Brand new and ready for you

The cost of a new home has increased exponentially in the past two to three years.

These days, it’s not unusual to see a brand-new 1,500 to 1,600 sq. ft., two-storey home sell for more than $600,000.

That’s a stiff price for any family to pay, especially when the cost of groceries and gas shows no signs of decreasing anytime soon. Fortunately, an occasional house comes on the market that delivers exceptional value.

The brand new two-storey at 43 Elk Meadows Pl. in Prairie Pointe is one of those homes, says Rob Hutchison of RE/MAX Performance Realty.

“The value in this home comes from several areas,” he says of the two-storey Florence model. “The first is that this version of the home has been expanded in size to 1,910 sq. ft. That feature alone makes it considerably larger than many other homes.”

The second is that the home was purposefully built with families in mind, he says.

“This is a home that has been designed expressly for a large family. In this version, it comes with four bedrooms, three baths and a second-floor loft. It’s a very family friendly design.”

Your introduction to the house starts with a wide, welcoming foyer that makes it easy for people — whether those who live there or visitors — to dispense with shoes and outerwear with ease.

“I really like all the space, and the fact that there’s an angled walk-in closet to the right of the door that simply allows you to walk in and hang up your coat,” says Hutchison. “The function you see in the foyer is reflected throughout the home.”

To the right you’ll find the kind of space large families will appreciate.

“A main floor bedroom, plus a three-piece bath, were placed off the foyer next to the entrance to the double attached garage. The bedroom is perfect for guests or multi-generational living, or it could be used as an office. If it’s used for multi-generational living, an in-law can access their bedroom directly from the garage. There’s also a private side entrance for the lower level.”

It’s then on to the Florence’s main living area, which — in this version of the popular model — was subtly expanded.

“About one foot of depth was added along the back of the home,” notes Hutchison. “It doesn’t sound like much, but it makes a big difference in the home’s livability both on the main floor and upstairs. It made the available space so much more functional.”

Indeed, the main living area is bright, navigable and well-finished.

“What really stands out is the area’s rear wall, which is absolutely filled with glass — a huge window on the great room’s rear wall, and a triple patio door with transom window above behind the dining area. Sunlight floods inside, making for a naturally bright area.”

Hutchison says all that natural light is tempered by the flooring and kitchen finishes.

“The sleek laminate plank flooring is a medium brown that absorbs just the right amount of light. Cabinetry is an upgraded maple that really warms up the area.”

It’s clear that the floor plan was carefully considered.

“The extra depth allowed the dining area to be set back just that little bit more, allowing for good separation between it and the kitchen,” he says. “It can easily hold a table for six to eight to 10 without affecting traffic flow in and around the kitchen.”

Meanwhile, the modern island kitchen is both stylish and functional.

“All the colours mix well — the Thunder maple cabinets and island base, light taupe countertops and beige tile backsplash. Aisle width is very good and there’s also a handy walk-in pantry.”

Head upstairs, and the pleasant surprises continue.

“I love all the natural light that pours in through a large window next to the stairs and another huge window on the loft’s rear wall,” Hutchison says. “It’s a wonderful space that kids can make their own, to hang out in to watch TV or do some gaming — or even homework. The two secondary bedrooms are oversized and in their own wing, well away from the primary bedroom.”

The primary bedroom is tucked away behind the loft in its one corner of the home.

“It’s a great size at 15 feet by 14 feet, is naturally bright, and comes with a mid-sized walk-in closet and spa-like ensuite with a beautifully tiled walk-in shower.”

Hutchison says the Florence is a fantastic family home.

“You can’t beat its style, function or value. It’s a great design all the way through.”

lewys@mymts.net