your unit, plus a share

of all common property based on the

total number of units. Condos also have

condo boards and, typically, condo fees.

The condo board is an elected group of

resident-owners responsible for enforcing

bylaws and maintaining common property.

Condo fees are monthly dues paid by the

homeowner for a proportionate share of

common expenses. These fees are generally

based on the value of your unit and are

used by the condominium corporation

for things like grounds maintenance,

insurance for the exterior walls and roof,

and a reserve fund. A reserve fund is like

a savings account intended for special

common expenditures that may come

up in the future, such as security system

upgrades, fencing, paving, etc.

Condo living appeals not just to those

seeking a reprieve from yard work

and repairs, but also to those seeking

immediate access to on-site amenities.

Whether it’s snow shoveling

fatigue, lawn mowing tedium,

or maybe just the pleasant

ring of “maintenance free lifestyle”, there

are plenty of reasons why more and more

Central Albertans are choosing condo

living over single-family style housing.

We’ll take a look at what’s available in the

condominium market in Red Deer and

beyond, focusing on some of the most

recent developments by members of the

Canadian Home Builders Association –

Central Alberta.

First of all, let’s establish what a condo

is exactly. A condo can be a high or low

rise apartment style unit, a townhome,

a semi-detached bungalow, or even bare

The main difference between condos and regular single-family homes is that there is no individual ownership of a plot of land.

CondomaniaPopularity of low maintenance lifestyle growing in Central Alberta

By jASON Br iNK

feature

Many condominiums in Central Alberta

feature gyms, games rooms, meeting spaces

and media rooms. Whether you’re young,

retired, or making the jump from renting to

homeownership, when shopping for a condo

you’re also choosing a lifestyle that best

suits your needs and your budget.

While acknowledging that the local condo

market took a hit during the last few years

due to the recession, Lisa Buckingham,

president of the Canadian Home Builders

Association – Central Alberta, says, “Condo

prices haven’t increased significantly

over the last five years and are still at a

good price point, especially for first-time

homebuyers.” Buckingham points to a

diverse range of condo projects already built

or in the works in Red Deer, Penhold, Sylvan

Lake, Lacombe, Springbrook and Blackfalds.

Photo by jason Brink


Looking for something right now in

Red Deer? In Clearview Ridge you’ll find

the modern townhouse community of

Verde with 150 units already half sold,

starting at $240,000 and averaging 1,100-

1,200 square-feet in size. Verde, by Avalon

Central Alberta, is a Holmes Approved

Homes™ community, meaning Canada’s

favourite handyman, Mike Holmes, and

his crew come out eight times during

construction to conduct inspections

and make sure everything is built right

before giving their endorsement.

“There are definitely some major

differences in what we’re building in Verde

compared to other communities,” says

Kevin Schreder of Avalon Central Alberta.

Most notable among these differences is

Verde’s use of BluWood™ on the outside

with Eco Spray foam insulation, triple

glazed windows, and Hardie Board™ siding.

Verde offers five different two-storey plans

in either two or three bedroom layouts.

Just to the east, in the community of

Timberstone, is Laebon Homes’ dynamic

new condo development, 2020 Condos.

Slated for completion by the end of next

“There are definitely some major differences in what we’re building in Verde compared to other communities.”

Kevin Schreder

Phot

os a

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f the

Ver

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year, these multi-family units are available

in six different floor plans. One-bedroom

units at 685 square-feet start at $151,900

while the two bed/two bath plus media

room units start at $183,900 and are up to

1,077 square-feet. All units have nine-foot

ceilings, big windows, premium cushioned

vinyl flooring or carpet (with hardwood

upgrades available on the ground floor) and

everyone gets a deck with a natural gas

hook up.

2020 allows small pets and all units

come with Whirlpool appliances and

computer and phone charging stations.

“It’s an amazing place for first time

homebuyers,” says Laebon’s Deloris Walker,

“especially for singles or professional

couples looking for both style and value.”

For a taste, visit the 2020 show home at

31A Timberstone Way just off 55th Street.

Another elegant local condo project

worth mentioning is Brava, a 55-unit

luxury residential development by Hafso

Development. Located in south Red Deer

with views of the Waskasoo Creek valley,

Brava boasts clean lines, glass balconies

and an impressive array of amenities.

These include a games room, movie room,

exercise room, meeting room and rooftop

patio. Most remaining units feature two

bedrooms/two bathrooms, and average

900-1,200 square-feet, ranging in price

from $260,000 to the high $300,000s.

For year round resort-inspired condo

living outside of Red Deer, you’ll want

to explore Sommerset condominiums,

located in Sylvan Lake’s southwest

community of Lakeway Landing. Just

five minutes from the Sylvan Lake Golf

and Country Club, Sommerset features

modern fitness facilities, contemporary

design and heated underground

parking. Units range from $150,000 for

877 square-feet to $400,000 for 1,336

square-feet. Recognized in 2006 by the

Canadian Home Builders’ Association

as the “Best Community Development

in Central Alberta”, Sommerset is

within walking distance to two new

schools and is adjacent to a park area

with paths and recreational fields.

Mason Martin Homes are busy

putting the finishing touches on octo-

plex condo units in Springbrook, Red

Deer’s closest bedroom community.

At around $180,000 and just under

1,000 square-feet, these two bedroom/

two bath condos include all appliances

and master bedroom walk-in closets.

Glennstar Builders Group has a

multi-family site under construction in

Lacombe’s Iron Wolf community located

in the town’s southeast corner. Iron Wolf

Place bi-level condos that are already

built are listed at $239,950 for three

bedroom 1,600-square-foot homes.

There’s a lot more going on in the

Central Alberta condo market, but this

should serve as a snapshot of what

some CHBA – CA member builders

are building. Keep an eye on other

sites already in place for multi-family

developments including Hawkridge

Estates in Penhold, Cottonwood

Meadows in Blackfalds, and River Pointe

in Red Deer’s Westlake community.

“its an amazing place for first time home buyers, especially for singles or professional couples looking for both style and value.”

feature

Deloris Walker in Laebon’s 2020 show suite

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show home profile

Loving Laebon livingAurora model combines fine finishings and enivronmentally friendly features

STOry By TANiS rEid

PHOTOS COurTESy LAEBON HOMES

Since 1976, Laebon Homes has been creating homes

and communities that embody a commitment to

craftsmanship, design and innovation and their latest

Aurora show home located at 6 Traptow Close in Timberstone

is no exception.

This three bedroom, two-and-a-half bath, 2,494-square-

foot house is impressive even before you step inside, with

features such as painted fibreglass doors and a front verandah

with aluminum picket railing. The front landscaping has been

completed, including sod.

Laebon has used what they call their EcoSavvy elements

throughout the home to make the building more efficient and

to leave less of a carbon footprint.

In the interior this includes a digital programmable

thermostat with summer fan switch and filter indicator, a John

Wood Power Direct vent high-efficiency hot water tank and a

Coleman 95 per cent efficiency furnace. The environmental

friendliness does not end there, however, as this Aurora home

has been decked out to show some of the upgrades Laebon

Homes has to offer.


“Usually we build all of our show homes

to spec, meaning there are no upgrades in

them at all, this makes it easy for home

owners to see what exactly it is that they

are getting when they purchase the house,”

says Ryan Melbourne, marketing co-

ordinator at Laebon Homes. “But for this

one we did a bunch of upgrades to show

people what we can do.”

One of the rooms that has received

many upgrades is the kitchen, which

features hardwood floors, granite counter

tops, built-in coffee/cappuccino maker,

wine fridge, high-end commercial

appliances, high quality and stylish

plumbing fixtures, full height tile

backsplash and industrial sized sink.

“Another big bonus is the walk-through

pantry right off the kitchen,” says

Melbourne. This makes bringing groceries

in from the 22 by 22-foot garage a snap as

you can take them directly through the

pantry on your way to the kitchen.

“usually we build all of our show homes to spec, meaning there are no upgrades in them at all, this makes it easy for home owners to see what exactly it is that they are getting when they purchase the house.”

show home profile


kids’ bedrooms, a full bath complete with a

laundry shoot, and a master bedroom with

ensuite and walk-in closet/dressing room in

the 1,286-square-foot upper floor plan.

The entire master suite is luxurious,

with tray ceilings in the sleeping area and

his and her sinks, soaker tub and stand-up

shower with beautiful tiles in the ensuite.

In the lower level, the basement in this

show home is unfinished but is full of

potential with a developable area of 836

square-feet. There is room for another

two bedrooms downstairs, another full

four-piece bath with dual sinks and a large

family room as well as plenty of room

for storage. The show home is priced at

around $486,000, but other Laebon homes

in Red Deer start in the $279,000 range.

show home profile

These features make the kitchen feel high-

end, but it is the huge island with the eating

bar that truly makes it feel like a family home.

If a more formal dining experience is desired,

the dining room,

with a beautiful tray ceiling, is just off of the

kitchen and also has access to the rear deck

and backyard.

The main floor offers some other fabulous

highlights, including the gas fireplace

in the living room that is surrounded

with a gorgeous multi-tone stone feature

wall, and a curved staircase that leads

to the second level of the house.

Upstairs brings you to a spacious bonus

room which is perfect for an entertainment

or theatre room. The show home features

a 50-inch flat screen television built into a

recess in the wall but, of course, this can be

custom built to suit the size of your television.

“We are fully customizable,” says Melbourne.

“Whatever you want, we can build it.”

In addition to the bonus room there are two

For more information and show home hours

please visit www.laebon.com


“Sustainability and green technology are what Landmark Homes are all about.”

show home profile

Power to the peopleLandmark’s Madrid 28 show home a model of energy efficiency

story by LesL ie Greentree • photos by norma robertson

When you walk into the

Landmark Homes show home

at 100 Timberstone Way, the

first thing to strike you is the spacious,

contemporary feel. What isn’t obvious at a

glance are the many green features that are

standard on all Landmark homes.

The Madrid 28 home features triple

pane windows, which are estimated to be

225 per cent more energy efficient than

dual panes; they also act as a great sound

barrier. When you add in low-flow shower

heads and faucets, high-efficiency toilets,

a programmable recirculating hot water

system that brings hot water on demand,

Energystar appliances and CFL lightbulbs,

not to mention a nice boost of solar panel

power, Landmark homeowners can expect

to save an average of between $500 – $1,000

annually on utilities.

When those savings are wrapped up in a

beautiful four bedroom home with a double

attached garage, your new home begins to

seem like a simple choice.

“Sustainability and green technology are

what Landmark homes are all about,” says

Karen Jackshaw, area sales representative

for Landmark Homes. Pair those green

features with a floor plan that’s almost

irresistible to a young family, and it’s no

wonder Landmark has already sold five

homes based on the 2,330-square-foot show

home floor plan.

Immediately on entering, the airy,

contemporary feel draws you in, past the

open metal staircase into a large, sunny

living room, kitchen and dining area. Deep

brick-coloured walls surround the fireplace

on the living room feature wall, lending a

dramatic tone that is offset by cool light

blue and mocha tones, a hardwood floor,

and whimsical lighting and accents.

The kitchen veers back to the dramatic,

boasting a large island and eating bar, and

raised maple cabinets with light quartz

countertops. Featuring stainless steel

appliances and a funky glass mosaic full

backsplash, the kitchen flows into a roomy,

bright dining area with French doors to the

deck, creating an inviting gathering space

that’s sure to be the heart of the home. A

convenient two-piece bathroom is located

just behind the kitchen and near the

unobtrusive laundry area.

It’s the details that make this floor plan so

attractive: the charming glass-doored flex

room on the main floor could be put to use

as a den, extra bedroom or media room, and

the second level bonus room that greets you

at the top of the stairs will knock your socks

off — as large as the main floor living room,

this room features huge windows on two

sides and glows with warmth.


show home profile

Photo by Leslie Greentree


…the Landmark show home melds dramatic effect with comfort in a shining example of creative layout and environmental responsibility…

show home profile

For more information and show home hours

please visit www.landmarkgroup.ca

Just off the bonus room, the dreamy

master bedroom features a large walk-

in closet and an ensuite with standing

shower, separate soaker tub, and an

extended vanity with his and hers

sinks. The flooring repeats the funky tile

pattern from the main floor hallway.

Closets and a second four-piece bath

separate the master suite from the rest

of the second floor, creating an effect of

privacy and charm as the hallway winds to

the other three bedrooms.

This attention to detail is carried

throughout the show home: dramatic

three-inch baseboards and door frames

are topped by classic four and a half inch

door headers that bring the classic and the

contemporary together for an effect that is

both elegant and playful.

Detail is what homebuyers know to

expect from Landmark Homes, whether

in the visible design elements that

create this bright, inviting space, or in

the structural elements designed to

minimize environmental impacts.

The Landmark Homes philosophy of

sustainability and responsibility also

includes warranties above the industry

norm. “We offer a two-year builder service

warranty and a 10-year Alberta New Home

Warranty,” Jackshaw says. “That’s twice the

industry average.”

Located in the new Timberlands

development at 100 Timberstone Way, the

Landmark show home melds dramatic

effect with comfort in a shining example

of creative layout and environmental

responsibility, all for just under $600,000.

The base price of the Madrid 28 model,

without upgrades, is $289,900.

Solar panels add energy efficiency


From its humble beginnings as a small

faith-based charitable organization,

the now national Habitat for Humanity

stays true to its original mission of breaking

the cycle of poverty.

“We are a charitable organization that

provides people with a hand up in obtaining

housing,” says Terry Balgobin, the President

and Chair of Habitat for Humanity Red Deer

(HHRD). “Habitat creates home owners,

giving people the opportunity to become

independent and move on with their lives.”

However, he stresses, “Habitat is not a

homeless organization. We cater to good

hardworking people who try real hard to

make a living and just need a break. There

is an application process; you obtain a

mortgage ... We provide a hand up, not a

hand out.”

Habitat for HumanityProviding a heaping helping of hospitality for those in need

By L Aur iE HOdGES HuMBLE

“What makes Habitat for Humanity

Red Deer unique is our business model of

Recycle and Re-Sell,” says Balgobin, who,

as owner of Artistry in Gold Design Studio

contributes his business management

expertise. “All cash donations go 100 per

cent to build homes. All administrative

costs are covered by funds raised in the

ReStore.” Administrative costs include an

Executive Director, a ReStore Manager

and store staff.

Habitat’s membership in the CBHA is

a valuable resource, he says, as “we build

houses and all their members build houses.

Members donate skills, expertise, and left-

over materials.”

One of their biggest challenge is donations

— building costs increase as do land prices

Habitat built this barrier free home in 2011 for a single mom with a

child who has cerebral palsy.

— and the CHBA plays an important role

here, too, with monetary donations.

Balgobin predicts the future of Habitat

for Humanity is possibly renovating homes.

“Buy a home for good value and renovate as

per the Habitat model.”

In fact, says Paula Madu, Habitat’s

Executive Director, “it’s because of their

(the CHBA) generosity we are currently

renovating one of the homes from one of

our previous Habitat home owners.”

“We provide a hand up, not a hand out.”

Visit www.habitatreddeer.ca for more

information on Habitat for Humanity red deer.

Their website provides all you need to

know about donating, volunteering,

the reStore and how to qualify for a

Habitat for Humanity home.

community

Paula madu at the restore


• What kind of amenities would you like in

a building? There are buildings that have

work out facilities, a wet spa/dry spa,

and so on. The condo fees would reflect

accordingly, though that would be money

you might be paying anyway to a gym,

which you could now just use at home.

• Is there parking? Underground or

outside? Is the spot outside covered?

• What size of a condo would you like?

• In-suite laundry or perhaps there might

be a coin laundry, which do you prefer?

• Do you want the top floor? Facing north

or south?

• How many bedrooms? Bathrooms?

• Do you have any pets? This may be

subject to approval by the condo board.

• Check into what rules may apply to you.

If the condo board does not consent, you

cannot live there, and that is that. Some

buildings also have age restrictions.

• What type of material is the building

made of? What year was this building

made in? Is the structure made

with post tension cables? If so what

Screaming neighboursAnd other things you should be aware of when buying a new home

By A AL iyA ESSA

if you’re looking at a new home and your

potential next-door neighbour comes out

of their home and yells at you, it’s probably

not a good sign. Such was my experience

recently when I went shopping for a new

condo; I was given a reality check that

there are some aspects to buying a home

that cannot be easily detected, like who my

neighbour may or may not be.

Maybe you can’t knock on doors and meet

all your new neighbours before you buy,

but you can look into lots of other things.

And, as one homebuyer to another, it pays

to know more than a little about what you

want in your home, what you can actually

afford (condo fees and all other expenses),

and, most importantly, where you would

like to live. And this is just the beginning.

WhAt type of home do you WAnt?If you want a condo there are different

types.

Condo, which is short for condominium,

is a shared building, where each owner

actually shares the building, plus the

maintenance responsibilities for the entire

building, together equally (subject to the

square-footage of their home unit). This is

where the need for condo fees comes into

play, the fees also cover insurance and

liability costs. This information can be

found in the condo documents, which may

be reviewed if and when you are interested

and are going to make an offer to purchase.

Following are a few of the more

important considerations to keep in mind

when searching for your new condo.

• Do you want an apartment style condo

or a townhome condo?

• How much are you able to pay for

condo fees?

percentage of the building is made with

this? Post tension cables were commonly

used in the 1970s, this was a standard

practice back in those days, not so much

anymore. These cables were used in

the concrete, to hold the structure up,

though not all buildings were completely

built to the top with the cables like

others. The concern is that moisture can

get into the spaces between the cables

and the concrete.

• Has there been a special assessment? A

special assessment is when the building

has had a structural issue and experts

have had to come in and assess the

building. This could just be regular

maintenance, as just like everything else

in life, buildings too get older, but it’s a

concern to look into nonetheless.

• The condo documents are to be reviewed

thoroughly. I personally recommend

having them reviewed by someone who

is accustomed to reading this type of

jargon on a regular basis and can explain

the details to you in layman’s terms.

feature


• Have you considered joining the condo

board? This is a great way to get to know

your neighbours, and know exactly how

healthy the building is — structurally,

financially and socially.

For single-family homes, the shopping list

is a little different. Single-family homes can

be a single-detached home or a side-by-side

home, but unlike condos, this home is all

yours. This means there are no monthly

fees, though if and when there is any

necessary maintenance to be taken care

of, you will be responsible for these issues

on your own. A personal word of advice:

keep your friends close and your trade and

contractor friends even closer.

WhAt do you WAnt to hAve in your home?• What size of home are you looking for?

• How many bedrooms and bathrooms do

you need?

• Do you need space for a home office?

Formal dining room area? A mudroom

off the garage?

• Built in shelving? Where in the home

would like the built ins?

• What kind of lighting fixtures would

you like? A chandelier? Contemporary

style or classic? What is your preference

of style?

• Do you want a developed basement?

Or just the roughing for a three-piece

bathroom for future renovations?

• What kind of parking facilities do you

need? For how many cars?

• Did you want a Built Green™ or net

zero home?

• Do you want tall ceilings? Arched

entrances?

• How large of a yard would you like to

have? Or would you prefer a xeriscaped

yard that has very little grass, and

consists mainly of shrubs.

Where do you WAnt to live?• Do you want to live in an inner city

community or in the suburbs?

• Do you want a home that faces north or

south? As this will determine whether

you will have direct sunlight coming into

your home if facing south, or not if facing

north, having an abundance of shade.

• How easy will it be to get to where you

work? How much will commuting cost?

• Where will your children go to school?

How will they get there?

• Do you need a safe walking area, or

recreational facility, such as a park,

nearby?

• Are stores, schools, recreation facilities,

restaurants, and health services within

walking or cycling distance?

• Are there nearby bus stops and cycling

lanes? How long is the bus ride to work,

or school?

• Do you have friends and/or family that

live close by? Would you like to live close

them?

• Would you like to have easy access to

main roads that lead out of the city?

Which direction do you prefer, north/

south/east/west?

• Do you prefer a new neighborhood

versus an established community?

• Does re-sale value matter to you? Is this

your home until the end of time? Or just

until you can move-up?

questions to Ask your builder• Is the company a member of the local

Home Builders’ Association?

• Does the company belong to a provincial

new home warranty program?

• How long has the company been in

business, and on average, how many

homes do they build annually?

• Where else have they built and/or are

they building now? (It’s worth a quick

tour to see if you like the finished

results.)

• What are the standard finishes? What

upgrades are available?

• When can construction begin, and when

can you expect to move in?

• Who will your contact person be, before

and during construction of your home?

• Would you be able to visit your home

during construction?

• How do you compare with other

builders? Why are your prices higher/

lower?

• What kind of warranty do you offer, and

what are the critical factors in evaluating

a warranty?

• Should I add a clause to the contract to

Buying a home is probably the biggest purchase you will ever make.

feature

ensure that any material installations

performed by your workers does not void

the warranties?

• Is there anything in your contract about

material changes? Don’t I have to give

you approval first?

• Are there any other hidden costs?

• How responsive and accountable are you

in terms of customer service? Are your

existing homeowners satisfied?

• Do they have references that you

could contact?

fyi• Taxes such as the Goods and Services

Tax (GST) (or, in certain provinces, the

Harmonized Sales Tax (HST)) apply to

a new home. However, you may qualify

for a rebate of part of the GST or HST

on homes that cost less than $450,000.

For more information about the GST

New Housing Rebate program, visit

the Canada Revenue Agency website at

www.cra-arc.gc.ca.

• A new home will have lower

maintenance costs because everything

is new, and many items are covered by

a warranty. you should set aside money

every year for future maintenance costs.

• The builder of the home may provide

a warranty. Be sure to check all the

conditions of the warranty. It can be

very important if a major system such as

plumbing, or heating, breaks down

• There is a variety of rules that apply

to each individual condo board, have

conditions made into your offer to avoid

mishaps later on down the road.

This is a brief overview, the tip of the

iceberg, if you will, of choices and decisions

to make. An idea of what to consider and

possibly what you may need to re-consider.

Buying a home is probably the biggest

purchase you will ever make. Be informed

and choose wisely.



community

More information on fire prevention and

safety can be found at www.reddeer.ca

under ‘Emergency Services’.

“The high cost of utilities and fuels

has caused many to search for

alternate sources of home heating,”

reports Fire Prevention Officer Wes Van

Bavel. “Wood stoves, space heaters and

fireplaces are the second cause of residential

fires. Combustibles should be kept one

metre away from heaters and fires… and

always use a CSA approved fire grate.”

It is crucial to maintain the upkeep of

wood stoves and fireplaces. “Ashes should

be stored in a metal container that is kept

away from combustibles, including wooden

decks. Flues should be professionally

cleaned based on use — for regular use

that is once a year,” says Van Bavel.

When conducting home renovations Van

Bavel says, “it is very important to obtain

permits and have the installation approved

by building inspectors.”

A rule of thumbs: “Unattended cooking is

the number one cause of residential fires

— putting lives, property and fire fighters

at risk,” says Van Bavel. “Open pot grease

fires are the main culprit. For this reason

these pots should be replaced with CSA

approved, sealed deep fat fryers.”

wes Van bavel

“unattended cooking is the number one cause of residential f ires – putting lives,property and f iref ighters at risk...”

“Smoking and candles rank third and

fourth in causes of residential fires, followed

by overloaded electrical outlets,” says Van

Bavel. “Don’t smoke in bed. After smokers

leave, check around furniture for dropped

smoking materials, and leave large, deep

ashtrays for smokers to use. The rule for

candles is quite simple: never leave candles

unattended, and ‘if you go out, blow out’.”

Defective cords and using indoor extension

cords outside are just two causes of

electrical fires.

Van Bavel reminds all residents to

practice fire prevention. “Smoke alarms

should be tested monthly and replaced

every ten years. As well, have a fire escape

plan and conduct practice drills.”

Stand by your panA few helpful f ire prevention tips

story by L aur ie hodGes humbLe • photo by norma robertson


New directors announcedCHBA – Central Alberta members committed to excellence

The Canadian Home Builders’

Association – Central Alberta Region

is pleased to announce the new board

of directors, resulting from the recent

Annual General Meeting which was held

September 26, 2012. Lisa Buckingham of

Trail Appliances was appointed President,

Kevin Wilkie of True-Line Homes was ap-

pointed the position of 1st Vice President,

John Christie was elected as 2nd Vice

President, and Dan Ouwehand of Carpet

Colour Centre — Carpet One became Past

Chair. Leigh Stuart of Red Deer Overdoor

remains on the executive as Treasurer. New

Directors elected to the Board for a two

year term were Brad Lashmar of Central

Alberta Tile One, Pam Cameron of Asset

Builders, Troy Walker of Laebon Homes, and

John deRegt of Wolf Creek Building Supplies

Ltd. Re-elected Director for an additional

two year term was Gregg Broks of Melcor

Developments. Returning Directors serving

their second year of a two year term were

Lori Erickson of Landmark Homes, Mike

Bray of Bowood Homes, and Tim Jackson of

Audio Integrations.

Front row, L-r: john Christie, Kevin Wilkie, Lisa Buckingham, Leigh Stuart, dan Ouwehand

Back row, L-r: denie Olmstead (CHBA – CA Executive Officer), Pam Cameron, Brad Lashmar,

Tim jackson, Mike Bray, Troy Walker, john deregt, Lori Erickson, Gregg Broks.Photo by Tanis reid

industry news


adveRtisinG FeatuRe

Doormasters inc.

business PRoFile

When it comes down to find-ing the best custom door manufacturer in Central Alberta, you don’t have to

be a detective to know it’s an open and shut case.

doormasters inc. has literally been opening doors in red deer and area for the past 25 years. Since they opened for business on december 1, 1987, owners dan Murdock and Audrey Egilsson have worked hard to create a strong, respected and well received overhead door specialist com-pany — and their business has continued to expand and grow since then.

“We just did the best we could,” says Egilsson. “dan went out with our one employee and installed the doors and i stayed back in our 180-square-foot shop and did everything else.”

their customers with whatever they may be looking for.

For example, years ago a customer asked doormasters for a garage door that would let more light into their shop. dan and Audrey put their heads together and created the Sunshine door, a door that has outstanding light transmission and great temperature control. The first Sunshine door was installed at Executive Home Build-ing Supply in red deer in july 1997.

This Sunshine door is an overhead door application that consists of panels made from polycarbonate sheet product. The triple wall polycarbonate is virtually indestructible and is energy efficient. This material offers thermal insulation, excellent impact resistance and out-standing light transmission. Not only is it used in many businesses, such as car washes and car and rV dealerships, but also in commer-cial properties. These materials are the standard material used in greenhouses for temperature control. The Sunshine door comes with an unconditional 10 year warranty, another example of door-masters’ dedication to their customers.

What all this goes to prove is that doormasters is never satisfied with the status quo.

“We want to keep our support in the community, and that’s very important, since the community is also our customers.”

Murdock admits that the first year was tough. “in some ways we didn’t know what we were doing, and we still don’t know it all, but after 25 years we’re obviously doing something right. Business is increasing and our customers are happy.”

indeed, customer service is what sets doormasters apart from other companies. They take great pride in each and every job they do and are always eager to assist


adveRtisinG FeatuRe

A quarter centur y of customer service and satisfaction

business PRoFile

Whether it’s pioneering the Sunshine door, or manufacturing custom carriage doors, there is not much that they cannot do with an overhead door.

They are always looking for new ways to customize and improve customers’ over-head doors. Whether it’s pioneering the Sunshine door, or manufacturing custom carriage doors, there is not much that they cannot do with an overhead door. dan and Audrey love a challenge and encour-age customers to give them a call when they need a “special door”.

Supporting the red deer community is another goal that is very important to the company. “We want to keep our support in the community, and that’s very important, since the community is also our customers,” says dan.

The long list of projects they’re involved in includes the Festival of Trees, ronald Mcdonald House, providing doors for lottery houses and, perhaps most proudly, sponsoring deidra dionne, a young freestyle skier from red deer who became an Olympic bronze medalist in 2002. When dionne was an up and coming

Olympic hopeful, doormasters saw an inspiring young athlete and sponsored her throughout her career. Their current project is helping build a home in San Salvador.

Over the years, doormasters has been recognized for their achievements. The Creative door Services Ltd. awarded doormasters inc. the President’s Award with appreciation of Outstanding Performance in 2005/2006. in 2007, Chamberlain Professional Products gave them the Award of Excellence for Outstanding Sales, installation and Service. They are also a past winner of the international door dealer of the year award. Most recently they were nominated as a finalist as 2011 Business of the year from the red deer Chamber of Commerce.

Adds Audrey, “we’ve been very fortunate with the staff and customers we have and the future looks just great.” n

Sunshine Door

member list

aabbey master buildersalfano homesall weather windowsallrose exteriorsammonite Developments inc.aries/air flo heating & air conditioningartistic stairs ltdasset builders corp.atco Gasaudio integrationsavalon central alberta

bb&b cowie insulation ltd ben’s Glass & marblebildex construction ltdbomaier Developments ltd.bowood incbruins Plumbing & heatingburnco rock Productsbusse homes ltdbuylo homes ltd

ccanada mortgage & housing corpcanadian closet & storage co.candel homescan-air heating and air conditioning ltd.carolina homes inccarpet colour centrecentral alberta Flooring/hotck holdings ltd.central alberta realtors associationcentral alberta tile onecentral stoneworks ltdcheryl Vold interior Designchristenson Developmentscity of red Deer (inspections Dept)cKGY Fm/ciZZ Fmclearview Glass service ltd.coast wholesale appliances lPcolbray homes ltdcommunications Group red Deer ltdcomplete Flooring solutions incconsolidated Gypsum supply ltdcottonwood meadows (chw land management ltd.)counterscapescunningham electric ltd

dDeer run homes (1990) ltdDominion lending centre regional mortgage GroupDoormasters incDurabuilt windows & DoorsDynovac industries inc

eeagle ridge homes corpemco corp.executive builders Group

fFalcon homes ltdFanta homes ltdFargey’s Paint & wallcoveringFindmynewhouseFresh renovations

gGeneral appliances lacombe ltd.Gienow windows & DoorsGilmar constructionGlobal overhead Doors ltdGoodmen roofing ltd.G&r builders innisfail ltd

hhabitat for humanity - red Deerharbour spasharvard broadcasting (100.7 Fm the river)havan built custom homes henry’s eavestroughing ltdheywood holmes & Partnershome building centrehome renewalshomestead custom carpentry inc.howard & company inc.huntwood custom cabinets ltd

iinland concrete ltd

jJade stone (red Deer) ltd.JelD-wen windows and DoorsJim Pattison broadcast GroupJorgenson homes ltd

kKcb cabinetsKnelsen rock Products ltd

llaebon homeslafarge canada inclakeside rona building centrelandmark homes (red Deer) inclarkaun homes ltdlevi-rio custom home builders ltd

mmalibu communitiesmarshall construction co. inc.mason martin homesmcGonigal signature homes inc.m.c. homes ltd.mcKee homes ltdmelcor Developments ltd mr. Fireplace

nnational home warranty northland construction supplies

oolds collegeoriel windows & Doors

pParadise homes corp. Parkland community Planning servicesParkland Drywalling ltdPhoenix insurance Group of red Deer incPlatinum homes & DevelopmentsProfessional home builders institute of albertaProform Precast Products inc.Progressive home warranty solutions incPly Gem

rrainy creek Developmentsrealty investments corporationred Deer advocatered Deer co-op home and Garden centrered Deer countyred Deer college red Deer electricred Deer expressred Deer Fasteners & toolsred Deer lightingred Deer overdoorriser homes ltdrbc royal bank rona revy inc.royal lePage network realty corp

sserges homes ltdservus credit Union ltdsiderman ltdsigns nowsml Games & hot tubssnell & oslund surveys (1979) ltdsoderquist appraisals ltdsorento custom homes ltdsource media Groupstevenson homesstoneworx masonry & stucco inc.sunny 94 Fmsylvan lake homes ltd

ttar-ific construction ltdthermo Pro insulation ltd.the alberta new home warrantytimber wolf truss ltd.touch canada brodcasting (2006) inc.trail appliances ltdtrue-line homes

u-zUnique elevationswestridge cabinets ltdwindow masters incwindsor Plywoodwolf creek building supplies ltdZybertech construction software services ltdZytech building systems inc


Documents

Central Alberta Homes Winter 2012