Building Update

Zibi Ottawa - O and Kanaal - Sales Update

Sales Update for Kanaal as of January 9th 2016

Sales Update for Kanaal as of January 9th 2016

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.

Arthaus Condos - Construction Update

Construction Progress of Arthaus Condos from DevMcGill

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.

SoBa Condos - Construction Update

Soba Condo Construction Update Ottawa
SoBa Condos Ottawa Catherine Street Construction

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. 

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.

Breaking News - Change to Minimum Downpayments In Ottawa

Earlier today the Finance Minister announced a big change to CMHC-backed mortgages over $500,000. Starting February 15th, 2016, purchasing an Ottawa properties over $500,000 will require a minimum downpayment of 10% instead of the current 5%. However, this only applies to the portion above $500,000. 

This change will not affect
- those who are purchasing under $500,000.
- those who are renewing regardless of being over $500,000

This change was put into place to ensure security in riskier transactions, specifically in markets such as Toronto and Vancouver. The government claims that this should only impact about 1% of Canadians.

Looking for more information about buying or selling, or just want to talk about how these changes could affect you? Fill out the form below.

Zibi Construction Officially Started

Zibi Construction Ground Breaking Ceremony - Darren Brown / The Ottawa Citizen

Zibi Construction Ground Breaking Ceremony - Darren Brown / The Ottawa Citizen

Today was the groundbreaking ceremony to start the $1.5 Billion, 15 year, 37 acre, mixed use development called Zibi. Windmill Developments has launched two phases - "O" and "Kanaal" which expect to see completion by late 2017. About 50% of the units remain for "O" which is the Gatineau side project.

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

Zibi Ottawa - Kanaal - Grand Launch Date

Zibi Ottawa Kanaal Condos

After great success with the launch of the first phase on the Gatineau side, Windmill Developments has announced the name and date for the second phase of the Zibi Project. Kanaal will be a mixture of 61 condos and stacked town houses designed by Barry J. Hobin and Associates Architects. Located on the Ontario side of Ottawa's Chaudiere Island, many buyers have been very eager for an Ontario building in this project.

Grand Launch for Zibi's Kanaal has been set for 10am Saturday November 7th at the Zibi Sales Centre (3 Eddy Street in Gatineau). If the first launch was any indication - expect some great food and entertainment.

For assistance with purchasing a pre-construction unit at the launch or for more information about Kanaal, or the entire Zibi project, fill out the form below. 

Smart House Project Cancelled

smarthouse-ottawa-facebook.jpg

Rumours about the fate of the micro condo building have been circulating since the beginning of the month and we finally got the official word late last week. Urban Capital has decided that Smart House will be cancelled and turned into a rental building. For those who have purchased, deposits are being returned. There is no information behind who is involved with the rental building, but we do know that it will not be sold unit by unit.

Urban Capital will now turn the focus to the upcoming James Street Pub building which we expect to be launched late spring or summer 2016 at the earliest.

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

Condomania - Minto Offering Big Incentives

CondoMania Ottawa

Offering discounts of up to $50,000 on select units, Minto is making it more attractive than ever to purchase a unit at one of their developments. Only a few units are included (or should we say remain) with more expected to be available during the one day event. Dubbed "CondoMania", Minto is holding a sale at the Glebe Bank street sales office on Saturday October 24th at Noon till 6pm. The projects included are Lansdowne, Beechwood, and Upperwest! In addition to the up to $50,000 savings, buyers also will receive free parking and locker PLUS a pair of RedBlacks 2016 season tickets. 

For more information about the three developments, or to see sample units and pricing click here. If you are looking for assistance with purchase, fill out the form below - I would love to help.

2015 Housing Design Awards Winners

GOHBA Housing Design Awards

Put on by the Greater Ottawa Home Builders Association, the 32nd annual Housing Design Awards are so those in the industry are able to go head to head for recognition of their work in new home and condo construction and renovation in Ottawa. The winners include the city's top builders, designers, architects, and renovators, all competing in a range of categories based on size, budget, and style. There are over 50 awards handed out with some even chosen online by the general public. 

The Wavell Kitchen by Linebox Studio

A few of the winners this year include:

High-Rise Building (50 Units or More)
MInto and Barry J Hobin Architects for The Vibe (Lansdowne Park)

Mid to High-Rise Unit
Claridge Homes for the Lilac model at Fusion Development at LeBreton Flats

Custom Contemporary Kitchen (241sqft or more, $74,999 and under) 
LInebox Studio and Lake Partnership for the Wavell Kitchen

For a full list of this years winners, visit the Ottawa Citizen article here.

ARTHAUS - Construction Groundbreaking

Arthaus Construction Start Ottawa Condos

Ottawa's Mayor Jim Watson was on hand for the official groundbreaking ceremony of the Ottawa Art Gallery and Art's Court project. Montreal based DevMcGill has announced the name as ARTHAUS which will feature 89 residential condominium units located above a Le Germain Hotel on the lower floors.

No sales launch date for the residential component has yet been set - rumours say early 2016 to mid 2016.

For everything about ARTHAUS visit the ARTHAUS page HERE.

ARTHAUS Residences - (Arts Court)

Arthaus Condos Ottawa Arts Court
Live painting of the exterior rendering during launch.

Live painting of the exterior rendering during launch.

**For up-to-date ARTHAUS related, visit the ARTHAUS section**

Earlier today we learned the official name of the Art's Court condo complex. Built by Montreal Developer DevMcGill, ARTHAUS will be a complete mixed use building with Le Germain Hotel occupying the lower half, and residences starting on the 15th floor (as seen with the balconies). The modern building will also feature an Art Gallery and teaching rooms for the University of Ottawa. 

There will be approximately 98 suites in the residence which will range from 450sqft to 1100sqft. Union31 was brought in to design the interiors of the building/suites.The building has already started construction and will be expected to be completed in late 2017. Units are expected to go on sale later this year or first thing 2016. 

Looking for more information about ARTHAUS residence or downtown condos? Fill out the form below or email me directly Matt@MattRichling.com 

ARTHAUS Launch Ottawa
ARTHAUS Ottawa Condo

Minto's Vibe Wins at 2015 Ottawa Urban Design Awards

Minto's Vibe Ottawa Condo

Last night Minto's Vibe condominium took home the Award of Merit in Urban Infill for Mid to High Rise building at the 2015 Ottawa Urban Design Awards. Located at 118 Holmwood, it is the first of two towers for Minto at the new Lansdowne centre in the Glebe. The Vibe is fully sold out and only select units are still available in phase two.

The Jury had this to say about the project:

GW: The building marks a departure from one neighbourhood type to the retail/sports focus of Lansdowne Park. The two storey retail base is noteworthy.

CP: The Vibe drew a lot of discussion for its self conscious attempt to create activity in the body of the building itself. I found it unnecessary considering that the base could have benefitted from more care, variety, openness and public space. However the building is really the gateway building to Lansdowne Park and as such is a critical piece of the overall urban revitalization. Its merits are in its density and mixed use programme. Its secondary role as an entry beacon to the Park seems to temper and give value to the eclectic nature of the execution. It contributes to the destination character of the site.

Springfield Towns Ottawa Townhouse Modern

Other winners include Modbox Developments and Linebox Studio for its collection of three modern town homes on Springfield in Lindenlea, winning the Award of Merit for Urban Infill Low Rise. 

Learn more about the winners HERE. Interested in downtown Ottawa condos? Fill out the form below, I would love to chat!

The Corners On Main - Sales Update

Domicile's newest project that will be located on Main street, has been getting big attention since it first launched in August. The attention is due partly for the history (CLICK HERE to read the full history of the site), partly for the location (very central or "city meets tranquility" - tagline from Domicile), but also how well it has been selling. At this point The Corners On Main is almost 50% sold out of the 74 suites for phase one - which is very good comparing to other projects across the city.  Buyers still have most floorpans and views available, with prices ranging from $228,300 up to $594,900. 

Domicile has said they are ahead of schedule for phase one, and has started working on getting phase two ready to roll out.

Quick facts:
- Name: The Corners On Main
- Developer: Domicile
- Site Location: 141 Main Street
- Completion Date: fall/winter 2017
- Units: 74 suites in phase 1, 70 planned in phase 2
- Levels: 6 and 4 in phase one
- Maintenance fees: 42cents/sqft/month, $33/month/per parking, projected
- Parking: $33,500 if required/available (not all units are)
- Smoke Free and Pet Friendly
- Amenities: two guest suites, lounge, rooftop terrace, fitness and yoga studio, pet wash station, car wash area,

Looking for more information about The Corners On Main or pre-construction condos in Ottawa? Fill out the form below - I would love to chat.

Domicile's Kavanaugh - Sales Update

Domicile Kavanaugh Condos Ottawa

Domicile's Kavanaugh, located on Beechwood has only 18 units remaining of the original 124 units. The building is now occupied and available units are a decent mix of size and floor height. Units start at $284,100 for a one bedroom plus den (613sqft). Parking is an additional $31,000 if required. Quick occupancy can be provided!

For more information about condos on Beechwood, or pre construction condos across Ottawa, fill out the form below.

Minto Beechwood Live Camera

Minto Beechwood Construction Camera

Minto has set up a live construction camera for its project on Beechwood. While not a live video feed, it still gives you a chance to check out the progress without leaving your home. Minto Beechwood is currently about 70% sold out with approximately 37units remaining. Located at the corner of Beechwood and Mackay, Minto Beechwood will be a 9 storey, 126 unit building. Expected completion is winter 2016 with excavation now complete and construction already underway.

For more information about Minto Beechwood or pre-construction condos in Ottawa, fill out the form below - I would love to help you out.

SOHO Champagne - Sales Promotion

SOHO Champagne Ottawa Condos

Hoping to jumpstart sales of the last few units as we move into the fall market, SOHO Champagne is now offering a last minute promotion for buyers. Aside from lowering the deposit amount to $10,000, they are also offering up to $50,000 cash back on closing (depending on the unit), no-condo fees for one year, and possible quick occupancy on remaining units. The promotion is being advertised as ending October 1st, so for those interested, better move fast. Currently there are approximately only 28 units left of the 200 in the building, ranging from 535sqft 1bedroom up to a 1,525sqft two bedroom with terrace.

SOHO Champagne is located at 111 Champagne Avenue South, just steps from Preston Street. This is Mastercraft Starwood's third SOHO building in the city, after SOHO Lisgar and SOHO Parkway. Designed by Architect Roderick Lahey Architect Inc, and interior designer is Gluckstein Design. The building now has occupancy and the 5 star amenities are almost completed.

For more information on the remaining units at SOHO Champagne or about pre-construction condos in Ottawa, fill out the form below - I would love to help!

SOBA - Construction Underway!

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

After a very quiet spring and summer, construction has officially started on Catherine street for SoBa condos. Being built by Brad Lamb of Lamb Developments (Toronto), this is the second building in Ottawa by the "King of Condos", first being Gotham located on Lyon.

We have been told that the construction crew is currently digging the Slurry Wall, which should last about 100 days for a project of this size. Then the main excavation is able to begin. A building permit was issued on August 27th 2015 to Doran Construction for a partial permit for excavation and shoring and part foundation only. Construction is expected to take two years and be completed in 2017.

Here is the construction site as of this morning - a screen shot from the live youtube camera of "Jimmy Joners" - Click here to view.

Soba Ottawa Construction Progress Condos

Interested in learning more about SoBa condos or downtown condos? I would love to chat - fill out the form below or email me matt@mattrichling.com

The Bowery Promo Event

New promo has just announced directly from Richcraft for anyone who purchases The Bowery. Buyers have the choice between no condo fees for one year, free storage locker, upgraded designer package, or hardwood in the bedroom.

While you might have a preference on which you would prefer, it will depend on the size of the unit to decide which option would be the best option. No condo fees for one year is typically a rebate or discount off purchase price. Easily calculated for the size of the unit - $0.36sqft 800sqft = $3456/year or 400sqft = $1728/year. Storage lockers are priced around $3,000. Then the designer package and hardwood depend on the unit. 

Questions about the building, units, or purchasing pre-construction condos in Ottawa? I would love to chat - fill out the form below or email directly Matt@MattRichling.com.

Domicile's Corners On Main - Grand Opening and Pricing

Domicile Corners On Main Ottawa Condo

Domicile has announced the date for its highly anticipated - The Corners On Main, which will be located on Main Street. Read all about it HERE

For those looking to get first crack at available units, Saturday August 8th at 12noon, at the Kavanaugh Sales Centre located at 86 Beechwood Avenue. Floor plans and more details will be released then.

Centennial Floorplan Domicile Corners on Main

Domicile has released the price sheet (see below) for the available units and one floor plan for "The Centennial" (935sqft, two bedroom, one and a half bathroom, plus terrace). 

One bedrooms range from $261,600 for the Glenora (554sqft) to $389,200 for the Hazel (850sqft). Two bedrooms range from $411,100 for the Marlowe (930sqft) up to $490,900 for the Brantwood (1105sqft). "Two bedrooms plus" range up to $594,900 for the Merritt (1431sqft with terrace). Parking is an extra $33,500 but not available for the "Pied a Terre" or studio units. Domicile is estimating condo fees at 42 cents per square foot, and $33 per month per parking space.

For more information on condos for sale in Ottawa, or assistance with purchasing pre-construction condos - Fill out the form below! 



The Slater - Promo Prices + Broker Event

The Slater Ottawa Condos

The Slater - a 21 Storey tower that is mixed condos and a boutique hotel, at 199 Slater Street just off of Bank St. Developed by Broccolini the project is currently at around 80% sold out. Units range from 408sqft up to 1929sqft. "Inspired by the clean, square lines of the mid-century towers that surround it, it marries a hip 1950s aesthetic with a thoroughly modern sensibility. Minimalist interiors by II by IV are cool, classic and understated. The Slater is beautiful, sleek – and eternally chic. "

Slater Lunch Ottawa

Last week I was invited to a limited brokers lunch where Broccolini walked through the project status, what is left for sale, a new promo being offered and a sneak peak for their next downtown space. Overall the project has seen good success, and a few units still remain. The promotions are not being advertised so if you are interested, contact me.

If you are interested in The Slater, and learning more about current promotions that are being offered, contact Matt Richling at Matt@MattRichling.com or by filling out the form below.