Real eState

Real estate: New infill causes buzz in Buena Vista – Saskatoon StarPhoenix

Published

5 years ago

January 13, 2020

Not only is it a private venture, it’s a fascinating peek into the reasons people build new homes in old areas.

Mike and Lona Finney are building their retirement home on the corner of Sixth Street and Eastlake Avenue in Saskatoon. (photo by Joanne Paulson)

Saskatoon

One day last summer, the side of the house on the corner of Sixth Street and Eastlake Avenue was torn off. Poof, there went the porch. Down came a couple of old trees.

The community buzz began. What were those people doing? Who were they? What was happening?

It seemed like two minutes later when a concrete foundation was poured next door. The frame went up, and the walls began to rise. The owners had evidently split the lot and were building a new infill in tree-lined, lovely Buena Vista.

“Those people” proved to be Mike and Lona Finney, a mechanical engineer and home care business owner, respectively. As it turns out, this is no ordinary infill. Not only is it a private venture, it’s a fascinating peek into the reasons people build new homes in old areas.

Mike and Lona Finney are building their retirement home on the corner of Sixth Street and Eastlake Avenue in Saskatoon. (photo by Joanne Paulson)

Saskatoon

The couple had been seeking a location like this for a long time. They owned a large home in another neighbourhood, but when their kids moved out, it seemed a little much for two people.

Then this property came up for sale. Some months and negotiations later, they bought it, seeing potential in the 58 x 125 foot lot.

Helpfully, there is expertise on their side. Mike has renovated homes all his working life, although he has never built a new house. Lona’s experience with her business, Saskatoon Home Support, has opened their eyes to the challenges of getting older. This will be their retirement home.

“Our master bedroom, everything is on the main floor,” Mike said in an interview. “It’s wheelchair accessible, set up for us to retire in.”

The front of the house will feature a 10 x 15 foot sunroom with a swim spa measuring six by 10 feet. Behind it is a great room, kitchen and dining area; the back bedroom contains an ensuite and steam shower. The bathroom will also be accessible to guests, eliminating the need to dedicate space for a second, smaller bathroom.

Upstairs will be two bedrooms that can easily be converted into four or five, should a larger family live there in the future. The Finneys will use the extra space as a bonus room with fireplace.

“We can sustainably live on the main floor … until we have to move on,” Lona said. “That was another main goal of this build. So many times I see that, if you’re in a two-storey condo or house, and something happens — we can all fall and break a hip, you don’t have to be 90 — and you don’t have a bathroom downstairs, or maybe a half bath, you don’t have a shower … there are so many things (to consider).

“And then you have to make a rash decision (if) you have to move.”

The process is not for the faint of heart. Mike had an advantage, since he deals with building permits all the time, and knew how to do due diligence to ensure he could split the lot and build the house.

He had the lot legally surveyed before they bought the property. To accomplish the split, he had to take out permits to change the existing garage and deck, and to rip off the side of the house. He submitted his plans and then had to wait for a building permit before he could legally subdivide it. In addition, all the utility companies had to approve the subdivision.

By code, the existing home’s exterior wall facing the new home must be fire-rated, so the Finneys will have to replace all the windows on that side, as well as put a new front door facing the east-west street, and slice off part of the garage. The 1929 home will also get a new deck.

“We are so lucky that he has this knowledge base,” Lona said. “He did all these plans … he’s got that mind and can do that.”

“It’s also being able to recognize the potential,” Mike added.

The tree-removal issue generated some conversation, and perhaps consternation, in the neighbourhood. Trees are often protected during an infill build, but in this case some had to come down, and not just to make room for the new house. The Finneys hired an arborist, who told them two of the old trees had split and would eventually fall, potentially causing damage.

Mike has an additional take on trees versus housing, stemming from his interest in sustainability.

“Sustainability is more people per square foot,” he said. “I’d love a great debate over whether or not (we should be) taking a tree down and putting a house there … we’re now going to house two families here instead of one.” They intend to keep the existing home as a rental.

Adding to the sustainability aspect of the new home, the Finneys are building to new energy codes as set out by the National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB); the new code came into effect on Jan. 1, 2019.

“Our house will consume one-third less than the model house of this size,” he said. “It’s very efficient. We’re going to be future-proofed for solar panels as well, to go on the garage.”

Furthermore, the Finneys are finding that they’re using their vehicles less and walking much more often, particularly to Broadway Avenue. Walkability is a big advantage to living in a core neighbourhood. If you can reduce your environmental footprint, age in place, add to density and enjoy the advantages of a new home, an infill is a good choice.

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Real eState

Two Quebec real estate brokers suspended for using fake bids to drive up prices

Published

2 days ago

September 11, 2024

Anne Joseph

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.

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Montreal home sales, prices rise in August: real estate board

Published

7 days ago

September 6, 2024

Anne Joseph

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.

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Canada’s Best Cities for Renters in 2024: A Comprehensive Analysis

Published

2 months ago

July 24, 2024

Harry Miller

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.