Georgetown Community Achieves $16 Million of Real Estate Success

With over $16 million in sales in only eight months and 60% of its suites sold on a shoestring budget, the community of Georgetown has cause to celebrate as it prepares for ground breaking of The Gallery at Bennett Village. The response has been overwhelming, as area households have responded positively to this new form of adult living option.

The development of the Gallery at Bennett Village has been spearheaded by a committee of local community volunteers, some with professional experience in land development and seniors housing, others experts in management, legal issues, finance, health care and service provision. This passionate group of community volunteers is planning for more than just a life lease community – the longer term vision is to create a complete living campus on the 18 acre site, including a senior’s community centre, space for community agencies and other forms of apartments. It’s the type of campus that only a charitable organization like the Bennett Centre could develop, a wonderful example of the healthy community concept that is becoming so admired throughout North America.

“We’ve already presold over half of the building, some $16 million of real estate, in not much more than eight months. No other condominium type building in Georgetown has achieved this level of success. It’s a kind of housing that’s desperately needed in Halton Hills.” Ernie Bodnar, Chair, Bennett Land Use Committee.

It makes good sense. The Gallery will provide 105 apartment suites designed especially for mature adults, with many of the features and finishes typical of top quality condos. The “life lease” tenure form is a rapidly growing, new form of home “ownership” for mature adults in Ontario. Owners retain the equity appreciation in their housing investment, similar to a condominium, while enjoying a worry-free lifestyle, as well as security, freedom and comfort in their new homes. Owners will also benefit from having neighbours who are at the same stage in their lives, with similar lifestyles and interests.

Future phases of construction at Bennett Village will enable residents to access different types of support and lifestyle services, as and when they require them. The demand for housing for mature adults is expected to increase dramatically over the next decade, as the population continues to age. In turn, the demand for apartment suites that offer living environments designed for adults, combined with on-going access to support services as they are needed, is also expected to increase.

Indeed, recent re-sales of life lease suites at other, built and established communities around the Province, indicate a healthy value appreciation. This appreciation is due in part to their unique living environments, created by the combination of “mature adult” age criteria, amenity areas, social and recreational programs and availability of services.

Suites reflect active seniors’ lifestyles

A large part of the success of Bennett Village’s life lease suites lies in the on-going consultation with the community before opening for sales. Based on feedback from various focus groups of local mature adults and their families, the suite designs at The Gallery were continually refined and reworked, to closely suit the needs and budgets of local mature adults.

The Gallery, phase one of Bennett Village, will consist of one bedroom, one bedroom plus den, two bedroom and two bedroom plus den suites, ranging from 794 sq.ft. to 1,354 sq.ft.. Suites feature large windows with french balconies that will allow for ample light and ventilation while connecting the residents with this natural surrounding. Naturally located along the Halton Hills Trail system, residents will enjoy the beauty of a preserved woodlot and stream, magnificent ravine views, which will be highlighted by spectacular sunsets and sunrises.

These are suites designed for those who do not wish to compromise when downsizing. Generously sized master bedrooms with walk-in closets, two bathrooms, plus an open concept living and dining room, as well as a gourmet kitchen in which to entertain guests. The Gallery suites accommodate these housing expectations and have been specifically designed based on this local input. “I am really pleased with our suite layout. Two sets of patio doors off the main bedroom and living room, plus a window in the bathroom is a bonus!” remarked Helen Metler, purchaser.

The design and materials of The Gallery also reflect the specific needs and sophistication of its owners. The spacious amenity spaces located on the main floor are accented with distinguished, rich wood paneling and stone. Amenities include a fireplace-anchored library, as well as a multi-purpose and games room, a wellness and fitness centre, plus a spacious lobby. Other amenities also include a guest suite, resident storage lockers, indoor parking, woodworking shop and car washing bay. To take advantage of pre-construction prices contact Paul Skinner at 905.702.1247, visit the sales centre at the Georgetown Marketplace, or visit online at www.bennettvillage.ca.