Daily Informative Updates on
New Residential Real Estate & Construction News
for Vancouver Island Communities

New Eligibility Requirements for BC's Power Smart New Home Program, So Don't Miss Out on Available Incentives

Did you know that there are new eligibility requirements for BC's Power Smart New Home Program? Effective October 1, 2013, you must provide EnerGuide labelling within six months of your occupancy permit to be eligible for Power Smart incentives. Builders must achieve an Energy Guide rating of 80 and above to qualify for incentives of up to $200 per home for row houses, townhouses, and duplexes, and up to $2,000 per home for new single-family dwellings.

There is also an ENERGY STAR Package incentive in the amount of $150 per dwelling for installing the following four products:

• refrigerator;
• clothes washer;
• six CFL or LED bulbs (considered to be one product); and
• bathroom ventilation fan.

All four of these products need to be installed to qualify for the rebate. Dishwashers are no longer included in the offer.

The certified energy advisors at Elemental Energy Advisors can guide owner-builders and Vancouver Island new-home builders through building a more energy-efficient home. Their goal is to help reduce your utility expenses while conserving energy that benefits our environment. Set your real estate development apart by making it Power Smart! Contact Christi Sacht from Elemental Energy Advisors at 250.830.8000.

New Custom Home for Sale in the Comox Valley Features Amazing Mountain Views

Comox Valley Realtor Tina Vincent is selling a new 2,300 square-foot custom home currently under construction by Robannah Developments. Scheduled for completion by the end of February, this brand-new home in the Comox Valley features amazing views and will boast Robannah's trademark quality throughout.

Located at 1495 - 10th E Street in Courtenay, this new home features nine-foot ceilings and an open-concept main floor that complement the spacious kitchen and generous great room. The kitchen features maple Shaker-style cabinets, a generous island, and an eating bar.

This Comox Valley home for sale features two bathrooms, three spacious bedrooms, and includes a downstairs space that can accommodate an additional two bedrooms. The master bedroom includes a large walk-in closet and stylish en suite. Other highlights include:

• fibreglass shingles;
• thermal windows;
• main-level entry;
• RV parking;
• fully fenced yard;
• baseboard heating; and
• natural-gas fireplace.

The exterior is finished with a combination of HardiePlank siding, vinyl, and stone. Close to schools, college, the Comox Valley Airport, the new hospital, and CFB Comox, this house will make a perfect home. For more information on this listing, call Tina Vincent, Comox Valley Realtor, PREC, at 250.792.2776. You can view Tina's other Vancouver Island listings on her website.

About Tina Vincent, Comox Valley Realtor

As your Comox Valley Connection, Tina Vincent is dedicated to finding you a home, vacation property, or investment property on Vancouver Island. She uses her real estate expertise and knowledge of home construction to assist Vancouver Island buyers and sellers in Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, and Campbell River. Tina is also a Brookfield relocation specialist with the expertise and credentials to help with your military transfer or posting; RCMP transfer; or corporate move. Call Comox Valley Realtor Tina Vincent at 250.792.2776 or visit tinavincent.ca.

Choosing the Right Tool for the Right Job Saves Time and Money

Playing it safe on the job site includes choosing the right tool or equipment for the task at hand. Making the wrong choice can cause serious injury and property damage; a search for "fails" on the Internet yields a plethora of videos showcasing people using tools and equipment that are clearly unsuitable for the job. Some online favourites feature a large forklift being used to lift a smaller one, that in turn is used to lift and place another piece of equipment. Yet another depicts a car being held in the air by two forklifts, one on either side, with a worker standing underneath!

While these videos may elicit a chuckle, it's sobering to see people putting their safety at risk. In some cases, cost and availability are the mitigating factors behind the wrong equipment choice. But when you consider the possibility of suffering injury or disability is using the wrong tool worth the risk? Taking time to obtain the right tools and equipment, and training people to use them properly, will save time, money, and — most importantly — lives. If you don't have the resources needed for the job, borrow from a friend, hire a professional, or rent. When you become an Internet sensation, make sure it's for the right reasons!

Equipment Rentals and Sales From Western One

WesternOne is focused on customer satisfaction and the top-quality operating condition of its equipment. All equipment is kept in peak operating condition by WesternOne's certified, factory-trained union mechanics and technicians. You can rent or buy with confidence, knowing that the equipment will be delivered to your site, ready and able to work. WesternOne is an authorized factory dealer, sales representative, and broker for a variety of industry-recognized manufacturers and brands. Buy the equipment you need and feel secure in the knowledge that you're receiving the best competitive pricing in Western Canada. Factory warranties are also available on select equipment.

Polaris ATV and Ranger/RZR Utility Vehicles Dealer

As North Vancouver Island's only authorized Polaris ATV and Ranger/RZR Utility Vehicles dealer. WesternOne is also the exclusive dealer for Polaris snowmobiles on Vancouver Island. Factory-trained and factory-certified Silver/Gold technicians are on hand for any servicing or repair need, and financing is available. For more information, call 250.339.4518 (local) or;1.877.339.4518 (toll-free).

IVES Certification Training

WesternOne also offers IVES Operator Certification Training that includes theory, practical training, and evaluation. The training is a win-win for both employer and employee. When an employee successfully completes the training, he or she receives a certificate and wallet card. The employer, in turn, receives copies of all documentation, including theory and practical test records. To find out more, call Greg Phelps, IVES Certified Trainer, at 250.667.0665 or WesternOne in Courtenay at 250.331.0748.

Looking for a luxury patio home or condominium with oceanfront views? You'll find the perfect new home at The Gales on Vancouver Island.

Set atop a hillside in the small town of Ladysmith, The Gales is a new real estate development of 68 luxury patio homes and condominiums set among a backdrop of mountain and ocean views. These include single-family attached and detached homes, as well as low-rise apartments.

Vaulted ceilings, spacious rooms, and impressive views are hallmarks of these exquisite homes; you'll also find top-quality finishing and amazing attention to detail. Homes at The Gales are designed and built in West Coast contemporary architectural style and floor plans are open, ideal for entertaining. Warm earth tones and a palette of darker hues complement the coastal landscape. Gaze on the sunrise panoramas of Ladysmith Harbour and nearby islands from the comfort of your home's wide, sunny deck.

The temperate Vancouver Island climate offers abundant opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. If you're in the mood for small town charm, the Town of Ladysmith offers the convenience of nearby amenities. You'll love the relaxed and friendly pace of this delightful small town and will leave it feeling just as refreshed as you would from strolling through one of the many local parks.

But don't just take our word for it. Read what one of their satisfied customers has to say:

"Don and I thought we should drop you a short note to tell you how happy we were with the workmanship in our new home. We were blown away with the quality of work. We've had five houses in the past 10 years – four of them new – and even though we weren't there for most of the work on The Gales house, this was by far the best and easiest home we've had the pleasure of building. Because of our past experiences, we were a little nervous about how it would all turn out, especially with us being so far from the action. But the moment we walked in the door, we instantly realized what a fabulous job everyone had done. Also, since we didn't have our furniture and had nothing much else to do on the weekend, we had lots of time to marvel at the house and workmanship! You and your people exceeded our expectations! Additionally, everyone we met on the work site, from Eric to Mike and everybody in between, were polite, professional, and very helpful. Thanks again – and many thanks also to Keith and Scott for their roles in our new home."

~ Sharron Haynes and Don Snider

New homes at The Gales are priced from $499,000 to $599,000. For more information, contact Realtor Keith Mazurenko of Coast Realty at 250.245.0545 (local) or 1.866.315.0545 (toll-free). You can also find out more by visiting The Gales website.

Prices have been reduced on four new patio homes at Railside Lane in Courtenay! Units 2 and 3 at 1620 Piercy Avenue have been reduced to $234,900, while Units 6 and 7 are now $239,900.

Railside Lane holds an open house every Saturday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m., so be sure to drop by and view these beautiful new move-in-ready patio homes and townhomes; blinds and appliances are included! Choose from among eight floor plans, featuring two or three bedrooms, with square footage between 1,272 and 1,660 square feet.

Homes at Railside Lane feature hardwood floors, heated tile floors in the en suite, custom lighting, and more. Garages and additional driveway parking are also included. Prices range from $234,900 to $259,900. Railside Lane is centrally located in the City of Courtenay on Vancouver Island, BC, and is within walking distance of Courtenay's main street, parks, schools, shopping, trails, and more.

To tour the townhomes and duplexes at Railside Lane, be sure to drop by their open house at 9 - 1620 Piercy Avenue, held Saturdays from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. See you there!

Providing a safe workplace saves time, money, and, most importantly, workers’ lives. Double A Safety Services has extensive experience in implementing workplace safety for small, medium, and large construction projects throughout Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. Owner Alana Gow is a Certified Health and Safety Consultant, Certified Safety Officer, and is currently working towards obtaining her Certified Registered Safety Professional (CRSP) designation.

Double A Safety Services can help you with safety training, evaluating current safety procedures, program development, safety documentation, and due diligence procedures. They’ll also work with you to ensure that your company’s safety documentation meets BC Construction Safety Alliance (COR) and Occupational Health & Safety (OH & S) compliance requirements. Double A Safety Services can also assist companies with work practice development to industry best practices, incident investigation, workplace safety inspection services, HSE safety manual development, and claims management.

For a free safety consultation, call Double A Safety Services at 250.914.4699.

Fairwinds Resort on Vancouver Island offers a wide selection of new luxury homes and residential building lots for discerning buyers seeking the quintessential West Coast lifestyle.

Bonnington Ridge

The Bonnington Ridge neighbourhood is a cul-de-sac of fully serviced single-family lots, many with ocean and golf-course views. Homes at Bonnington Ridge integrate first-class luxury living with the natural beauty and tranquility of the surrounding area. Bonnington Ridge has three remaining lots: Lot SL4 is .54 acres and $229,000; Lot SL5 is .36 acres and $239,000; and Lot SL6 is .35 acres and $289,000.

Rockcliffe Park

Over at Rockcliffe Park, you'll find a distinctive collection of new luxury patio homes with low-maintenance yards. Homes at Rockcliffe Park integrate fine-quality craftsmanship and award-winning interior designs to create casually elegant homes that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Prices at Rockcliffe Park range from $595,000 to $659,000.

At nearby Bonnington Heights, only one residential building lot is left. Perfectly situated for a new custom home, Lot 42 on Bonnington Drive comprises .43 acres and is priced at $159,000.

With over 700 homes and home sites developed to date, Fairwinds is centrally located between Nanaimo and Parksville in Nanoose Bay, on the east coast of Vancouver Island. Blessed with Canada’s mildest climate and conveniently accessed by car, ferry, boat, or plane, Fairwinds features a spectacular golf club, Schooner Cove Marina, and a recreational fitness facility.

For more information on building or buying a home at Fairwinds:

• call 250.468.7061​ (local) or 1.866.468.5957 (toll-free);
• stop by the Fairwinds Presentation Centre at 3455 Fairwinds Drive in Nanoose Bay;
• email livehere@fairwinds.ca; or
• send a message using the "Send Message" button below.

The gorgeous show home at The Ridge in Courtenay has been sold. Lawmar Contracting, the builder, will begin construction of a new show home at the beginning of February. This new custom home will include a separate suite perfect for renting, in-laws, or grown children.

The Ridge is a new subdivision in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island offering scenic views of the Comox Glacier and Comox Bay. Located on Buckstone Road, near Comox Logging Road and Fraser Road, The Ridge is just minutes from downtown Courtenay, shopping, restaurants, Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community, Mount Washington, and the Comox Airport.

This picturesque 77-acre subdivision will be built in five phases and include expansive walking trails throughout the community. Zoning at The Ridge allows for outbuildings, workshops, carriage homes, and secondary suites of up to 924 square feet. Select lots will feature panoramic ocean and mountain views, with lot prices starting at $169,900.

For more information, contact Bruce Clapham at theridge.bruce@mail.com or call 250.650.8588.

Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island carries an extensive array of residential and commercial window coverings, including blinds, shutters, shades, curtains, drapes, and window film. They service the Comox Valley communities of Comox, Courtenay, and Cumberland on Vancouver Island, as well as Campbell River, Qualicum, Parksville, and Nanaimo. Budget Blinds provides high-quality blinds and stylish window coverings for new homes and home renovations, as well as for commercial, retail, and professional offices at competitive prices.

Commercial Window Coverings

Budget Blinds offers Vancouver Island business owners and property managers a complete turnkey solution for their window-covering needs. They have experience providing commercial window coverings to a variety of industries, including health care, hospitality, restaurant, education, government, and many more. Commercial window treatments are available in a wide range of motorized, flame-retardant, child-friendly, cordless, and even energy-conserving options. They offer very competitive pricing on popular and unique window coverings for commercial and professional buildings.

Trained Experts

The trained experts at Budget Blinds will manage your commercial window-covering project through every phase of implementation: design, measuring, ordering, delivery, and installation. Budget Blinds on Vancouver Island has the strength of Budget Blinds and Home Franchise Concepts behind them, so they can give their customers the best products and service at the best price. These affiliations ensure that you'll have access to the widest selection of window coverings, at favourable prices, all backed by one of the strongest warranty programs in the industry.

Interior Design

The talented interior designers at Budget Blinds will help you choose the best window coverings for your business in the perfect texture and colour. Budget Blinds also has an enti​re line of eco-friendly window coverings made with sustainable materials and can custom fit any window covering regardless of the window's shape.

Contact Information

At Budget Blinds, their goal is simple: to provide their customers with the best window coverings and products, combined with professional installation services to enrich your home and office environments. Call them today at 250.338.8564 to schedule your free consultation. You can also visit their website read their blog, or order 10 free swatches. Sign up to get 25% off selected Signature Series window coverings!!

Open House for New Ranchers from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. every Saturday at The Ridge at RiversEdge in the Comox Valley.

The Ridge at RiversEdge is home to 24 single-family ranchers in a preplanned community in Courtenay. Like all Southwind Developments projects, The Ridge at RiversEdge is designed, developed, and built by the same close-knit team throughout the construction process. This means that the foreman is there from beginning to end, and the crew that breaks ground on your home will be responsible for its finishing touches. Your investment is protected by a registered Homeowner Schedule of Restrictions designed to enhance quality of life and increase your home's future value.

In addition, the owners of Southwind Homes actually live at RiversEdge. When developers live in a neighbourhood, you can feel secure knowing they'll be there for any issues that arise during the 10-year warranty period. The new ranchers at The Ridge at RiversEdge in Courtenay are also the lowest-priced new homes anywhere in the Comox Valley. Considering the quality of workmanship and materials, Southwind provides the very best products for your money.

Your RiversEdge Specialist is Realtor Art Meyers of Royal of LePage in the Comox Valley. For more information, call Art at 250.207.1879. You can also view a site plan, information package, slide show, virtual tour, or commercial online.

Is getting organized one of your 2014 resolutions? If you're short on space, AA Mini Storage Nanaimo has a variety of self-storage units, suitable for storing anything from business equipment to the contents of a house.

These Nanaimo self-storage rental units range from 5x5x5 feet to 20x30 feet, so you’ll find the perfect spot to store almost anything, including furniture, household items, business equipment, house contents, boats, vehicles, and RVs.

AA Mini Storage provides multiple levels of security, including video surveillance and gated access. Friendly and helpful resident managers are on site, and units are available seven days a week. With drive-up doors on units 10x10x10 feet and larger, your storage locker is always accessible.

When you need additional short-term or long-term storage space for your home or business, AA Mini Storage Nanaimo is your "go to" storage facility in Nanaimo. Call 250.758.7422 for more information, availability, and pricing.

If you want the best bang for your buck when renovating your home, invest your home-improvement dollars wisely. Most real estate appraisers and consultants agree that remodelling a kitchen or bathroom offers the best return on investment. Cosmetic upgrades such as new paint and flooring are budget-conscious alternatives that will also improve the value of your home.

Regardless of the renovations you undertake, however, you can't count on a dollar-for-dollar return on every home improvement. Jackson & Associates, Vancouver Island’s most trusted source of real estate appraisal services, has a number of tips for homeowners entering the renovation arena:

Complete any necessary repairs: A hot tub won’t compensate for a leaky roof!

Research the market: Find out what homebuyers want and choose improvements that are in demand.

Don't outdo your neighbours: Keep your improvements consistent with the quality of your neighborhood and home. In other words, don't put a $50,000 kitchen into a $100,000 house.

Consider DIY, but do it right: Unfinished or poorly completed renovations can actually decrease your home's value. If you're not qualified to do the work yourself, hire a reputable contractor.

Go green: Look at energy-efficient improvements. They may not save money now, but they will pay off long-term when energy costs increase.

The key to all home improvement projects is careful planning, realistic budgeting, and sound advice. Make the most of your renovation budget by making smart decisions and good choices. If you need help with that process, talk to one of the experts at Jackson & Associates. In their 33-plus years of operation, Jackson & Associates' AIC-certified appraisers have completed more than 30,000 residential appraisals and more than 5,000 commercial appraisals out of their Courtenay office. Contact them today for specific valuation advice on renovations in your market area.

Mid Isle Drywall services Courtenay, Cumberland, Campbell River, the Comox Valley, and North Vancouver Island. Their experienced crew can do any type of complete drywall project, including new residential homes and commercial jobs, as well as repair or renovation for both residential and commercial projects.

Mid Isle Drywall uses precision drywall techniques and offers a variety of ceiling finishes. They can also install T-bar ceilings and steel stud walls for new homes and well commercial or retail businesses.

Gary Barr and Jason Barr have been offering professional drywall services for the past 30 years, and Mid Isle Drywall is recognized in the industry as being one of the very best drywall companies on Vancouver Island.

No job is too large or small, Mid Isle Drywall does it all. They are happy to provide free estimates for any type of job. Call Jason Barr at 250.338.7102 today.