The Icon Business Park in Calgary. (Courtesy Hungerford Properties)
Hungerford Properties has sold the 46-acre Icon Business Park in Calgary, which it bought in 2013 and repositioned from a vacant single-use property to multi-tenant facility that is 98 per cent occupied.
Michael Hungerford, partner in Hungerford Properties, confirmed the sale of the property to RENX late Wednesday. Due to confidentiality articles in the transaction, he did not reveal the buyer of the business park nor the sale price.
The Icon Business Park includes a 762,000-square-foot industrial facility in southeast Calgary that has about 11.5 per cent of its total space reserved for office use.
“Today as I look back, the plan that we had to execute on, we’ve completed. So the time had come for us to hand it off to another owner with a different plan. The value creation that we undertook is complete and that led us to the decision to sell,” said Hungerford.
“I’m reluctant to talk about the particulars of the deal because there’s confidentiality.
“Out of respect for confidentiality with the purchaser, I’m not at liberty to talk about it. It’s a well-respected institutional buyer.”
In a release Thursday morning, Equium Group announced it will be the new property manager of Icon. Calgary-based Equium’s services include property management, development, construction, marketing, leasing and property investment. It specializes in commercial, condominium and residential real estate services.
Equium Group’s portfolio under management is valued in excess of $1.1 billion.
History of Icon Business Park
Hungerford Properties bought the site and building from manufacturer Haworth. The building was originally built in 1999 by Calgary entrepreneur Mogans Smed.
The facility consists of about 85,000 square feet of office space. The warehouse portion is another 676,000 square feet.
The Haworth building was originally put on the Calgary market for sale in the spring of 2010. The Haworth manufacturing facility was listed for sale as the U.S.-based company wound down production in the city.
Although the original list price was not revealed, the property was assessed for $60 million at the time and was being marketed internationally.
Smed International operated in Calgary from 1982 to 2000, at which time the facility was purchased by Haworth.
Haworth, which designs and manufactures office furniture and workspaces, is headquartered in Holland, Mich.
In August 2009, the manufacturer announced it was cutting about 600 jobs in Calgary as it was consolidating its Calgary manufacturing operations to west Michigan.
Hungerford’s redevelopment
Michael Hungerford, a partner in Hungerford Properties. (Courtesy Hungerford Properties)
When Hungerford bought the property, it undertook a redevelopment that included new building systems, new exterior access points, improved landscaping, more than 60 new loading doors, new fitness amenities, new office storefronts and interior tenant improvements.
“The plan was to buy the property, invest in it and reposition it and bring in business. Stabilize it with good long-term tenants,” said Hungerford. “As we looked at where we sit now, we achieved all that and we said it makes sense for another, in this case, institution to take ownership of it.
“Our vision was to transform this underutilized industrial space in Calgary into a bustling industrial park and we are thrilled to see this vision come of life.”
Today, Icon has national and international tenants including:
* CHEP, a global supply-chain logistics services group;
* Robert Thibert Inc., an international automotive parts distributor;
* ABB Inc., a Fortune Global 500 robotics, power, heavy electrical equipment and automation technology provider;
* Rolf C. Hagen Inc, the world’s largest privately owned pet products manufacturer and distributor;
* and The Data Group, one of Alberta’s largest single graphics communications companies.
Most recently, Icon leased 42,700 square feet of office space to Energy Safety Canada, Canada’s oil and gas safety association.
That tenancy brought the building to 98 per cent occupancy and represented one of the top-10 suburban relocation deals in the Calgary office market since 2015, according to Colliers International.
“Hungerford brought their expertise, creativity, commitment and vision to Icon and as a result, it has performed well,” said Paul Marsden, executive VP and partner at Colliers.
“Icon is a quality asset in a great location and, in addition to providing quality service to its tenants, Hungerford has brought new life to the area through these additional businesses, their employees and clients.”
Calgary industrial attractive
Hungerford said the company sees Calgary as an attractive centre for a diversified portfolio as part of its Canadian strategy – particularly its industrial strategy.
“That’s what we’ve certainly invested in, in the Calgary market. We continue to hold that view,” he told RENX.
“So, while we might be a seller at this particular asset, we’re also a buyer in others and have bought and have been active buying in the last couple of years in Calgary. It’s a long-term view in the market.
“As we look ahead, we like the regional story of Calgary industrial and the value for tenants in the market. We expect to be participating in the industrial market going forward.”
Beside the Icon Business Park, the company currently is completing construction of the Icon Retail Centre which has about half of its space committed to leases. Construction will be complete in 2021.
The Icon Retail Centre includes two strip buildings on four acres of land comprising about 14,000 square feet. It is anchored by a Petro-Canada gas station.
MONTREAL – Two Quebec real estate brokers are facing fines and years-long suspensions for submitting bogus offers on homes to drive up prices during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Christine Girouard has been suspended for 14 years and her business partner, Jonathan Dauphinais-Fortin, has been suspended for nine years after Quebec’s authority of real estate brokerage found they used fake bids to get buyers to raise their offers.
Girouard is a well-known broker who previously starred on a Quebec reality show that follows top real estate agents in the province.
She is facing a fine of $50,000, while Dauphinais-Fortin has been fined $10,000.
The two brokers were suspended in May 2023 after La Presse published an article about their practices.
One buyer ended up paying $40,000 more than his initial offer in 2022 after Girouard and Dauphinais-Fortin concocted a second bid on the house he wanted to buy.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 11, 2024.
MONTREAL – The Quebec Professional Association of Real Estate Brokers says Montreal-area home sales rose 9.3 per cent in August compared with the same month last year, with levels slightly higher than the historical average for this time of year.
The association says home sales in the region totalled 2,991 for the month, up from 2,737 in August 2023.
The median price for all housing types was up year-over-year, led by a six per cent increase for the price of a plex at $763,000 last month.
The median price for a single-family home rose 5.2 per cent to $590,000 and the median price for a condominium rose 4.4 per cent to $407,100.
QPAREB market analysis director Charles Brant says the strength of the Montreal resale market contrasts with declines in many other Canadian cities struggling with higher levels of household debt, lower savings and diminishing purchasing power.
Active listings for August jumped 18 per cent compared with a year earlier to 17,200, while new listings rose 1.7 per cent to 4,840.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 6, 2024.
In the quest to find cities where renters can enjoy the best of all worlds, a recent study analyzed 24 metrics across three key categories—Housing & Economy, Quality of Life, and Community. The study ranked the 100 largest cities in Canada to determine which ones offer the most to their renters.
Here are the top 10 cities that emerged as the best for renters in 2024:
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, stand out as the top city for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its vibrant cultural scene, stunning natural beauty, and welcoming community, St. John’s offers an exceptional quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing, a robust economy, and low unemployment rates, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching living experience. Its rich history, picturesque harbour, and dynamic arts scene further enhance its appeal, ensuring that renters can enjoy both comfort and excitement in this charming coastal city.
Sherbrooke, QC
Sherbrooke, Quebec, emerges as a leading city for renters in Canada for 2024, offering a blend of affordability and quality of life. Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Townships, Sherbrooke is known for its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural scene, and strong community spirit. The city provides affordable rental options, low living costs, and a thriving local economy, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both comfort and economic stability. With its rich history, numerous parks, and dynamic arts and education sectors, Sherbrooke presents an inviting environment for renters looking for a well-rounded lifestyle.
Québec City, QC
Québec City, the capital of Quebec, stands out as a premier destination for renters in Canada for 2024. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this city offers an exceptional quality of life. Renters benefit from affordable housing, excellent public services, and a robust economy. The city’s charming streets, historic sites, and diverse culinary scene provide a unique living experience. With top-notch education institutions, numerous parks, and a strong sense of community, Québec City is an ideal choice for those seeking a dynamic and fulfilling lifestyle.
Trois-Rivières, QC
Trois-Rivières, nestled between Montreal and Quebec City, emerges as a top choice for renters in Canada. This historic city, known for its picturesque riverside views and rich cultural scene, offers an appealing blend of affordability and quality of life. Renters in Trois-Rivières enjoy reasonable housing costs, a low unemployment rate, and a vibrant community atmosphere. The city’s well-preserved historic sites, bustling arts community, and excellent educational institutions make it an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Saguenay, QC
Saguenay, located in the stunning Saguenay–Lac-Saint-Jean region of Quebec, is a prime destination for renters seeking affordable living amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its picturesque fjords and vibrant cultural scene, Saguenay offers residents a high quality of life with lower housing costs compared to major urban centers. The city boasts a strong sense of community, excellent recreational opportunities, and a growing economy. For those looking to combine affordability with a rich cultural and natural environment, Saguenay stands out as an ideal choice.
Granby, QC
Granby, nestled in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships, offers renters a delightful blend of small-town charm and ample opportunities. Known for its beautiful parks, vibrant cultural scene, and family-friendly environment, Granby provides an exceptional quality of life. The city’s affordable housing market and strong sense of community make it an attractive option for those seeking a peaceful yet dynamic place to live. With its renowned zoo, bustling downtown, and numerous outdoor activities, Granby is a hidden gem that caters to a diverse range of lifestyles.
Fredericton, NB
Fredericton, the capital city of New Brunswick, offers renters a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Known for its vibrant arts scene, beautiful riverfront, and welcoming community, Fredericton provides an excellent quality of life. The city boasts affordable housing options, scenic parks, and a strong educational presence with institutions like the University of New Brunswick. Its rich cultural heritage, coupled with a thriving local economy, makes Fredericton an attractive destination for those seeking a balanced and fulfilling lifestyle.
Saint John, NB
Saint John, New Brunswick’s largest city, is a coastal gem known for its stunning waterfront and rich heritage. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, it offers renters an affordable cost of living with a unique blend of historic architecture and modern conveniences. The city’s vibrant uptown area is bustling with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, while its scenic parks and outdoor spaces provide ample opportunities for recreation. Saint John’s strong sense of community and economic growth make it an inviting place for those looking to enjoy both urban and natural beauty.
Saint-Hyacinthe, QC
Saint-Hyacinthe, located in the Montérégie region of Quebec, is a vibrant city known for its strong agricultural roots and innovative spirit. Often referred to as the “Agricultural Technopolis,” it is home to numerous research centers and educational institutions. Renters in Saint-Hyacinthe benefit from a high quality of life with access to excellent local amenities, including parks, cultural events, and a thriving local food scene. The city’s affordable housing and close-knit community atmosphere make it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced and enriching lifestyle.
Lévis, QC
Lévis, located on the southern shore of the St. Lawrence River across from Quebec City, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern conveniences. Known for its picturesque views and well-preserved heritage sites, Lévis is a city where history meets contemporary living. Residents enjoy a high quality of life with excellent public services, green spaces, and cultural activities. The city’s affordable housing options and strong sense of community make it a desirable place for renters looking for both tranquility and easy access to urban amenities.
This category looked at factors such as average rent, housing costs, rental availability, and unemployment rates. Québec stood out with 10 cities ranking at the top, demonstrating strong economic stability and affordable housing options, which are critical for renters looking for cost-effective living conditions.
Québec again led the pack in this category, with five cities in the top 10. Ontario followed closely with three cities. British Columbia excelled in walkability, with four cities achieving the highest walk scores, while Caledon topped the list for its extensive green spaces. These factors contribute significantly to the overall quality of life, making these cities attractive for renters.
Victoria, BC, emerged as the leader in this category due to its rich array of restaurants, museums, and educational institutions, offering a vibrant community life. St. John’s, NL, and Vancouver, BC, also ranked highly. Québec City, QC, and Lévis, QC, scored the highest in life satisfaction, reflecting a strong sense of community and well-being. Additionally, Saskatoon, SK, and Oshawa, ON, were noted for having residents with lower stress levels.
For a comprehensive view of the rankings and detailed interactive visuals, you can visit the full study by Point2Homes.
While no city can provide a perfect living experience for every renter, the cities highlighted in this study come remarkably close by excelling in key areas such as housing affordability, quality of life, and community engagement. These findings offer valuable insights for renters seeking the best places to live in Canada in 2024.
