Real Estate & Market Place

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Sunrise Senior Living introduces their successful
Senior Care Option in Montreal

Model suites open at resident-centered and ‘pet friendly’
West Island senior residence

By Peter Kerr

The first time I walked into the Sunrise office in Dollard-des-Ormeaux, I had a sense of comfort that you get when entering a friend’s well-maintained home. Family photos, magazines on the coffee table, and furniture that you can actually sit in all created a welcoming atmosphere. I could have just as easily walked into someone’s home on the West Island or West End. My next thought was that these folks must understand their market.

The company has enjoyed tremendous success in Ontario and British Columbia, as well as the United States, Germany, and the UK. Four new Sunrise communities will be built in greater Montreal over the next 18 months, including residences at Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Blainville, Beaconsfield, and Westmount. Blainville and Dollard-des-Ormeaux will be the first to open in the spring of 2008.

Sunrise communities offer an alternative to nursing homes and traditional residences for seniors who are unable to live in their own homes, but do not require complex medical supervision. They offer a wide variety of individualized care and services tailored to each resident’s specific needs, giving their families the peace of mind.

Prior to move-in, a meeting is held with the family to understand the senior’s care and service needs. An individualized service plan is created that addresses important daily personal activities such as hygiene, dressing, socializing, activities, assistance with eating, medication management, mobility and transferring, incontinence management, and safety.

Each resident enjoys three well balanced meals a day, served in a comfortable dining room. Snacks and beverages are available 24 hours a day, as they would be at home. Sunrise also provides housekeeping and laundry service; transportation for shopping and special outings; wellness visits by a licensed on-staff nurse, including monitoring of medications. All services are provided by well-trained, compassionate team members who are dedicated to serving seniors.

A home-like environment that encourages independence
Each Sunrise community will have about 80 suites and is designed to offer the same comforts and conveniences of home. With their modern, distinctive décor, Sunrise communities feature outstanding amenities and spacious common areas, such as an elegant dining room for residents, private dining room for personal entertaining, a bistro-type lounge open round the clock for snacks and socializing, an on-site salon, outdoor patios, and a solarium to enjoy the warmth of the sun on a cold day.

Accommodations include studio and one or two bedroom apartments. Residents are encouraged to furnish their suites with their own furniture and items to make their new home familiar and comfortable. Also, residents have the opportunity to bring their own pet with them.

Unique memory care programs for seniors with Alzheimer’s
Each Sunrise community has a separate, secure area, called the Reminiscence Neighbourhood, specially designed to meet the specific needs of seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive impairments. The Reminiscence Neighbourhood is based on the principle of remembering the past through multi-sensory experiences that help residents enjoy pleasant days in an environment that is both secure and stimulating. Through Life Skill Centres and Reminiscence Kits, residents are involved in familiar daily routines such as gardening, sewing, office work, or household chores. Residents also have their own personal Memory Boxes that they and their families decorate and display outside their suites. The visual clues replace the need to remember a room number.

Sunrise communities worldwide offer a full range of personalized senior living services, from independent living, assisted living, care for individuals with Alzheimer’s and other forms of memory loss, to nursing and rehabilitative care. Even though it has grown to be a successful corporation, Sunrise remains a family business stared by Paul and Terry Klaassen who started with a simple vision—to create senior living that champions quality of life for all seniors. It’s a vision that you’ll see is shared by their employees.

The model suites will be open for inspection at the DDO location, 4377 boul. St-Jean, north of de Salaberry. Open every day, please call for specific hours: 514- 620-4556.  For further information about Sunrise in Québec, please visit www.maisonsdeviesunrise.ca

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Terry Pomerantz – driving the condo market
at TRAMS Management

By Peter Kerr

Terry Pomerantz, CEO of TRAMS Management, is one of the major players in the condominium development business in Montreal. His father, Saul Pomerantz, started the company in 1981, and specialized in building multi-family rental buildings. Having established a profitable enterprise in the Montreal area, the family business expanded south of the border.

Working with other real estate partners and financial institutions, the company entered a successful five year period building and selling beachfront condominiums. In all, over 6,000 units were sold in greater Miami. Active in the family business all along, Terry Pomerantz has literally learned the development business from the ground up. Like many successful executives, he has the ability to see business issues with clarity; and can explain what most people would consider complex issues in simple terms.

“About 8 years ago we started building our own projects. Some were commercial, some rental properties and of course the condominium projects we’ve brought on stream. We’ve had experience in Dallas, Toronto, Quebec City, Montreal and Florida. In Montreal we’re keeping our focus on condominium and apartment rental buildings.” Continuing to explain the TRAMS Management business in Montreal, Terry states: “Since then, we’ve built about 500 – 600 condominiums throughout the city; and 1,000 rental units, in the West Island and Anjou.”

Terry Pomerantz is the congenial CEO of TRAMS Management, seen here with the architect’s drawing of Le Luxor in Cote St-Luc

“About 8 years ago we started building our own projects. Some were commercial, some rental properties and of course the condominium projects we’ve brought on stream. We’ve had experience in Dallas, Toronto, Quebec City, Montreal and Florida. In Montreal we’re keeping our focus on condominium and apartment rental buildings.”

Continuing to explain the TRAMS Management business in Montreal, Terry states: “Since then, we’ve built about 500 – 600 condominiums throughout the city; and 1,000 rental units, in the West Island and Anjou.”
  
Commenting on the differences between a rental building and a condominium; Terry’s answer is instructive. “The building structures are fundamentally the same. We have strict building codes to follow, and these laws ensure a high standard of residential construction. ‘Cheap building’ does not exist in this country. The main difference is in the area of the living space and the finishing. Rents have to be calculated as to what people can reasonably pay, and so the size is usually about 150 square feet less than a similar condominium. There is also a difference in the finishing, for example: arborite kitchen counters in a rental and granite in a condominium. Perhaps parquet floors in a rental and hardwood in a condo. The sound resistance in a condominium is also generally at a higher level.”

While he tries not to have favourites, Terry concedes that Le Luxor is a fine building. “Sometimes, when the building is up, you think to yourself, ‘this is even better than I visualized. This is what I felt about Le Luxor when we were nearing completion.”

Development opportunities sometimes come as a renovation project, and such was the case with L’Héritage du Vieux Port, the former refrigerated building for fruits and vegetables in the Old Port. It’s a massive structure, and the trains carrying the produce used to come right into the lower level. After sitting vacant for nine years, Terry and his team took on the restoration and construction of deluxe condominiums in a Heritage building.. “It’s been a tremendous accomplishment for the whole company. We had five levels of government and authorities to work with – and deal with the sometimes competitive situations between different jurisdictions. However, the result is a fine and truly unique building that is proving very popular. You’ve undoubtedly heard about the importance of location in real estate. I can’t think of a more dramatic example than L”Héritage – riverfront and city views, the Old Port, the charm and variety of Old Montreal nearby, and the history of the structure itself all combine to make this an excellent investment – and a great place to live too!”

Asked about new projects, Terry is forthcoming. “We’ve had very good results with Les Jardins Palerme in the South Shore in Brossard, and we’re going to build a twin building next door as a retirement residence for autonomous seniors. It’s a great location, an easy walk to Champlain Mall, Loblaws, and the South Shore bus service to Montreal. It will have grasp bars in the bathrooms, emergency call bells – but it is designed for fully autonomous folks. It’ll be a nice size with 55 apartments.”

Terry continues; “We have a big condominium and rental unit development planned for Pointe aux Prairies.” People interested in this project can call the TRAMS Management office at: 514-341-8600.

During the course of our interview, Terry makes references to the ability and experience of the employees, from construction, to sales and administration. “We have a really good group of people. It’s because of them that we’re able to meet the challenge of a project like L’Héritage and finish a building as well as we’ve done with Le Luxor.”

For more information about TRAMS Management and their residential developments, please visit their web site at: www.tramsmgmt.com

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Le Ste-Helene in St. Lambert
is an ideal “downsizing” options

By Peter Kerr

Belcourt, the development company specializing in residential construction for 50 years has hit a home run with Le Ste-Helene, a condominium development near Upper Edison in Old St. Lambert. There are actually a series of 10 buildings, although they appear as a single classical style building from the street. Each of the buildings has a separate entrance, eliminating long hallways and enhancing the sense of privacy. The buildings are situated around a central park-like court yard, and all the homes run the full depth of the structure, providing space for balconies front and back. The six three-storey buildings have elevators, and the four two storey structures do not. There are 60 homes in the development.

Two and three bedroom models are available in sizes from 1100 to 1700 sq. ft; some with basements or second story mezzanines. (The finished model suite with the mezzanine is beautiful, and Robert Baillargeon in sales, acknowledged that this model almost sells itself.) Additionally there are a few models that permit up to four bedrooms! And you were worried about space when downsizing. The majority of purchasers are retired professionals, and there is a healthy sense of ‘community’ taking shape.

Le Ste-Helene is within a few minutes drive or a 10 minute walk of St. Lambert’s famous “Village” that has a wide variety of businesses, dominated by Taylor’s the independent clothing store for men and women. This section of Victoria Avenue has been cited as an example of all the good things to do when revitalizing a community’s main street. In addition to being a people-friendly street with a good selection of affordable restaurants, the proximity to The Village will enhance the resale value for owners at Ste-Helene. I visited two of the models, and was impressed with the open space and the quality of construction.

The exterior is an elegant mixture of brick with stone relief work around the windows, doorways, and building corners. The interiors are nicely finished, with an upgrade package available.

Choice is an important aspect of Le Ste-Helene; from the wide variety of floor plans to the selections purchasers can make for hardwood flooring; kitchen cabinets, countertops and flooring; bedroom carpets; and bathroom ceramic tiles. In Phase I, Central air conditioning is standard and gas fireplaces are included except in the Garden Units. The upgrade package offers granite kitchen counters; upgraded Shaker cabinets and water faucets; bathroom floor-to-ceiling ceramic tiles; and upgraded carpet in the bedrooms. This is a good initial investment for those considering the resale potential of their purchase.

Other standard features include kitchen range hoods vented to the exterior, double stainless steel sinks, built in pantry, white “Zen” bathtubs, a separate glass-enclosed shower (some in the master ensuite as per plan), a selection of bathroom cabinet colours, and electric baseboard heating with individual room controls.

Belcourt has developed a sound insulation system that works. A 1” concrete base is applied and there is a double wall construction between units with airspace in between. Many Belcourt purchasers will purchase another Belcourt home, attesting to the quality of construction, the satisfaction level of their previous Belcourt ownership, and their satisfaction with the company.

Prices start at $161,990 for two bedrooms; and $265,990 for three bedrooms and include taxes, a parking place, and the 5 year guarantee by the Association de la construction du Québec Garantie Qualité Habitation.
The sales office is located at 38 Ste-Helene Apt #1 (just off Upper Edison) and is open Monday – Thursday: 1 – 7 pm; Saturday and Sunday from 12 – 5 pm. Telephone 450-465-2124 The Belcourt website is: www.belcourtcondos.com 

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Square Benny popular with empty nesters

New condominium development in NDG attracting boomers
who want to stay in the neighbourhood

By Peter Kerr

Successful real estate investment is still about location, location and…location.

Square Benny is part of the redevelopment program of Benny Farm, and it has a superb location on the quiet tree-lined Benny Avenue and just yards away from Monkland, one of Montreal’s trendiest streets.

Artist's rendition of Square Benny

The energy-efficient three and four story buildings are built of concrete, with an 8” slab between floors. The developer is using leading edge and energy efficient technology in the loft-style apartments, including geothermal energy to drive the heating and cooling systems, with each home have individual control of their forced air heating. There are additional baseboard heating units on the outside walls and in the bathrooms. 

The buildings are situated in the park-like setting of Benny Farm, and the existing mature trees will be protected during construction. The main floor homes have individual exterior entries, and the floors above have balconies. Purchasers have a choice of studio, one, two and three bedroom plans, and many of the second bedrooms are designed so that they could also be used as a home office or den. Each unit has a basement parking space included in the price, and a second space is available for an additional charge, although the builder notes that there is limited availability.
 

An important factor at Square Benny is that you could sell your existing home, purchase at Square Benny – and have quite a lot of money left over to invest. One of the sales representatives noted that this is indeed the case, and that many of the first purchasers are folks who could qualify as readers of The Montrealer.

Three bedroom model has plenty of space.

Prices start at $138,000 for a studio (including taxes); between $200,000 and $238,000 for two bedrooms; and up to $300,000 for a three bedroom plan. 

Carpet is provided throughout, with the exception of the kitchen and bathroom, which have a choice of linoleum. Purchasers have the option of upgrading to hardwood floors, adding a room and building more cupboard space.

Whether you’re looking for affordable housing or a pied-à-terre, why not visit their sales office at 4100 Benny Avenue, just south of Monkland. (Benny is one way up from Sherbrooke. The web site is: www.urbanliving.ca, which will also give you an idea of the other projects undertaken by the developer, Les Développements McGill. I think it is worthwhile remembering that Canada Lands continues to be the owner of the adjacent apartment buildings, and that they will be particular about who they selected to develop Square Benny.

The Sales Office telephone numbers are: 514-947-5597 for Debbie and 514-995-2245 for Johanna.

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West Island empty nesters purchasing town homes
and condos

Convenient location and elegant designs capture the imagination
and confidence of purchasers

By Peter Kerr

Founded in 1993 by Peter Cosentini and Guy Laporte, Quorum Construction has developed both residential and industrial projects. Residential sites have included single family homes on Ile Perrot, town homes in Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, condos in Verdun, and the most recent developments in the West Island. The partners have been working in residential home building since the 80s, and they have 40 years combined experience. 
 

The architects and management of Quorum Construction on the West Island have successfully identified what motivates their purchasers, many of whom are in their 50s, 60s, and early 70s.

Circle Square is a new complex that includes two comdominium buildings and elegant town homes. This is the third project that the company has developed in the past four years.

The company has earned a very good reputation with their most recent developments, and now that the first phase of Circle Square is completed and occupied, purchasers can see for themselves why the company enjoys a Platinum rating with the APCHQ. This is the highest possible Platinum Accreditation with the APCHQ, the building and regulatory agency designed to protect consumers with the largest transaction that most of us will ever make.
 

Customer service is important, and the company prides itself on providing their clients with exceptional sales service throughout the buying process, and continuing after clients have taken possession of their new home. “We take customer satisfaction seriously in our developments. “Frankly - it’s a good business practice. “After all, we’re dealing with people’s homes and their expectations for a new lifestyle. “We want them to be comfortable with their decision - and to tell their friends.” You may also want to have a look at other projects that Quorum has developed.

There are several apartment models, including 1 and 2 bedrooms, 2 bedrooms plus a den, and 3 bedroom configurations. They range in size from approximately 700 sq.ft. to 1430 sq.ft. The town homes are an average of 1664 sq. ft. and all have 3 bedrooms.

Several models have a family room adjoining the kitchen, with a fireplace option. Some have thirds storey mezzanines which open to a private deck. There is also the option of a finished basement with either a laundry room or full bathroom, providing a separate space for a young adult who hasn’t yet left the “nest”.  All models have main floor powder rooms, and some have master bedroom ensuite bathrooms with showers. There is also a bathroom option for the third floor mezzanine. Heating is a central forced air system with a gas furnace. Gas fireplaces are optional in the town homes. The designs have a high level of functionality and elegance. 

Town homes have elegant brick exteriors and stone accents around the windows and doorways. Each town house has 2 indoor parking spots. 

Condo apartments and townhomes are ready for immediate occupancy, with new inventory currently under construction. 

The buildings are of concrete construction, ensuring soundproofing between floors. Dividing walls between housing units are highly soundproof and fireproof. In fact, one couple of prospective purchasers conduced their own “scream test” when I happened to be visiting the building site recently. Growing a little impatient, the wife went into to next unit to ask her husband when he was going to start. Her flushed partner explained that he had been yelling at the top of his lungs for several minutes, and was wondering why she had not yelled a reply. Their “noise” experiment was a success. 

A designer is available to help in selecting kitchen and bathroom finishings, enabling purchasers to personalize their living space. A wide selection of ceramic tiles is available for bathroom and kitchen floors.

There are a mixture of town homes and condominium apartments. In all, there are 106 condominium apartments, within 2 buildings, and 73 town homes.  

Prices start at $221,900 for condo apartments, including taxes and interior parking. The town homes start at $284,900, and this includes 2 indoor parking spots, and again the GST and QST are included. 

The Sales Office is open Monday to Wednesday 1 - 6 pm; Thursday and from 1 - 5pm, and Saturday and Sunday from noon until 5 pm. For more information, please call (514) 428-9009, or visit the website at: www.constructionquorum.com

After raising three children in a 5 bedroom home in Hampstead, Irving and Bonnie Rothstein found themselves with a lot more house than the two of them needed. The “kids” now had families of their own. Irving still travels frequently for his successful business, and the couple also travel frequently for pleasure. They enjoy spending time at their country home and Irving is an avid golfer and member of Hillsdale Golf Club. 

I met with Irving Rothstein to discuss their lifestyle change after their move last October into Le Luxor in Hampstead. “We got to the point where the house was taking too much time and energy. The timing was right for us to move into a condo.” Irving continued; “Real estate is all about location, and Le Luxor suits our needs. We didn’t consider downtown because of our lifestyle and our needs. We like to be close to our kids and grandchildren. Two of our kids and their families live in Dollard, and one is in Saint-Laurent. Here, we’re 15 minutes to the West Island, and practically next door to Saint-Laurent. We’re only 10 minutes to downtown, and of course we’re close to all the major highways going to the airport, the Laurentians and so on.”
 
 

“We were looking for a higher end building. We had a nice family home, and we wanted something that we were going to really enjoy for the next phase in our lives; and that’s why we selected Le Luxor. The builder has done an outstanding job in all the common areas and the amenities provided in the building.” Irving continues; I like to swim, and I really enjoy the pool, which has adjacent steam rooms. Of course it’s even more fun when the grandchildren come over. They love it!” “I also use the fitness centre regularly, and it’s very well equipped. The gym is very popular with the other owners - it’s used a lot.”

Irving and Bonnie Rothstein in their lovely condo at Le Luxor. “We’re very pleased with the amenities and security that we have here.”

“Security is very important to us, and we’re very pleased with Le Luxor in this aspect.” Irving relates a first-hand experience with the building security. “One day I had come home from work, and was on the way up to our floor directly from the garage. The elevator stopped at the lobby, even though I hadn’t pressed that floor. The doorman greeted me with a package that had been delivered earlier that day. He had followed my progress into the building from the ramp, the garage, and into the elevator on the security cameras and monitors on his desk. All the common areas in the building can be monitored from the main security desk.”

Irving and Bonnie invited me to their condo to take a few photos. Irving had earlier described their views - and they really are terrific. On one side they can see over to the Blue Bonnets and even down to a Montreal landmark - the Orange Julip! Another westward view takes you all the way over to the buildings on Cavendish. In the summer months, it’s like looking over a forest.

The décor of the Rothstein’s new home is outstanding. There’s a family joke that Irving and Bonnie shared with me. Said Irving; “I gave Bonnie an unlimited budget…and she exceeded it!” Irving continues; “We wanted this place to be special - this is where we’ll be spending our foreseeable future together - so we wanted to make it nice.” A significant amount of credit for the lovely décor that is both cotemporary and warm goes to Bonnie’s friend and decorator Gloria Sacks. 

Many of our readers are in a similar situation to the Rothsteins. They’re empty-nesters who want to enjoy a simpler lifestyle that will allow worry-free frequent travel, and at the same time enjoy a pleasant and secure living environment.

Le Luxor is a twelve storey luxury condominium that provides purchasers a wide range of features; including an indoor pool and terrace that is situated to capture the afternoon sun. 

There are a variety of interesting 2 and 3 bedroom models, and 5 penthouse apartments (all sold).  The top three floors all have 11 and 12 foot ceilings. (The ground floor apartments also have 11’ceilings.) The available homes range from 1270 to approximately 1600 square feet - so the sense of space is quite real. 

As in any home the kitchen is an important part of household activity and an informal meeting place. Kitchens at Le Luxor are quite special, with the popular granite countertops as standard features, and also have shaker wood cabinets and ceramic floor tiles. Stainless steel double sinks are equipped with high quality Moen faucets (as are the bathrooms). The kitchens in the larger models have dinettes nestled into a bright bay window area. An ideal spot for a second cup of coffee or a glass of wine while preparing dinner.

Hardwood floors are laid in the main living areas and the bedrooms. The building is equipped with fire and smoke detectors. Electrical heating allows for individual room heat control, and all apartments are air-conditioned. 

The master suites offer an elegant and spacious refuge. All have walk-in closets that open to large bathrooms equipped with double sinks set into granite countertops, a stand alone glass-walled shower, and extra large bathtub. We heard lots of “oohs and ahhs” from the other folks visiting the model suite when they entered the master suites. 

One of the main features of thus building is the pool and exercise rooms, both favourites of Irving Rothstein. The pool atrium is spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows; and features salt water, reducing to a minimum the amount of chemicals required for treating the water. At the same time, you will enjoy the therapeutic quality of salt water - your own little ocean! The fitness area is also equipped with a sauna, a steam room, Jacuzzi. The gym has all the latest exercise machines, including free weights. As part of your simpler lifestyle; to get there, all you have to do is take the elevator.

For those of you who enjoy hosting family gatherings, there is plenty of space in the elegant reception room. Even though you’ve downsized - you can still host important gatherings where you need enough space for the whole family. There’s a full kitchen, (plenty of room for the caterer!) and it even has a dance floor! 

Prices start at $325,000 for a two bedroom apartment, include one indoor parking space and taxes. Three bedroom homes start at $436,000.

Le Luxor is located 6803 Abraham de Sola in Hampstead. The neighbourhood is already built up with upscale homes. For information, please call: 514-905-5555, or visit the website at: www.leluxor.com

Two of Motreal’s most successful developers have joined forces to develop a unique Hotel - Residence in the Laurentians. Pierre Parent, President of Resort One and developer of the highly successful St. Sulpice Hotel in Old Montreal, and Le Crystal de la Montagne, currently being erected at the corner of Boulevard Rene-Levesque and Rue de la Montagne, which sold out in 6 months! Herve Gueymard is the man behind 1 McGill, Lofts Redpath, and Le Crescent. Introduced by a mutual friend about a year ago, the two have formed a joint venture to develop an intriguing real estate investment.
 

Lac Oureau is located near the town of St. Donat, and the project will have three main elements. Located on the shore of Lac Oureau, the owners and guests will have access to a 350 foot sandy beach. It is located at the base of La Reserve ski centre, the second highest mountain in the Laurentians, and about 30 minutes from the North side of Mt.Tremblant. Perhaps most unique is that the resort is situated on a massive 2,200 acre site, which includes 5 private lakes.

Artist's rendition of the Hameau Lac Ouareau. Notice the Beach Villas built into the slope down the lake.

During the introduction to the media, Pierre Parent noted that: “Conservation and sustainability are key in our planning. Only 15% of the area will be developed, the remaining 85% will be maintained in its natural state - just 3 kilometres from St. Donat.”

The resort will be of 4 star quality, and the focal point will be a main building with 87 hotel-residences, including 12 penthouses. Twenty-eight garden residences and 36 beach villas will be built into the terrain as it slopes down to the beach. The beach villas will have natural vegetation roofing - so that they will essentially be invisible from the main hotel building. All homes will be accessible by interior parking and will be connected by interior and exterior pedestrian walkways. 

Many of our readers have heard of Club la Reserve, and many may have visited in the past. Herve Queymard began the process of his land assembly with the purchase of La Reserve. The club already offers a wide choice of winter and summer activities, including 35 kilometres of trails for hiking, cycling, skiing and snowshoeing. You’ll be pleased to know that ski-doos, ATVs and any other motorized vehicles are not permitted within the site. There are also sail boats, kayaks, canoes, catamarans, and paddle boats for summer activities.
 

The architects, Cardinal Hardy and Arcop have used designs and material that will - complement the surroundings. Large windows, open concept kitchens, window seats, bathtubs facing outdoors, fireplaces and large bedrooms are all part of the design elements.

Artist's rendition of the grounds in front of the residence-hotel.

As you would expect in a luxury resort, there is a fine restaurant in the main building, a spa, an indoor/outdoor swimming pool, a gym, and catering services available to the individual units if you don’t feel like cooking - or are having a party. There are no fences or boundaries between properties - it all set in one giant park-like setting.

The financing of your purchase is where this concept gets really interesting. Firstly, you can purchase as an individual or corporate entity. This may be really interesting for entrepreneurs. You can use your unit as much or as little as you please. When not using it, Resort One hotel management will rent and maintain your unit for you. For example, you may like to spend the winter months in a warmer climate. During that period, you can share rental income at four star hotel rates from the income pool. This can help finance a mortgage or provide investment income. The formula has already worked very successfully with Hotel Le St. Sulpice in Old Montreal. Similarly, Le Crystal sold out in 6 months largely due to the popularity of the revenue stream that can accrue to the owners. 

I was impressed with the pricing. A one bedroom suite of 560 square feet starts at $194,000 in the main hotel building, and go up to 2 bedrooms. There are 12 penthouses in the main building. Garden residences range from 816 to 1203 sq. ft. and there are 28 residences in 14 buildings. Beach villas, cleverly built into the grade of the slope to the lake, are from 925 to 1720 sq. ft. and are available in 1, 2, and 3 bedroom configurations. . The larger beach villas can go up to $895,000. The key element here is that you have rental income available to help in the financing. Based on the real occupancy rates balanced out over high and low seasons at Mont Tremblant, the developers are projecting a 50% - 60% occupancy rate. 

One of the attractions to a development of this nature is that you can go up and relax, or engage in a variety of activities, and not have to mow the lawn, rake the leaves, and look after the many chores involved with owning a second home. It’s all done for you as part of the hotel maintenance! Even if you unit is unoccupied at times when you have made it available for rental, you will still receive a share of the revenues. Your investment can be both self liquidating and maintenance free. 

The company will be exhibiting at the Salon Chalets et Maisons de Campagne at the Olympic Stadium from February 15 - 18th, Booth/Kiosk #111. An information session will take place soon at Hotel St. Sulpice in Old Montreal by reservation only. Please call 514-282-9942 or toll free at: 1-866-731-9989 to reserve your place at the presentation. Have fun! 

It’s hard to believe that the site of one of Montreal’s largest condominium developments, and perhaps most luxurious, was once the site of one of our architectural embarrassments, namely that dilapidated building that divided de Maisonneuve and caused an uncomfortable jog in the street. Now, this block has become one of the finest examples of urban renewal in Montreal. And it’s all about location. There’s something about being right downtown that is very appealing to many empty nesters.

If an urban lifestyle is in your future, then Le 1200 Ouest might just be your new home. Rue de la montagne (Mountain Street) is a block away, the museum a few blocks, lunch on Crescent is just two blocks, Holts is a block up, and the heartbeat of Montreal at peel and Ste-Catherine is less than the time it takes to find a parking space. All you have to do is walk out the front door.

The twin towers of Le 1200 Ouest have added to the skyline of downtown Montreal with their neo-classical design and European flare. This is a building that succeeds in making you feel that you could be in New York, London, or Paris. Indeed, many of the purchasers are international business executives who spend a significant amount of time in Montreal. 

The lobby, hallways, and elevators have the refined elegance that you’d expect to find in a 5 star European hotel. However, this doesn’t mean that you need to be a millionaire to live here. While you can invest in excess of 1.5 million for two storey Penthouse home of 2500 square feet, the majority of units are much more moderately priced. One bed room apartments range in size from 845 – 1320 square feet, and are priced from $319,885 to $472,522. All homes come equipped with appliances, one parking space, and the applicable taxes. 

There are three two-bedroom models, ranging in size form 1185 square feet to 1580 square feet. Three bedroom units are 2170 sq. ft. One of the two bedroom model suites I visited has a fantastic view looking east along de Maisonneuve, and I can’t imagine that you’d ever tire of watching the cars and traffic making its way westward and past your front door, many floors below. 

The finishing is elegant, with hardwood floors throughout, except for ceramic tiles in the kitchens, bathrooms and powder rooms. The rooms are large and the huge windows increase the sense of space. Master bedrooms can easily accommodate a king sized, bed, with room left over for a sitting area. A good selection of the units have balconies.

There is a heated outdoor pool that I visited previously in the summer, and it was like being in an oasis in the middle of the city. I knew the city was there – but it was “out there”, and I was “in here”, and “out there” seemed so very far away. Le 1200 Ouest also has a fully equipped fitness centre.

The sales office is open Monday – Friday from 11 – 6 pm, Fridays from 11 – 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday from noon – 5 pm. The web site address is: www.le1200ouest.com

Last spring, we wrote about a condominium development in Brossard that scored very highly in the real estate location meter, and offered excellent value. Construction of the two buildings at Les Jardins Palerme is well underway, and there is now a model suite open for inspection. The lobby area, with its floor-to-ceiling glass walls and elegant decor will soon be accessible, in addition to another three bedroom model suite.
 

The model suite now open is a two bedroom configuration, with the bedrooms separated by the living and dining room. It’s a smart design, especially if you’re going to use the second bedroom as a TV room or den. This concrete building has 8 ½ foot ceilings, and the extra height really does add to the sense of space.

Sliding mirrored doors add to the open feel of the home. The kitchen is well-appointed, with recessed lighting over the breakfast counter, which will serve nicely as a bar a little later in the day. 

The overall finishing is of the style you’d expect in a more expensive development. All of the interior doors are embossed; tiered floor mouldings are a nice touch, along with the hardwood floors in the living areas, and ceramic tiles in the kitchen and bathroom. The bathroom has a podium bath with separate shower.
 

Les Jardins Palerme is conveniently located about two hundred yards from the Chanplain Mall, on a street where the other houses are pleasant single family dwellings – you know what type of dwellings make up the neighbourhood. This again is a very important aspect of the ‘location’ component of any real estate investment, whether as your home, pied-a-terre in town or as your home base for people who enjoy travelling. It’s a short walk to the commuter bus terminus and the express service to downtown Montreal. 

The twin buildings share a fully equipped gym with floor to ceiling glass walls; and a reception room occupies the corresponding space in the opposite structure. The red brick and yellow/grey stone work on the exterior of the buildings creates a look that is reminiscent of the elegant apartment buildings that you’d find in Westmount or Outrement. The buildings are connected by a convenient underground walkway.

Les Jardins Palerme is being developed by TRAMS Management, a division of S P Holdings and a family business that has a successful history in constructing multi-family buildings. The condominium apartments here are an excellent value, and would cost at least $100,000 more for a similarly sized and finished building on the island. The new model suite and sales office is located at: 1450 rue Palerme in Brossard. For more information, please call 450-923-8989, or visit the website at: www.tramsmgmt.com

The greater municipality of Lac Brome, with Knowlton as the hub, is becoming more and more popular as a retirement destination. I met with some of the top agents in the area to get their input. 

The most important criteria is the nature of the community. Knowlton and the surrounding towns are the hub of the English speaking community in The Townships. Most citizens are comfortable in both official languages, and everyone gets along. Bishop’s University has a satellite campus in Knowlton, where you can take both accredited courses and special interest non-credit instruction. 
 

“We have a lot to offer for people looking for an active retirement lifestyle: noted Remax agent Shelley Mizener. “We’re a comfortable drive to the city, and very close to the American border. There are cultural activities, many centered at Arts Knowlton, which is the home of Theatre Lac Brome.” Shelley continues, “We have garden clubs, a curling club, several golf courses, and museums that depend on active volunteers. ”

Shelley Mizener, Francine Drapeau and Sandra Williams known affectionately as “Charlie’s Real Estate Angels”. “We don’t sell real estate…we make dreams come true” Shelley Mizener

This area has a rich Loyalist history. In the winter there is downhill and cross country skiing.

“For people with grandchildren (or who hope for grandchildren), there are lots of organized activities including the Pony Club and the Salamander Club, and of course the beach.”

“We’re at the beginning of a market that will somewhat favour the buyers,” Shelley continues. “Not long ago, buyers had to make their decision quickly – sometimes within hours of seeing a property. There are a reasonable number of properties on the market now in all price ranges.”
 

Down the street, Royal LePage agent Lois Hardacker continued my education on the benefits of retirement living in the Lac brome area. Driving around to do my research, I couldn’t help but notice that every other for sale sign seems to have Lois Hardacker on it. Using her laptop computer and an excellent real estate program, Lois was able to show me a wide variety of houses within a couple of suggested price ranges, such as $200,000 - $300,000; and then $300,000 to $400,000. This enables both the agent and the buyers to make a short list of properties that meet their criteria, before leaving the office. Lois pointed out that there is a very big difference in property and school taxes.

It seems that Lois Hardacker’s name is on every other for sale sign in the area

We looked at some listings of very pleasant homes where the property taxes were approximately $2,000 - less than half what the taxes would be on a Montreal property. Plus, these properties are measured in terms of acreage, not variations on a 50’ x 100’ lot. 

Nicholas Pynes is the acclaimed Artistic Director and General Manager of Arts Knowlton. “We do a lot more here that our Theatre Lac Brome summer theatre series; as important as that is to our operation. We certainly don’t shut down after the summer.” Nicholas continues; “We have a number of talented people who enjoy staging amateur productions, although much of the acting is professional quality. We have music concerts, and this year we’re going to be producing a film series. During elections, we have some pretty lively political debates as well!” Concluding, Nicolas observes; “We have a pretty sophisticated and astute population in the area, and they actively support and participate in the events at Arts Knowlton. It’s something that they just ‘do’.”
 

In addition to the resale market, there are some very attractive new condominium developments. Coldbrook is a development that is offering duplex style condos that are attractively finished as Victorian style clapboard homes. They are well constructed by Gaétan Gelinas and his son, and the interior features and finishing have just about everything you could want in a retirement home.

“For people who like to travel, this is ideal” explained Gaétan Gélinas during a visit one beautiful summer day. 

“Many of our purchasers from Montreal are selling for $350,000 and up. They buy here, and use the balance to generate an investment income to help pay for their passion for travel.” 

You’ll also find condominium town homes and single homes at the Inverness development, situated nearby and adjacent to the Inverness Golf Course at the top end of Lake Brome.

There are a steadily growing number of empty nesters who are opting for retirement in “the country”, but still like the idea of being within a comfortable drive to Montreal. Lower taxes and more value for your real estate budget are also solid motivators. We know several couple who have made the move and are enjoying themselves immensely. They have reduced Monday to Friday ski passes during the winter, play golf regularly during the summer, and enjoy traveling during the less favourable months of November, March and April. Sounds pretty good. 

Contact information:
Remax-Knowlton: 450-242-1113
   www.remax-quebec.com
Royal LePage Action: 450-242-2000
Les Jardins Coldbrook: 450-242-1911
   www.jardinscoldbrook.com

While most condominium developments in the West End and West Island are very good projects, periodically you see one that just seems to do have everything going in its favour.

Great location, competitive pricing, nice floor plans, and solid architectural design work are all working in conjunction to make ownership a good deal – both as a resident and as an investor. While you want to enjoy it as your home, your condominium is also an important real estate investment. L’Esplanade du Canal falls nicely into this “homerun” category.

Situated on St-Joseph in Old Lachine, the development has the important element of location, location, location. They aren’t making any more waterfront property, and L’Esplanade is nicely located across the street from the waterfront, and just steps away from cycling paths and the historic stone walled Lachine Canal, bordered by beautiful mature trees. Equipped with an elevator, the building is a modest three storeys, with the homes on the third floor having a second mezzanine storey opening to a roof-top terrace offering panoramic views of The St. Lawrence, Lac St-Louis and beyond. The extra mezzanine space is ideal for an extra-special master bedroom, a home theatre room or office. 

The apartments are available in one, two and three bedroom configurations, and range in size from 720 to 1900 square feet; with prices starting at $160,000. Extra large windows, (some have lovely bay windows), and 9 foot ceilings will enhance the sense of open space. The apartments have hardwood floors throughout, and ceramic tiles in the kitchens and bathrooms. Large balconies are oriented towards the sun, and as our summers seem to be getting warmer, you’ll appreciate the air conditioning. Gas fireplaces are a luxury touch that you don’t find in many condominiums. Here’s something you’ll appreciate - interior parking spaces are included in the price. 
 
 

L’Esplanade Du Canal is a few minutes from the 2 & 20, and about 10 – 15 minutes from downtown. Jacques Bigras, the affable Sales Manager tells me that they have had quite a lot of interest from people from in Western NDG and Montreal West, in addition to people from Lachine, Dorval and Pointe Claire. “In addition to our location across from the river, the modest size of the building is attractive to many people. A lot of them don’t like the huge structures, with all the expensive services.” 

The developer, Devterra International, has been in the residential home building business for over 20 years. During a recent conversation, Larry Diamond commented; “We have assembled a team of award winning architects, designers, heritage experts, and urban planners to ensure that our design philosophy be present in every aspect of this exceptional project.”

If you enjoy outdoor activities from walking to cycling; appreciate a quiet walk in a park overlooking a marina, and like the idea of some pleasant restaurants a couple of blocks from your front door – then you should visit L’Esplanade du Canal. This is a unique opportunity to purchase a waterfront condominium in a mature neighbourhood. The best way to appreciate this investment opportunity is to visit the site, located at 1090 St-Joseph at the corner of 11th Avenue in Lachine. 514-939-0333.

Conveniently located in Hampstead, Le Luxor is a twelve storey luxury condominium that provides purchasers a wide range of features; including a really outstanding indoor pool and terrace that is situated to capture the afternoon sun. This is a new construction; with outstanding views of the area and surrounding neighbourhood. I visited the building recently, and was very impressed with the quality of construction, design, and finishing of the individual apartments and the common areas.

There is also a high level of confidence with the developer, Trams Management, which is a division of the well-respected Montreal family business, SP Holdings, which has been constructing multi-family residential buildings for over 65 years.

There are a variety of interesting 2 and 3 bedroom models, and 5 penthouse apartments. While they all have very good designs, the penthouses are really outstanding, with 12 foot ceilings, extra large rooms, and huge windows that open out on the world. In fact, the top three floors all have 11 and 12 foot ceilings. (The ground floor apartments also have 11’ceilings.) Homes range from 1270 to 2650 square feet - so the sense of space is quite real.
 

As in any home the kitchen is an important part of household activity and an informal meeting place. Kitchens at Le Luxor are quite special, with the popular granite countertops as standard features. Purchasers have a choice of shaker wood cabinet styles and ceramic floor tiles. Stainless steel double sinks are equipped with high quality Moen faucets. The kitchens in the larger models have dinettes nestled into a bright bay window area. An ideal spot for a second cup of coffee or a glass of wine while preparing dinner. Hardwood floors are laid in the main living areas, and the bedrooms are carpeted with the purchasers’ choice of colour.

The building is equipped with fire and smoke detectors. Electrical heating allows for individual room heat control, and all apartments are air-conditioned. 

The master suites offer an elegant and spacious refuge. All have walk-in closets that open to large bathrooms equipped with double sinks set into granite countertops, a stand alone glass-walled shower, and extra large bathtub. We heard lots of “oohs and ahhs” from the other folks visiting the model suite when they entered the master suites. 
 

One of the main features of thus building is the pool and exercise rooms. The pool atrium is spacious with floor-to-ceiling windows; and features salt water, reducing to a minimum the amount of chemicals required for treating the water. At the same time, you will enjoy the therapeutic quality of salt water - your own little ocean!

The fitness area is also equipped with a sauna, a steam room, Jacuzzi. The gym has all the latest exercise machines, including free weights. To get there, all you have to do is take the elevator.

For those of you who enjoy hosting family gatherings, you’ll have plenty of space in the elegant reception room. Even though you’ve downsized - you can still host important gatherings where you need enough space for the whole family. There’s a full kitchen, (plenty of room for the caterer!) and it even has a dance floor! 

Prices start at $325,000 for a two bedroom apartment, include one indoor parking space and taxes. Three bedroom homes start at $422,000.

Le Luxor is located 6803 Abraham de Sola in Hampstead. The neighbourhood is already built up with upscale homes. For information, please call: 905-5555, or visit the website at: www.leluxor.com

“We have people from Montreal West, Westmount, NDG, Beaconsfield, Pointe-Claire - from all over who have come to live at Le Quai des Eclusiers.” This was Richard Goulet’s response to my statement that I knew some people from Montreal West who had sold their home, and purchased a condominium at this development.

Richard Goulet, the Director of Sales was taking me on a tour of the development, when I mentioned this to him. This is a project that offers empty nesters everything they seek in a condominium.