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a showcase of new homes

Find your dream home. It’s a great time to shop for a brand-new home. Whether it’s a single-family home, condo or townhouse, the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association has lined up an amazing array of showhomes to tour with its spring Open House: A Showcase of New Homes event May 13 to 16. Come and see the latest offerings.

Nearly 50 showhomes will open their doors to you. Map your route

with our easy locator map » 12

Building excitementCover photo: Cressey’s High Point is just one of the not-to-be-missed homes on the tour.

2 O P E N H O U S E S p r i n g 2 0 1 0 | G V H B A S h o w c a s e o f N e w H o m e s

open house

fall 2009

a showcase of new homes

Hit the idea trail at the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association’s spring event Open House: A Showcase of New Homes. Find out what’s new in home design, inside and out, from wallpaper to faucets to landscaping. Incorporate new décor ideas and trends in your own home, or better yet, become inspired to purchase a brand-new home. Learn how to take full advantage of Open House.

Publisher: Fiona Harris • 604-575-5822 • [email protected]: Tricia Leslie • 604-575-5346 • [email protected] Advertising Sales - Black Press National Sales • Melissa Bencze • 604-575-58317 • [email protected]: Brad Smith • [email protected] • Martin Knowles, www.mkphotomedia.com; Rob Newell, www.robnewellphotography.ca

Open House / Showcase of New Homes is published by Black Press Group Ltd. (Suite 309 - 5460 152 Street, Surrey, B.C. V3S 5J9) 350,000 copies are distributed free across Metro Vancouver. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited.

4 Why buy a home? Local housing industry experts tell us why purchasing a home is a good investment.

5 Column: Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association CEO Peter Simpson welcomes everyone to Open House.

9 The door is open. Find out what Open House: A Showcase of New Homes is all about and why you shouldn’t miss it.

12 X marks the spot. A map of Metro Vancouver will help you find your way to the showhomes on tour in Open House.

27 Still a lot of choice. See what the experts expect in our housing market.

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GVHBA vice-president of marketing and education Wendy McNeil welcomes couple Colin Barnard and Leah Stark to one of the showhomes featured in Open House: A Showcase of New Homes at Morningstar’s Pepin Brook in Abbotsford. Martin Knowles photo

O P E N H O U S E S p r i n g 2 0 1 0 | G V H B A S h o w c a s e o f N e w H o m e s 3

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Buying a home: a sound investment

MAGGIE CALLOWAY

The general consensus is, any time is a good time to invest in Canadian real estate.

The question some may ask is, does this apply to the unique Metro Vancouver market?

British Columbia Real Estate Association chief economist Cameron Muir says that historically, home ownership in Canada has proven to be a solid hedge against inflation, and notes that the net worth of homeowners, in the long-term, is many times that of home renters.

“Home ownership, while it has investment attributes, also has quality-of-life attributes, which most Canadians aspire towards,” Muir says.

Several studies have been conducted on the value of renting versus home ownership, including a University of British Columbia study, he adds.

“The studies show that if you rent and take the excess income, if any, and invest it, you would probably be equal over time. This approach, of course, demands a certain amount of discipline and astuteness as an investor,” says Muir.

Timing the market can be a problematic strategy.Muir says it is difficult even for professionals to time the

market, let alone the average consumer.“Over the years I have had so many people say to me, ‘I am going

to sell my home now and I’m going to buy back when the market

crashes,’” Muir says.“Well, home prices today are the highest they have been ever – certainly in Vancouver they are posting new records – so

that kind of strategy can be fraught with risk.”New lending rules introduced by the federal govern-

ment came into effect April 19, but most experts agree they won’t dampen the market too much where homebuy-

ing is concerned, at least, not for owner-occupiers.Muir notes that the number of people investing in real es-

tate outside their principle residence make up a smaller portion of the market compared to two or three years ago.

Wallmark Homes marketing manager Brad Cowden says homes sales are going strong at Birchwood Estates in Coquitlam. Rob Newell photo

CONTINUED ON P.15

OWNING A HOME

F i l e I n f o r m a t i o n

CLIENT: Portrait Homes Stoneleigh GVHBA Open HouseFILE NAME: 922K Stoneleigh_GVHBA_OpenHouse_HalfPg.indd LINE SCREEN: 200lpiFONTS: Helvetica Neue 55 Roman, 75 Bold; ITC Officina Sans;

Trade Gothic Bold Condensed No. 20, Trade Gothic Condensed No. 18; VoltaT Regular, VoltaTMed Regular

DATE: April 14/10 AD SIZE: 7.25” wide x 4.75” high PUB: OPEN HOUSE MAGAZINEOPERATOR: CM

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portraithomes.caCall: 604-466-9278

4 Display Homes Open!13851 232nd St, Maple Ridge Open Daily: Noon - 5:00pm

BUILDING AWARD-WINNING COMMUNITIES FOR TODAY... AND FOR YEARS TO COME.

The developer reserves the right to make modifications and changes to the information contained herein. E. & O.E.

WINNER: BUILDER OF THE YEAR ANDAGAIN, THE #1 CHOICE FOR CUSTOMERS

PRE-CANADA DAY SALES EVENT

Even with rising interest rates, the looming HST taxation, and high construction costs, Portrait Homes continues to offer homebuyers unbeatable incentives and unprecedented value on Stoneleigh single-family homes.

For the next 90 days, Portrait is offering a Home Buying Package with many features and Pricing Benefits that will facilitate and add value to your purchase at Stoneleigh.

The latest release of lots for sale include some of the finest home sites ever

available within Silver Ridge.


My goodness, what a difference a year makes. At this time last year, housing sales and starts were lower than a snake’s belly in a wagon rut.

Today, thanks to the strongest banking system in the world, the Canadian economy

has rebounded, sales of new homes have picked up considerably, and real estate prices seem to be on the rise.

So, if you are in the market for a new home, this might be an ideal time to take a close look at what’s avail-able around the region – particularly since mortgage rates are poised to

creep higher and the HST, barring a divine intervention, becomes a stark reality on July 1, Canada Day.

We have just the event to help you choose a brand-new home that fits the bill, whether you are single or part of a large family. The Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Associa-tion is presenting Open House: A Showcase of New Homes from May 13 to 16 at 22 homesites in Abbotsford, Burnaby, Coquit-lam, Fort Langley, Langley, Maple Ridge,

North Delta, North Vancouver and Surrey.Most participating builders are veterans

of this popular consumer event, while a few others are taking part for the first time. Either way, the list reads like a who’s who of the residential construction industry – Ade-ra, Azura, Boffo, Cressey, Domani, Foxridge, Legendary, Marathon, Marcon, Morningstar, Oakvale, ParkLane, Polygon, Portrait, Vesta and Wallmark.

About 50 showhomes will be open, offer-ing design, construction and energy-efficiency character-istics that will appeal to all tastes and preferences. Some features that spring to mind include sumptuous kitchens, lavish bathrooms, designer colour pallettes, vaulted ceilings, resort-style amenity facilities and a wealth of crea-ture comforts that will prompt many ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs.’

We are pleased that the Ho-meowner Protection Office, Branch of BC Housing, the provincial body responsible for licensing residential builders, is a primary Open House sponsor. We are also delighted that New Local Home, a Black Press publication, is publishing this edition of the Open House guide.

Let’s face it, I am a housing junkie. I have been directly linked to the residential construction industry for more than two decades, but I have always been interested

in new homes. Just ask my two daughters. When they were younger they spent many a Sunday driving around with me to view the latest showhomes. Now adults, they still enjoy showhome viewing. Like father, like daughters.

When I tour the Open House homes, often with my long-suffering wife, there is always a new feature that captures our attention, and we invariably get ideas we can incorporate into our own home.

Open House offers a broad range of home types and price – from a stylish Langley condo priced at $199,900 to a luxuri-ous, custom-built Coquitlam home offered at more than $1 million. You can even tour an 8,300-square-foot country house in an equestrian-themed community in rural Langley, where estate-sized building lots are being offered for $529,900.

You will find within this Open House magazine all you

need to know about the showhomes on display. The GVHBA offers a wealth of resources to help consumers make informed decisions on new homes and renovation. Check us out at www.gvhba.org.

See you all during the Open House. You might even win a Spa Utopia Indulgence package – seven hours of luxurious spa services at Spa Utopia – just for showing up. I had to tell my wife she is not eligible.

The door’s open at GVHBA new home showcase: come and see

opin

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Peter Simpson, GVHBA CEO

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#506-119 west pender, vancouver, bc V6B 1S5. t. 604.230.5627 e. [email protected]

client approval

This is a digital colour mechanical. No traps have been made.

agency approval

fi le name: Time_2010_NLH2.indd

docket #: PLH 2010

client: ParkLane Homes

fi nished size: 7.25 x 4.75

fonts: BabyMine, The Sans

images:

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designer:

production: Miles

producer: Helena

printer/pub: New Local Homes

sent via : email

26 april 10

He wants more space. She wants more style.Their happily ever after is Time.

3-bedroom townhomes starting at $349,900. 2 Showhomes Open 12 – 5, 9525-204th Street, Langley, BC. 604 694-1819

timeatwalnutgrove.com

ParkLane Homes (Walnut Grove) Ltd.

This is not an offering for sale. E. O. & E.

Already

50% Sold!

A Message from the Honourable Rich Coleman

Congratulations to the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association (GVHBA) and to industry professionals who have joined forces to present the Open House – a Showcase of New Homes.

This event represents the outstanding achievement in residential construction. Showcasing the latest advancements in home design and construction technology contributes to British Columbia’s reputation for having one of the most dynamic and innovative residential construction sectors in North America.

With doors opening to more than 50 show homes offered by some of our most prominent and prestigious builders, this event provides consumers with an opportunity to see what’s available and what’s new.

It generates excitement, and shows a range of options for prospective homebuyers in the Lower Mainland.

The Province welcomes events of this nature. We also recognize the contributions that GVHBA members make to the growth and development of communities across the province.

My congratulations again to the GVHBA for spearheading this event, and my best wishes to everyone involved for continued success.

Sincerely yours,

Rich ColemanMinister of Housing and Social Development

!


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TRICIA LESLIE

Ah, the new-house smell.All shiny and spotless – just like new

cars – there’s something about a brand-new home that invites a test drive, or rather, a look around.

It can be fun to see what new houses look like in Metro Van-couver.

Potential homebuy-ers and looky-loos alike can answer several questions: What materials are being used, inside and out? What do new homes look like these days?

What kind of furniture and interior design schemes decorate the showhomes?

What colours are hot in housing décor? What about wallpaper? Engineered

hardwood flooring versus tile? How are the yards landscaped? What’s the latest in patio furniture?

That’s where the Greater Vancouver Home Builders’ Association comes in.

Every year, twice a year, the association hosts a tour that showcases new homes

throughout Metro Vancouver.

This year, Open House: A Showcase of New Homes hap-pens for four days, from May 13 to 16,

and will feature 16 local builders at 22 different home sites throughout the Low-er Mainland, ranging from Abbotsford and Maple Ridge to Burnaby, Coquitlam,

Couple Colin Barnard and Leah Stark discuss what they like about one of Morningstar’s Pepin Brook showhomes. Martin Knowles photo

Mi casa es su casa

A close-up look at the millwork shows the quality at Birchwood Estates. Rob Newell photo

“It’s a good opportunity to showcase the latest and greatest in new home design.”

CONTINUED ON P.22

Come on in. See what’s new in Metro Vancouver homes at Open House

Lotus

➜ #69, 16355 - 82 Avenue, Surrey

■ Domani Homes Inc.Sales Team: 604.507.1190www.discoverlotus.com

Milner Heights

➜ 20843 – 69B Street, Langley

■ Vesta Properties Ltd.Justine Allenby & Sherry Scott : 604.539.9484www.milnerheights.ca www.radius.milnerheights.ca

Pepin Brook Executive Homes

➜ 29363 Bordeaux Terrace, Abbotsford

■ Morningstar Homes Ltd.Randy Rossum: 604.856.1118www.morningstarhomes.bc.ca

Bedford Landing

➜ 23015 Billy Brown Road, Fort Langley

Dwelling type: Single-family detached Townhomes, Lowrise condo Bedrooms: 2-3 Bathrooms: 2-3 Special features: Final phase now selling in this award-winning waterfront community steps from town centre of historic Fort Langley. Craftsman architecture featuring spacious open �oorplans, private fully landscaped yards and outdoor living. Ample parks, greenspace and walking trails. Four di�erent home series, townhomes and apartments. Georgie Award-winning community. Priced from: $625,900 On display: Five showhomes

■ ParkLane Homes Ltd.Bedford Landing Sales Team: 604.888.2176www.bedfordlanding.com

Birchwood Estates

➜ 3372 Scotch Pine Avenue, Coquitlam

Dwelling type: Single-family detached Bedrooms: 3+ Bathrooms: 3+Special features: Greater Vancouver’s last remaining estate-size properties, 8,000-32,000 sq. ft. private yards sur-rounded by protected greenbelt. Fully customize your home with Wallmark’s full custom homebuilding program! Priced from: $1,009,900 On display: Two showhomes

■ Wallmark Homes Ltd.Brian Lamb & Brad Cowden: 604.461.7777 www.wallmark.ca

Cornerstone

➜ 5655 – 210A Street, Langley

Dwelling type: Lowrise condoBedrooms: 1-2 + den Bathrooms: 1-2 Special features: We’ve included everything you’ve come to expect and more in these well designed one- and two-bedroom condominiums. The stainless-steel appliances, �replace, front-load laundry and big balconies are all yours. See those mountain views? You can have those, too. And quality…well with Marcon’s 25 years of building experience, that’s a given.Priced from: $199,900 On display: One display suite and Discovery Centre

■ MarconSales Team: 604.534.6000www.cornerstoneliving.ca

The Highlands at Sullivan Ridge

➜ 14795 – 61A Avenue, Surrey

Dwelling type: Single-family detachedBedrooms: 5-7 Bathrooms: 3 1/2 Special features: Proudly built by Mara-thon Homes, quality and functionality come standard in these luxurious three-level homes in one of Surrey’s most desirable neighbourhoods. Spacious �oorplans with �nished basements, granite kitchens, and Silent Floor system construction provide an unmatched and uncompromised value. Feel privileged to call the Highlands home. Priced from: $564,900 On display: One showhome

■ Marathon HomesSales Team: 778.565.1865www.marathonhomes.ca

High Point Equestrian Community

➜ 20048 – 2 Avenue, Langley

Dwelling type: Single-family lots Bedrooms: n/a Bathrooms: n/a Special features: Half-acre to eight-acre estate lots in an equestrian-themed, master-planned community. Complete with riding/walking trails, lake, park, equestrian centre and clubhouse.Priced from: $529,900 (lots)On display: One showhome (closed Friday)

■ Cressey Development GroupJon Moss/Todd Antifaev: 604.531.1111www.highpointestates.ca

Kensal Walk

➜ 1125 Kensal Place, Coquitlam

Dwelling type: TownhomesBedrooms: 3 and 4 Bathrooms: 2 ½ and 3 ½ Special features: The only townhome community to be brought to the master-planned community of Windsor Gate, Kensal Walk features private fenced yards and decks, double-car garages, and rich interiors boasting tranquil master bedrooms with walk-in clos-ets, designer ensuites, and open-plan kitchens with sophisticated �nishings. Residents will also enjoy exclusive access to 15,000 square feet of resort-inspired amenities. Priced from: mid-$400,000sOn display: Three showhomes (closed Friday)

■ Polygon Homes Ltd.Theresa Liljedahl: 604.552.3853www.polyhomes.com

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1 O P E N H O U S E S p r i n g 2 0 1 0 | G V H B A S h o w c a s e o f N e w H o m e s 2 O P E N H O U S E S p r i n g 2 0 1 0 | G V H B A S h o w c a s e o f N e w H o m e s

openhousea showcase of new homes


Lotus

➜ #69, 16355 - 82 Avenue, Surrey

Dwelling type: TownhomesBedrooms: 2-3 Bathrooms: 2 -3 Bathrooms: 2 full, 1 or 2 powder rooms Special features: Lotus is a fantastic development of brand new two- and three-bedroom luxury townhomes. The �oorplans are functional and spacious and the homes come with gorgeous features and we o�er the best warranties on the market. We are close to a number of amenities and a sports & leisure centre.Priced from: $339,900 - $359,900 On display: One showhome

■ Domani Homes Inc.Sales Team: 604.507.1190www.discoverlotus.com

Maple On 84th

➜ 8418 – 163 Street, Surrey

Dwelling type: Townhomes Bedrooms: 3-4 Bathrooms: 2 ½ - 3 ½ Special features: Nestled in the heart of Fleetwood, Maple on 84th is a beautiful collec-tion of three- and four-bedroom townhomes. Maple on 84th homes re�ect West Coast Craftsman architecture with steeply pitched gable roofs, contemporary �oorplans, kitchens with granite countertops, sleek stainless-steel appliances, large decks and patios, luscious landscaping, and gracious backyards for outdoor entertaining.Priced from: $339,900 On display: One showhome (closed Friday)

■ Legendary DevelopmentsSales Team: 604.230.8424www.mapleon84.com

Milner Heights

➜ 20843 – 69B Street, Langley

Dwelling type: Single-family detached, Townhomes, Fee-simple Rowhomes, Manor homes, Single-family attachedBedrooms: 2-4 Bathrooms: 2-4 Special features: BuiltGreen homes in a “Green Street” master-planned community. Five distinct home types, desirable location next to environmental reserve and green-way with pathways. Spacious �oorplans and private fully landscaped backyards.Priced from: low-$300,000s On display: Four showhomes

■ Vesta Properties Ltd.Justine Allenby & Sherry Scott : 604.539.9484www.milnerheights.ca www.radius.milnerheights.ca

Pepin Brook Vineyard Estates Dwelling type: Single-family detachedBedrooms: 3- 6 Bathrooms: 3 - 5Special features: Azura Homes is proud to feature custom-style Vineyard Estate Homes at Pepin Brook. We only have six homes remaining which will be ready for possession before HST. There are currently over 12 �oorplans to choose from and we will work with you to customize these, or if you prefer, build you a custom home.Priced from: $649,000On display: Four showhomes

■ Azura HomesSteve Kooner or Tom Ohara: 604.626.4999www.pepinbrook.com

Pepin Brook Executive Homes

➜ 29363 Bordeaux Terrace, Abbotsford

Dwelling type: Single-family detached Bedrooms: 3 and 4 Bathrooms: 2 1/2Special features: Minutes from Maple Ridge, Surrey & Langley and close to schools, shopping and recreation and complete with its own three-acre park, vineyard and mountain views these three- and four-bedroom homes feature un�nished basements on large lots at family-friendly pricing. Priced from: low-$500,000sOn display: Three showhomes (closed Friday)

■ Morningstar Homes Ltd.Randy Rossum: 604.856.1118www.morningstarhomes.bc.ca

South Pointe At Sunstone

➜ 10527 Modesto Place, North Delta

Dwelling type: Single-family detachedBedrooms: 3 and 4 Bathrooms: 2 1/2Special features: Steps away from elementary and secondary schools the homes at South Pointe at Sunstone have full height, un�nished basements and feature imported tile, eco-friendly �ooring and high-end plumbing �xtures.Priced from: mid-$700,000sOn display: Three showhomes (closed Friday)

■ Morningstar Homes Ltd.Rettie Edgren: 604.584.2908www.morningstarhomes.bc.ca

➜ 2368 Chardonnay Lane, Abbotsford

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Contest-OHbannerBLEED 1 4/28/10 4:21:47 PM

SouthPort

➜ 3677 – 143 Street, South Surrey

Dwelling type: Single-family detached Bedrooms: 3-4 Bathrooms: 3 Special features: Dare to Compare: Where else can you buy a luxury, waterfront home near Crescent Beach for under $1M? The last phase of homes now selling at Georgie Award-winning SouthPort! Spacious master bedrooms, spa-like ensuites complemented by high-end �nishings like granite counters, engineered hardwood �oors. Golf course view and waterfront homes now selling.Priced from: $827,900 On display: One showhome

■ ParkLane Homes Ltd.Sales Team: 778.292.0871www.parklane.com/southport

Stoneleigh at Silver Ridge

➜ 13851 - 232 Street, Maple Ridge

Dwelling type: Single-family detached Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 ½ Special features: The very popular & a�ordable “Alder” design features 1809 sq. ft. of beautifully �nished living space (plus un�nished basement). This open �oorplan features a gorgeous gourmet kitchen com-plete with pantry and inviting great room, perfect for entertaining. Come by our sales centre and �nd out why Portrait Homes is such a highly awarded builder.Priced from: $499,900 On display: Four showhomes

■ Portrait Homes Ltd.Sales Team: 604.466.9278www.portraithomes.ca

Summerfield

➜ 109 – 172A Street, Surrey

Dwelling type: Single-family detachedBedrooms: 4 Bathrooms: 3 ½ Special features: Built by Cressey Development Group, Summer�eld o�ers single-family character homes in a quiet enclave of South Surrey just 10 minutes from White Rock. Homes include 3 -5 bedrooms, BuiltGreen Silver certi�cation, natural materials of stone and wood, and numerous options to help customize your home to best suit your needs.Priced from: $540,000On display: Three showhomes

■ Cressey Development GroupSales Team: 604-536-1155www.summerfieldhomes.ca

Time at Walnut Grove

➜ 9525 - 204 Street, Langley

Dwelling type: TownhomesBedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2-3Special features: This ParkLane com-munity is located in established Walnut Grove neighbourhood, and is within walking distance of schools, restaurants and plentiful shopping. Featuring private, fully landscaped yards, plenty of common greenspace, and a park that connects to Langley walking trails. Spacious three-bedroom townhomes featuring contemporary open �oorplans.Priced from: $349,900 On display: Three showhomes

■ ParkLane Homes Ltd.Sales Team: 604.694.1819www.timeatwalnutgrove.com

Trails Edge

➜ #41, 24185 - 106B Avenue, Maple Ridge

Dwelling type: Duplex Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 ½ Special features: Bordered by Kanaka Creek to the North and Maggy Creek to the south Trails Edge creates an exclusive neighbor-hood with over 75% of our Alpine-inspired homes facing greenbelt. Each duplex boasts maintenance-free living & available master bedroom on the main. A limited number of homes remain in this Georgie Award-winning community.Priced from: $459,900 On display: Two showhomes(closed on Friday)

■ Oakvale Developments Ltd.Justin Hennessey: 604.805.4669www.discovertrailsedge.com

Vista’s West

➜ 6058 – 163 Street, Cloverdale

Dwelling type: Single-family detached Bedrooms: 3 or 4 Bathrooms: 2 ½Special features: Perched on a hillside, surrounded by forest and parks with gorgeous views, Vista’s West o�ers varied single-family �oorplans ranging from 1,900 to 2,200 sq.ft. plus un�nished base-ment. You choose interior and exterior colors from an extensive Options Catalogue and on-site design centre. Priced from: low-$600,000sOn display: One showhome

■ Foxridge HomesSales Team: 778.571.1389www.foxridgeliving.ca

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Bedford Landing ➜ 23015 Billy Brown Road, Fort Langley

Birchwood Estates ➜ 3372 Scotch Pine Avenue, Coquitlam

Cornerstone ➜ 5655 – 210A Street, Langley

The Highlands at Sullivan Ridge ➜ 14795 – 61A Avenue, Surrey

High Point Equestrian Community ➜ 20048 – 2 Avenue, Surrey

Kensal Walk ➜ 1125 Kensal Place, Coquitlam

Lotus ➜ #69, 16355 - 82 Avenue, Surrey

Maple On 84th ➜ 8418 – 163 Street, Surrey

Milner Heights ➜ 20843 – 69B Street, Langley

Pepin Brook Vineyard Estates ➜ 2368 Chardonnay Lane, Abbotsford

Pepin Brook Executive Homes ➜ 29363 Bordeaux Terrace, Abbotsford

South Pointe At Sunstone ➜ 10527 Modesto Place, North Delta

SouthPort ➜ 3677 – 143 Street, South Surrey

Stoneleigh at Silver Ridge ➜ 13851 - 232 Street, Maple Ridge

Summerfield ➜ 109 – 172A Street, Surrey

Time At Walnut Grove ➜ 9525 - 204 Street, Langley

Trails Edge ➜ #41, 24185 - 106B Avenue, Maple Ridge

Vista’s West ➜ 6058 – 163 Street, Cloverdale

Wedgewood ➜ 768 Orwell Street, North Vancouver

Jewel II ➜ 6130 Wilson Street (at Beresford), Burnaby

Green ➜ #106, 7488 Byrnepark Walk, Burnaby

Salus ➜ #1, 6671 - 121 Street, Surrey

Single-Family Detached

Townhomes

Highrise Condos

Lowrise Condos

North Vancouver

West Vancouver

Burnaby

New Westminster

Richmond

South Delta

Coquitlam

Port Moody

Port CoquitlamVancouver

Surrey

North DeltaLangley

Fort Langley

Pitt Meadows

Maple Ridge

Abbotsford

South Surrey

White Rock

Cloverdale


Dwelling type: Single-family detached Bedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2 ½ Special features: The very popular & a�ordable “Alder” design features 1809 sq. ft. of beautifully �nished living space (plus un�nished basement). This open �oorplan features a gorgeous gourmet kitchen com-plete with pantry and inviting great room, perfect for entertaining. Come by our sales centre and �nd out why Portrait Homes is such a highly awarded builder.Priced from: $499,900 On display: Four showhomes

Dwelling type: TownhomesBedrooms: 3 Bathrooms: 2-3Special features: This ParkLane com-munity is located in established Walnut Grove neighbourhood, and is within walking distance of schools, restaurants and plentiful shopping. Featuring private, fully landscaped yards, plenty of common greenspace, and a park that connects to Langley walking trails. Spacious three-bedroom townhomes featuring contemporary open �oorplans.Priced from: $349,900 On display: Three showhomes

Dwelling type: Single-family detached Bedrooms: 3 or 4 Bathrooms: 2 ½Special features: Perched on a hillside, surrounded by forest and parks with gorgeous views, Vista’s West o�ers varied single-family �oorplans ranging from 1,900 to 2,200 sq.ft. plus un�nished base-ment. You choose interior and exterior colors from an extensive Options Catalogue and on-site design centre. Priced from: low-$600,000sOn display: One showhome

Jewel II

➜ 6130 Wilson Street (at Beresford), Burnaby

Dwelling type: Townhomes, Highrise CondoBedrooms: 1+den, 2 brm, 2+den, 3 brmBathrooms: 1-3Special features: Last chance for luxury at Central Park. Spacious homes from 743 – 1,784 sq. ft. Exceptionally large terraces (up to 1,285 sq. ft). Exclusivity of only �ve suites per �oor. 9ft ceilings, over-height doors, expansive windows, hardwood �ooring, premium stainless-steel appliances. Features and �nishes are second to none.Priced from: high-$300,000sOn display: One showhome (closed Friday)

■ Boffo Developments Ltd. Jewel Sales Team: 604.456.0688www.jewelhomes.ca

Green

➜ #106, 7488 Byrnepark Walk, Burnaby

Dwelling type: Lowrise CondoBedrooms: 1 - 3 Bathrooms: 1 -2 Special features: Name says it all! First Built Green apartment community rated Gold level for environmental stewardship and bottom-line savings. Incredibly located at geographic Greater Vancouver center, with shopping, SkyTrain, and innumerable services within �ve minutes, yet tucked into natural environment and adjacent to an 80-acre+ environmental preserve. Award-winning project and walking distance to schools. Priced from: $295,900 *limitations applyOn display: Two showhomes

■ Adera Development Corp.Green Sales Team: 604.439.8858 www.adera.com

Salus

➜ #1, 6671 - 121 Street, Surrey

Dwelling type: Townhomes, Lowrise CondoBedrooms: 1 - 3 Bathrooms: 1 -2 Special features: Live a balanced and luxurious life at an international award-winning West Coast mountain resort-inspired community – complete with your own private spa and members-only club. A collection of smart urban apartment �ats and spacious Cityhomes with inventory ready to move into immediately! Final phase of Cityhomes for immediate release includes limited supply of four-bedroom homes. Priced from: Flats - $239,900; Cityhomes - $329,900 On display: Two showhomes

■ Adera Development Corp.Salus Sales Team: 604.507.0065www.adera.com

Wedgewood

➜ 768 Orwell Street, North Vancouver

Dwelling type: Townhomes Bedrooms: 3 and 4 Bathrooms: 2 ½ and 3 ½ Special features: Wedgewood, Polygon’s limited collection of executive townhome residences in North Vancouver, is distinguished by West Coast Craftsman architecture and contemporary interiors featuring open-plan layouts, luxurious ensuites, gourmet kitchens with granite countertops, warm laminate �oor-ing, and sleek stainless-steel appliances, and an unparalleled location in the hear of North Vancouver’s breathtaking outdoors. Priced from: $599,900 On display: 3 showhomes (closed Friday)

■ Polygon Homes Ltd.Laura Cavanagh: 604.980.2508www.polyhomes.com

72 Ave

Bedford Channel

176 St

60 Ave

Orwell St

1Mt Seymour Pkwy

Old Lillooet Rd

Premier St

Fern St Imperial Ave

Kingsway

Willingdon

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dary

Patt

erso

nWils

on

Metrotown

Central Park

Boun

dary

Marine Way

KingswaySc

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121 S

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66 Ave

➜

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O P E N H O U S E S p r i n g 2 0 1 0 | G V H B A S h o w c a s e o f N e w H o m e s 3 O P E N H O U S E S p r i n g 2 0 1 0 | G V H B A S h o w c a s e o f N e w H o m e s 4

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“The markets over the past year have been dominated by end users,” he says.

“I never say it’s a good time to buy or a bad time to buy or sell or not sell. This is, for most of us, the largest purchase we will make ... certainly home sales, in Vancouver for example, were trending on record levels at the end of last year and that indicates that consumers believe now is a good time to buy.”

Real estate advisor Ozzie Jurock says there are six reasons why buying a home today is still a good investment:

1. Buying a home is the only capital gains, tax-free investment in Canada that’s left.

2. It is a forced savings account.3. It is better leverage than the stock mar-

ket. “If you bought a $100,000 condo and you put $5,000 down and the price goes up by 10 per cent to $110,000 you have made 200 per cent on your down payment.”

4. Strong historical performance through

all the tough times in the past. 5. Immigrants. “In 2008, we had 73,000

immigrants into the province that is 36,000 families that have to rent or buy.”

6. Vancouver, like London, Hong Kong and Manhattan, has never been affordable, but if you want to live here, “You have to pay a premium,” Jurock says.

Having a home, no matter what the housing market is doing, is a solid invest-ment that can generally, outmatch any other investment, he notes.

“If you look at people who say that real estate will not recover, they said that in 1974 when the Dow Jones collapsed by 40 per cent ... in 1982 we had 21 per cent interest rates, in 1987 we had a huge stock market crash, then if you go to 1993 we had 12-and-a-half per cent unemployment,” Jurock says.

“Throughout it all, if you just bought a house, you pretty well out-performed any other investment and most own it outright today.”

It is still a great time to purchase a new home in Metro VancouverCONTINUED FROM P.4

ParkLane Homes’ Time at Walnut Grove features well-

designed living spaces.


On the design trail: get out and gain some fresh ideas at new homes in showcase

MAGGIE CALLOWAY

Are tastes changing when it comes to design-ing a home? Are we living differently than we did even a few years ago?

Morningstar Homes vice-president of sales and marketing Deborah Calahan doesn’t think things have changed drastically over the past three years or so, but notes that certain areas within new homes have become more embel-lished.

“People want a home where they can live and entertain with style,” she says, and adds that most homeowners seem to want a home with a main gathering space.

“Great rooms and kitchens are becoming more of a focal point and clients want them to be more elaborate. Kitchen islands have gotten bigger over the years with breakfast stools and built-in fridges and wine coolers.”

Quality cabinetry, hardwood flooring and more elaborate faucets – many restaurant-like – are in demand as well, Calahan says.

“People want what they see on food televi-Adera’s Green, on the South Slopes of Burnaby, is an award-winning community where brand-new homes await. Green features an exceptional amenities club, called Seasons.


On the design trail: get out and gain some fresh ideas at new homes in showcase

sion, they want to entertain over dinner and have guests be part of the event.”

Great rooms attached to kitchens are not new, but as people got used to them and found how perfectly they worked for the family, the traditional living room became smaller or non-existent.

Eventually, what was once a private fam-ily space became the area where all the entertaining is done. Great rooms and kitchens now open onto terraces and patios, and the flow between the interior and the exterior rooms and the swimming pool and lounge areas has become seamless.

Where possible, Morningstar builds a double-height kitchen and family area so the family doesn’t feel closed in, Calahan says.

“What has changed over the years is people are spending a lot more time at home. They nest more and because they are spending more time

IDEAS gAlorE

Patios at Boffo’s Jewel I are expansive and offer sweeping views of Metro Vancouver. Jewell II homes are now selling. Raef Grohne photo

Colin and Leah get better informed as they explore a kitchen in one of the new homes

featured in Open House.Martin Knowles photo

The showhome at Polygon’s Wedgewood in North Vancouver features chic built-in

millwork shelves. Rob Newell photo

CONTINUED ON P.19

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there, they want both the family and guests to feel special,” she says.

Larger foyers, vaulted ceilings and cof-fered ceilings are currently popular, and can lend a dramatic sense to the home.

Upstairs, Calahan says, people are drawn to wider stairwells and wider hallways, as well as large, spacious master bedrooms, walk-in closets and spa-like ensuite bath-rooms.

“Elegance and comfort are the bywords. When people are buying a home, these are the areas they look at more critically.”

Some secondary rooms are nearly as big, or as big as, the master bedroom, she notes.

A living area at Marcon’s Cornerstone in Langley features a lush shag area rug, while new patio furniture shines in a backyard at Foxridge Homes’ Vista’s West.

Sniff out some fantastic new ideas during showcaseCONTINUED FROM P.17

CONTINUED ON P.20


Powder rooms, in the public areas of the home, are being treated to amazing design. Because the room is small and subsequent-ly more reasonable to decorate, homeown-ers are pushing the boat out with dramatic wallpaper and tile. These tiny rooms are be-coming like jewel boxes, a place to indulge a bit of your wild side.

Local architect Randy Bens comes to the questions of what is new and what clients want in a home from a totally different perspective. Bens works intimately with his clients to create a personal expression of his clients’ needs coupled with unique design.

“Where I see changes is in the materials used in the building of the home and the internal systems,” Bens says.

“People are a lot more accepting of recycled products now. There are a lot more interesting products out there, from panel-ing to countertops.”

Bens says people seem to be looking for more authenticity in material, “more

Couple Colin and Leah can visualize ownership in the backyard of an Open House: A Showcase of New Homes showhome.

‘Elegance and comfort are the bywords’CONTINUED FROM P.19

CONTINUED ON P.21

www.hpo.bc.caToll - free: 1-800-407-7757

Email: [email protected]

Open House/Showcase of New Homes Magazine# 10-018

Homeowner Protection Office 7 1/4” (wide) x 4 3/4” (deep)

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deadline: April 28th, 2010printable PDF file to [email protected]

Fiona Harris/Publisher - New Local HomeSubject line: HPO ad for Open House Magazine

C O N S U M E R P R O T E C T I O N for H O M E B U Y E R S

S E R V I C E S :

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Visit the Homeowner Protection Office (HPO) website for free consumer information including:

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organic, if you will.”Another item his clients are interested

in are the large, folding doors between the kitchen/great rooms and the terrace. Used instead of French doors or slid-ing patio doors, they allow an unbroken transition between interior and exte-rior, as they fold completely out of the sightline.

Bens notes that, while solar panels to heat hot water are common in commer-cial projects, that trend has been slow to penetrate the residential market, likely due to cost.

“The best thing for homeowners to do is insulate,” he says.

“Polyurethane foam, the spray foam, is a great way to go – you get a really good insulation value per inch. That combined with the quality of windows today and heat pumps, I’m finding the systems in the house are becoming more sophisti-cated and more efficient. Maybe the next thing is solar costs will come down and homeowners can afford to install.”

Explore homes to your heart’s delightCONTINUED FROM P.20

Polygon’s Kensal Walk in Coquitlam features spacious master bedrooms and a resort-inspired amenities facility. The first homes released sold out on opening weekend.


South Surrey and Langley.Overall, nearly 50 showhomes and

presentation centres will be wide open for the public to come and peruse.

A variety of homes are showcased on the tour; from condos and townhomes to detached houses, a wide selection of home styles and price range will be on display.

GVHBA CEO Peter Simpson says the event is a great way to see what’s happening in today’s new, local homes.

“It’s a good opportunity to showcase the latest and great-est in new home design,” he says, and notes the participants featured in Open House are all estab-lished builders who have earned solid reputations over the years.

“We’re delighted they’ve chosen to participate again this year.”

At ParkLane Homes, the feeling is mutual. The company is showcasing three homes sites: SouthPort in South Surrey, Bedford Landing in Fort Langley, and Time at Walnut Grove in Langley. Oakvale Developments’ Trails Edge

in Maple Ridge offers spacious new duplexes that will inspire you.

Fall in love with a new home at Open House event

Choose a GVHBA member

CONTINUED FROM P.9

Polygon’s North Vancouver Wedgewood’s inviting path

starts the romance.Rob Newell photo

NEW homES

CONTINUED ON P.25

168

St

163

St

164

St

60 AveOPEN DAILY: Noon to 5pm6058 - 163 St., Cloverdale778-571-1389 [email protected]

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT:www.foxridgeliving.ca

Purchase one of 40 remaining single family homes in West Cloverdale, offering

gorgeous mountain and valley views. With over 13 acres of dedicated green space

complete with nature trails and parks, you’ll fi nd it’s the perfect backdrop for your

new home ( ranging from 1900 to 2200 ft2 plus unfi nished basement ).

single family homes

$619,900FROM

Includes net HST

New Show Home Now Open!


Play hard outdoors; live well indoors. That’s why you live on the West Coast.And that’s why Green features bike and car wash stations - so you can live West Coast the way you want. Situated by the Byrne Creek Park eco-preserve, Green’s stellar bike riding and proximity to rapid transit lets you commute sustainably to work and play. Near Southpoint and Griffiths Avenue. Priced from $299,900*. Learn more at adera.com, or call 604.439.8858.

*Limitations apply, contact sales for details. Sales by disclosure only.Green Adera Projects Ltd. Adera Realty Corp. 2200 - 1055 Dunsmuir, Vancouver BC 604 684 8277.

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Grind it out from 9 to 5 - then chill out and get pampered at the Spa! Now you’re talking!A few Salus mountain resort-inspired home remain.

MOVE IN IMMEDIATELY!You can move immediately into a 2-bedroom Flat from $239,900* or choose a3-bedroom Cityhome from $329,900*. And, if you need a 4-bedroom home, you can preview the final phase of Cityhomes which are for imminent release. Drop by at Scott Road and 66th Ave in Surrey to view, call 604 507 0065, or check out adera.com.

*Limitations apply, contact sales for details. Sales by disclosure only.Salus Adera Projects Ltd. 2200 - 1055 Dunsmuir, Vancouver, BC 604 684 8277

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“ParkLane is pleased to take part in this year’s GVHBA Open House event,” says Yosh Kasahara, ParkLane’s marketing manager.

“As long-time members of the GVHBA, we are proud to support events such as this that gives prospective homebuyers a unique opportunity to experience and compare the new homes that are available on the market today.”

Polygon Homes is another well-respected builder that is participating this spring, showcasing Kensal Walk in Coquitlam and Wedgewood in North Vancouver.

“It’s a great chance for people to come out and see the fantastic showhomes we do,” says Ralph Archibald, Polygon’s senior vice-president of sales and market-ing.

“Even if people are just beginning to think about buying a home, it’s a good

way to get out and see what’s available ... to start gaining an understanding of the market.”

Current clubhouses at multi-unit home

developments often feature resort-like amenities are well worth taking the tour, Archibald notes.

Visit www.gvhba.org for details.

Home sweet home: come and see what’s new and hotCONTINUED FROM P.22

A bedroom at Vesta’s Milner Heights in Langley features a vaulted ceiling and trendy colours.


Potential new homebuyers line up for the opening weekend event at Polygon’s

Cambridge Park in Richmond.Lining up for a look...

TRICIA LESLIE

Saying Metro Vancouver’s housing mar-ket is different from most others in North America would be an understatement.

It’s not just the fact that homes here have consistently higher price averages than anywhere else in Canada or the U.S. – that’s been a well-known fact for some time.

The Metro Vancouver area is a desirable place to live, after all, and available land on which to build is finite.

But the fact that builders continue to build new homes to keep up with demand, and the fact that homebuyers continue to purchase new dwellings – many still line up for opening weekends throughout Metro Vancouver – shows that there is plenty of activity and confidence in the local

Homes are hot in the Metro Vancouver housing market

The Highlands at Sullivan Ridge in Surrey offer new, single-family homes to potential homebuyers. Discover and enjoy this quiet Surrey neighbourhood. Rob Newell photoCONTINUED ON P.29


real estate market. Metro Vancouver now holds the honour for the most expensive home sold through the industry’s MLS listing service in the first quarter of 2010, as the high-end luxury homes market surged across Canada.

The home that took the title is an 11,600-square-foot home on three-quarters of an acre on Vancou-ver’s west side; it sold for $10.06 million.

Other noteworthy sales include a $7.25-million home in Mississauga, Ont.; a $5.5-million home in Montreal (Island) and $5.3 million in White Rock/South Surrey.

The priciest high-end listing could be found in West Vancouver, at $29.9 million, reports Re/Max.

Luxury market aside, homes are still hot in Metro Vancouver.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation reports that in the first quarter of the year, new home construction picked up in British Columbia. Founda-tions were poured for 5,337 new homes in the first three months of the year, compared to 2,522 in the first quarter of 2009.

And the B.C. Real Estate Association reports that home sales throughout the province climbed by 43 per cent in March compared to the same month last year.

The entire region weathered the economic down-turn much better than many expected in the housing market, and even during traditionally slow months such as December, home sales were setting records in Greater Vancouver.

Polygon Homes president and CEO Neil Chrystal notes that, in the long-term, real estate is always a good investment.

Although there is the expectation that the Bank of Canada will raise its lending rate, Chrystal points out that mortgage interest rates are still quite low compared to historical standards.

Not all homes are high-end luxury mansions worth millions, either.

“There are still some pretty good values out there,’’ Chrystal says.

He expects to see a strong spring market in Metro Vancouver, and a strong fall market as well, with some potential slowdown in between.

In the meantime, Polygon continues to build new, high-quality communities throughout the Lower Mainland, with many more projects in the planning process, some set to break ground this year.

‘’We’re pretty optimistic for the future,’’ he says.It looks like Polygon Homes is not the only local

company preparing to build more homes.“(Housing) starts are set to rise – about a 30 per

cent increase,’’ says CMHC senior market analyst Robyn Adamache.

About 11,000 starts are expected here this year and 14,500 in 2011, she notes.

‘There are still some pretty good values out there’CONTINUED FROM P.27

An Azura Homes Pepin Brook showhome features overheight ceilings and massive windows, while a kitchen at Legendary Homes’ Maple on 84th shines.CONTINUED ON P.30


Overall, the CMHC expects “much more balanced market conditions than the past year or so” in Metro Vancouver, Adamache says.

CMHC predicts a six per cent price increase compared to 2009 in Metro Vancouver, and as the market becomes more balanced, the up-ward pressure on prices will lessen, she adds.

UBC real estate expert Tsur Somerville agrees.

“I think that price pressures are going to ease,’’ he says, and echoes Chrystal’s thoughts about mortgage interest rates, noting they are not high at all compared to historical standards, even if rates go up by as much as two per cent.

Overall, “My sense is a mix of optimism and anxiousness” in the local market, he says, with many likely eyeing interest rates and the economy, wondering if the worst of the global financial crisis is truly over.

The key will be the actual effects of any increases and the psychology of how people interpret any hikes, Somerville says.

Price pressure likely to ease during the year CONTINUED FROM P.29

A kitchen at Morningstar’s South Pointe community in North Delta features a modern look, with stainless steel appliances, an island and high-contrast colours. Rob Newell photo

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