Friday, December 2, 2011 NewsLeader A15

RE LestateREVIEWpresented by

Make yourself at home at “The Grove”. Corner, top fl oor unit, 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom with unobstructed easterly views of the river and mountains from every room. Like new, meticulously maintained, open fl oor plan with laminate/tile fl oors and granite counters. Stainless steel appliances. Living room has vaulted ceilings and a warm electric fi replace. Master bedroom has private deck access, massive walk-in with shelving and 4 piece bathroom, also with granite counters. Generous size second bedroom has 12 foot ceilings, 3 piece second bathroom for guests. Balance of 2-5-10 warranty, 1 oversize parking stall. Rentals and pets ok, maintenance fees include hot water, and “The Boilerhouse” recreation facility with high end gym, library, media room. Walk to Canada Games Pool, Queens Park, transit and more.

What a kitchen! Living area features cozy fi replace. Views and more views!

This week’s feature ...

at 407 290 Francis Way, New WestOPEN HOUSE SUNDAY 2-4PM

Priced at $389,900For more information please contact

Sandy or Lyle Longridge from Assist 2 Sell at 604-540-7253

close to EVERYTHING

I SELL HOMES JUST LIKE YOURS.

REGGIE TANZOLA604 657 7101RTANZOLA@RENNIE.COMRENNIE.COM/REGGIETANZOLA

THANK YOU BURNABY FOR VOTING ME YOUR #1 REALTOR*

RENNIE.COM

Reggie’s been Selling Real Estate since 1997 and is responsible for the sales of hundreds of homes and condos! He’s spent many years sharing his knowledge and experience with Buyers and Sellers of Homes and Condos just like yours. Reggie has a genuine passion for his business and it shows in his results!

*As voted by readers of the Burnaby Newsleader 2011

A16 NewsLeader Friday, December 2, 2011

by Kerry Vital

Entering Mosaic Homes’ newest development, Foster in West Coquitlam, feels like you’re walking into a chic heritage enclave, one that perhaps reminds you of days gone by when a classic red-brick exterior and Georgian architecture was the height of style. Seeing the high-end features and expansive fl oorplans, you might expect this beauty to come with an equally high-end price tag, perhaps one that keeps it out of reach for the typical fi rst-time home buyer.

You’d be wrong.“People are pleasantly surprised they

can aff ord a home that looks this good,” says Mosaic’s Geoff Duyker. “I have never worked on a project that had so many (fi rst-time home buyers) ... It’s really struck a chord with buyers.”

Ranging between 607 and 994 square feet, the one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes feel spacious as soon as you walk in. Overheight 9’ ceilings and open fl oorplans combine for a fantastic sense of space.

Th e two-bedroom fl oorplans are proving particularly popular.

“Th ese are the most eff ective two-

bedroom plans available,” says Duyker. “Th ey give you the maximum possible benefi t of space.”

Th ere is no shortage of beautiful features at Foster, including engineered laminate wood fl ooring throughout the living, dining and kitchen areas, and luxurious loop pile carpeting in the bedrooms and dens.

Speaking of those kitchens, polished composite stone countertops and a glass tile backsplash are complemented by under-cabinet puck lighting and sophisticated Greenlam and lacquer cabinetry with polished chrome pulls. Stainless-steel appliances are standard, while the integral exposed shelving system (designed by Mosaic) is a serious work of genius.

Th e bathrooms are a spa-like piece of paradise, with deep soaker tubs (also designed by Mosaic) and porcelain tiles on the fl oors and tub and shower surround. In a charming little touch, the shower includes a recessed pot light

that complements the pendant light fi xture in polished chrome and white glass.

However, the location has also become a big draw for buyers at Foster. Just a block away from the future Evergreen Line, owners will be surrounded by everything they could possibly need. Schools, recreation facilities, shopping and other amenities are all within easy reach at Foster.

Foster held its grand opening in early

November, and within a week, over 100 of the 161 homes were sold.

“It’s been quite remarkable,” says Duyker, adding that Mosaic’s reputation for building better homes has contributed to Foster’s popularity.

Foster is now selling its third phase, and there is still a good selection of homes available, Duyker says.

Homes start at $250,000. For more information visit www.mosaichomes.com/foster or call 604-936-9300.

Submitted photosMosaic’s Foster features elegant red-brick Georgian architecture, above, and spacious living areas. With bedrooms built for relaxation, top, and gourmet kitchens with chic under-cabinet puck lighting, left, homeowners will be able to unwind in their own piece of paradise.

Heritage-style chic at Mosaic’s Foster

Striking a chord with homebuyers

GVHBA renovation seminar attracts more than 300 people

Tips for getting you through the renovation Do you want to renovate your house, but

fi nd the whole idea a little intimidating?Th e Greater Vancouver Home Builders’

Association is on the case. Last week the GVHBA held a seminar meant to demystify the whole process. Th e seminar attracted over 300 attendees, and GVHBA President and CEO Peter Simpson says they went home ready to go on their projects.

He says homeowners need to focus on four key words: get it in writing.

Getting everything in writing means you’ll have proof in the event of a dispute. Spell it out on paper and the contractor will have a record of exactly what’s expected, and you will know exactly how much you’re going to pay.

Another tip from the seminar is to avoid the underground economy. Homeowners who

take this route are placing themselves at risk by avoiding the safeguards that come with hiring a reputable contractor. You might save yourself some cash, but if something goes wrong you are completely unprotected.

Are you going to live in the house during the reno? You’ll have to create a set of rules for the contractor – and your family – to live by. Can the workers use your bathrooms? How about playing music in the house?

“All of these rules ... have to be determined up front in the contract,” Simpson says.

He also recommends looking for Renomark-branded contractors, who have agreed to the GVHBA code of ethics as well as the RenoMark code of conduct, which mandates minimum standards for warranties, liability, insurance and safety.

“ People are pleasantly surprised they

can afford a home that looks this good,” says Mosaic’s Geoff Duyker.

Friday, December 2, 2011 NewsLeader A17

A Signature Morningstar Community By Frederick T. Sale

Single Family Home

Morningstar | Avondale - Coquitlam

Compare with Richmond

Compare with Westside Vancouver

Compare with Burnaby

Age

Brand New

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Brand New

Brand New

Price

$859,900 (includes HST)

$1,984,872

$3,657,791

$1,238,390

see the value for yourself

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Homes starting from

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$679,900Including Tax & Grand Opening Incentives

A18 NewsLeader Friday, December 2, 2011

3

Final Release! Over 85% Sold!

$419,900!

Priced from $169,900 Developer pays the HST**

778.395.3080

thebrookland.com

Act Now! Take Advantage of Our Discounted Pricing. Move in Today.

presentation centre & display home13468 Gateway Drive, SurreyOpen Daily 12 – 5pm (except fridays)

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Features include surprising views, some homes have 14' ceilings, and everyone can enjoy the luxurious amenity building and fitness centre. This is unparallel living with affordable pricing at The Brookland.

Incredible

Savings &

Selling

Fast!!!!Unit #

Floor

PlanType Size

*Original Price

(Excl. HST)

New Price

(Incl. HST)

HST

Savings

Total

Savings

l101 D 1 bed, 1 bath 609 sq ft $204,900 $189,900 $9,387 $24,387

l115 F 1 bed, 1 bath 591 sq ft $189,900 $169,900 $8,398 $28,398

223 F 1 bed, 1 bath 591 sq ft $199,900 $184,900 $9,140 $24,140

322 F 1 bed, 1 bath 591 sq ft $220,900 $209,900 $10,375 $21,375

406 b2 2 bed, 2 bath 768 sq ft $309,900 $299,900 $14,824 $24,824

70% SOLD

Friday, December 2, 2011 NewsLeader A19

SANDY LONGRIDGE Medallion Member,Top 5% of all real estate sales

LYLE LONGRIDGE

Medallion Member,BUYERS & SELLERS OPTIONS REALTYEach offi ce independently owned & operated

If you are thinking of selling, think of ASSIST2SELL...Your Full Service, Results with Savings Real Estate Agency!

Visit www.bcrealtyoptions.com for pics & details | 626-12th St., New WestminsterCALL SANDY OR LYLE! 604-540-SALE (7253)

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• Huge end unit • 4 level townhome • Spectacular river/mountain views• Private garden.• Wonderful neighbourhoodMLS V917860

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#401 718 MAIN ST, VAN

$389,900 $549,900

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Team Assist2Sell sold our home with

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#108 8600 JONES RD, RICHMOND

• Townhouse-style unit • outside entrance • extra large patio• one bedroom and 1 bath• Can rent for at least $1000/moMLS V917817

$225,000

Super Centrally located, Pet Friendly 2 bed/2bath, 972 sqft End Unit fully renovated condo! Beautifully updated kitchen w/Silestone counters, tile backsplash, new cabinets/under mount lighting/newer appl. & quality engineered hardwood fl oors!updated bathrooms, fl ooring, tile, sink, hardware, simply A MUST SEE! Huge living room/separate dining loaded w/windows which fl ood the home with natural sunlight. Enjoy South Eastern view & morning sunrise from deck. Convenient large in-suite laundry/storage. 1 locker/1 parking stall. Heat & Hot water included in maintenance fee + building comes complete W/fantastic outdoor pool. Well maintained solid building, Recent NEW ROOF, Balconies & RePiped Plumbing! Steps to skytrain, shops, parks, college!!

MLS V920213

Make yourself at home at “The Grove”. Corner, top fl oor unit, 2 bed, 2 bath w/unobstructed easterly views of the river & mtns from every room. Like new, meticulously maintained, open fl oor plan with laminate/tile fl oors, granite counters. S/S appl. L/R has vaulted ceilings & warm electric F/P. Master bed has private deck access, massive walk-in with shelving and 4 piece bath, also w/granite counters.Generous size 2nd bed has 12 ft ceilings, 3 piece 2nd bath for guests. Balance of 2-5-10 warranty, 1 oversize parking stall.rentals ok, Maint fees incl.hot water, and “The Boilerhouse” recreation facility with high end gym, library, media room... Walk to canada games Pool, Queens Park, transit and more.

MLS V920566

#203 1011 4TH AVE, NW #407 290 FRANCIS WAY, NW

$245,000 $389,900

• Rarely available • Completely updated • 1 bedroom• Central Uptown New Westminster• Modern open fl oor planMLS V919685

#205-109 10TH STREET, NW

$214,900

#2001-719 PRINCESS ST, NW

$349,900Castleridge Executive 3 level townhome in Fraserview. Beautiful, quiet end unit w/ spectacular river views from 2 levels. Meticulously maintained featuring 3 beds,3 baths & huge rec room in bsmt. Laminate fl ooring on main w/ large L/R, bay window to take in river views, gas F/P & separate D/R. Open plan kitchen has family room & sliders to patio & garden w/ privacy new fencing. Master bedroom has vaulted ceilings, more stunning views, huge 5 pce ensuite w/separate shower, double sinks and soaker tub.Workshop area down, plenty of storage,B/I vacuum, new roof, wood siding!MLS V912019

Wow, breathtaking views from every room of this 1 bedroom and den (2nd bedroom?) condo. Priced very close to BC Assessment Value & Like new! Meticulously maintained, nothing to do but move in, freshly painted, updated hardware, newer stove and lighting. Enjoy cooking/entertaining/views from your open kitchen with sit up bar for extra seating & extensive cupboard space. Huge living room has warm gas F/P & sliders to large balcony. Oversized windows allowing for beautiful natural sunlight add to the warmth of this particular unit. A secure, well managed building with caretaker, wheelchair access, exercise room, secure undergroung parking w/visitor parking. 1 parking stall, plus locker, literally steps to Royal City Center Mall, transit, Medical building, Moody Park, banks, restaurants, library and so much more! Quick possession available! No pets, no rentals. An opportunity not to be missed, call to view.MLS V916836

• 5 bedroom, 4 bath• 4 year young 1/2 Duplex • 1 bedroom mortgage helper • Huge green space directly behindMLS V920720

530 16TH STREET, NW

$649,913

SOLD...RESULTS WITH SAVINGS

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NEW PRICE$479,000

Priced from $199,900

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*Subject to change without no ce. Limited me o er, see sales sta for details. This is not an o ering for sale. Any such o ering can only be made with a disclosure statement. E.&O.E.

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*Subject to change without no ce. Limited me o er, see sales sta for details. This is not an o ering for sale. Any such o ering can only be made with a disclosure statement. E.&O.E.

Solon BucholtzRoyal LePageWolstencro Realty

MARKETING AND SALES BY:

OVER65%SOLD!

last minutelast minute

pre 2012 savingspre 2012 savings

A20 NewsLeader Friday, December 2, 2011A20 NewsLeader Friday, December 2, 2011

Greater Vancouver Real Estate Board

There is no real estate bubble in Vancouver but, according to a panel of speakers at a recent Vancouver Board of Trade event, a lack of clear transitional rules leading up to the return of the provincial sales tax is having a negative effect on the real estate industry.

That was the message delivered by the panel of three real estate industry experts, including the Board’s President-Elect Eugen Klein, to a packed house at the board Bubble Trouble event in October at the Fairmont Hotel in Vancouver.

Other panelists included Ward McAllister, president of Ledingham McAllister Properties, and

Richard Wozny, of Site Economics Ltd. The panel was moderated by David Podmore, CEO of Concert Properties Ltd.

Each of the speakers presented information that helped to set the overall picture of what they consider to be a solid overall market that is not in the midst of a bubble. But they directed their strongest comments towards the impact that the lack of transitional rules is having on the market right now.

“Potential buyers, especially the under-25 group, are sitting on the sidelines,” said Klein. “It’s also affecting home renovation projects with HST on them because consumers don’t know what to do.”

McAllister was the most vocal in his criticisms, noting that he and his company have been “literally begging” the provincial government for transitional rules since the results of the referendum to repeal the HST were announced.

“What is amazing to me is that it took the government three days to bring this new tax in and now they are telling us it is going to take up to 18 months to unravel,” said McAllister. “This is really hurting us in the new home business just because of the uncertainty.”

Both Klein and McAllister noted that they are seeing developers taking on a portion, or even all, of the HST on their product to try and remove that uncertainty for potential buyers.

Other information provided by the speakers suggested that the Metro Vancouver real estate market is healthy and stable.

Wozny forecasted that low interest rates will hold steady into the foreseeable future, which will translate into continuing sales, and McAllister highlighted immigration data that shows that approximately 52,700 immigrants will move to British Columbia in 2011. Of that total, some 42,000 will move into the Metro Vancouver area, meaning that the need for new housing will remain strong.

Klein pointed to steady residential sales driven by high-end property demand in Richmond, West Vancouver and the west side of Vancouver. He also updated major commercial projects that will add approximately ve million square feet of retail space

and 1.5 million square feet of of ce space to Metro Vancouver by 2015.

“Putting the residential and commercial real estate sectors in perspective, the Lower Mainland remains a very desirable place to live and work,” said Klein.

Real estate needs clarity on HST transition

Team Dave Vallee604-526-2888

RE/MAX Advantage Realty (Each offi ce independently owned and operated)

Visit our website for an online photo tour of our listings

www.TeamDaveVallee.comEmail: info@teamdavevallee.com

RE/MAX Advantage Realty’s Top Sales Team of the Year 2003-2010

Kellie Vallee KarenLeong-Boswell

New WestminsterNEWSLEADER

1PLACE

THIS WEEK’S SOLD:

#302 18 Smokey Smith$309,900

Great west facing, 2 bdrm in award winning, Whistler style “Crofton” building near Queens Park. This wonderful unit features gas fi replace, insuite lndry with upgraded washer/dryer, kitchen w/tile fl oors, maple cabinets and ceramic cooktop stove, newer laminate fl oors, newer paint & ceiling fan. Complex is well maintained & managed and is in an excellent location just steps to Queens Park, Canada Games Pool, transit & schools.

#107 620 8th Ave $199,900

Beautifully maintained & updated, 1 bdrm garden suite on quiet cooler side of building facing greenbelt in the well maintained & managed “Doncaster” in Uptown New Westminster just steps to parks, schools, shopping, transit & Uptown amenities. This lovely suite has newer laminate fl oors, new paint & light fi xtures, updates to kitchen & bath, large rooms sizes, insuite storage, master bdrm w/walk in closet. Low maintenance fees include heat & hot water. Cats ok. No rental allowed.

#2 168 6th St$455,000

Spacious 1713 sf, 3 bdrm + den/rec room, 3 level townhome in “Royal City Terrace”. 1st level features den/rec room, main fl oor has open kitchen with granite counters & laminate fl oors and opens to living room area, great family room or dining area adjoining the kitchen, balcony with SE views and the 3rd level features 3 bedroom with ensuite in the mstr bdrm. Complex is conveniently located with walking distance to both Uptown and Downtown New Westminster.

6655 Strathmore Ave$838,000

Substantially renovated, bright & spacious, 4 bdrm, 2 bath, 2000 sf, 1955 bungalow on nice quiet street in Highgate close to transit, shopping, new library & upcoming new aquatic & community centre. This beautiful home features hardwood fl oors, 2 wood burning f/p, 2 new baths, newer kitchen, newer exterior stucco, new double wndws, newer back deck, fenced yard, oversized single garage, high fully fi n’d bsmt w/suite potential, security system, big 50’ x 111’ lot. Home shows very well.

OPEN SAT OPEN SAT 2:30-4:302:30-4:30

OPEN SAT & SUN OPEN SAT & SUN 2:00-4:002:00-4:00

OPEN SUN OPEN SUN 12:00-2:0012:00-2:00

OPEN SUNOPEN SUN12:00-2:0012:00-2:00

• #1005 612 5TH AVE • #1402 739 PRINCESS • #302 720 8TH AVE

836 Burnaby St $709,900

Awesome River & Mtn views, quiet family friendly street, extensively remodelled, 3 bdrms, 3 baths, 1906 sf, 1948 character bungalow featuring updated kitchen & baths, hardwood fl oors, multi-level view deck, fenced yard, double garage, new siding, updated electrical & plumbing, gas fp, double windows & fenced backyard. LOT: 49.66 x 102’.

OPEN SUNOPEN SUN2:30-4:302:30-4:30

#303 777 8th St $315,000

WOW! Substantially reno’d, 2 bdrm, 975 sf, 3rd fl r corner suite in “Moody Gardens” just across frm Moody Park & NWSS in Uptown New Westminster, close to recreation, shopping & transit. This bright & spacious immaculate suite has new paint & laminate fl rs, crown moldings & baseboards throughout, updated kitch & bath, elec f/p, 2 wall mounted TV’s (negotiable) & much more! Bldg is well maint’d & managed & was rainscreed w/Hardiplank exterior in 2001. Super suite & great location!

OPEN SAT OPEN SAT 2:30-4:302:30-4:30

312 3rd St $789,900

Restored & mechanically updated 3 bdrm, 2 bth, 2104 sf 1892 character hme in the heart of Queens Park on beautiful, quiet, tree lined, cobblestone St just steps to Sullivan Park & close to schools, shops & skytrain. This charming home feats fi r, beech & tile fl rs, high ceilings, nice fl r plan w/generous rm sizes, LR w/gas fp & hand painted ceiling mural, sunken family rm w/bay wndw & vaulted ceilings, updated open kitch/EA w/ newer applcs, formal DR, newer full bath w/Jacuzzi tub on main. 3 bdrms + newer bth up. Private backyard w/newer fencing, lrg patio & nice landscaping front & back, newer wndws, elec, plumbing, crawl space, drainage upgrades, newer sewer & water lines, stamped concrete driveway & walkways, 60% of the siding has been redone & exterior repainted last year.

#402 715 Royal Ave$229,900

Nicely updated top fl oor corner, 2 bdrm, 758 sf suite just steps to Douglas College, Sktrain, NW Quay & new downtown shopping complex w/stores & 10 cinemas opening soon. This bright & spacious suite has been recently updated with laminate & slate fl oors, updated kitchen & bath, large covered balcony, newer applcs, light fi xtures, paint & wndw coverings. Pets & rentals ok. Complex has new roof, boiler & HW tanks.

NEWNEWLISTINGLISTING

OPEN SUNOPEN SUN2:30-4:302:30-4:30

#207 48 Richmond St $329,900

Beautifully decorated 2 bdrm 2 bath, 1157 sq ft Garden Suite w/ gorgeous River view in Fraserview close to parks, shopping, recreation and transit. This updated suite features laminate fl oors, energy effi cient gas fi replace with designer mantel, in-fl oor heating throughout, insuite laundry, custom window coverings, oak kitchen w/ ceramic tile fl oors, large closets, open plan, large room sizes, new carpets and 4 piece ensuite in master bdrm. Building is well maintained and managed, rainscreened, 3 year old roof and refurbished hallways. Adult orientated 19+, pets allowed and no rentals.

OPEN SAT OPEN SAT 12:00-2:0012:00-2:00

CHECK OUR WEBSITE TO VIEW OUR CABINS AND

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located on Mackenzie beach , 5 minutes

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We’re having another We’re having another

CUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAYCUSTOMER APPRECIATION DAY Tuesday, December 6Tuesday, December 6

Thanks for all of the support!Thanks for all of the support!

REGULARLYPRICEDMERCHANDISEALLALL20%20%

OFFOFF