BINBROOK
Community 'sandwiched by fields and forests'
February 13, 2010
Diane Tierney
SPECIAL TO THE STAR
Binbrook, in southeast Hamilton, continues to grow with Losani Homes and Branthaven Homes' Phase 2 of the award-winning Fairgrounds community.
"Binbrook is really taking off and in the last six to eight years about 3,000 families have moved to the area," says Steven Stipsits, president of Branthaven.
"The Fairgrounds is a cherished location and when we do surveys, residents say they love the location for the country feel. Many new amenities are coming to the area such as boutique versions of the LCBO and Shoppers Drug Mart that are within walking distance. So residents have those types of conveniences even though they live in a community that's sandwiched by fields and forests."
The Fairgrounds has greenbelt on one side and woodlands on the other, including an extensive trail system.
"We also built an eight-hectare park with a playground, running track and a covered gazebo designed to reflect the site's original legacy as the home of the Binbrook Agricultural Fair. You could say we're 'parked' and 'greened out' here," says Stipsits.
"We are thrilled that the Fairgrounds continues to draw families looking for a better quality of life in southwestern Ontario," says Fred Losani, president of Losani Homes.
"It takes courage and confidence to move ahead in this economic climate, but we have seen a consistent demand,'' he says.
"Binbrook is really on the map now. This is our third new home community here."
The infrastructure for Fairgrounds is in place, such as roads, entry features, streetscapes, boulevards and sewers.
Residents are also less than 10 minutes from big box stores and have quick QEW access via the Red Hill Valley Parkway.
With Phase 2 called Carousel Park, there are more than 50 home styles to choose from including new designs in classic and craftsman styles. Branthaven is offering townhomes and Losani has detached homes on 33-, 36-, 40- and 46-foot lots.
"With our townhomes we are offering a larger model than before, the 1,838-square-foot Westchester, as well as a small one, called the Danbury at 1,225 square feet. Prices start at $209,990 and condo maintenance fees are $80 per month for exterior elements," says Stipsits.
"Most buyers are couples and young families and many are first-time buyers. The townhomes are in blocks of five or six townhomes so there are several nice end units."
The single detached homes start at about $240,000 and have brick, stone and stucco exteriors.
Finishes such as casement windows, deep colonial-style baseboards, handsome lighting fixtures and high-quality faucets make upgrades unnecessary.
"You don't have to spend extra money on upgrades with specs like these included," says Stipsits.
The $1 million Fairgrounds sales centre is being adapted to service the homeowner community. Erika Naylor, marketing coordinator, is a resident and arranges activities for the community such as kids' crafts, seasonal celebrations and movie nights.
Closing dates are the end of 2010 and early 2011.
To get to the sales office, take the QEW to the Centennial Parkway and drive south to Binbrook Rd. Hours: Monday to Thursday, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. Friday by appointment. Weekends, 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. For up-to-date information, call 289-286-0189 or visit www.thefairgrounds.ca.
Toronto Star