Cosy retreat

There are definite benefits associated with living outside city limits.

Lots tend to be larger and more mature, property taxes are lower, and life is generally quieter and more laid back.

And, depending on where a home is located, the commute can be relatively painless, says Jeff Brown of Sutton Group – Kilkenny Real Estate.

“This home, which is located on a beautiful, quiet street in Stoney Mountain, is just six minutes from the Perimeter,” he says of the tidy bi-level. “In no time at all, you’re back in the city. A bit of a commute isn’t a big deal when you love your home, and this home is easy to love.”

Surrounded by a host of mature oak trees on a 108-foot by 159-foot lot, the 1,711 sq. ft. house has a calming, cottage-like feel, as it blends seamlessly with its park-like surroundings.

Turns out, its interior is as delightful as the pristine surroundings. That’s because it’s in pristine condition, from start to finish.

“The owner is very handy and has taken great care of the home and updated it in most key areas over the years,” says Brown. “It’s in absolutely awesome condition throughout. Pride of ownership shines through everywhere.”

Functionality is also front-and- centre, starting at the entrance to the home.

“One of the things that I love so much about this home is that it is so functional no matter where you go. It starts right in the foyer, which is nice and wide, and has a huge, amazing walk-in closet to its left. Not many homes built in 1966 have such a welcoming, functional foyer.”

That warm, welcoming feel is enhanced by the flooring that runs through most of the spic-and-span residence, he adds.

“Honestly, it’s probably the first thing you notice. It’s a gorgeous wide-plank laminate with natural and dark highlights that strikes just the right balance. It’s vibrant yet warm and brings a special character to each space it was used in.”

The flooring creates a wonderful sense of flow that makes the home a pleasure to walk through. A case in point is the kitchen/living room area, says Brown.

“The flooring combines with a wide doorway to make an area that you can just imagine yourself entertaining in, or even just having breakfast in the early morning at the incredible island, which can seat up to four people. The kitchen is simply gorgeous with its white cabinets, brown laminate countertops and mocha tile backsplash.”

Then, there’s the living room.

“It’s just such a cosy, inviting space with the flooring, a huge window that looks out onto the lovely front yard and a wood-burning fireplace with an insert that is used to heat the home in the winter,” he says. “It’s a great space to relax or visit with guests at any time of the year.”

Speaking of entertaining, a doorway at the end of a brief landing to the left of the kitchen leads to an outdoor space that’s perfectly suited to kicking back and sipping a cold drink with visitors.

“The door leads out to an amazing private deck area that looks out on to a huge backyard with your own forest and fire pit area to enjoy. When you’re in the backyard, you’re in your own world — you can’t see your neighbours once all the oak trees are in full bloom.”

Brown says the home’s split layout is not only functional, but full of pleasant surprises.

“First, there’s a little wing to the side of the living room. It has a bedroom and a fantastic main-floor laundry room that’s in a wonderfully convenient spot. Another thing I love about the main floor is all the windows. They let in lots of light, and everywhere you look, you see gorgeous trees.”

Next comes the lower level.

“Basically, it’s a flex space,” he says. “In this instance, it’s being used as an exercise room, but it could easily be used as a bedroom or even a media or playroom.”

Finally, there’s the home’s upper level, which is all about creature comforts.

“It has two huge windows on the rear wall that look onto the amazing backyard and a vaulted ceiling that gives it a nice airy feel. It also has a cozy, private ensuite with jetted jacuzzi tub.”

The home is attractive from start to finish, and it’s in a great location, he adds.

“From the cute front porch right through the home to the backyard, everything is just so perfect. The home is close to schools, walking trails and key amenities. It’s a total gem in every way.”

lewys@mymts.net