Empty-nesters look to quality condo projects for their next moves
BY JULIE GEDEON
Downsizing from a single-family home when one’s children have flown the nest can be a challenging transition to a new life. But an increasing number of empty-nesters find that condominium life is the perfect next step.
Location is always a key consideration for occupancy and resale, developers say. A new 17-unit project by Les Développements Magi on Île Perrot is close to supermarkets, pharmacies and banks. The walking distance to a train station makes it simple to go into Montreal for medical appointments or downtown shopping. “The location is attractive to future buyers who might need to commute for work,” says Amato Gidaro, Magi’s president.
An elevator is a must for most empty-nesters. While many still use stairs to stay in shape, they want an elevator when they’re not up to exercising, have their hands full, or invite company over. “The elevator is definitely a main draw for mature couples at our four-storey project,” Gidaro says.
While downsizing requires the relinquishing of some furnishings, wise developers realize that long-time homeowners want to retain certain heirlooms. “We offer an open concept with nine-foot-high ceilings in the main living area so there’s lots of room for a cherished dining set,” says Clifford Goodman, Vered Group’s director of sales and marketing, of the company’s new Cielo Condos project in Pierrefonds, which is comprised of 60 units, built in two phases. “There’s also lots of wall space for a family’s photographs.”
The kitchens are designed with ample storage for the good set of dishes, glassware and silverware. “The counter by the refrigerator space is 36 inches deep to accommodate a fridge large enough to store food platters for large holiday dinners,” Goodman says.
At Magi’s Île Perrot building, every kitchen has the sink, fridge and stove in a triangular configuration to ensure workspace ease. “Our kitchens are quite large to maximize counter and cupboard space,” Gidaro says.
Most people seek quality over quantity in later years. “We really understand this market and put everything we’d like in our own homes in our Cielo Condos,” says Goodman. “For instance, we have distressed wood in a high-gloss white finish for the kitchen cupboards, with quartz countertops.”
Similarly high standards are found at the Magi project. “We use Cuisines West Island Kitchens for our cabinetry and Bois Franc Lavallée for the flooring,” Gidaro says.
For people used to living in a house, superb functionality within a small condo is imperative. “We scrutinize our plans to take advantage of every square inch,” says Goodman. All of Cielo Condos’ two-bedroom units have two bathrooms. The bedrooms are located in separate areas to prevent overnight disturbance.
The Magi project offers a small but separate laundry room to minimize noise and enable buyers to install their existing side-by-side washers and dryers.
Storage is another sought-after commodity. The walk-in closets at the Cielo Condos project are a welcome element that makes it easier to dispense with a dresser. Lockers provide additional space.
The desire for at-home luxury has inspired developers when they design bathrooms. “We have a glassed and tiled open area with a separate tub and shower that feels like a spa,” says Goodman.
Buyers are increasingly seeking a separate tub and shower for practical reasons, too. “A walk-in shower is always convenient, but especially if there are ever any mobility issues, while a tub is essential for bathing grandchildren,” Gidaro says. “Having both makes the unit attractive to more potential buyers.”
At the Cielo Condos project, gardeners can still pursue their passion within the private terraces that accompany ground-level units. Or they can give their backs a break and enjoy the outdoor beauty established by Vlan Landscape Architecture. The waterfront view is a new feature for most buyers and is enjoyed on the grounds or from large balconies.
Outdoor living is an integral part of the Cielo Condos complex. “Residents can sit by a recessed fire pit and watch the sun set, or invite family and friends over for an outdoor barbecue,” Goodman says.
Indoor parking at both projects eliminates snow concerns. Outdoor parking space is an important element for guests. Other amenities, such as the gym and yoga facility at Cielo Condos, appeal to individuals who want to maintain an active lifestyle within a convenient, safe environment. Camera security puts residents at ease about leaving their homes for vacations or winter retreats.
While always nice, amenities should be considered in terms of their likely use. “There’s no point in paying for indoor pool maintenance if you don’t swim,” Gidaro counsels. “Look at your budget for condo fees and what they’ll cover.”
Snow removal, lawn care, elevator maintenance and the lighting, heating and cleaning of common areas have become standard inclusions, along with a reserve fund for unexpected incidents. The Cielo Condos project includes hot water consumption. “You never run short of hot water and only have a pipe rather than a bulky tank within your unit,” Goodman says.
