Richcraft Sales Event - Galleria 2 (238 Besserer)

Richcraft Homes is currently pushing the last remaining units inside of the Galleria 2, located at the corner of Besserer and King Edward (on the border of Sandy Hill and the Byward Market). "The Million Dollar Event" has discounts on the remaining ten units, ranging from $40,000 to over $275,000 off of the purchase price. The building is now fully completed, allowing a quick closing period (for those who are looking to move fast). Building features an indoor pool, gym, amenities room and outdoor area, visitor parking, etc.

View fullsize

A few of the available units include - The Urban Sp. on the 11th floor, 720sqft plus a large 435sqft terrace originally priced at $493,778, now priced at $399,000. The first major standout is the terrace, but looking closer you will see that the living area is decent and provides plenty of room depending on how you wish to enjoy the space. This includes underground parking, storage locker, stainless appliances,  hardwood throughout including the bedroom, Granite counters throughout etc.

View fullsize

Another favorite is the Fenton floorplan on the 6th floor, 978sqft two bedroom two bathroom that was originally listed at $487,000 and now priced at $447,000. A smaller sized corner unit that includes a master en-suite bathroom and lots of light. This includes underground parking, storage locker, stainless appliances,  hardwood throughout including the bedroom, Granite counters throughout etc. 

 

Overall with the highly desired location (steps to Byward Market, Rideau Shopping Center, Nordstrom, Parliament Hill, University Of Ottawa, etc), and high-quality finishes, these units are certainly appealing to those currently shopping. There are only ten units - so once they sell, they are gone.

If you are interested in downtown condos for sale in Ottawa, contact Matt Richling (sales representative with RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Group) who focuses on downtown living. Fill out the form below or email him directly - Matt@MattRichling.com.

Click To Contact Matt Richling

238 Besserer Sales Event

Yard & Station - Construction Update

View fullsize

Construction is almost complete and occupancy has begun at Morley Hoppner's Yard & Station which is located at 12 Stirling Avenue in Hintonburg. This luxury low-rise loft building was designed by lead architect Barry J Hobin & Associates. Only one unit still remains available for purchase, an 1807 sqft loft for $939,000 (price is up from earlier in the year). The lower units have started occupancy and the finishing details have started on the other two floors. 

View fullsize

Click to expand the floorplan for the last available unit below - yes, it is very impressive. Two bedrooms plus large den, along with two bathrooms, separate laundry room, direct access from the elevator, etc. This is certainly not shoebox living. 

For more information about loft living in Ottawa fill out the form below. Matt Richling (salesperson at RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Group) is focused on downtown living and helping buyers with finding the perfect investment space. 

Mechanicsville Lofts by Modbox

Mechanicsville Lofts is a new low rise, six unit condo development by ModBox Developments that will be located at 92 Stonehurst Avenue in Mechanicsville area of Ottawa. ModBox is the sister company to Linebox Studio which is the Architect of the project and the creative behind the design. The building is set for completion 2017 with construction to start this summer.

Units start at $550,000 with sizes ranging from 1114sqft to 1745sqft. Each unit has a few different layout choices allowing the buyer a two-bedroom layout, one bedroom plus den layout, or a fully open concept layout (depending on the unit). Not to mention high-end european standard finishes and appliances. Each unit is equipped with a high-end Wolf all-gas range - yes, included standard at no extra charge. Unit features include 10'6" ceilings with radiant-heated polished concrete floors, high-end custom millwork, and direct access elevators into each unit. Parking is covered, above ground, and very limited - however with the central location it might not be necessary.

The building will feature a large rooftop terrace that has been designed specifically for entertaining and relaxing, with panoramic views looking over Laroche Park and of the downtown skyline.

"The Mechanicsville Lofts are inspired by the true hard lofts of New York City and the contemporary soft lofts of Toronto and Montreal. Hard lofts are spaces that were once a functional factory or warehouse and then transformed into an expansive dwelling with rugged detailing and exposed services. Contemporary soft lofts refine this concept with softer detailing, concealed ducts, plumbing and electrical services. Both versions offer high ceilings, big windows, and open concept floor plans.

Mechanicsville Lofts offers the best of both worlds: an entirely new build with all the elements of true hard lofts plus the comforts and efficiencies of well-built, modern dwellings. Building features include soaring 10'-6" ceiling heights, radiant-heated polished concrete floors, floor-to-ceiling windows, high-end custom millwork, open floor plans, and secure elevators that open directly into each unit. A large rooftop terrace overlooks Laroche Park and Ottawa’s Parliament Buildings. All this to give to you the hard loft life." -mechanicsvillelofts.ca

Two units both with the open-concept layout. Numerous layouts per unit are available for the buyer to choose from.

Same units as above except with the two bedroom, two bathroom layout.

For more information about ModBox Developments Mechanicsville Lofts, visit their sales website at Mechanicsvillelofts.ca. If you have any questions about pre-construction condos in Ottawa, fill out the form below.

 

SoBa - Construction Update August

**For updated information about SoBa Condos, check out the dedicated section with regularly updated construction and sales information. CLICK HERE to view.**

Since the last update earlier this year, Lamb Developments has continued to move forward with construction of SoBa which will be located at 203 Catherine Street. Construction of the 240 unit, 23 storey building is expected to be completed in late 2017 or early 2018. Units are still available for purchase.

For information on pre-construction condos in Ottawa, contact Matt Richling (Sales Representative with RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Group) by filling out the form below.

Claridge Icon Ottawa Condo - Construction Update

Claridge Homes is steadily progressing on construction of what will be Ottawa's tallest condominium building. Claridge Icon is located at 485 Preston Street in Little Italy and across from Dow's Lake. Expected completion of the 45 story building is April 2019. Unit price ranges from $291,000 to well over $1,235,000 of the 230 total units.

For more information about pre-construction condos within the city of Ottawa, please contact Matt Richling (sales representative with RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Group) by filling out the form below.

Arthaus Condos Ottawa - Construction Update

ArtHaus residence and condominium is currently on track for a late 2017 completion. Built by DevMcGill and located at 20 Daly Avenue with a premium location beside the Rideau Shopping Center and the Byward Market. Prices for available units range from $246,990 up to $589,990.

For more information about pre-construction condos in downtown Ottawa, contact Matt Richling (sales representative with RE/MAX Hallmark Realty Group) by filling out the form below or by email Matt@MattRichling.com

Claridge Icon - Construction Fire

Photo Source: Ottawa Citizen/Kara Hayne

Construction fire at the Claridge Icon site at 485 Preston St. The full article from the Ottawa Citizen is below; read the full article here. 

Hazmat call, fire at construction site doused in Little Italy
- Megan Gillis, Ottawa Citizen, August 10th 2016
A fire that ignited spray foam insulation at a Little Italy construction site has been doused and fire and air tests turned up clear, although road closures are still in place, Ottawa Fire Services said Wednesday as the afternoon commute began.

Concerns about potentially-toxic burning insulation was behind the large perimeter established around the Claridge Icon project at Carling Avenue and Preston Street after a loud noise and smoke were reported at noon, a fire service spokeswoman said.

First responders called the hazardous materials team to the scene and closed Carling Avenue from Bronson Avenue to Sherwood Drive, and Preston Street from Pamilla Street to Prince of Wales Drive. Crews have since reopened Carling.

Firefighters wore the breathing apparatus they don during working fires during the safety perimeter while police asked that people avoid the area.

Witnesses tweeted that firefighters were trying to extinguish insulation that had been applied to the foundation at the condo tower that’s under construction.

SoBa - Construction Update

With warmer weather now here, construction crews have come back and continue moving forward. Check out the above time-lapse video of the progress from yesterday at the SoBa site on Catherine st. 

Questions about pre-construction condos in Ottawa? I would love to chat - fill out the form below.

Underground Condo Parking In Ottawa

As I write this, the weather channel is predicting almost 24 hours of straight snowfall with 25-35cm of snow. Last week we had the record 52 cm which fell in just over a 24 hour period. Yuck. This is that time of year when those who have underground heated parking are very happy - just jump into a warm car, with no snow to remove, or ice to scrape off.  

The Basics

Most apartment style condo buildings have at least one level of underground parking in Ottawa while typically town house or up/down split style condos, have outdoor surface parking spots. The number of spots each developer must build will mostly depend on the zoning. Most spots are a standard width, and can fit a standard car (but not all buildings are the same - more on this later).

The parking garage typically has access to the main elevators (older buildings might have a separate elevator), along with some of the storage locker rooms and bicycle rooms or area. They typically are heated and ventilated. 

The Cost

When looking at pre-construction the price of a parking spot will first depend on the type of condominium (townhouse or highrise). For example - Valecraft Homes is including one outdoor parking spot for free with the unit purchase at Woodroffe Lofts and a second spot can be purchased for $10,000. Compared to Claridge who is offering an underground parking spot at an additional cost of $35,000 per space at Claridge Icon. 

Next, the cost might rise depending on location within the parking garage. Some builders will offer the premium spaces on level 1 for $5-15,000 more per space - on top of the $35,000. Not every builder does this, some save the premium spots for the large or penthouse units.

Keep in mind, there is also a monthly cost in addition to the purchase price. Since your percentage of ownership goes up in the building, your condo fees will rise as well. Some pre-construction buildings will project an additional $35-45 per month, while parking spots in some re-sale buildings can add $60-90 per month to your condo fee.

While no developer will share the true cost to build a spot, we have always been told it was more than they typically charged, up to almost double to cost - depending on how many levels below ground they need to go. Obviously outdoor surface spots will be a fraction of the cost, since there is less involved in the construction. Zoning requires a certain amount of spots be built per unit. It can range from 0.5 to 0.7 parking spots per unit - or more further outside the downtown core.

Restrictions

Keep in mind that not every unit is able to purchase parking when buying pre-construction.  Since the builder will build as few spots as possible, they will restrict which units can or can not purchase a spot. Typically this restriction falls on the smallest units. Assuming that the smaller unit is less likely to have a vehicle, compared to the large units with multiple residents who might require two etc.  Most builders will have a list for when larger units opt out of the spot, to allow the smaller unit owners the chance to purchase. However, when the building is handed over to the owners, you are then able to purchase a spot from another owner. 

Differences

Obviously not every building is the same, and often these differences can be found underground. Some buildings include visitor parking - The East Market (180 York, 383 Cumberland, 179 George) shares 23 overnight or long term visitor parking spots and 12 short term spots. Builders started including spots for car share services such as VRTUCAR which allows the owner to have 24 hour access to a shared vehicle - without the cost of gas, insurance, and maintenance. Great if you walk to work and never use your car. If you are willing to spend extra, you can even find Valet parking! Windmill's The Eddy features "puzzle parking" system which mechanically parks your car for you. This allows the developer to have more spaces and lower the overall cost. 

No parking space is the same, some have posts or walls on each side, some have plumbing or ventilation equipmenthanging down. This is why it is important to choose your spot carefully, or atleast see it in person if possible. Many owners with larger vehicles (pickup truck or large SUV's) need to make sure they can even enter the garage! Always check it out!

Buying and Selling Parking

While not every building is the same (consult your lawyer), typically each unit (condo, locker, and parking) are all separate. Each one has a separate Property Information Number or PIN which allows you to buy and sell them / they are not fixed to that certain condo. We regularly will list parking spots and even lockers apart from the condo unit on the MLS. Depending on the building, the unit, and the selling strategy. Since it is re-sale, the price is negotiable - however remember that you can't just add the cost on your mortgage, you would need to pay cash. Typically we see spots selling for $24-35,000 depending on the building, location of the spot, and demand for parking. Lockers will typically sell anywhere from $4-7,000 per. 

That small square painted on the ground - Its never just as simple as it might seem. 

Questions about parking? Thinking of buying pre-construction or a condo in Ottawa? I would love to help you out. 

What's in my condo's concrete floor?

Construction Photo from Richcraft of the 16th Floor of The Bowery on January 28th!

Often it is easy to forget how much work is involved in the construction of a building, and how exactly the buildings are built. Here is a quick example of the construction process for the concrete slabs (or floor) of a concrete highrise condominium. These are all from The Bowery and give you a great sense of what could be in your floor and ceiling.

The main "squares" or woven material is the steel rebar or rod's which provide the strength and woven together throughout every area. Once that is complete all of the tubing and conduits are run for each unit. The red is hot water, blue is cold water, and the grey is electrical along with "other" cables such as fire, audio/visual etc. Some builders run extra to different rooms since it is nearly impossible after the concrete is set.

The rebar (steel rod's) sticking up are to connect vertical concrete walls and columns that support the floor above. The photo below, shows a finished slab that is curing (drying). It gives you a better idea of a more finished product - you can see the vertical rebar for support columns/walls, and the plumbing and other conduits.

Fact - Most concrete subfloors are between 7-10 inches thick, which doesn't include any flooring or subflooring - just the concrete! 

Zibi "O" - Approved by Gatineau Council

Windmill Development's first phase of the highly anticipated Zibi development, "O" , has been given the green light to move ahead. The Gatineau City Council unanimously agreed to let the 280 unit building to be located on the Gatineau side of the river. Windmill's co-founder Jeff Westeinde  has confirmed that they will  start pouring concrete this spring once the excavation and remediation of the land is complete. This is the first of six phases for the project to be built over the next 12 years.

For more information about the Zibi Development, CLICK HERE to view the area dedicated to everything and anything Zibi.

Arthaus - Floor Plans And Pricing

Note: Arthaus developer DevMcGill has chosen Matt Richling as a VIP Platinum broker for the Arthaus Residence launch. This allows clients a preferential first pick at units, views, and combo options, before the general public and non-VIP brokers. In addition there are exclusive incentives to clients who purchase (for a limited time). For a copy of all the floor plans and launch pricing/information, fill out the form at the bottom.

Check out the Arthaus page for everything regarding the upcoming Arthaus development.

Floorplan Sneak Peek
The Casson is a 518sqft one bedroom, one bathroom unit. This unit has views looking east and starts on the 15th floor at $259,990.

View fullsize

The Olgilvie is a 1189sqft (inc. 43sqft balcony) two bedroom, two bathroom, with large master suite including a walk in closet and en-suit bathroom. The unit has south and west views, starting from the 15th floor at $575,990.

View fullsize

Fill out this form to receive all the floor plans and launch pricing.

Claridge Icon - Construction Update

Located at 485 Preston street, (corner of Carling) in Little Italy and Dows Lake, Claridge's Icon has officially hit rock bottom. Well... Digging has hit the lowest part and crews are getting prepared to start building the parking levels and then the 45 stories. Housing 320 residential units plus commercial space in the lower podium - it will become the largest tower in Ottawa (after construction) at 485ft. Originally set with a closing date in December 2018, Claridge has moved the occupancy back to April 2019. Available units currently range from $286,000 to $1,250,000 for one of the few remaining penthouse units. 22 floor plans in total with most still available on select floors. 

For more information about pre-construction condos in Ottawa - contact me!

Yard and Station - Construction and Sales Update

Yard and Station, which is a low rise, luxury, loft building, is located at 12 Stirling Avenue (at Scott) in Hintonburg. The three storey building will be completed this year and only one of the nine units is still available for sale. The unit is priced at $899,000 plus parking and locker ($35,000) - and is 1807sqft of indoor space plus 130sqft of outdoor space. Yard And Station is being built by Ottawa based Morley Hoppner and the lead architect is Barry J. Hobin & Associates

For more information about Yard and Station condos, or pre-construction condos in Ottawa, Contact me - I would love to help!

The Slater - Construction and Sales Update

View fullsize

Broccolini's The Slater has been topped off and interior work is well underway. Drywall work is around the 16th floor. The building is approximately 78% sold of the 178 units with prices starting around $227,900.

Broccolini is no stranger to Ottawa being involved with the construction of Windmill's Cathedral Hill, Richcraft's Galleria, etc.

The Bowery - Construction and Sales Update

View fullsize

The Bowery, by Richcraft has come along way and is progressing nicely. Currently at the 15th of 18 floors, they are installing the exterior windows on the 6th floor. Richcraft is on track with occupancy to start on November 1st. 

Currently 98 units are sold in the building out of 246 units, with three sold so far this month. Richcraft raised The Bowery pricing yesterday after a comparison to other buildings in the area showed that they are still priced quite lower.

The Bowery is located at 255 Bay st (at Gloucester) - with the sales centre located at 136 Bank ( at Slater). A total of 246 units with prices starting from $181,000. Rooftop amenities feature an indoor pool, fitness and yoga studio, indoor lounge/party room, outdoor terrace, sauna, etc.

For more information about The Bowery, or pre-construction condos in Ottawa, Contact Me!

Arthaus - Sales Office Built

We got word that a mysterious black office had landed and started hearing a little gossip about it's potential use. Finally it has been confirmed that the dark wood clad building will be the sales centre for Arthaus Residence. The sales centre is located on Rideau Street just across from the Metro and LCBO at the corner of King Edward. This also confirms that the building will start selling this spring.

For more information on Arthaus Residence or other pre-construction condos in Ottawa - Contact me!

Zibi Ottawa - O and Kanaal - Sales Update

Sales Update for Kanaal as of January 9th 2016

View fullsize

Early November, "Kanaal" which is the second phase of Windmill Development's Zibi project, was officially launched to the public. Of the 61 units there is roughly 60% sold, however later this week Windmill is releasing 15 more units (mix of size). Windmill is expecting to break ground in the first half of 2016 and is expecting a completion date of late 2017 (possibly early 2018) for both phases. The largest difference between the first and second phase is future location - the second phase is located in Ontario, while the first is going to be located in Quebec.

The first phase of the highly anticipated project "Zibi" was officially launched on May 30th (2015) and is sitting at 65% sold. 

Both projects have a good mix of units remaining in size and price points.

For more information about Zibi condos or other pre construction condos in Ottawa, fill out the form below.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION

Zibi Ottawa Sales update

Arthaus Condos - Construction Update

Construction Progress of Arthaus Condos from DevMcGill

**For everything ARTHAUS related, visit the up to date ARTHAUS section here**

Arthaus Condos, will be located above the Ottawa Art Gallery and Le Germain Hotel at the corner of Daly and Waller in the Byward Market (just steps from The Rideau Shopping Center - Nordstrom!). Montreal developer DevMcGill has over 20 years of building residential condominiums and expects completion in 2017. Sales dates have not yet been announced, but we expect it to be sometime soon (once things warm up a little). With such a unique building, location, and only 89 units - we expect the units to move quickly.

Also the sales centre for the project is currently under construction, located at 264 Rideau St (across from the Metro and LCBO).

For more information about Arthaus Condos or pre-construction condos in Ottawa, fill out the form below.

CLICK TO FOR MORE INFORMATION

Arthaus Construction update

SoBa Condos - Construction Update

After a warm fall and finish to 2015 we have not seen much progress from the construction site of SoBa. Located at 203 Catherine Street in Centretown, the 240 unit building was set for "completion in 2016" - however we have a feeling that this will be pushed back. 

View fullsize

Click To Enlarge

For more information about SoBa Condos, check out the dedicated section with regularly updated construction and sales information. CLICK HERE to view.

CLICK FOR MORE INFORMATION

Soba Update Jan 6th