Bold and beautiful

As anyone who’s looking to buy a new home knows, real estate prices continue to climb.

There are multiple reasons for this.

First, there’s the cost of building materials, which are now being impacted by tariffs imposed by the United States.

Then, there’s the price of land. Building lots continue to get more expensive, much to the chagrin of prospective homebuyers.

Naturally, that cost gets passed on to buyers, many of whom — beset by mortgage rates of four per cent or higher and a stress test benchmark that’s two per cent higher than their interest rate — are struggling to find a good, affordable home.

With that in mind, builders are doing what they can to make homes as budget friendly as possible.

One of those builders is Kensington Homes, which just came up with a new line of houses called the Value Series.

“The goal of the Value Series is to provide families with everything they need in a home at a price they can afford,” says Nicole Kocian of Qualico Realty Services. “Homes range in size from 1,350 to 1,750 sq. ft. Each one has been designed to have features like a second-floor laundry and two-and-a-half baths, for example. Prices range from about $500,000 to $590,000.”

To showcase the series, Kensington recently established a new show home at 7 Fireweed Lane in Sage Creek.

At 1,688 sq. ft., it’s one of the largest homes in the series, offering three bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths and a detached double garage.

The home has a substantial feel to it right from the get-go.

Clad in Hardie board-style siding, the exterior was designed to be as durable and low maintenance as it is attractive. The front porch is covered, which is a nice bonus.

Step inside, and the foyer is sufficiently wide and deep, with a handy walk-in coat closet to the right.

Wander into the main living area, and you can’t help but notice a mid-sized space carved neatly into the left-hand wall.

“It’s actually a study,” says Kocian, and it comes with a huge window on its rear wall that lets in loads of natural light. “It’s a very useful space that speaks to just how streamlined and efficient the design of this home is.”

Indeed, the home gets an A for efficiency.

The main living area starts off with a roomy dining area that easily accommodates a table for six, with room for another two to four guests if needed.

Then, there’s the island kitchen — the focal point of the main living area.

“The whole area is super well laid out,” Kocian says. “There’s seating for three at the island, which is over eight feet long. Finishes in the kitchen include quartz countertops, off-white cabinets with black handles, and stainless appliances. There’s also a mudroom behind the kitchen that has a powder room, walk-in closet and door that connects to the backyard and garage.”

A surprisingly spacious great room completes the main floor in style.

“It features a woodgrain feature wall that adds texture and warmth, as well as a cantilevered side wall that opens space up for another chair without sacrificing room to move,” she says. “The entire area flows beautifully.”

Head upstairs, and the efficient layout continues without missing a beat.

Not only are there three good-sized bedrooms, but there’s also a well-appointed main bath and a genuine laundry room — not a tiny laundry closet.

Finally, there’s the primary bedroom, which is a revelation with its size and amenities.

“It’s very spacious, and comes with a three-piece ensuite and big walk-in closet — features that parents will appreciate.”

Kocian says the Value Series has been well received.

“It delivers affordability and livability without sacrificing finer finishes. That’s what it’s all about — providing as much value as we can to families looking for a new home.”

lewys@mymts.net