Parade of Homes | Fall 2016

Parade of Homes Fall 2016 September 10 – OctOber 2, 2016

Find your dream home this fall!

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All Builder PArticiPAnts Are Proud MeMBers of the MAnitoBA hoMe Builders’ AssociAtion

Parade of Homes Fall 2016 September 10 to OCTOBER 2 2016

Presented by The Manitoba Home Builders’ Association

Welcome to the 2016 Fall Parade of Homes. The Manitoba Home Builders’ Association is proud to present our annual display of new homes. With 134 new homes by 38 different builders, ours remains the largest and best Parade of Homes offered in Canada. In addition to the usual influx of new neighbourhoods being featured, we are also pleased to introduce six builders who are participating in their first Parade of Homes. The design and construction expertise that goes into each new home is unparalleled anywhere in the country. When visiting the various show homes, take time to appreciate outstanding Manitoba craftsmanship and creativity. Talk to the representatives showing the homes about unique features and what makes that particular home special. With such a wide selection available, we’re confident that the perfect new home is waiting right now for you to visit. There is definitely something for everyone at the Fall Parade of Homes. Something for Everyone

…at the Fall Parade of Homes

In addition to variety and quality, there are numerous additional good reasons why now is the perfect time to purchase a new home. Financial institutions are still offering long term mortgages at historically low rates. Manitoba and Winnipeg homes continue to increase in value year after year, making them among the most sound of all investments. Manitoba new homes are the most energy efficient in the country and a move to a new home may result in significant energy savings. Quality, choice and affordability are always primary considerations for both new home builders and buyers. Manitoba’s new home construction industry continues to be strong and vibrant. MHBA member builders and suppliers keep abreast of the latest technology, trends and techniques to ensure that your new home offers the highest level of quality available. Enjoy the 2016 Fall Parade of Homes and thank you for visiting.

When visiting the various show homes, take time to appreciate outstanding Manitoba craftsmanship and creativity.

Mike Moore, President — Manitoba Home Builders’ Association

SHOW HOME HOURS: Mon - Thurs: 3pm - 8pm, Sat & Sun: Noon - 6pm, Fri: By Appointment Only

Parade of Homes FALL 2016 3

September 10 to October 2 Fall 2016 Parade of Homes

Publisher Bob Cox Editor Pat St. Germain Vice President Sales Laurie Finley Manager of Niche Products Barb Borden Design & Colour Services Corinne Ball/Coral Enterprises Contributing Writers Nancy Boomer

Make Yourself at Home MHBA is throwing a Parade, and you’re invited

Wendy King Todd Lewys

Kristin Marand Jennifer McFee

Judy Owen Pat Rediger

Pat St. Germain Photography Darcy Finley Numerous Supplied

Irwin Homes — 10 Willow Landing

By Pat St. Germain

MHBA BOARD OF DIRECTORS Brian Arnold, Chair Arlt Homes Ltd. Jason Jaquet, Past Chair Randall Homes Ltd. Spencer Curtis, 1st Vice Chair Hilton Homes John Lund, Secretary-Treasurer

“The purpose is to show the best of what you have and the best of what you’re able to do, so you want it to look absolutely perfect for your company.”

Company’s coming. Manitoba’s home builders are putting out the welcome mat for a horde of visitors during the Fall Parade of Homes from Sept. 10 to Oct. 2. And like most house-proud hosts, they’ve been busy polishing floors and appliances, straightening pictures and fussing over every last detail before their guests arrive. “The purpose is to show the best of what you have and the best of what you’re able to do, so you want it to look absolutely perfect for your company,” says Manitoba Home Builders’ Association (MHBA) president Mike Moore. “And your company is tens of thousands of people coming over to visit your house.”

Steinbach Credit Union Michael Carruthers, Director Ladco Company Ltd. David Eggerman, Director Qualico Ltd.

Laurie Finley, Director Winnipeg Free Press Alan Gray, Director Vacuflo Manitoba Tanya Maric, Director Maric Homes

Janet Milne, Director Milne Homes Ltd. Andrew Reimer, Director All-Fab Building Components Ltd. Laurence Rosenberg, Director The Accurate Technology Group

Cont’d on page 14

4 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

DETACHED HOMES | ESTATE HOMES | ATTACHED HOMES | SHOW HOMES

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Tips from the top

Happy Hunting Set your sights on the ideal home for you

By Pat St. Germain — Photos by Darcy Finley

>> When you imagine your dream home, you’re prob- ably not considering placement of electrical outlets and plumbing stacks. You may not even be thinking of how many bedrooms it will have beyond a magnificent master haven. Is it wheel- chair accessible? Is your spectacular view through triple- glaze low-e ar gon windows? When it comes time to buy or build a new home, there are a lot of decisions to make.

‘The most important phase of building your home is the planning phase. My advice to people is don’t rush it.’

6 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

Artista Homes — 45 East Plains Drive

Along with location, you have to consider lot size and shape. If you want a triple-car garage, you’ll need a large lot, probably outside of the city. Do you want the morn- ing sun to shine into your bedroom, or do you want it in your open-concept kitchen? You might want an extra master or a granny suite for an elderly parent. If you have toddlers, you may want their bedrooms to be close to the master. But as a father of three, Koop cautions that kids grow up fast. Cont’d on page 8

Manitoba home builders are used to taking care of big dreams, along with the small details, and they can offer some valuable advice: Take your time, get it right, and build a home you’ll be hap- py in for years to come. “The most important phase of building your home is the planning phase,” says Irwin Homes owner Andrew Koop. “My advice to people is don’t rush it.”

Parade of Homes FALL 2016 7

Artista Homes — 45 East Plains Drive

Happy Hunting Cont’d from page 7

Maric Homes vice-president of operations Tanya Maric advises long-term thinking when you’re setting budget priorities, as well. “The first thing they should be investing their money in is the size and the structure of the home,” she says. “You can always add a deck later on, but you can’t add to your foundation.” If you have to make a tradeoff between floor- ing or countertops and a large bedroom, choose the bedroom. If you’re concerned you don’t have enough light, spend a little extra on larger windows. “Those sorts of things are harder to change af- ter the fact than the interior finishes,” she says. Maric encourages clients to gain some knowl- edge of construction practices, and she says websites like Houzz and Pinterest can be helpful in making design choices, but there’s a caveat. Nano doors that open up an entire wall on a home in southern California won’t cut it in Manitoba’s climate. Other features and practices posted on the Internet are not transferable or practical, so if you have ques- tions, talk to your builder, not Siri.

“People always plan their house for today, for what their life looks like now,” he says. “You’ve got to think big picture and longer term than right now. But most people think right now and I think that’s a huge mistake.”

When they built their own home 10 years ago, Koop and his wife Krista chose to have a main-floor mas- ter bedroom, with second-level bed- rooms for their now-grown kids. Rather than have a

‘The first thing they should be investing their money in is the size and the structure of the home. You can always add a deck later on, but you can’t add to your foundation.’

soaring ceiling in the great room, they created usable space upstairs that they’ve since trans- formed into a fabulous home office. “We love the place, we love the design … it works for us perfectly. So far, we wouldn’t change a thing.”

Cont’d on page 24

8 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

• Meandering pathway • Diverse selection of house designs • Homes backing onto green space • Lookout lots on the lake FABULOUS ENTRANCE WITH HUGE LAKE • Meandering pathway • Diverse selection of house designs • Homes backing onto green space • Lookout lots on the lake FABULOUS ENTRANCE WITH HUGE LAKE • Meandering pathway • Diverse selection of house designs • Homes backing onto green space • Lookout lots on the lake

J E F F E R S O N A V E N U E J E F F E R S O N A V E N U E

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Aging Gracefully

Laundry rooms/ appliances 1 of 5

How to Age in Place

Prepare to stay put in your own space

10 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

Laundry rooms/ appliances 2 of 5

Hilton Homes — Bridgwater Lakes visitable home. (file photo from spring 2014)

By Wendy King — Photos courtesy of Kohler, Hilton Homes

>> Shifting demographics and better long- term health mean Canadians are enjoying their independence well into their golden years. That means their homes have to work for them as they “age in place.” Early last year, the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association (MHBA) hosted Western Canada’s first Certified Aging in Place Specialist (CAPS) course for builders, suppliers and other indus- try professionals.

MHBA president Mike Moore says it’s about planning for the future. Tall cabinets may become harder to reach a few years down the road. You may need space to use a walker, or you might want to install safety bars in a shower or bath. “Even if you don’t have to use it right now, you design and build accordingly so that you can age in your house,” he says. “You may need a slight renovation or adaptation, but it’s going to be easier because you’ve allowed for it with perhaps your cupboard placement or wall location or counter space that is going to allow you to get around easily.” Cont’d on page 12

Parade of Homes FALL 2016 11

How to Age in Place Cont’d from page 11

Lori Thorsteinson, owner of Loren Realty and sales manager for Parkhill Homes, is both a CAPS and Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES), trained to help home buyers find or develop the right home to meet their needs now, and in the future. Thorsteinson says little details count, so buyers have to assess their abilities and needs. How long do you plan to be in the house? Is anyone currently ill — or are there health changes that you know are coming? Can you manage one flight of stairs to the basement in a bungalow? Can you manage a second flight? Even condos might need some aging- in-place modifications. “When an accessible home is built new, the design is guided by the capabilities of the individual who will live there, or it is designed around their caregiver if the person is entirely dependent,” she says. “It’s very personalized.” Thorsteinson says there’s growing interest in aging-in-place de- sign concepts among middle-aged and older clients, and she fields more questions about wheelchair access than any other feature. Buyers may want visitable homes — built with no-step front en- trances, wider doorways and accessible main-floor bathrooms — to accommodate friends and parents who use wheelchairs. She’s also sold homes to buyers who want their aging parents to live with them full-time. “We’ve done homes with essentially two master bedrooms and two ensuites where the bathrooms are more easily accessible,” she says. “A minimum five-foot turn radius in bathrooms is needed and you want to make sure all the doors and hallways are wide enough to accommodate the chair.” For homes that are not visitable, Parkhill Homes has installed ramps, but more often they add motorized platforms where a wheelchair is moved onto a gated platform at grade and then lifted to the door. “We’ve even done closets that could be turned into elevator shafts,” she says. More common modifications are stairlifts, grab bars in showers and tubs, and higher toilets in bathrooms. With a wheelchair-accessible shower, the floor is dropped and gently sloped to ensure proper drainage. Special fixtures for plumbing might also be installed, and instead of door knobs, door levers are easier to use. Other considerations are height of kitchen cabinets and counter- tops, which can be lowered. Light switches should also be lowered, and the choice of flooring is important. “You want to look at hardwood or a vinyl plank or a laminate — a hard surface is much easier for wheels or other assists,” Thorstein- son says. “And transitions from one type of flooring to another can be irri- tating or difficult, so you want to minimize or eliminate those, and we’ll design a home at walk-in level with no drops in the floors.” The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) provides exhaustive checklists for homeowners who may need accessible homes and adaptable homes, along with suggested modifications, such as increasing lighting or installing handrails, on its website at www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca .

‘We’ve done homes with essentially two master bedrooms and two ensuites where the bathrooms are more easily accessible’

12 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

Make Yourself at Home Cont’d from page 4

With more than 130 show-home entries in almost 40 neighbourhoods in Brandon, Winnipeg and surrounding communities, Parade of Homes committee members say the final push for perfection can get a wee bit chaotic. “It could be laying sod down at 10:30 at night on Friday with the grand opening Saturday morning,” says Andrew Koop, who owns Irwin Homes. “I’ve had sprinkler guys installing while we’re laying grass on top of them on a Friday afternoon, or power- washing driveways on Saturday morning to clean up the mess. Been there, done that — I think every builder has.” During the building season, construction depends on good weather, completed road access to new developments, installation of sewer, gas and hydro services and availability of materials and supplies. Since landscaping can’t be done until stucco and other exterior finishes are complete, it’s the last step in the process. And it’s the step most likely to create havoc for home builders. “Everyone sods the week before Parade of Homes opens,” says Ken Braun, Qualico manager of single- family housing. “One year on the Thursday just before the Parade opened there were torrential rains, in River Park South in particular. “All of the sod actually washed off the lots and onto the streets, so that was pretty crazy. We all rebounded back and everyone is so focused on having everything ready that day — we were ready, let’s put it that way.”

QUALITY

By working with our members, you are ensured the highest quality in home building and renovations for your home

home builders.mb.ca

14 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

Moore says unexpectedly fine weather caused minor mayhem during a Spring Parade a few years back. All the snow melted, so there was nowhere to plant Parade signs in show home neighbourhoods. “You couldn’t hammer them into the ground because the ground was still frozen, so every one of our signs fell down.” No matter what challenges arise, the Parade must go on — and on time. “We want the buying public to have a great experience, which means educated sales staff, completed homes, developers that are backing us home builders,” Koop says. “It’s amazing how much work and planning goes into it. There’s a lot of good people putting in a lot of work.” While builders and developers on the Parade committee contribute to the planning process, Braun and other members credit the MHBA and outgoing special events and membership coordinator Janet Constable for its success. “The MHBA runs probably one of the best Parades in all of Canada,” says Randall Homes’ Jason Jaquet. “No one goes to the extreme that we do and everyone now in the city and even in the province knows, ‘OK, fall time comes, the Parade of Homes is here.’ So everybody knows the synergy that comes from it and even if you’re not looking to build a new home you’re still going out to look at the new homes.” During the Fall Parade, four professional builders — from Ontario, Saskatchewan, B.C. and Alberta — will act as judges, poring over floor plans, photos and documents to select the winning show homes.

Maric Homes — 25 East Plains Drive

‘We want the buying public to have a great experience, which means educated sales staff, completed homes, developers that are backing us home builders’

Cont’d on page 16

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Parade of Homes FALL 2016 15

Make Yourself at Home Cont’d from page 15

But while builders of every size are in competition, the Parade is a collaborative effort to present the best products and innovations. “We want the community in Manitoba to get a good feel for the wide variety of options they have available to them, both in location and by builders,” says Maric Homes vice-president of operations Tanya Maric. “We’re all competing with one another and also putting our best foot forward for the market here.” Some visitors focus on the quality of construction and materials. Others just like to see the latest in decor and design trends — and that’s OK. “I’ve always told our salespeople they may not be buying today — they maybe have no intention of buying,” says Braun. “But when they go out and they actually see what’s out there … they go back to their home and they go, ‘You know, this isn’t cutting it any more.’ ” See what’s new during the Fall Parade of Homes, and keep in mind that show homes are open for viewing year- round. Learn more about builders, developers and show home locations year-round at homebuilders.mb.ca .

Avanti Custom Homes — 32 Big Sky Drive

‘We want the community in Manitoba to get a good feel for the wide variety of options they have available to them, both in location and by builders’

VALUE

Our members possess the highest degree of skill and professionalism in the home building and renovations industry, providing you with peace of mind.

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16 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

The way home. South Pointe

natural beauty

modern living

parks with prairie plants

wetland-inspired ponds & creeks

environmentally sensitive

award-winning homebuilders

Limited number of lake lots available starting at under $150,000! Located in

Ladco is proud to present the final stages of our latest and most exciting community in Winnipeg. South Pointe continues Ladco's tradition of quality and innovation. Come visit any of our show homes to see what South Pointe has to offer.

Waverley West with access off the new Kenaston Boulevard Extension and Waverley Street

École South Pointe School Opening Soon!

www.ladcocompany.com

Vive la différence

18 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

‘With homes starting at $269,900, families can now truly afford to get into the new home market’

Variety & Value Selection covers all the home bases

By Todd Lewys

>> When it comes to new homes, there is no one-size-fits- all model. That’s because no two home buyers are exactly alike. Our needs, preferences and financial circumstances change over time, although all buyers share one common trait — they want value for their hard-earned dollar. With that in mind, Manitoba home builders aim to provide a range of options for clients on every rung of the housing ladder — from entry-level to mid-size family homes on up to luxury abodes. Ventura Land Company’s Tim Comack points to the selec- tion in the company’s new Prairie Place community in La Salle as a prime example. “With homes starting at $269,900, families can now truly afford to get into the new home market,” Comack says. Detached, three-bedroom homes range from 1,200 square feet to 1,600 square feet, set on roomy 42-foot-wide lots, and Comack says he doesn’t consider them “entry-level” houses. “We see them as value-rich, well-appointed homes that give young families a chance to get their foot in the door in a great community at a reasonable price.”

Irwin Homes — 10 Willow Landing

Cont’d on page 20 Parade of Homes FALL 2016 19

Avanti Homes — 32 Big Sky Drive

Variety & Value Cont’d from page 19

‘With each target market, we look at what should be included in the various homes, from square footage to what features and options will be included in the price.’

“With townhomes, we try to package everything into a home that offers good square footage, a nice cross-section of standard finishes, and most impor- tantly an affordable price,” he explains. “Buyers are looking for value in the entry-level market segment. ” When they’re ready to move up, mid-range homes then reflect the price increase in terms of their size and amenities, he adds. “Buyers will get things like more square footage, a laundry room with a sink, and a cantilevered floor plan that provides extra usable square footage, a more upscale fit and finish and even features like larger windows. In short, we include even more val- ue-added features in such a home.” Then there are the luxury homes from a broad selec- tion of builders like Maric, Artista, Arlt, Huntington and Avanti Custom Homes, an affiliate of Randall Homes. “Those homes will include a ton of options such as colour-framed windows, built-in wooden shelving (rather than wire) in walk-in closets and pantries, multiple garage door options and more,” says Jaquet.

Whether you’re building up equity in your first home, moving up or downsizing, builders are focused on meeting your needs — and exceeding expectations, with stan- dard features and finishes that were once considered added-on options. Randall Homes owner Jason Ja- quet — whose products range from townhomes to higher-end houses — says homes are tailored to a fit a range of demographics. “With each target market, we look at what should be included in the various homes, from square foot- age to what features and options will be included in the price. It all depends on the type of home that a buyer is looking for.” When affordability is a buyer’s main objective, a townhome is one good option, says Jaquet.

Cont’d on page 26

20 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

Ladco is proud to present Prairie Pointe, Winnipeg’s newest master planned community. Covering over 600 acres in Southwest Winnipeg, Prairie Pointe will feature over 2,000 single family homes, 70 acres of multi-family development, over 60 acres of green space and up to 50 acres of future commercial amenities. Prairie Pointe residents will enjoy over 20 km of interconnected sidewalks and trails following the nature inspired lakes and creeks, linking the community to parks, playgrounds and amenities. Contact any of our award winning builders to see what Prairie Pointe has to offer. Visit our website at www.ladcocompany.com for more information.

00-40 Lakewood Boulevard,Winnipeg, MB R2J 2M6 | Phone: 204-982-5900 | E-mail: info@ladcocompany.com | www.ladcocompany.com www.ladcocompany.com

>> Step into Oak Bluff West, a growing Qualico community, and you’ll find broad and open streetscapes, spacious lots and beautifully crafted homes. Spend some time in the neighbourhood and you’ll quickly discover that beyond the seamless views of the prairie landscape with naturalized wetlands and an abundance of native grasses, there’s also a real spirit of community taking root. Jennifer Houser is an enthusiastic Oak Bluff West resident. When she, her husband and their four children were initially searching for a new place to call home, she found she was instantly connected to the small-town feeling that the new community and residents provided. “We drove around and noticed that neighbours were out visiting with each other and kids were running around playing,” says Houser. “Then when we moved here and people came over to bring us pies and help us move, it was very welcoming.” Having now lived in the community for three years, Houser says her family takes full ad- vantage of Oak Bluff West’s ideal landscape to enjoy more outdoor activities. She also finds comfort in the fact that living here means her kids can safely run down the street to play with their neighbours. “It does feel like a small-town country lifestyle, but at the same time you get the city feel- ing because you have the city so close,” says Houser. Oak Bluff West is just a quick 10-minute drive to Kenaston Common and Seasons of Tux- edo, 15 minutes to the MTS IcePlex, and downtown Winnipeg is only 25 minutes away. However, there is a growing list of reasons that encourage locals to stay closer to home. “Oak Bluff West residents are just a short walk to the Oak Bluff Recreation Centre, where kids can play hockey,” says Eric Vogan of Qualico Communities. “It is always busy with families from the community getting together.” A Community with Something Extra By Kik Innovation for Qualico Communities

The nearby K-8 school, with a baseball field, is also just a short walk down neatly groomed limestone paths. As the community continues to attract families, child care is key to supporting the residents of this growing community. As chair of the Oak Bluff Early Years’ board of day care, Houser is driving the charge to secure funding and ap- proval for a new Oak Bluff day-care centre. The new facility will be conveniently located near the school, and it’s an initiative Qualico Communities is proud to support. “Child care is important to complete the amenities in Oak Bluff West,” says Vogan. “The day-care program is currently using two classrooms at the school, but there is definitely a demand as the community grows.” Houser believes that if residents are making the effort and investments to connect their family to the area, es- tablishing local services and conveniences such as day care is pivotal. According to Vogan, the day-care initiative has proven to be vital as a means of connecting the new residents in Oak Bluff West with their neighbours in established Oak Bluff. Now with a shared school, recreation centre and day care that require stewardship, Qualico Com- munities felt it was the ideal time for the town to estab- lish an online forum. “The new online residents’forum will allow everyone in Oak Bluff to discuss issues within the community and ask questions they may have,” says Vogan. “Residents can connect with each other, sharing upcoming events and opportunities as they happen.” Houser agrees, “When you’re building a community, it’s important to keep your resources here. The kids play sports and go to school together and if everything we need is all here in town, they feel more comfortable and take pride in where they live.”

22 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

REACH FOR MORE

WHERE THERE’S PLENTY OF ROOM

TO STRETCH AND GROW

KENASTON COMMON

FORTWHYTE ALIVE

At Oak Bluff West you can leave the rush of the city behind, while all of life’s more urban pursuits are still just a stone’s throw away. GREATER OPPORTUNITIES Building your home on our wider-than-average lots gives you a deeper yard, more privacy, increased interior light and a great amount of design flexibility. Roam our limestone trails and even walk your kids to the established K-8 school or Rec Centre. Expand your horizons with wide-open views of naturalized wetlands and prairie countryside all around you. Plus, you’ll get a good deal more for your investment – from excellent lot value to lower property taxes.

Perimeter Hwy

Expand Your Horizons Talk to one of our builders today.

Show homes open year round. Visit our website for hours and information.

OAKBLUFFWEST.CA

Artista Homes — 45 East Plains Drive

Happy Hunting Cont’d from page 8

‘It’s always best to compare when you narrow it down to a few builders and sit down and see what you’re actually getting.’

And even if you’ve settled on a specific lo- cation, don’t limit your research to a single community. Ken Braun, Qualico manager of single-fam- ily housing, notes that show-home models can be transplanted to other neighbour- hoods. Braun also suggests letting sales agents do some of the legwork for you. If you want a 1,000-square-foot bungalow, or a two- storey luxury home with all the bells and whistles, ask an agent to point you in the right direction. You can also take advantage of builders’in-house services or networks of suppliers, lenders and interior designers to walk you through the entire process. “They may be overwhelmed with trying to figure out where to start. So just come over to the show homes and someone will help them.”

Everyone wants a beautiful home, but it has to be functional too, built to accommodate the way you live every day. If you’re looking for innovative ideas, the Fall Parade of Homes provides a great opportunity to check out more than 130 homes from al- most 40 participating builders. In some neigh- bourhoods, you can park your car and tour a dozen homes within walking distance. “Find out first if that’s the home style you like and if there are other ones to compare to it and then you go from there,” suggests Randall Homes’ Jason Jaquet. Ask sales agents about specs and clarify which show home features are standard and which are options that will add to the cost of a par- ticular model, he says. “It’s always best to compare when you narrow it down to a few builders and sit down and see what you’re actually getting.”

24 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

Program for New Homebuyers

The Accurate Technology Group and MTS are proud to bring you the ATG Connect Home program, powered by MTS. With the ATG Connect Home Program, you’ll get internet, TV and home phone services from MTS, delivered on the MTS FiON Network and installed by the Accurate Technology Group. MTS provides a fibre optic connection directly to your home through its FiON network, providing you with higher quality reliable High Speed Internet, TV and home phone services that are ready to plug in when you move into your new home. Plus, new homebuyers who get connected through the ATG Connect Home program get exclusive offers only available with The Accurate Technology Group.

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Variety & Value Cont’d from page 20

“No matter whether a home is an en- try-level home or luxury home, we want to fill it with value-added fea- tures that are functional and make the home look great in and out.” Qualico Homes sales consultant Philip Musick says anyone looking for a new home this year should make a point of checking out the variety of options on display during the Fall Parade of Homes. Qualico has more than a dozen Pa- rade entries in neighbourhoods across Winnipeg, and in Oak Bluff West. Three builders under the Qual- ico umbrella — Broadview, Sterling and Foxridge Homes — cover the gamut from creatively compact models that offer buyers an attrac- tive alternative to condos, up to up- scale customized homes.

Avanti Homes — 32 Big Sky Drive

‘No matter whether a home is an entry-level home or luxury home, we want to fill it with value-added features that are functional and make the home look great in and out.’

SOLD

26 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

“We have many home models that can fit so many different people,” Musick says. “I would advise buyers to visit a good cross-section of homes, as they will showcase a variety of differ- ent plans, one of which is bound to work for you.” Ventura Custom Homes general manager Glen- da Sobie agrees there’s a design out there for everyone. “We offer 75 plans in total, and have a number of new plans that we’re excited about, and that we will be unveiling during the Fall Parade. We do our best to provide a diverse selection of plans from affordable back-lane homes to luxury homes.” At the end of the day, it’s all about delivering val- ue that can fit comfortably within a customer’s budgetary parameters. “It’s all about what people can afford,” Sobie says. “It’s our goal to fit everyone’s needs, and to de- liver great value in the process.”

Maric Homes — 25 East Plains Drive

‘It’s our goal to fit everyone’s needs, and to deliver great value in the process.’

204-949-3870

SHOW HOME: 141 Rose Lake Court - Bridgwater Trails Parade Hours: Mon. - Thurs. 3 - 8 pm Sat. - Sun 12 - 6 pm

www.huntingtonhomes.com

Davey is especially impressed with the main- tenance services and modest common ele- ment fees, especially when it comes to snow removal. “In most instances, they are here in the early hours of the morning and clean our driveways, walkways and streets,” says Davey. “Getting through the winter is much easier than we’d anticipated.” Gerry Barron agrees, having lived in South- lands Village with his wife for five years. “People need to understand the concept of bareland condo living, and that it’s not the typical condo style living,” Barron explains. “You control the dwelling you live in and have complete ownership, except that the condo- minium board is responsible for the land. So everything looks consistent, fresh, and clean.” The concept offers residents a turnkey life- style — all without having to compromise on the distinct style, quality or luxury they want in their home. Custom builders Maric, Irwin and Arlt design the homes in Southlands Village Pritchard Farm to fit the shape and location of each lot, as well as the needs and aesthetic of each home buyer. The result is a community like no other in Manitoba, all set in a stunning location with easy access in and out of the city, and to nearby shopping, enter- tainment and recreation. Jason Arlt of Arlt Homes has not only built custom houses for residents in the area, he’s also chosen to call Southlands Village home. Arlt bought into the concept of Southlands Village because it uniquely combined the benefits of condo living with the luxury of a custom built home. “The design of the home is based around the resident with the community surroundings in mind,” says Arlt. “There’s a consistent flow — from the size of the bungalows, to the landscaping, to the streetscapes.” Having grown up in North Kildonan, he origi- nally considered the neighbourhood for the great location, but came to appreciate the sense of community. “Living here is comforting, and you get this surprising, overwhelming feeling when you come to the neighbourhood,”says Arlt.“At the end of the day, it just feels like home to me.” Rose too described a strong feeling of be- longing when she and her husband first visited Southlands Village. “We had an aha moment,” she said. “That intuitive feeling that we’d found what we were looking for and had been trying to capture all along.”

>> Your first drive through Southlands Village may come as a surprise. The impressive custom bungalow homes, a fluid stretch of perfect lawns, and your first glimpse of the naturalized wet- land may have you thinking you’ve escaped to a resort. Southlands Village is located down Henderson Highway just past the north Perimeter in East St. Paul. While barely a hint of traffic can be heard throughout the lushly landscaped and treed neighbourhood, what you will hear are birds chirping. “One of the nicest surprises we’ve discovered here is the abundance of wildlife,” says Barb Rose, a resident who moved to Southlands Village in 2014. “I especially love the wetlands, but a lot of people don’t realize what role they play in the area.”Rose has learned they provide more than just a scenic view, acting as a drainage system for excess water and as a home for attractive wildlife. Natural beauty isn’t the only perk of Southlands Village. When Larry Davey and his wife relocated here 18 months ago, they quickly realized just how much more freedom they had. “We can drop everything and head out to the cabin without any worries or hassles, and we can expect to come home to a yard that has been well groomed and maintained.” A Turnkey Lifestyle Awaits in Southlands Village By Kik Innovation for Qualico Communities

28 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

OF THE PERFECT LIFESTYLE GET YOUR SHARE

Luxurious bungalows, pristine landscaping and the serene sounds of nature are hallmarks of this stunning community. This is your chance to be part of a community like no other, where every home is custom built and your dream lifestyle is the focus. THERE’S NOTHING ELSE LIKE IT The first thing you’ll notice is the area’s natural beauty: mature trees, open spaces and greenery as far as the eye can see. Best of all, the beauty doesn’t end at your property line, as high-end landscaping is included with every home and maintained year-round. Visit our website to learn more. pfsouthlandsvillage.com

CUSTOM BUILDERS: ARLT HOMES: 204.669.3394 IRWIN HOMES: 204.661.5159 MARIC HOMES: 204.339.2035 SHOW HOMES OPEN YEAR ROUND For more information and show home details visit our website.

>> As a new builder on Manitoba’s home construction scene, Manak Homes has already built a solid founda- tion based on a commitment to quality and conve- nience. Now in its third year, the family business is booming with multiple projects on the go. Amrit Manak, 24, runs the company along with his father, Sukhdev, and they both bring experience and enthusiasm to their projects — along with speed and efficiency. “What sets us apart is our quality construction as well as the fact that we build really quickly,” says Manak, who got his start in the trades more than eight years ago. “A build takes us roughly about three months. We have everything scheduled one after another so it all pro- gresses quickly.” The father-son team bring a fresh approach to any home-building project, no matter how big or how small, Manak Homes Fresh family company offers quality care …Profile

By Jennifer McFee — For Parade of Homes Magazine

“It’s all about passion. Ever since I start- ed working in the trades, I have always wanted to build homes for people,” Manak says. “The best part for me is the satisfac- tion I get when someone moves in and they love their home and think we did a great job.” Check out the quality craftsmanship of Manak Homes during the Fall Parade of Homes, when you can visit their contemporary-style 2,600-square-foot, two-storey show home at 15 Wildbrook Bay in Waterford Green. Learn more at www.manakhomes.com or email Amrit Manak at amanak@ manakhomes.com.

and clients appreciate their flexibility and considerate service. “We can work around the client’s sched- ule, according to their convenience and according to their timeline,” Manak says. “If they’re off work at 6 p.m. and they want to meet me in the evening, that can be arranged. It’s no problem. They don’t have to take a day off work just to meet with us.” For the Manak team, it’s essential to pro- duce the perfect home every time. They strive to build homes that reflect each client’s individual style and preferences. At the same time, they offer options to suit every need, ranging from spec homes to custom builds.

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30 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

Your Vision, Our Expertise

Building a home from scratch can be intimidating with so many choices. We will not only take care of the complete construction, but also help you with the decision-making process. You can use our readymade home plans as-is, or modify them according to your social living style and personal choice. You can also come visit us and have a look at our show homes. Call us and we will set up an appointment. Custom Homes

Spec Homes

Bring Your Own Home Design

We carry an inventory of spec homes at any given time. They vary in phases of completion and are scattered throughout the desired Winnipeg neighborhoods. Just like the custom homes, our spec homes have similar great features, constructed with immaculate attention to detail.

Do you have a design in mind for your dream home? Bring it on the table, we are all ears.

ManakHomes.com 204-509-7151 | Amanak@ManakHomes.com

Condos

The Condo Store Take your pick from a mixed bag

By Pat St. Germain — Photos courtesy of Streetside Developments

>> Winnipeg’s condo boom isn’t showing any sign of slowing down. In fact, it’s spreading. Communities such as Quarry Ridge Park in Stonewall, Waterford Green in northwest Winnipeg and the final phase of the Bridgwater neighbourhoods, Bridgwater Centre, all have new condo options in various stages of development.

Bareland condos at Pritchard Farm Southlands Village, a se- cluded enclave off Henderson Highway in East St. Paul, and Country Estates at the Oaks, just west of the Perimeter within city limits, are spacious detached bungalows with full-size garages and private yards in natural settings. Country Estates sales agent David Powell says empty-nesters find it’s an easy transition when they move to the Oaks. It may be a lateral move financially, and they get a brand-new home in a new neighbourhood with a double-attached ga- rage, full basement, two bedrooms and baths, and premium standard finishes such as granite countertops, now on dis- play at the Irwin Homes show home at 42-70 Oak Forest Cres. Along with Arlt and Maric Homes, Irwin is one of the build- ers at Pritchard Farm Southlands Village. A new show home at 10 Willow Landing boasts a three-car garage, a walkout basement and huge windows that flood the bungalow with natural light, and provide views of Southlands Creek, which winds through the Qualico Communities development.

Fitness and meeting rooms, owners lounges, extra storage and underground parking are typical amenities in apartment-style condos.

Buyers have multiple choices downtown, in the Osborne Village area and in Transcona and St. Boniface. Affordable and maintenance-free, the options range from one-bed- room apartment-style condos to multiple-storey town- homes with enclosed yards and luxury bareland condo- miniums.

32 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

Streetside Developments — Bluestem Condominiums

Shopaholics and nature lovers alike are flocking to the Oxbow at Tuxedo Point. Close to IKEA, an outlet mall and Kenaston Commons, the condo development is right across the street from a walking and biking trail that leads to FortWhyte Alive. Towers Realty Group’s Jason van Rooy says it’s just a five-min- ute bike ride, or 15-minute walk, to the nature sanctuary, and the condos themselves make for an attractive human sanctu- ary. The main-floor display suite at 775 Sterling Lyon Parkway boasts a huge terrace, granite countertops, hardwood floors and two bedrooms with a master ensuite. Fitness and meeting rooms, owners lounges, extra storage and underground parking are typical amenities in apart- ment-style condos. In St. Vital, Irwin Homes’ The Woods at Creek Bend, at 89 Creek Bend Rd., also has a workshop and car wash. Phase II development is underway at both The Woods and Irwin’s Allure Condominiums, at 3411 Pembina Hwy.

Young urbanites will want to keep an eye on the South Osborne neighbourhood. StreetSide Developments has a transit-oriented development on the launchpad near the new rapid transit corridor on Hugo Street. The Parkline condos will have private decks and a unique option — a small income or nanny suite. During the Fall Parade, StreetSide is unveiling its new Hud- son Townhomes at 155 Peguis St. in Transcona’s Devon- shire Village. The three-bedroom, two-storey models fea- ture dual decks, at the front and rear, and future phases will offer an option for a pet- and family-friendly enclosed yard. StreetSide also has a new apartment-style display suite at The MIX, at 414-10 Hill Grove Point in Bridgwater Trails, with private balcony and a new two-bedroom floor plan with a bonus half-bath. A display suite at the popular Blue- stem townhome condominiums, near the Village Centre in Sage Creek, has all the bells and whistles, including a sun- deck and private garage.

Parade of Homes FALL 2016 33

Finances

Money Matters Build on a solid financial foundation By Wendy King

>> Buying a home is likely to be the biggest investment you will ever make. Before you start shopping, you’ll need to get your financial house in order. “The first step is to meet with the lender before you go to look at any homes, so you’ll know what price range of home you can comfortably afford,” says Aaron Denysuik, manager of Consum- er Lending at Steinbach Credit Union. Your lender can provide expert advice and guide you through the entire process, which should include securing a pre-ap- proved mortgage. Denysuik says their goal is to make financing simple, easy to understand and as stress-free as possible. You will need to provide verification of income from employ- ment, investments and other sources. The lender will also verify liabilities such as credit card balances, car loans and student debts — any monthly obligations.

“You can expect that you would be discussing income; the source of the down payment; determining your net worth, which is assets minus liabilities, and credit bureau listing, all to determine your credit-worthiness for that pre-approval.” Once you’re pre-approved for a mortgage, your lender will provide a letter outlining the maximum qualifying amount, with an interest rate guarantee for a set period of time — up to 90-120 days, depending on your financial institution’s policy. “That letter is our commitment to the client, subject to cer- tain conditions, to lend them money,” Denysuik says. “The goal is for them to walk away with the confidence to go and speak to their realtor.” Once you find the home you want, Denysuik says that even with pre-approval, you should make financing a condition of any offer you put on a home.

Cont’d on page 36

34 Parade of Homes FALL 2016

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